Best Bike Rack for Heavy Bike with Fenders with Class I 1-1/4" Hitch
Updated 04/09/2026 | Published 04/05/2026
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Question:
Hello, I got this hitch for my 2007 Toyota Corolla. Im hoping to get a bike rack to carry my 44 pound ebike Vvolt Alpha 2.1 with fenders I think I can the weight about 5 pounds by removing the battery. I was originally looking at the Saris Freedom 2 bike rack, but then I saw it has a 35 pound per bike limit when paired with a Class 1 hitch. Many of the alternative racks seem likely to be incompatible with the fenders, but it seemed like perhaps the Saris SuperClamp would check all the boxes. I didnt see a note about Class 1 hitches like with the Freedom, but I wanted to confirm if there would be any additional limitations to consider when using the SuperClamp with one the rack itself is heavier than the Freedom so I assume that eats more of the weight capacity. Would the Curt stabilizing straps be recommended as well? Thanks!
asked by: Carver
Expert Reply:
Hey Carver, you’re definitely thinking through all the right details here, especially with the weight and those fenders, because that’s usually where things can get tricky.
With your Curt Hitch part # C11265 on the Corolla, the big thing to keep in mind is that it’s a Class I hitch, which comes with a 200 pound tongue weight limit and is also limited to carrying one bike when it comes to hitch mounted racks. You are correct about the Saris Freedom part # SA4412B, it drops the per bike capacity down to 35 pounds on a Class I hitch, so even with the battery removed it would be cutting it too close to feel comfortable.
You were also right to question the SuperClamp part # SA4025F. Saris does not recommend it for bikes with fenders since it uses a frame hook that can come down onto the fender, and that can lead to damage depending on the bike’s setup. That makes it a bit of a risk for your Alpha.
Your best bet is going to be the Saris MHS UNO part # SAR52MR. It has a 60 pound capacity for a single bike, and the wheel hook can be adjusted to avoid contact with the fender, which gives you a much safer and more secure hold. It’s also a really nice option because it keeps things simple and well within the limits of your Class I hitch so you’re not second guessing things while you’re driving.
If you ever wanted to carry a second bike down the road, you can add the extension part # SAR85MR, but at that point I would recommend moving up to a 2 inch hitch since your current hitch is really intended for a single bike setup. This rack also works with a 2 inch hitch though so keep that in mind for the future.
Where are you hoping to take your Alpha, any trails or rides you’ve been wanting to check out?
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Saris MHS UNO Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Modular Hitch Rack
- Saris MHS
- Base w/ Accessories
- Bike Rack
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 1 Bike
- Saris
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