Saris Bike Racks

Saris Bike Racks - An Option You Must Consider

The basic function of a bike rack is to help you transport your bicycles from one place to another. But if you are a bicycle lover then you know the importance of transporting them right – without damage to your bicycle or your vehicle. There are several different types of racks on the market today and each individuals needs are different depending on how frequently you are going to use it, your budget, the type of vehicle you have etc.

There are 3 main types of bike racks – roof mounted, trunk mounted and hitch mounted. There are specialty racks in addition to these.

1. Roof Mounted – These racks attach to the vehicles already existing roof rack and crossbars or you can use mounting feet and clips that attach to a vehicle’s rain gutters or upper door frame.

2. Trunk Mounted – These racks attach to the trunk, rear bumper or hatchback with nylon straps. The straps must be tightened and it is always better to check them regularly if you are on a long trip.

3. Hitch Mounted – You have to choose the right sized rack to match the class of hitch on your vehicle. These racks are easy to operate but tend to be quite expensive.

There are several companies manufacturing bike racks today. One name that comes to mind is Saris Cycling Group. They are a trusted name in the cycling world and make quality products. In 1989 Chris Fortune and his wife Sara bought a bike rack company from the Graber brothers. They created the Saris brand in 1992. The name Saris has been derived by combining the names Chris and Sara. They have some very popular models selling in the market today.

Fabio Pedrini who is the Saris product designer has come up with the following categories of designs:

Thelma , Bones RS , Cycle –On , Bones and T-bones

Following are some of the racks by Saris:

Cycle-On: 2-Bike Tray Rack, for 1.25" or 2" Receiver

Outside Magazine has recognized the Cycle-On series of bikes as Gear of the Year. The rack platform has been lowered and so the bike does not have to be lifted high of the ground. The front wheel is held in the contoured trays by the ratcheting arm and the rear wheels are wrapped by the rear clamps. This keeps your bikes steady and immobile. Plus no part of the rack makes any contact with the bike frame. So the finish of the bike is safe. It can be folded away when not in use.

Thelma: Hitch-Mount Tray Rack, for 1.25" or 2" Receiver

This is a 2 or 3 bike rack. Thelma weighs only 26 pounds making it one of the lightest and easy to use hitch mounted rack. The contoured arms make it fit perfectly over practically any size tire and cradle the bike securely. The ratchet straps click into place and stay tight against the wheels so your bike is steady and safe. The best part is that this rack does not touch the bike or your vehicle and so there is no fear of damage to either.

T-Bones: 2-Bike or 3-Bike, for 1.25" and 2" Receiver

This rack has a 2 or 3 bike capacity. The most attractive feature is its capacity to convert from a rack into a bike storage system for your home. It has an integrated lock system and adjustable set back to keep the rack, your bikes and your vehicle safe and secure. It is very light –only 10 pounds and fits into the transport bag which comes with the purchase of the rack.

Be sure you study the various available options before making a choice. You want to make sure you get the most use and pleasure out of your rack. Buying a Saris product will give you peace of mind.