Recommended Trike Rack for a 2019 Lincoln MKC

Question:

HI, I HAVE A JC26X Performer Tadpole recumbent. Wheel base is 44.112cm. Back tire is 26x1.5, Front tires 20x1.5. From center of back tire to front sprocket is ~90.5. Year before last I bought a Hollywood recumbent carrier from you in 2018 that I use to go a couple miles. overall recumbent length is 90.5 inches and therefore hangs over about 12 inches on either side of my small SUV. Therefore, I am looking at a hanging bike carrier to go vertical. I want to take a more extensive trip down to SW PA for a ride on the GAP. I have a 2019 Lincoln MKC with a 2 hitch. My question is could I adapt your Item #SR27041 to my recumbent bike?

asked by: Jim A

Expert Reply:

I have a great option for you to transport your JC26X tadpole-style recumbent trike, but I do not recommend using the Softride Hang2 2-Bike Rack for 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches # SR27041. Setting aside the potential issue of ground clearance hitch height with your hitch, the Softride Hang2 requires front handlebars to mount to the clamps at the top. Since we have not fitted a recumbent-style bike on the clamps there is no way to confirm whether the clamps will adequately secure at any point of your trike.

With that being said, an alternative option is to use the SeaSucker Trike Rack # 298-BD1005 on the roof of your Lincoln MKC. This route is a much safer and sure way to transport your trike for a long journey. The rack comes with a 45-pound weight capacity and comes with the easiest installation and removal process of any of our roof bike racks here at etrailer. I went ahead and attached a video that shows the true strength of the vacuum cups of the rack. I also attached a photo of a tadpole-style trike mounted with the rack.

To add theft-deterrence to the rack, I recommend using the Window Cable Anchor # 298-BA0010 along with the etrailer Cable Lock # e98891.

To help with installing your bike on the roof, I recommend using a wheel step like the # PT68ZR. It is a life-saver for mounting roof accessories. This step fits tires up to 13 inches wide.