Lightweight Aluminum Bike Rack Recommendation for 2 Townie-Style Bikes

Question:

Hello, I am looking for a bike rack for 2 townies. My preference is aluminum, as we live near the ocean and everything rusts. I saw the Thule helium, but wasnt sure this was a good fit, as you need to purchase some stability bar. Have big truck and 2 “ hitch, but love lightweight, and aluminum, and not massive about that helium rack. Thoughts please.

asked by: Shawn B

Expert Reply:

If you are looking for a quality lightweight aluminum rack with rust resistance, the Thule Helium # TH9042PRO is one of the most lightweight aluminum racks we carry at only 19 pounds. You are absolutely correct about needing a bike frame adapter bar # RRRBCA021 for using your 2 townie-style step-thru bikes with this rack.

For another recommendation of a rust-resistant aluminum rack that doesn't require an adapter, I recommend the Kuat Sherpa 2.0. The rack comes with a few color options:

- Gray # SH22G
- Pearl # SH22P
- Black # SH22B

This rack is a platform-style design which does not require you to lift your bikes as high when loading. The rack itself weighs only 32 pounds. Since it mounts at the wheels, you do not need to worry about using an adapter like you would with the Helium. Another huge benefit of the Sherpa 2.0 is that you can fold the rack down with bikes loaded for better access to your cargo area. As far as compatibility with your bikes, it can fit bikes with tires 25" - 29" and bike wheelbases up to 47 inches long measured from axle to axle. If you happen to have bikes with tires 20-24 inches in diameter, you need the # 016-025-00-00.

To make sure the Sherpa 2.0 has enough shank length to clear your truck's bumper, I recommend measuring from the center of your hitch's pinhole to the outside face of your rear bumper. If that distance is less than 7-1/2 inches long, you are good to go!