Recommended Hitch-Mount 4-Bike Platform Bike Carrier for 2 Adult and 1 Kids Bikes

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Question:

Im trying to decide which platform bike rack would be best. I have a standard mens bike. a ladies bike with stepthrough frame. and kids 20inch bike. i think im leaning toward the saris freedom 4. but also looking at the other platform options such as the swagman xtc. i think with the variety of bikes that the two arm hanging models would be too complicated. any advice would be appreciated.

asked by: E. T

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Expert Reply:

The Saris Freedom 4 Bike Platform Rack for 2-inch hitches, part # SA4414B, and the Swagman XTC4 4-Bike Rack # S64665, both offer a mix of excellent features that make each one versatile for transporting a variety of bike frame sizes and styles. Two key differences between them are the amount of clearance each offers from the hitch pin hole and the sizes of bike wheelbases that are compatible.

The Saris Freedom 4, when folded up in its storage position, provides 6-inches of space between the hitch pin hole and the nearest part of the rack. It's maximum bike wheelbase is 44-1/2-inches. The Swagman XTC 4 offers 3-1/2-inches of clearance when folded but does work with longer wheelbases - from 27-1/2-inches to 61-inches. One linked article will show you how to measure your vehicle to confirm clearance compatibility and the other will help you consider the designs of the bikes to ensure a good rack fit.

Assuming both are a good fit for your vehicle and bikes, I would go for the Saris for its lower weight and since it is USA-made. Both racks carry a limited lifetime warranty and review videos for both are linked for you.

expert reply by: Adam R

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Answer 1

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 2

Thanks for reaching out, Daniel! The Benton Shifts&Grins Bike Rack has a 55 lb rating for all bikes both in the 2-Bike Version, part #B54FR, and the 4-Bike Version, part #B82FR. This is different than the standard platform bike rack on the market…

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Answer 3

Hello Jody, There is indeed a bike rack capable of carrying a pair of ebikes and a pair of road bikes at the same time, so long as you have a 2 inch hitch. That said, it really depends on how much your ebikes weigh, but a good option to start with is…

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Answer 4

Hi Rebekka, The Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes #NV22G-NA22G has a ratcheting arm that will interfere with front fenders so it unfortunately wouldn't be the best option option for hauling your bikes. If you wanted to stick with the Kuat brand…

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Answer 5

The Curt #C13410 and Draw-tite #76227 are very similar in design and both have the same weight ratings of 600lbs tongue weight and 4,000lbs of trailer weight. I do like that Draw-Tite does add the additional plate of steel in between the hangers that…

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Answer 6

If you are trying to choose between the Saris Freedom 4 Bike Platform Rack #SA4414B and the Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack for 4 Bikes #HR4000 for your 2019 Vokswagen Atlas, I recommend the Saris Freedom 4 if you are planning to transport…

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Answer 7

I've tried every possible option I can think of to get that bike rack and adapters to allow you to tow at the same time and unfortunately there really isn't a solution that will work with a single hitch receiver compatible with your 2016…

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Answer 8

Thanks for reaching out, Walter! The 40 lb per bike weight limit listed on the Benton ShiftShow Bike Rack #B94FR has to do with the strength of the cradles themselves, so if you were to load up a 47 lb bike you would still be overloading the cradle.…

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Recommended Hitch-Mount 4-Bike Platform Bike Carrier for 2 Adult and 1 Kids Bikes

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