Best Bike Rack for E-Bikes with Fenders That Doesnt Rub

Question:

Hi - almost ordered the Thule T2 Pro XTB UNTIL - I saw the question about an electric Townie. So, is the ROLO rack that was mentioned as a solution the only rack that will handle ebikes w/fenders. The husband has an e-Townie 8i w/fenders and I have a low step Verve 2+ electric also with fenders. Dont want to make a big mistake that has to be sent back :. Weve been using a Saris Freedom and that really doesnt work due to rubbing. Thanks so much - I appreciate the reviews on your site especially by vehicle. The vehicles we use would be a 2016 Murano and possible a 2014 Mazda CX5.

asked by: Kathie O

Expert Reply:

I have a few different bikes racks for you that will carry e-bikes with fenders. That said, you will need to go with a frame mount style as you can't use a wheel mount bike rack on a bike with fenders. The best option for you will be the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2 Electric Bike Rack part # HLY84FR which has an 80 lb per bike weight capacity and soft padded frame hooks so you don't have to worry about rubbing. If either of your bikes has a steep drop tube frame then you will also need an adapter bar, the Hollywood Racks Bike Frame Adapter Bar part # HRBA-PRO.

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 E-Bike Platform Rack part # TH903202 is another option with ramp for easy loading but it sounds like you don't like the frame clamps on this style due to rubbing so if that is the case then the above with an adapter bar (if needed) is your best option. These will both work on your Nissan Murano and Mazda CX5 just fine.

expert reply by: Conner L

David S.

6/22/2020

Could I use this with a carbon fiber gravel bike if I pad the area where the frame hooks contact the bike?

Chris R.

6/25/2020

That's really up to you. Padding will certainly offer some extra protection between the frame hooks of the Hollywood Racks # HR1450Z-E and the carbon frame. The attachment really shouldn't be so tight or stressful as to cause any damage (like a hanging-style rack would) but your best option is still a wheel mounted carrier that wouldn't contact the frame at all. Do your bikes have fenders that prevent a wheel mount option?

David S.

6/25/2020

@ChrisR - Thanks for the info. The second bike I'd be putting on the rack is an ebike with a short (~5") fender extending beyond the bike's fork.