Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Saris Guardian. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
4 reasons to buy
- The Guardian comes fully assembled, and buyers say it's easy to install on vehicles.
- This rack folds for easy transport and storage when not in use.
- Both versions of the Guardian are light compared to competing trunk racks.
- Saris backs this rack with a limited lifetime warranty.
5 reasons not to buy
- Owners complain that the non-locking frame cradles shift in transit, causing bikes to collide. Some owners of the three-bike version have bikes fall off the rack while driving.
- Unlike some competing racks that attach to vehicles with six straps, the two-bike Guardian attaches with just four.
- Owners must purchase an adaptor to carry step-through bikes and bikes with steeply sloped top tubes on this rack.
- The Guardian is not rated for use on trailers or RVs.
- This rack may block license plates on some vehicles, and Saris doesn't offer a plate mount.
Bottom line
The Saris Guardian is a lightweight trunk bike rack available in two-bike and three-bike versions. It isn't RV-approved. There are no expert reviews, but owners praise the easy installation and convenient storage. Unfortunately, the lack of a mechanism to block frame cradles means bikes can bang into each other or fall off in transit. A virtual top tube adaptor (not included) is required for some step-through bikes. The two-bike version is less stable. Ultimately, while the Saris Guardian's convenience and portability appeal, it lacks the security and stability of competing trunk racks and should be approached with caution. Alternatively, consider the Saris Bones.BikeRide finds and shows you the best prices of the bikes you want to buy. Prices constantly change and it’s impossible to compare them all yourself.
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