Saris SuperClamp EX2 vs Kuat Sherpa 2 on a Tesla Model S

Updated 01/22/2018 | Published 01/20/2018

Question:

When backing out of a steep driveway, it looks like the Saris will be less likely to scrape against the street due to the bent hitch mount. The Sherpa 2 extends in a straight line from the hitch mount pinhole 18inch to the end of the antivibration tightening knob. I have not measured how far from the pinhole to the uwward angle on the Saris is. Am I correct? Will the Saris SC EX2 get in/out of a steep driveway with less chance of scraping the pavement? Also, looking at your demos, it appears the Sherpa 2 bikes are less subject to shaking and bouncing than on the Saris. But you had a much heavier fat tire bike on the Saris. Is the Sherpa more stable than the EX2 or are they about the same? Thank you so very, very much. I am installing a hitch on the back of a Tesla Model S which has a suspension that rises. But still, the greater the ground clearance when entering and leaving the garage either when loaded of folded, the better.

asked by: Randy

Expert Reply:

You're correct, the Saris Superclamp, part # SA4025F will do better in comparison to the Kuat Sherpa, part # SH22G when going in and out of a driveway. This will have more to do with the angle of the rise than the actual height of it, as there is a fairly straight line from the straight part of the Superclamp's shank to the end of the wheel cradle, meaning you'll ride along that line when you're at an angle.

I would still recommend using your Tesla Model S' suspension to get a little more clearance if possible, just to avoid damaging the rack or the frame.

expert reply by: Jacob W