Choosing the right Carrier Bike solution can be a challenge, especially when you have a variety of bikes to transport. For me, the dilemma started when my old 4-bike hanging rack reached its weight limit with just two Radrovers ebikes. I initially considered a motorcycle carrier with a ramp, thinking it might be easier for my wife to load bikes due to her height. However, both the motorcycle carrier and the 1UP bike rack options became less appealing when I realized I often needed to carry up to four bikes. The cost of a 1UP system with add-ons for that capacity also became a significant factor.
Ultimately, I opted for the Saris Freedom SuperClamp 4 Bike Rack. Serendipitously, I found a returned unit on Amazon, saving a considerable amount compared to the regular price. This rack seemed like the ideal balance of capacity and cost. While my wife still finds it challenging to lift the Radrovers, I can efficiently load and unload between one and four bikes as needed. It’s important to note that for heavier loads like multiple ebikes and regular bikes, the 2″ hitch version of the SuperClamp 4 is crucial to handle the tongue weight. I believe the 1 1/4″ hitch size Superclamp 2 might not be sufficient for such loads.
For a recent trip, I easily converted the rack to a 2-bike carrier by removing the outer section, which was incredibly convenient and only took a few minutes.
Despite the overall satisfaction, I’ve encountered a few minor issues with the Saris SuperClamp:
- The kickstands on the rear Radrover ebikes need to be left down to properly secure the tire clamps.
- There’s some rubbing between the Topeak fat tire bike racks and the front forks, requiring protective rubber strips to prevent paint damage.
- The joint for hatch access has a bit of play, even when tightened, leading to slight movement during drives.
These small drawbacks aside, the Saris Freedom SuperClamp 4 has proven to be a practical carrier bike rack for my needs, offering a good balance of capacity, ease of use (for me), and adaptability.
