First shown as a prototype at Interbike, the Saris SuperClamp is officially getting an update. Adding to the current line up, the new model will be positioned as the premium SuperClamp EX while the Freedom SuperClamp will still offer many of the same features for a bit less money. Updated to fit more bikes and make life a little easier with the two bike version, the EX looks to be another great transportation option from Saris…
For the 2-Bike version of the EX, the biggest news is probably the addition of the tilt mechanism. Even when loaded with bikes, the trays can be tilted down to access the vehicle’s hatch, or the rack can be rotated up when empty to keep things out of the way. Like the 4-bike version which already tilted on the Freedom SuperClamp, the latch for the mechanism is right at the end of the rack making it easy to get to, and simple to operate. The racks also have a slightly different locking mechanism with the two cables still stashed in the ends of the racks, but now the lock is actually built into the tray. That should make it a bit easier to lock up and it should take the weight off the lock cables which can rub through paint on the previous model.
Another change to the EX series is the elimination of the yellow touch points in favor of grey. There are still a few yellow stickers, but those can be easily removed. The EX uses the same ratchet mechanism as the Freedom SuperClamp, which in our experience has been the most durable of any rack we’ve tried.
More importantly, the trays that we last saw as 3D printed prototypes are now in production. They still aren’t completely fat bike friendly, but Saris says they will fit up to a 4″ fat bike tire, but also will work well with plus tires and standard road bikes. If you need to carry something bigger than a 4″ tire, the fat bike kits sold for the Freedom SuperClamp are also compatible with the EX, and will fit any fat bike you can find.
In addition to the 2-Bike version, the SuperClamp EX will also be sold in completely separate 4-Bike version. Unlike some other racks, you can’t add to the 2-Bike to make it a 4-Bike, so choose wisely. The 2-Bike SuperClamp EX will sell for $469, while the 4-Bike EX bumps up to $849, and both are available now.
