Use of the Saris Freedom Bike Rack with 50" Bike Wheelbase

Question:

I have a bike with a 50” wheelbase. The Saris Freedom 2EX is listed with a 50” wheelbase, while the Freedom 4 and Freedom 2 only have a 48” wheelbase. Is the actual bar length longer on the 2EX, or is it just the wheel cradles that offer an extra inch each the wheel cradles on the 2EX are much longer? Could I buy replacement wheel cradles for the 2EX and put them on Freedom 4 and fit my 50” wheelbase on the Freedom 4? Thanks

asked by: Richard S

Expert Reply:

While we do have a solution for you, it is impossible to know for sure whether the crossbeam on the Saris Freedom 2 EX is the same length as the Saris Freedom 2 # SA4412B or the Freedom 4 # SA4414B. This is because the Freedom 2 EX is no longer in production and we do not have that model available for measurement in our inventory. I also confirmed with Saris that the cradles used on the Saris Freedom 2 EX are no longer produced.

All that being said, you are correct in saying that the # SA4412B and the # SA4414B accommodate bikes up to a maximum of 48" from axle to axle. In order to transport your bike, you need a rack that fits a longer wheelbase. A great alternative is the Hollywood Racks RV Rider Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 2" Hitches # HLY64FR. Not only does the RV Rider work well with wheelbases up to 60" long, it is the perfect rack for both RV applications and cars/trucks/SUVs/vans alike. It comes with the exact same independently-adjusting cradles as the Freedom, so you do not have to worry about purchasing additional bike frame adapter bars. Not only does the RV Rider come with a larger 80-pound per bike weight capacity, you also get the advantage of included locks. With the Freedom, both the hitch lock and cable lock are additional accessories you need to purchase for theft-deterrence.

I went ahead and attached a video of the RV Rider installed on a 2021 Toyota Highlander for you to check out.