E-Bikes, A Trunk Rack, And Their Fit On My 2014 Mazda 3

Question:

Thank you for this information. I unfortunately have a bike that is closer to 48 pounds, and cannot have the battery removed (it’s a VanMoof) and as such I’d love to look into getting a hitch installed. I’m based in Los Angeles, CA if you have any recommendations for this in the area.

asked by: Robert P

Expert Reply:

If your e-bikes are on the very low end of that weight range, as in right at 40 lbs, there may be a trunk rack that is able to carry your e-bikes. It is also recommended that e-bikes be transported on your vehicle without the battery installed on the bike. That will also save you some weight. Our trunk bike racks are going to max out at 35 lbs a bike. If that weight is enough, my trunk bike rack recommendation is the Saris Bones EX 2 Bike Rack - Adjustable Arms - Trunk Mount, part # SAR83FR. This rack is designed specifically to be compatible with cars with spoilers. There are two legs on this rack that route the straps through a groove in the leg to alleviate the pressure the rack places on the spoiler. I have extensive experience with the Saris Bones racks. I have used them to carry bikes across the country on two occasions: from St. Louis to Los Angeles and back, and from the Washington DC area to St. Louis and back.

There is another option if a trunk bike rack does not work due to the weight of your e-bikes. It would require the following, you get a hitch receiver installed and then purchase a hitch bike rack. I can make some recommendations if you let me know if this is something that interests you.

I have included a product description link and a video installation link below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith

Robert P.

11/26/2021

Mark S.

11/26/2021

I believe you said that your e-bike weighs 48 lbs. We can still find a way for you to transport that bike. The first thing your 2014 Mazda 3 will need is a hitch receiver. My hitch receiver recommendation is the EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2", part # 306-X7305. This 2" hitch receiver has a maximum tongue weight of 300 lbs and a maximum gross trailer weight of 2,000 lbs. Next we need the hitch bike rack. I am partial to the Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount, part # TH903202. It comes with a ramp, making it easier to load and unload your e-bike. The EasyFold XT is fender friendly; you will strap the wheels, so you do not have to worry about anything clamping down on your fender. It comes with an anti-rattle mechanism to reduce the movement between the hitch bike rack and the hitch receiver. This will also allow you to lock it to your vehicle. Lastly, the EasyFold has padded locking clamps to secure your bike to the rack while protecting its finish. I have included a product description link and a video review of the Thule EasyFold XT below.