Is The Curt 4-Bike Platform Rack C18087 Safe For Carbon Fiber Bikes?

Published 09/10/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Curt 4 Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount - Tilting

(384)

$579.95

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(827)

$48.99

Question:

Hi folks, Is the C18087 safe for carbon frames? Thank you

asked by: TC M

Expert Reply:

A frame-mount bike rack, such as the Curt 4 Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches # C18087, could potentially scratch the frame on a carbon fiber bike so it is not recommended to do so. You could get by with using an adapter bar like # 64005 for each carbon fiber bike as this would allow the bikes to be secured without actually touching the frame. The adapter bar would clamp around the seat post and handlebar's stem post.

While the above method would work well, the best option is to use a wheel-mount carrier so that you don't have to use adapter bars. For this, I recommend the Saris SuperClamp EX 4 Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches # SA4026F. This uses ratcheting padded hooks to secure each bike by the wheels, allowing for no frame contact. It is very lightweight at only 63lbs, while the Curt carrier is 86lbs. Locks are included to keep your bikes and bike rack secured to the trailer hitch receiver. I attached a demonstration video to give you some more insight on this Saris carrier.

expert reply by: Andrew N