Why Does Saris Offer Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Rack on 2011 Prius and 2020 Volvo XC40 For 2 Bikes Only

Question:

Saris Fit Guide indicates this rack is good for my 2011 Prius, but Saris Notes say to only carry 2 bikes on my Prius with this rack, and only to carry them in the 2 hook-ups closest to the car. 2 different Saris retailers told me they personally use this rack positioning the heavier bike in the hook-up closest to the car, and no problem in carrying the lighter 2nd bike in the 3rd hook-up furthest from the car so there is more room between the 2 loaded bikes. Saris apparently claims that putting the 2nd bike in the 3rd row will put too much presssure on the rack arms....then why offer that 3 bike rack for my car at all? Your comments/thoughts/recommendations would be appreciated. I really like the idea of loading my 2 bikes on this rack in the 1st 35 pound bike and 3rd 25 pound bike positions, unless just not safe for the rack and/or car, I also have a 2020 Volvo XC40. Saris Fit Guide indicates this rack is also good for this Volvo XC40, but Saris Notes says the same mounting restrictions apply. Again, your comments/thoughts/recommendations would be appreciated. Thanks.

asked by: Jay W

Helpful Expert Reply:

So to get the formal stuff out of the way, for both warranty and liability issues we do have to recommend you abide by the manufacturer's restrictions, including mounting your bikes in the positions closest to your 2011 Toyota Prius and 2020 Volvo XC40 with the Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Rack - Trunk Mount # SA803.

Having said that, is it silly that a 3-bike rack is offered for these vehicles when it can only carry 2 bikes? Yes it is. But the reason that only two bikes can be mounted is likely the pressure it places not only on the rack, but also on the respective hatches of your Prius and XC40.

The 6-1/2 inches of clearance between the bikes is still going to be enough that there won't be contact, but I recommend just saving yourself some money and going with the 2-bike version, the Saris Bones 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount # SA805BL.

Please note, for use on your Volvo, you will need the Hatch Huggers for Saris Trunk Mount Bike Racks # SA3035.

I have added links below to some video reviews for you to check out as well if you'd like.