gadgetadam 

Quick question and please don't be too sarcastic with me :-)

Is transporting a carbon bike on a trunk rack (like a Saris bones 2 https://www.saris.com/p-300-bones-2-bike.aspx# ) going to damage the top tube? I wouldn't think so but I just wanted a second opinion.

Thanks.

-GadgetAdam

BananaTugger

Only if it is a boutique custom rig like a Crumpton, Ruegamer or Spin that has wicked thin tube walls.

NYJayhawk

The only problem I've had with the Saris bones rack is ratchet straps. Two are used to lock down the top tube, and then there's one below that locks down the seat tube to keep it from flying up in the wind. I noticed recently that I had a minor chip in the finish of my seat tube where this thing touches. I've since applied the "soft" side of a piece of velcro tape to the part of the rack that touches the seat tube to provide a little bit of soft cushioning. Other than that, it's a great rack, and shouldn't hurt your bike. Also keep in mind that you don't need to cinch down the straps with 10,000 pounds of force either. Comfortably snug so the bike won't come off is all you need to do.

gadgetadam 

I have an aluminum bike now and if I get a carbon bike I just wanted to make sure it would be fine. The Saris rack was the only one that I could fit my current bike on. I’m 5 foot 4 and my frame is 49cm. The arms on the Saris are not as far apart as other trunk racks so my current bike goes on fine.

JaRow

I've used the rack before without any problem. You should be fine.

johnny99

If you must use a rack like that, do not let any dirt get between the rack and your bicycle. The rack will grind the dirt against your frame, with an effect similar to sandpaper.

brandenjs

I just picked up a Kestrel 200 EMS. I was wondering the same thing. This bike should have a strong enough top tube to be able to use a trunk mounted rack. As long as I don't crank the straps down with a pry bar..

Randallissimo

rip up an old T shirt and use strips of it between the clamps and the tubes.

brandenjs

I have a fork mount rack on top of my truck. Is it safe to use with carbon forks or will the side to side pressure be something to be concerned about. I'm originally a steel bike rider and I really did'nt have to worry about being careful with anything, but I really don't want to waste a carbon frame or fork from doing something stupid...

umd

At a race I was just at, one guy had carbon dropouts break while mounted on a roof rack.

CastIron

I'm going to cut open my TT and measure it for wicked thin. Question is: what is it?