Recommended Hitch Bike Rack To Carry 2 E-bikes On A Class I Trailer Hitch

Published 03/10/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(515)

$1099.95

Hollywood Racks Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(530)

$39.99

Thule Helium Platform XT Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(17)

$899.95

Question:

What hitch bike rack do you recommend if my Trek Domane + has a carbon frame?

asked by: Pat

Helpful Expert Reply:

I did some research on Uhaul's website and your Class I trailer hitch has a maximum tongue weight of 200lbs, so you will not have a problem carrying your two e-bikes. The Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount, part # TH903202, is an excellent choice. It comes with a ramp to help you load and unload your bikes. This hitch bike rack will clamp your frame, making it easier for you to carry your bike with fenders. Your Trek Domane + is an aluminum frame bike, so you will not have to worry about compromising the integrity of your frame when carrying this bike. The last part you will need is a frame adapter, part # HRBA-PRO, for your Gazelle Elite C8 step-through bike. It will attach between your seat and your handlebar stem. When you carry this bike on your hitch bike rack, you will clamp this tube to secure the bike.

I have included a product description link and video review links below.

expert reply by: Mark Smith

Pat M.

3/10/2022

What hitch bike rack do you recommend if my Trek Domane + has a carbon frame?

Mark S.

3/10/2022

You do have another option, provided you remove your e-bikes batteries during transport. If you do, the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4"/2" Hitches - Frame Mount, part # HR1000Z will use a ratcheting arm instead of a clamp to secure your bikes. You will still need the frame adapter for your step-through frame and this rack has a 50 lbs weight limit per bike. The battery of your Gazelle e-bike will have to be removed for this bike to meet the weight requirement of this hitch bike rack. Removing your battery is also the recommended way to carry an e-bike. A better option, if your Gazelle Elite C8 can get down to 45 lbs when the battery is removed, is the Thule Helium Platform XT Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount, part # TH53GC. This hitch bike rack is our best option because it will not damage the fenders on your Gazelle Elite C8. The real limiting factor in your options is not your hitch bike rack. It is your Class I trailer hitch. You would have slightly better options if you had a Class III trailer hitch. The bike weight limits would be higher on Class III hitch bike rack options. I have included a product description link and a video review link below.