Best Bike Rack Recommendation for Nissan Altima for Carrying Carbon Fiber Frame Bike

Published 09/15/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Saris SuperClamp EX Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(130)

$579.99

Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Gray

(590)

$759.00

Question:

I really like the Saris SuperClamp EX part # SA4025F. This is a lightweight platform rack (which is normally an unheard of combo). That means it'll be easy to install and remove from your vehicle since it's light, but also it'll be very easy to load bikes on since it's a platform rack. This rack also only touches bikes at the tire so it protects any damage to delicate frame materials or finishes like your carbon fiber frame bike. This style of bike rack is one of the more expensive styles of racks though so if you want what you listed in terms of longevity, reliability, and protect your bike frame the racks do end up costing more than the entry level racks. I attached a review video for this rack on a similar Nissan Altima as yours as well.

asked by: Leberta G

Expert Reply:

I really like the Saris SuperClamp EX part # SA4025F. This is a lightweight platform rack (which is normally an unheard of combo). That means it'll be easy to install and remove from your vehicle since it's light, but also it'll be very easy to load bikes on since it's a platform rack.

This rack also only touches bikes at the tire so it protects any damage to delicate frame materials or finishes like your carbon fiber frame bike. This style of bike rack is one of the more expensive styles of racks though so if you want what you listed in terms of longevity, reliability, and protect your bike frame the racks do end up costing more than the entry level racks.

I attached a review video for this rack on a similar Nissan Altima as yours as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C

click to enlarge

Leberta

9/15/2017

Jameson C.

9/15/2017

Kuat Sherpa part # SH22G is a great option. It does fold up when not in use so it will give you a bit more clearance when you aren't carrying a bike rack. That being said, due to the design of the Saris it really doesn't have anything that would need to fold up since both bikes mount on a single rail. Not taking anything away from the Sherpa though as it is a really nice rack. I attached a couple pictures though that show both racks loaded on a vehicle from the side in their most tucked "out of the way" configuration. It does appear that the Sherpa does get more "out of the way" though so it would be your best option. It also weighs a tiny bit less at 32 lbs compared to 35 lbs.