What Platform-Style Bike Rack do You Recommend for My Step-Thru Trek E-Bikes with Fenders?

Question

Question:

Looking for a hitch platform style rack for 2 bikes. One is Step through trek verve large frame and small frame trek step through is the other. Small frame has front/ back fenders the front fender being shorter. The large frame bike has a rack in back. Would like to be able to access rear van hatch. Ideally would be able to fit on both a Toyota Sienna van and a Toyota Avalon sedan. Suggestions?

asked by: David B

0

Expert Reply:

Yes! I can definitely point you in the right direction.

Since your Trek Verve bikes have either a cargo platform and fenders on both bikes, I strongly recommend going with a frame-mounted style. This is because using a wheel-mount style with fenders and a cargo platform causes unnecessary risk for damaging and cracking the fenders. Also, the mounts will not be as firm/tight on the fendered tires.

For the absolute best option, I recommend the Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # SA4412B or the fat-bike version # SA4412B-FB. Since the Freedom is a frame-mounted style, you completely bypass the risk of damaging your fenders and a less secure attachment. Also, the cradles on the Freedom independently adjust anywhere along the central mast. This feature is perfect for step-thru bike frames. There is no additional bike frame adapter bar needed. For theft-deterrence of the bikes and the rack, you need the Hitch Tite Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock # SA3022 along with the etrailer Cable Lock # e98891.

As far as access to your Sienna's trunk, I recommend the Yakima BackSwing Swing Away Hitch Extender for Bike Racks - 2" Hitches # Y02483. The BackSwing allows you to swing the rack away from your van at a full 90 degree angle. It is important to note that using this adapter decreases your hitch's weight capacity by 50%. I went ahead and attached a video that shows the BackSwing mounted on a 2018 model Toyota Sienna to provide you with perspective.

If you need a hitch receiver on either of your vehicles, feel free to respond with your vehicles' years. Unfortunately, if you have a 1-1/4" hitch currently installed on either of your vehicles, you will not be able to use the BackSwing. You can also respond if you have a 1-1/4" hitch installed on either vehicle, and I will be happy to explore other solutions for you.

expert reply by: Bob C

0

Answer 1

I would look into the Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount #SA4412B. This has a weight capacity of 60lbs per bike and is a highly recommended bike rack for electric bikes. This should clear your spare…

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Answer 2

The Saris Freedom Bike Rack #SA4412B will technically fit on a motorhome, it's just that with motorhomes there is more movement at the hitch receiver and Saris hasn't approved this rack as able to handle that extra movement - so you can use…

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Answer 3

The Saris SuperClamp EX #SA4025F transports bikes (up to 60 lbs) with dual wheel-clamping hooks as well as front and rear wheel straps for a super secure connection. As long as you can really get the front wheel clamped down well you can just do the…

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Answer 4

I have the perfect bike rack for your Electra Townie and for this I recommend the Saris Freedom 2 Bike Platform Rack part #SA4412B. The reason I recommend this bike rack over the Malone rack is because you don't need to use an adapter bar at all.…

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Answer 5

We have the perfect rack for carrying your e-bikes with fenders and step through frames! You will want the Thule Easy Fold XT part #TH903202. This rack will fit your 1-1/4 inch hitch, has frame clamps designed for your style of frame, is specifically…

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Answer 6

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 7

The best/affordable bike rack I have for your Specialized Como 4.0 Bike is the Saris Freedom 2 Bike Platform Rack part #SA4412B. The Saris Freedom 2 has a 60 lb per bike weight capacity and the unique frame clamp system is actually designed for bikes…

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Answer 8

Hey Tom! At this time, February 2024, we don't have any installation videos of a hitch being installed on a 2024 Kia K5. If we end up making a video it will show up on the page for the Class I Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver #C58JR, and if you're…

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Answer 9

I have a solution for you. Here at Etrailer, we strongly discourage using wheel-mounted bike racks like the Kuat NV 2.0 #NV22B for bikes with fenders. Mounting wheels with fenders can cause the fenders to crack or become damaged, especially with the…

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Answer 10

The best bike rack for your Aventon Level 2 E-Bike is going to be the Yakima OnRamp Bike Rack item #Y36FR. This bike rack will also work with your carbon frame bike. This 2-bike carrier comes with a ramp for easy loading. The Aventon's fat tires…

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What Platform-Style Bike Rack do You Recommend for My Step-Thru Trek E-Bikes with Fenders?

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