How To Load Bikes Onto The Saris Freedom Bike Rack SA4412B

Question:

Hitch strap to secure the center upright support to car. A reviewer mentioned that the above helps to secure the Saris platform rack for up to 2 bikes. Do you have such an item and how do I use it? And is it recommended to use an additional strap around the tires for safety. And when I am loading the one bike, I place it into the cradles, then gently lean it against the the back window of my Kia Telluride, since it seems that I would need 3 hands to hold the bike while releasing the pin of the upright support. Do you have a better suggestion? Thanks so much!

asked by: Iris H

Expert Reply:

You are likely referring to the Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" # 18050. Curt recommends using this strap on some of their trailer hitch receivers, mainly class 1 receivers. This would aid in supporting the bikes on the carrier. This is more than enough support for your bikes and bike rack and you would not need any other straps to add to this configuration.

Bikes are very easy to load onto the Saris Freedom. Just place the carrier's arm in the upright position prior to loading your bike onto the cradles, then hold the bike with one hand while you fasten the cradle to the bike frame with the other hand. See the attached demonstration video.

expert reply by: Andrew N