What Bike Rack do You Recommend for My 60-Pound E-Bike on My 2013 Ford Focus?

Question:

why does the Saris 4031 MTR bike rack require a Class 2 1-1/4" hitch as opposed to a Class 1 1-1/4" hitch? Won't the Class 1 work?

asked by: JILL W

Expert Reply:

I have a great solution for you for a bike rack with a ramp. Unfortunately, Saris does not make a ramp for the Saris MTY Bike Rack SA4031. We also do not have a bike rack that has a ramp for a single bike.

With that being said, we do have a 2-bike option that comes with a ramp. For that route, I recommend the Yakima OnRamp # Y96FR (for 1-1/4" hitches) or the # Y36FR (for 2-inch hitches). The great thing about the OnRamp in addition to the included ramp is that you will not have to purchase a bike frame adapter bar like the Swagman Deluxe Bike Frame Adapter Bar # 64005. This is because the clamps on the OnRamp adjust independently on the central mast that are great for virtually any bike frame style (including step-thru styles and women's bikes). The OnRamp comes with enough weight capacity to accommodate your 60-pound e-bike.

If you have tires more than 3-1/2 inches wide, you will need the Fat Tire Straps # Y23FR in order for your bike to fit the tire cradles of the OnRamp. If you wish to add extra theft-detterrence to the rack itself, I recommend purchasing the Yakima Hitch Lock # Y07235.

If you need a hitch receiver on your 2013 Ford Focus, I recommend the Curt Hitch - 1-1/4" # C11158 (for non-ST hatchbacks and sedan models) or the # C11431 for an ST Hatchback model. If you have a hybrid model, I recommend the EcoHitch - 2" # 306-X7237. If you buy the Curt 1-1/4" hitch, you will need the OnRamp # Y96FR. If you buy the EcoHitch, you will need the OnRamp # Y36FR.

One thing to keep in mind is the length of the bike rack's shank in order to clear your rear bumper. The only hitch specs we have for your 2013 Ford Focus is with the Curt Hitch # C11158 (see attached review video). With this particular hitch, you will need at least 3-1/2 inches of shank length on a bike rack in order to clear the rear bumper. Fortunately, the OnRamp has a distance of 5 inches from the center of the shank's pinhole to the closest part of the rack (folded). If you already have a hitch receiver, I recommend measuring the center of your hitch's pinhole to the outside face of your spare bumper to make sure it does not exceed 5 inches.

If you find that you need more shank length, I recommend the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202. The EasyFold comes with a ramp and has a shank measurement of 8 inches from the center of the shank pinhole to the closest part of the rack. If you have bike tires that are larger than 3 inches wide, you will need the Fat Tire Straps # TH985101. These straps hold bike tires up to 4-11/16 inches wide. Also, the EasyFold XT is compatible with Class I receivers.

expert reply by: Bob C

Class I and Class II Hitch Differences
(click to enlarge)

Jill

1/1/0001

why does the Saris 4031 MTR bike rack require a Class 2 1-1/4" hitch as opposed to a Class 1 1-1/4" hitch? Won't the Class 1 work?

Bob C.

12/12/2021

The reason why the Saris MTR SA4031 requires a Class II hitch over a Class I hitch is because manufacturers often test their hitches for strength. Typically, Class II hitches have a greater overall weight capacity than Class I hitches. I went ahead and attached a diagram that shows these typical weight differences. While it is not recommended, we have had neighbors use Class II accessories on Class I hitches. However, for the absolute safest bet, I recommend purchasing the Inno Tire Hold 1 Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # INH110. Not only is the Tire Hold the same wheel-attachment style which is ultimately easier to load, it also includes a locking cable lock and locking hitch pin for great theft-deterrence. As far as bumper clearance, the Tire Hold also has long shank (measures 6 inches from the center of the pinhole to the closest part of the rack). It is important to note that the Tire Hold will only hold bikes up to 3 inches wide. Unfortunately, Inno does not offer any way to use any bikes larger than 3 inches with the rack. If you have a fat-tire bike more than 3 inches wide, feel free to respond to this answer and I will be happy to find you a solution.