Recommended Bike Rack for Carbon Fiber Frame Bikes

Updated 04/19/2021 | Published 04/17/2021

Question:

Greetings, Most of the time Im on hauling one carbon road bike and occasionally 2. Im wanting to purchase a platform rack but torn between weight savings, versatility, and quality. I have watched videos on Thule XTR Pro 2, Thule Helium Platform 2, KUAT NV 2 and KAUT Sherpa 2 as well as 1UP Equip D. I dont currently have plans for an E-Bike but they do look intriguing. Not sure if weight is a big deal if taking on and off 2 or 3 times per week. I have a 2 inch class 3 receiver receiver that is recessed a couple inches from the bumper so not sure if the Thules are even an option. I would greatly value your recommendations.

asked by: Craig

Expert Reply:

The Kuat NV 2.0 Base 2-Bike Platform Rack part # BA22B is one of the best bike rack options on the market. It looks great and it's perfect for carbon fiber frame bikes as it holds the bikes by the wheels. Many frame mount bike racks are actually not supposed to be used with carbon fiber frame bikes. It also allows you to upgrade to electric bikes in the future if desired. It's not too heavy either at only about 50 lbs. It requires 6-5/8" of space from the hitch pin hole to the bumper which will work with most vehicles.

expert reply by: Conner L