When it comes to transporting your bicycles, especially for weekend getaways or cycling adventures, a Bike Trunk Mount can be a convenient and cost-effective solution. However, safety should always be your top priority. Choosing a flimsy or inadequate bike trunk mount can lead to disastrous consequences, potentially damaging your bikes, your vehicle, and even endangering others on the road. It’s crucial to understand that the initial savings from a cheap rack are insignificant compared to the potential risks and liabilities.
One common mistake is underestimating the importance of weight capacity. Just because a rack is advertised as holding “two bikes” doesn’t mean it can handle any two bikes. For instance, the Saris Bones 2, a popular model available at retailers like Planet Cyclery, is indeed designed for two bikes. However, upon closer inspection of the manufacturer’s specifications on the Saris website, it’s clear that this translates to a limit of 35 lbs per bike.
This weight limit is critical. It’s tempting to think that if a rack is rated for 70 lbs total (35 lbs x 2 bikes), you could simply transport one heavier bike, say an e-bike, weighing close to 70 lbs. This is a dangerous assumption. Bike trunk mounts are engineered to distribute weight across multiple points and straps. Concentrating a heavy load on one section can overstress the materials. The straps themselves, designed to secure two bikes, may not be robust enough to withstand the force of a single, heavier bike bouncing and swaying, especially when encountering bumps or potholes on the road. Even additional reinforcement with tape or rope is unlikely to compensate for the rack’s fundamental design limitations and could mask underlying issues, leading to failure.
Investing in a higher-quality, more robust bike trunk mount is a wise decision for peace of mind and safety. Models like the Saris Freedom Superclamp 2 are designed for heavier loads, boasting a 60 lbs per bike capacity. While they come at a higher price point, around $430 retail, the increased safety and stability are well worth the investment. Furthermore, exploring online retailers like eTrailer and Outside Outfitters might reveal sales or discounts, potentially bringing the price closer to $350, as experienced by some buyers.
To further enhance stability and weight distribution, consider using stabilizer straps like the Curt Stabilizer straps. These inexpensive accessories, costing around $9 each, provide additional support and minimize sway, especially when carrying heavier bikes or traveling on uneven roads. The added confidence they provide is invaluable, knowing your bikes are securely fastened.
For those seeking the ultimate in stability and weight capacity, hitch-mounted bike racks are another excellent option. While requiring a hitch installation on your vehicle, which can add to the overall cost (around $200 for a Honda Fit, for example), hitch racks offer superior stability and are often designed for heavier bikes, including e-bikes.
In conclusion, when choosing a bike trunk mount, prioritize safety and weight capacity over price. Don’t compromise on quality for short-term savings. Invest in a rack that is appropriately rated for your bikes and consider additional accessories like stabilizer straps for enhanced security. By making an informed decision, you can ensure safe and worry-free bike transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying your cycling adventures.
