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Saris Bones 2 - User Manual

Saris Bones 2
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BONES 2
Fit
Guide
MAX=
35lbs/16kg
MAX=
70lbs/32kg
9lbs/4kg
#805
Assembly Instructions
2 Bike
#3037, 3040
Bike Beam
#3035
Hatch Huggers
Accessories
#3033
Wheel Straps
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Summary

Assembly Steps

Step 1: Initial Arm Attachment

Instructions for attaching the initial arms of the bike carrier to the vehicle.

Step 2: Securing Carrier Straps

Details on how to securely fasten the carrier to the vehicle using straps.

Step 3: Bike Placement

Guidance on how to place bicycles onto the mounted carrier.

Step 4: Final Securing and Checks

Performing final adjustments and safety checks after initial mounting.

Step 5: Loading and Final Verification

Completing bike loading and performing essential final verification steps.

Technical Specifications and Safety

Technical Specifications

Details on carrier weight, load capacity, and maximum bike weight.

Important Cautions

Critical safety precautions and usage guidelines for the bike carrier.

Warning and Disclaimer

Liability information, installation warnings, and proper usage responsibilities.

Overview

The Saris Bones 2 is a rear-mounted bicycle carrier designed to transport up to two bikes on the back of a vehicle. It is part of the Bones series of cycle racks, known for their distinctive design and functionality. The carrier is designed for ease of assembly and use, providing a secure way to transport bicycles without the need for a roof rack or hitch receiver on all compatible vehicles.

Function Description

The primary function of the Saris Bones 2 is to securely hold and transport bicycles on the rear of a car. It achieves this by utilizing a system of adjustable legs and straps that attach to the vehicle's trunk or hatch. The carrier's design incorporates a series of adjustable arms and cradles that accommodate various bike frame sizes and styles, holding them firmly in place during transit. The carrier is designed to distribute the weight of the bicycles evenly, minimizing stress on the vehicle and ensuring stability.

The carrier's structure is built around a central spine with three articulated legs that can be adjusted to fit the contours of different vehicle types. These legs are equipped with soft, non-marring feet that rest against the vehicle's paintwork, protecting it from scratches and damage. The upper legs typically rest on the top edge of the trunk or hatch, the middle legs on the bumper or lower part of the trunk, and the lower legs on the lower edge of the trunk or bumper.

Bicycles are mounted onto the carrier's arms, which extend outwards from the central spine. Each arm features two cradles, designed to support the bike's top tube, and a separate anti-sway strap that prevents the bike from swinging during transport. The cradles are often made of a soft, protective material to prevent damage to the bike frame. The bikes are secured to these cradles using straps, typically made of rubber or a similar flexible material, which wrap around the bike frame and hook into the cradles.

The carrier's attachment to the vehicle involves a system of six straps: two upper straps, two side straps, and two lower straps. These straps hook onto the edges of the trunk, hatch, or bumper, and are then tightened to pull the carrier firmly against the vehicle. The tightening mechanism usually involves buckles or cam-lock systems that allow for quick and secure adjustment. Once all straps are tightened, the carrier forms a stable platform for the bicycles.

Usage Features

The Saris Bones 2 offers several features designed to enhance its usability and convenience:

  • Adjustable Fit: The carrier's articulated legs and adjustable arms allow it to fit a wide range of vehicle makes and models, including sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs. This adaptability is a key selling point, as it eliminates the need for vehicle-specific adapters in many cases. The adjustment process typically involves rotating a dial or lever to unlock the leg position, moving the leg to the desired angle, and then locking it back into place.
  • Bike Compatibility: The design of the bike cradles and anti-sway straps is intended to accommodate various bike frame geometries. However, some bikes, particularly those with non-traditional frame shapes (e.g., step-through frames, full-suspension mountain bikes), may require a "bike beam" accessory to create a horizontal top tube for proper mounting.
  • Easy Bike Loading: The carrier's arms are spaced to allow for easy loading and unloading of bicycles. The cradles are designed to hold the bike securely once placed, and the straps are simple to attach and detach.
  • Compact Storage: When not in use, the Saris Bones 2 can be folded down into a relatively compact form, making it easier to store in a garage or trunk. The legs and arms can be collapsed towards the central spine, reducing its overall footprint.
  • Integrated Anti-Sway: The anti-sway straps are a crucial feature for preventing bike-to-bike and bike-to-vehicle contact during travel. These straps secure the bike's seat tube or down tube to the carrier arm, minimizing lateral movement.
  • Protective Pads: The carrier's feet and bike cradles are equipped with soft, non-marring materials to protect both the vehicle's finish and the bike frames from scratches and abrasions.
  • Visual Fit Guide: The product often comes with a visual fit guide or instructions that help users determine the correct leg positions for their specific vehicle, simplifying the initial setup process.
  • Accessory Compatibility: Saris offers various accessories that can enhance the carrier's functionality, such as the aforementioned bike beam for non-standard frames, hatch huggers for vehicles with glass hatches or tight trunk gaps, and wheel straps for added security of the bike wheels.

Maintenance Features

Maintaining the Saris Bones 2 is relatively straightforward and focuses on ensuring its longevity and safe operation:

  • Regular Cleaning: The carrier should be cleaned regularly, especially after exposure to dirt, road grime, or salty conditions. The manual recommends using only water-soluble cleaners and advises against taking the rack through a car wash, as this could damage the carrier or the vehicle.
  • Strap Inspection and Replacement: A critical maintenance aspect is the regular inspection of all mounting straps and bike securing straps. Users are advised to replace any strap at the first sign of wear, such as fraying, cracking, or stretching, to ensure continued secure attachment of both the carrier to the vehicle and the bikes to the carrier.
  • Buckle and Mechanism Check: The buckles and adjustment mechanisms should be checked periodically for proper function. They should operate smoothly and securely lock into place. Any signs of damage or malfunction should prompt repair or replacement.
  • Tightening During Journey: Users are instructed to tighten straps and buckles regularly during a journey, as vibrations and road conditions can sometimes cause them to loosen slightly. This ensures the carrier remains securely attached.
  • Storage: When not in use, storing the carrier in a dry, protected environment can help prevent premature wear and corrosion. Folding it down for storage also protects its components.
  • Component Inspection: Periodically inspect all plastic and metal components for cracks, bends, or other signs of damage. The non-marring feet should also be checked to ensure they are intact and free of debris that could scratch the vehicle.
  • Fit Guide Adherence: While not strictly a maintenance item, consistently referring to and adhering to the Saris Fit Guide ensures the carrier is always installed correctly for the specific vehicle, which is fundamental to its safe operation and longevity. Incorrect fit can lead to undue stress on carrier components and potential damage to the vehicle or bikes.

By following these usage and maintenance guidelines, users can ensure the Saris Bones 2 remains a reliable and safe solution for transporting their bicycles.

Saris Bones 2 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Capacity2 bikes
Weight9 lbs
Adjustable ArmsYes
Weight Capacity (per bike)35 lbs
Assembly RequiredNo
FoldableYes
WarrantyLimited lifetime
Mounting TypeTrunk-mounted
CompatibilityMost vehicles
Frame CompatibilityFits most bike frames
Straps6 straps
Strap TypeRatchet straps

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