What Bike Rack Do You Recommend for a Turbo Vado 4.0 SL EQ on My 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan?

Question:

Hi, Im looking for a platform bike rack for my Specialized ebike - Turbo Vado 4.0 SL EQ - which is a step thru and has fenders. I have a 2014 EClass Mercedes Benz Sedan and am also thinking to get a receiver hitch from you - the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4inch - C11001 I noticed you had several platform bike racks - some frame mounts and some wheel mount styles. Is one better than another for my style bike? Also - most times I will be putting the bike on the rack myself female - sixty-something and want something I can manage myself. : Thanks in advance for your recommendations!

asked by: Janet

Expert Reply:

A great bike rack for the Turbo Vado 4.0 EQ is the Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes item # TH903202. The EasyFold XT includes an integrated ramp that will help you load the bike onto the rack without lifting the bike off the ground. Another great reason to choose the EasyFold XT is that the rack secures your bike by the frame instead of by the wheels. I strongly recommend this kind of frame-mount for bikes with fenders instead of a wheel-mount system in order to avoid cracks or damage to the bike's fenders during transport. The EasyFold XT has a per-bike weight capacity of 65 pounds, which will give you plenty of support for your Turbo Vado 4.0 SL EQ. In addition, the Thule EasyFold XT bypasses the need for a bike adapter bar for your step-through frame like the Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes item # TH982XT.

As far as a trailer hitch that will be compatible with the Thule EasyFold XT and your 2014 Mercedes EClass Sedan, the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4inch - item # C11001 is a great choice. Since the Curt Trailer Hitch has a maximum tongue weight capacity of 200 pounds, you will have enough support for both the EasyFold XT and your Turbo Vado 4.0 SL EQ. You will also have enough room to add another bike to the rack to transport. The Curt Trailer Hitch is custom fit and bolts directly to your Mercedes with included hardware. I attached a video of the installation to this answer.

expert reply by: Jerred H