Best Hitch Bike Rack For Womens Step-Thru Bike With Fenders That Can Swing Out For Trunk Access

Question:

I need a bike rack for a Mercedes 3500 Sprinter. It must be a swing away so I can get in the back and it must work for a step thru women’s fendered beach cruiser. Id like to use the Thule Access swing away hitch component plus add a super sturdy deck bike rack [not hanging]. What do you recommend? Please advise.

asked by: Paul F

Expert Reply:

The Thule Access Swing Away Hitch Extender for Bike Racks - 2" Hitches # TH9037 is a really nice product that allows access to the trunk or rear doors of your vehicle. For a compatible bike rack I would look into the Swagman E-Spec Bike Rack # S94FR if you are wanting a 2-bike carrier. This is a very versatile rack that can hold bikes weighing up to 70lbs each with up to 3" wide tires and is a great bike rack for electric or heavy bikes. You can add Swagman Fat Bike Wheel Holder Upgrade Kit # S64679 for tires up to 5" wide. It works well with bikes that have fenders due to the frame-mount design. It typically works with a variety of bikes, but it is recommended to use Adapter Bar # S57FR for women's, children's, step-thru, or other oddly-shaped bikes.

If you would like a 4-bike carrier instead, then I recommend looking at Saris Freedom 4 Bike Platform Rack # SA4414B. This carrier attaches to the bike's frame by using an adjustable rubber cradle which works well with step-thru bikes and other oddly-shaped bikes along with bikes that have fenders. The tire cradles can fit up to 3" wide tires; use Fat Tire Adapter Kit # SA4419 for tires up to 5" wide. The weight capacity is 60lbs per bike for the two inner slots, and 35lbs per bike for the two outer slots. You can add Saris Cable Lock - 8' Long # SA981 to secure your bikes to the carrier and deter theft. I have attached demonstration videos for you to check out.