How to Stabilize Roof-Mounted Tandem Bicycle to Reduce Sway

Updated 06/11/2014 | Published 06/09/2014

Question:

We have a Yakima tandem rack on our 2011 Outback. Fits the bike well, but theres a lot of swaying happening when we are driving. What have you got to stabilize the bike so theres less moving around?

asked by: Joanne

Expert Reply:

To reduce sway of your roof-mounted tandem bike I suggest a set of ratcheting tie-down straps that can be secured to the bike and to the two raised side rails on your Outback. We offer a range of these items such as the Erickson Re-Tractable Ratchet Straps # EM34415.

This 2-piece set of tie-downs features push-button automatic retraction of the 10-foot straps and a safe working load limit of 400-lbs, more than enough to secure your tandem bike. These will offer better performance than a typical bungee cord that will stretch and which might still allow for random motion of the bike. Once tightened down with the ratcheting handles, these straps will not stretch like rubber cords and should do a good job of stabilizing your bike. I have linked a video on this item for your review.

expert reply by: Adam R