finally, a rack for heavy ebikes
for starters
MHS stands for Modular Hitch System, meaning that there is a lot of versatility in this system. The rack in this video is the Saris MHS Single Bike tray on the 1+1 base with the Duo tray design. This rack is $549 in this setup and can be expanded to a two-bike rack for around $350 more.
Modular design
I mentioned that the base in this video is a 1+1 meaning you can have 1 tray and one add-on. They also sell a 2+1 and 3+1 version of the base. The Duo tray (reviewed) is a two arm design similar to the Kuat Piston and is capable of holding bikes up to 80 lbs. while the Uno tray has a single arm and can hold bikes up to 60 lbs. In addition to the bike trays, there is also 5.5 sq. ft. cargo tray (only compatible with the 2+1 and 3+1 with a bike or with the 1+1 without a bike) that can carry up to 200 lbs. of gear. Add-ons hold less weight than the main trays. So, the +1 can hold 35 lbs. while your number of “regular” trays attached to the base can hold the heavier bikes.
rack ratings
- Duo tray holds up to a 5-inch (127mm) wide tire – Uno is 3 inches (76mm)
- Uno tray will handle up to a 50-inch (127cm) wheelbase – Duo is 53″ (134.6cm)
- Will hold a wheel anywhere from 29er (700c) down to a 20″
- 115 lbs (45.3 kg) max weight when attached properly to a vehicle (1+1 version)
- ***RV Certified*** when equipped with Duo trays. Max weight varies by base, check the website for specifications.
ease of use
The arms on the Duo are one hand operation. They have a ratchet mechanism as you lock in your bike, and there is a squeeze trigger to open it back up. The wheel size adjustment is tool-less and operates similar to a thru-axle on a bike, but the sizes are not labeled so a little trial and error may be necessary. Cable locks are integrated into the tray and keyed the same as the hitch pin lock. Triggered handle allows rack to tilt down out of the way for tailgate/liftgate access.
accessories
- Light kit for tail lights, brakes, and turn signals.
- E-bike ramp
pros
- Stability, even with heavier e-bikes
- Tilt for tailgate access
- Modular – Loads of options!
- Expandability for the future
cons
- Size of the base – blocks license plate
- Wheel size adjustment is stubborn at times
in conclusion
I hope you enjoyed the video and this post, and more importantly, I hope it helped. If you’re interested in purchasing this system, I’d really appreciate it if you used my link. It doesn’t cost you any extra and it really helps out my channel. Thanks! https://amzn.to/448EdMb
runbikemike.com 