Will the Kuat Transfer V2 Work with 2 Townie Bikes with Baskets?

Question:

I have two Townies one male and one female bike both with baskets on the front. The female bike basket has brackets underneath that go to the front tire axle area to support the basket. Question: 1 will the front tire brackets on the rack work with the baskets on the bikes? The brackets will not be able to go all the way up close to the front brakes as the basket will prevent it. 2 will this rack support the weight of two townies? Rack installed on a 2021 Tacoma? 3 is this the best rack for these bikes or do you recommend a different one? Thank you

asked by: Keven

Expert Reply:

As far as the male townie with the basket, the ratcheting hooks of the Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount # KU84FR will be able to bypass the basket and attach on the wheel. As for the female townie, from the looks of the picture, it is possible to have the ratcheting hook rest against the basket mount, but there would be danger of damage to the basket mount due to bumps and extra torque while the vehicle is in motion. One solution to this issue is removing the basket of the female bike while attached.

Since the maximum per-bike weight capacity of the Kuat Transfer is 60 pounds, it will be abler to transport two townies.

As far as an alternative bike rack, if you want to avoid the issue of the female bike's basket mount, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # HR200Z. Even though the per-bike capacity of the Trail Rider is 45 pounds, it should hold your bikes as long as they weigh less than that capacity. Since the Trail Rider attaches at the frame, you will avoid any hassles with the baskets. If you go this route, I recommend that you purchase two Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Electric, Step Through, and Cruiser Bikes # S57FR. The adapter bar will allow you to have a straight, horizontal plane to attach your bikes' frames to the the ratcheting hooks.

If you need a trailer hitch recommendation for your 2021 Toyota Tacoma, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98905. The etrailer hitch comes with all installation hardware necessary for an easy, bolt-on installation.