Recommended Bike Rack for 2 Bikes With Carbon Fiber Frames  

Question:

Expert Reply:

For bikes with a carbon fiber frame, you don't want to use a bike rack that holds the bike by the frame as it could become damaged. You'll want a bike rack that holds the bike by the wheels/tires without any frame contact.

I'd recommend the Sherpa 2.0 from Küat, part # SH22G. The Sherpa is compatible with 2 inch receiver hitches. Assuming your Outback has a 2 inch receiver, this rack would work very well for you. The rack holds the bike by the wheels/tires with zero frame contact, and is capable of tilting rearward while the bikes are in place to offer easy access to the rear cargo area, it can also tilt up against the rear of the vehicle with the bikes removed for storage. The rack includes an anti-rattle shank that will tighten the fit between the rack and the hitch so it doesn't move about as you're driving and a hitch and cable lock is included to help deter theft. If your Outback has a 1-1/4 inch hitch, you'd use a different version of the Sherpa, part # SH12B, the features are the same with that rack, it just fits the smaller hitch.

The # TH984101 Thule Carbon Bike Frame Protector is a pretty neat item, but given the cost of carbon fiber bikes I personally would feel more comfortable using a bike rack that makes no frame contact.

expert reply by: Mike L

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