Bike Rack

ShoshTrvls · 06-16-2008, 08:37 AM

Has anyone attempted to use a "hook on" bike rack (like the one below) with the Smart? Any thoughts about whether it would fit securely and/or be safe?

Flashman · 06-16-2008, 08:45 AM

Saris makes two other racks worth testing:

Saris Bones RS

Saris Bones 3

SGTMAJOR · 07-11-2008, 06:09 PM

I came across the Saris site last evening. They claim they can fit any car, however, there is still no Smart listed on their site..... might have to give them sometime.

I did run across another site where a Smart owner had a hook on bike rack and I sent.... or tried to send him/her a message but yet no answer. The local bike shop is a Saris dealer so I'll try to get down there and check things out.

If someone else comes up with something.... please post. I have a Cabrio so I'm somewhat limited on what to use.... plus I'm somewhat concerned about what the bike and rack will do to gas mileage on a long haul somewhere. (I'm traveling from Southern Cal. to Kansas next month and would really like to take the bike & my fortwo.)

Best wishes,
Steve

SPDYII · 07-11-2008, 08:05 PM

I have been wonder about this for months. I can't believe that no one has tried this yet. To me it looks like the best way to carry a bike on a smartcar. There are to may problems with putting a bike on the roof of the car. Put a bike on a hitch is expense and heavy. So far though I haven't heard of anyone trying this option of using the type mentioned in this thread. If I had my car now I would definitely try it.

DFWehman · 07-11-2008, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShoshTrvls

Has anyone attempted to use a "hook on" bike rack (like the one below) with the Smart? Any thoughts about whether it would fit securely and/or be safe?

I have a very similar rack that I have used on a number of cars, it is very stable. The only concern I would have is keeping the side straps down from the top of the tailgate. As I just received my 90 day notice today, I don't have a Smart to try it on, but you are welcome to try it for a while if you want.

SGTMAJOR · 07-12-2008, 05:51 PM

1st problem is.... I have a Camrio so, no hatchback to connect to etc. 2nd problem.... I have a Smart, but no bike yet. (smile) Ordered my bike a little over a week ago and it should be here in 4-6.

Anyway... I will get this figured out but of all the carriers I've looked at on the net, the Saris looks like it might be the best solution other than having major modifications with the tow bar connector etc. The Saris web-page states to give them a call and they will figure a solution to any car..... so I'm banking on Saris.

Flashman · 07-12-2008, 06:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DFWehman

I have a very similar rack that I have used on a number of cars, it is very stable. The only concern I would have is keeping the side straps down from the top of the tailgate. As I just received my 90 day notice today, I don't have a Smart to try it on, but you are welcome to try it for a while if you want.

This type of bike rack will NOT work. Because there is no metal lips to attach to. Also, those kind of racks are NOT to be attached to smooth "glued on glass" or the weight of the bikes may pop-out the glass. I have a Saris Bones for my Mazda 3 (very similar) and took a quick look and there was nowhere to attach it reliably.

zipp2001 · 07-12-2008, 06:50 PM

One of the requirements when I purchased my smart was that my bike fit in it. I ride a tri-bike and in fold down the passanger seat and take my wheels off and it fits in with no problem. I have a photo of both bike and car together in my gallery.

DowneasTTer · 07-12-2008, 07:35 PM

I have hitches on all my cars including Max my 08 smart carb in order to both use a hitch mount rack for our bikes or tow my rack and roll trailer. The trailer allows for both our bikes and kayaks. Pics are in my gallery if interested take a look. My smart has to earn it's keep in more than just mpg's and smiles... it's gotta move the toys. If that means spending a little more $$ for a hitch so be it.

DowneasTTer
Orrington, Me

SGTMAJOR · 07-13-2008, 01:09 AM

If you go over to Smart USA (Insider) and look in the photo section. Page 21 has photos posted by Derek M (I think I spelled his name correctly. Anyway, take a look at his photos.... there are several with his bike on a trunk mounted rack. Also a picture of the rack in the box. (Graber 2) Might be worth investigating.

At least I now know it's possible..... just to find the correct setup etc.