Bike Racks and Carbon

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2009-08-05 10:48 AM

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Regular
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Rochester
Subject: Bike Racks and Carbon

I currently have the following hitch mount bike rack:  http://www.etrailer.com/pc-br2b~TH912.htm

I have read that it it not good to use these racks with carbon framed bikes.  Does anyone have any opinions on this?  I would really hate to have to spend more money to get a new rack, but would hate even more to ruin my new bike. 

If I were to get a new rack I am looking at the Thule T2 or Double Track 2.  Wondering if anyone had any opinions on the situation, and either of these bike racks.

2009-08-05 10:57 AM
in reply to: #2329476

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Pro
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the Alabama part of Pennsylvania
Subject: RE: Bike Racks and Carbon
I use a Yakima hitch mount for my Madone.  No problems in the year or so that I have had it.
2009-08-05 10:58 AM
in reply to: #2329476

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Not a Coach
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Media, PA
Subject: RE: Bike Racks and Carbon
I use a similar one to that.  Snug the straps down to prevent the bike from bouncing up & down on the rack and it should be fine I would think.
2009-08-05 11:00 AM
in reply to: #2329476

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Expert
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Chenequa WI
Subject: RE: Bike Racks and Carbon
I haven't heard that they can't be used with carbon frames, but I don't like the racks with the rubber straps as we have found that they can mark up the bike.  The spare one we have also allows the bikes to touch each other, which I don't like.  We now use the Yakima Holdup, which is similar to the Thule T2, and love it for its stability and ease of use.  I actually have the extension and carry 4 bikes regularly. 

2009-08-05 11:09 AM
in reply to: #2329476

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Master
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South Alabama
Subject: RE: Bike Racks and Carbon

I just bought a 1 up USA Quik Rack for the hitch on my accord.  Works great and only contact points are on the tires. When you look at it on the website it is hard to believe it is as simple as advertised-but it is. Pricey at $299 but works great and is a breeze to use.  Site is www.1upusa.com  Really great quality and materials.  I put 1000 miles on car using it within first 2 weeks I had it and no problems at all.  Also got good reviews on roadbikereview site. 

2009-08-05 12:20 PM
in reply to: #2329476

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Pro
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Vancouver, BC
Subject: RE: Bike Racks and Carbon

Funny that this should come up today. My friend, Kristine, has a rack like this, but I'm pretty sure it's not Thule branded. She has a fairly new boyfriend.

We're standing around after a race last night and someone says to the boyfriend, hey what's that dent in your seatube on your carbon frame. Boyfriend says, "It's from Kristine bike rack." Kristine was shocked to hear this. The fact that he didn't tell her about this circular dent must mean that he is in love.

I've seen lots of people use these racks with no problem. Though after what I observed last night, I guess it is possible for it to damage a carbon frame.

2009-08-08 7:52 AM
in reply to: #2329476

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Regular
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Rochester
Subject: RE: Bike Racks and Carbon
any other opinions or suggestions?
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