The design is to be commended in that without it, I would have been forced to drive a more sensible Honda Jazz which could envelop the bikes in its ample boot. The Bones meant we were able to enjoy a lap of Ventoux on four wheels as well as two. To get a top tube adapter to fit on a 16″ bike, you will almost certainly have to raise the saddle to its max height to create enough mounting space between the bike’s seat post and headset. Just makes sure to never raise the seat height above the seat post’s minimum insertion point, and tighten that seat post collar very securely.

Using top tube adapters is more time consuming, but necessary for many bikes. In addition to the time it takes to put the adapter on, it may be necessary to raise your saddle a bit if you ride with it slammed down or close to the collar. Pros: Now fits more vehicles, new tie-downs protect bikes and work well, great build quality, very stable in use Anybody familiar with previous Saris Bones boot-mounted cycle carriers won't find anything too overwhelming with this new EX version. Indeed, the only major differences to previous Bones three-bike carriers is a unique dog-leg design to the two upper legs with built-in strap guides – which allows it to fit on vehicles with spoilers – along with some premium bike tie-downs. However, that's not such a bad thing as the original Bones design is a modern classic. Fitting Once in place, I was impressed with the design, however the build quality could be improved in a couple of areas. The arms are held in place by plastic screws which thread into metal nuts – and one of these cross-threaded on me immediately. Thankfully, replacement parts are readily available and I was able to get a spare from our local Halfords the next day.

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Cons: Setting it up can be frustrating, 'strap management' Velcro straps are a little basic, watch for rubbing on paintwork with long-term use But, that aside, for anything up to weekly use, whether you’re off to a road race, sportive or making longer trips, the Bones is ideal. Pros

If your bike(s) cover your vehicle number plate or lights we recommend you fit a lighting board to comply with road vehicle lighting laws. Two upper and two lower legs stabilize the Saris bones on your car. Each leg moves independently around a center cylinder. The huge advantage of this design is that it allows for a really customizable fit for your specific vehicle. The ends of the legs have pivoting rubber feet for additional customization to the angles on your vehicle.faqaccordion article {padding-top: 0!important;font-size: 1.2em; line-height: 1.2em; padding-left: 0.7em; padding-right: 0.7em;} Finance is subject to application, financial circumstances and borrowing history. Performance Cycling Limited FRN: 720557 trading as Tredz are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We are a credit broker not a lender – credit is subject to status and affordability and is provided by Mitsubishi HC Capital UK PLC. Terms & Conditions Apply. Bike lovers who are worried about bikes hitting one another and causing potential damage (even with the anti-sway cradles, the potential is still there)

With some subtle tweaks to the classic Bones design, the new Saris Bones EX offers all the practicality of previous models but now fits even more vehicles, including those with rear spoilers. Add some upgrades, particularly to the bike tie-downs, and you've got one of the best three-bike rear-mounted cycle carriers on the market. style>