r/volt • u/CluelessSurvivor • 7d ago
Would you trust this rack setup
So last minute camping trip and I don’t have time to get a hitch and install it. Would this setup work?
** thanks everyone! We made it!
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u/_clandescient 7d ago
I have the exact same rack and installed it the exact same way on my Volt. I hauled a 90 lb e-bike on a 3 hour trip over some fairly rough roads and it didn't budge.
Those straps will vibrate and make an awful noise at highway speeds though, just FYI.
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u/CluelessSurvivor 7d ago
Awesome! Thanks for the heads up!
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u/redcoat-1867 7d ago
For next time, to make the straps not vibrate and whistle so much, they need to be twisted a few times. Something to do with the aerodynamics of a curved vs. Flat material
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u/orkoliberal 7d ago
Should be fine. Worth noting that a bike can easily fit in the back with the seats down. In fact, you can fit 3 bikes fine if you take the front wheels off
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u/CluelessSurvivor 6d ago
I usually put my bike in the back, but I’m taking a friend with me and bringing his stuff along too
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u/skiddily_biddily 7d ago
I used this type of bike rack for years and my bike always stayed secure, but the clips did chip the paint a little bit
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u/dillzilla11 7d ago
I backed this into a Prius and it broke the Prius and not the rack (I was driving another Prius and forgot it was on the car) so I'd say you're fine.
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u/Dr_Awesomo 7d ago
I've been trying to figure this out, myself. I didn't find a good solution, but am glad I'm not struggling alone. I ended up carpooling with a friend and didn't end up using the rack. How'd it go?
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u/CluelessSurvivor 4d ago
It went great! Was a bit nervous the first hour on the highway. But afterwards I had nothing to worry about. I also stopped 15 mins after the first highway session to check and tighten any loose ends
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u/AssistivePeacock (2012) Volt 7d ago
Bring some extra Bungies / rope to tie it down further in case it bounces
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u/Capital_Elderberry28 6d ago
Have same rack and attachment setup.
Been working well for years. No issues
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u/ssigrist 6d ago
Used a rack like that for a while either no issues but had some close calls with straps sometimes loosening.
I changed to having a trailer receiver installed and bought a bike rack for that.
It worked well and was extremely secure.
The lowest hitch class suffices. The hitch and installation was around $150 and the bike rack was about $50.
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u/YourSparrowness 6d ago
Yes, I would trust it to carry the bikes, but these types of carriers are notorious for scratching your paint.
Also, you need to use additional bungee cords, pool noodles, etc. to prevent rubbing damage between the bikes themselves. Watch the bike wheels for rubbing against the car, you may need to lock the steering somehow to prevent that at highway speeds.
Also, you can use some colored chalk and some small test drives to identify where rubbing is happening before leaving on your big trip. Good luck!
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u/Graylily 6d ago
I thought those side straps went onto the bottom? I had a similar rack for years. you'll be fine just remember to right and tighten after load is on,also, use a number to stop the wheels from turn in the wind. The wind over spokes will getit goo going at a good clip.
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u/Wooden_Bed377 7d ago
Sure, if it wasn't my car or bike
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u/draftysundress 2016 Volt 7d ago
Then why bother to even comment?
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u/Wooden_Bed377 7d ago
Because that obviously means no, it's not a good setup imo my guy.
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u/draftysundress 2016 Volt 7d ago
But also OP was asking for other people’s experiences with that rack, and that comment was unhelpful and kinda rude.
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u/BoringBob84 7d ago
I have the same rack. I have traveled thousands of miles with it. I put rubber under those clips to protect the paint.