When it comes to transporting your bicycles, especially heavier ones like e-bikes, skimping on a Bike Mount Trunk is a risk you simply shouldn’t take. The initial savings you might see with a cheaper rack can quickly be overshadowed by potential liabilities and damages if it fails. Relying on insurance to cover damage caused by a faulty, low-quality bike rack is not a sound strategy.
You might come across options like the Saris Bones 2, often available at a lower price point. While retailers may advertise it as a “two bike” carrier, a closer look at the manufacturer’s specifications reveals a weight limit of 35 lbs per bike. This crucial detail is often missed, leading to potential misuse. It’s tempting to think that if the rack is rated for two bikes at 35 lbs each, it can handle a single, heavier bike up to 70 lbs. However, this is a dangerous assumption. The straps and overall structure of racks like the Saris Bones 2 are typically not engineered to withstand the concentrated force of a single, heavy bike bouncing and swaying, especially when encountering bumps or uneven road surfaces. Attempting to reinforce it with extra straps or ropes only masks a fundamental design limitation and doesn’t guarantee safety. The stress concentration on a single point could still lead to material fatigue and eventual failure.
For those serious about safely transporting heavier bikes, investing in a robust bike mount trunk like the Saris Freedom Superclamp 2 is a much wiser decision. This rack is designed with a higher weight capacity, rated for 60 lbs per bike. While it comes at a higher price point, the peace of mind and security it offers are invaluable. To further enhance stability and weight distribution, consider adding stabilizer straps like Curt Stabilizer straps. These simple additions significantly minimize bike movement during transit, providing extra support and confidence, especially at highway speeds. Knowing your valuable e-bikes are securely mounted gives you the freedom to focus on the road ahead, without worrying about your bikes detaching.
While the initial cost of a high-quality bike mount trunk and accessories might seem significant, it’s an investment in the safety of your bikes and the security of other drivers on the road. You might even find deals on premium racks if you shop around and are willing to wait for sales. Remember to factor in the potential cost of a hitch installation if your vehicle isn’t already equipped. Although it’s an additional expense, a hitch-mounted rack, combined with a quality bike mount trunk, offers the most secure and reliable way to transport your bikes. Prioritize safety and choose a bike mount trunk that is truly designed for the weight and demands of your bikes.
