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#HitchRack #SarisEdge #BikeRack #SecureYourRide #HitchPin #EasyAssembly #LoadYourBike #EBikeCompatible #FatTireRack #SpringLoadedArm #BikeSecurity #TrunkAccess #TailgateAccess #SwingArmAdapter #RackAndRoll
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The Saris Edge hitch-mounted bike rack offers a robust and user-friendly solution for transporting bikes, especially heavy e-bikes, with ease. Its straightforward assembly and secure design make it a dependable choice for cyclists. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its key features and functionality:
Securing the Rack to the Hitch
Attaching the Saris Edge to your vehicle’s hitch is simple. The spine of the rack slides into the hitch receiver, and a locking hitch pin secures it in place. The hitch expander ensures a snug fit, while an integrated knob allows for tightening to prevent movement during transit. It’s recommended to periodically check the knob’s tightness to maintain stability. Assembly is quick, even when done solo, taking less than 30 minutes. The rack weighs over 65 pounds, making it easier to mount with two people, though it’s manageable alone.
Loading Bikes
The Saris Edge features a V-shaped groove in its metal tray, designed to simplify the loading process, particularly for heavy e-bikes. Instead of lifting the entire bike, you can roll the front wheel onto the tray and then push the bike forward to lift the rear wheel into place. The groove acts as a guide, keeping the bike steady. The rack accommodates fat tires up to 5 inches wide and can carry bikes weighing up to 80 pounds per tray. If your e-bike has a removable battery, removing it can help manage the weight.
Loading a second bike is just as straightforward, with nearly a foot of clearance between bikes to prevent pedal or handlebar interference. The flat-topped rear wheel chock elevates the bike by 2.5 inches, providing additional clearance for overlapping components, such as handlebars or saddles.
Securing the Bikes
Once the front wheel is in place, a spring-loaded hook arm secures the bike. The arm has a fixed position for consistent placement, and its spring tension ensures a snug fit. A security strap is pulled down to secure the rear wheel against the chock, and excess strap can be hooked to avoid dangling. The hook arm design eliminates guesswork, ensuring proper alignment without interfering with suspension forks.
The rack also includes integrated security features. A built-in cable lock, keyed the same as the hitch pin, allows you to secure both bike frames for theft deterrence. While the lock isn’t long enough to weave through wheels, it provides solid protection for most scenarios.
Trunk and Tailgate Access
The Saris Edge offers four key positions to accommodate trunk or tailgate access: upright against the vehicle, slightly tilted away, extended for loading, and tilted down for access with bikes loaded. The grab handle on the outside of the rack allows for one-handed operation when unloaded, though two hands may be needed with bikes attached.
The rack sits relatively far from the vehicle, which helps with clearance. For example, the tilted-away position was sufficient to open the hatch on a Tesla Model Y, and the fully lowered position worked even with bikes loaded. For vehicles requiring maximum rear access, Saris’s Swing Away Adapter lets the rack pivot 90 degrees for completely unobstructed access.
Overall Impressions
The Saris Edge excels in usability, security, and versatility. Its thoughtful design simplifies loading and securing bikes, while its sturdy construction ensures stability during transport. Integrated security features, such as the built-in cable lock and locking hitch pin, provide peace of mind. The rack’s ability to tilt and pivot enhances convenience, particularly for vehicles with rear hatches or tailgates. While its weight makes it easier to handle with two people, it remains manageable for solo use.
Whether you’re transporting heavy e-bikes or standard adult bikes, the Saris Edge offers a reliable and efficient solution for cyclists on the go. Its combination of practical features and thoughtful design makes it a standout choice in the crowded market of bike racks.
