Saris Bones Hitch

Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier Instruction Manual

Model: Bones Hitch (882)

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe assembly, installation, operation, and maintenance of your Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier. Please read all instructions carefully before use to ensure proper function and safety. This carrier is designed to transport up to two bicycles on vehicles equipped with a 1.25-inch or 2-inch hitch receiver.

Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier, a black hitch-mounted bicycle rack — Image 1.1: The Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier, showcasing its design and components.

2. Important Safety Information

Always prioritize safety when installing and using the Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier. Failure to follow these instructions could result in property damage, injury, or death.

Do not exceed the maximum weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike, or a total of 70 lbs for two bikes.
Ensure the hitch receiver is properly installed and rated for the combined weight of the carrier and bicycles.
Verify all straps and fasteners are securely tightened before each trip.
Regularly check the carrier for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Do not use if damaged.
Be aware of the increased length and width of your vehicle when the carrier and bikes are installed, especially when backing up or parking.
Always remove bikes from the carrier before entering an automatic car wash.
Consult your vehicle owner's manual for any specific restrictions regarding hitch-mounted accessories.
This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

3. Package Contents

Before beginning assembly, ensure all parts are present:

Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier Main Assembly
Hitch Pin and Clip
Anti-Sway Straps (pre-installed on arms)
Instruction Manual (this document)

4. Setup and Installation

4.1. Hitch Compatibility

The Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier is designed to fit both 1.25-inch and 2-inch hitch receivers. Ensure your vehicle's hitch receiver is clean and free of obstructions.

4.2. Installing the Carrier into the Hitch Receiver

Slide the hitch arm of the carrier into your vehicle's hitch receiver.
Align the pinhole on the carrier's hitch arm with the pinhole on your vehicle's hitch receiver.
Insert the hitch pin through both aligned holes.
Secure the hitch pin with the provided clip. Ensure the clip is fully engaged to prevent the pin from dislodging.
Tighten any anti-wobble mechanism if present on your specific model to minimize movement of the rack within the hitch receiver.

Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier installed on the back of a white SUV — Image 4.2.1: The Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier securely installed in a vehicle's hitch receiver.

4.3. Adjusting the Carrier Arms

The carrier arms can be adjusted for optimal bike placement or folded for storage.

To deploy the arms: Locate the adjustment knob or lever at the base of the arms. Rotate or pull to release, then pivot the arms into the horizontal position. Securely lock them in place.
To fold the arms for storage: Reverse the process, pivoting the arms downwards until they are compact against the main mast. Securely lock them.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Loading Bicycles

The carrier can transport up to two bikes, each weighing a maximum of 35 lbs.

Ensure the carrier arms are fully extended and locked.
Lift the first bicycle and place its top tube onto the carrier arms, positioning it closest to the vehicle.
Repeat for the second bicycle, placing it on the outer position.

Graphic illustrating the Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier with two bikes loaded, highlighting ratchet straps and hitch compatibility — Image 5.1.1: Two bicycles loaded onto the Saris Bones Hitch carrier, demonstrating its capacity and ratchet straps.

5.2. Securing Bicycles

Properly securing your bikes is crucial to prevent movement and damage during transport.

Ratchet Straps: Use the integrated ratchet straps to firmly secure the bicycle frames to the carrier arms. Ensure the straps are tight and the bikes are stable.
Anti-Sway Straps: Utilize the anti-sway straps to prevent bikes from swinging or contacting each other and the vehicle. Attach these straps to the bicycle's seat tube or down tube and the carrier mast.
Wheel Straps (Optional): For added security, especially on longer trips or rough roads, consider using additional straps to secure the wheels to the bike frame or carrier.

Diagram highlighting key features of the Saris Bones Hitch carrier, including ratcheting anti-sway straps, strong injection molded arms, welded steel mainframe, and tilting feature — Image 5.2.1: Close-up view of the ratcheting anti-sway straps and the robust construction of the carrier arms.

5.3. Tilting Feature for Trunk Access

The carrier features a tilting mechanism for convenient access to your vehicle's trunk or hatch, even with bikes loaded.

Ensure the area behind the carrier is clear.
Locate the tilt release mechanism (usually a pin or lever) at the base of the carrier mast.
Activate the release and carefully tilt the carrier downwards.
After accessing your trunk, lift the carrier back into its upright position until it locks securely.

Diagram showing the Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier in both folded and tilted positions on an SUV — Image 5.3.1: The tilting feature allows for easy access to the vehicle's rear cargo area without removing bikes.

5.4. Folding Arms for Storage

When not transporting bikes, the carrier arms can be folded down to reduce the overall length of the vehicle and simplify parking.

Remove all bicycles from the carrier.
Locate the arm release mechanism (often the same one used to deploy them).
Press or pull the release and pivot the arms downwards until they are compact against the main mast. Ensure they lock into the folded position.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your Saris Bones Hitch 2-Bike Carrier.

Cleaning: Clean the carrier regularly with mild soap and water, especially after exposure to road salt, dirt, or harsh weather conditions. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Inspection: Before each use, inspect all components for wear, cracks, bends, or corrosion. Pay close attention to straps, buckles, and the hitch connection.
Lubrication: Periodically apply a silicone-based lubricant to moving parts, such as the tilt mechanism and arm pivots, to ensure smooth operation.
Storage: When not in use, store the carrier in a dry, protected area to prevent exposure to extreme weather, which can prolong its lifespan.

7. Troubleshooting

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Carrier wobbles in hitch receiver	Hitch pin not fully secured; anti-wobble mechanism not tightened.	Ensure hitch pin is fully inserted and clipped. Tighten any anti-wobble bolt or mechanism on the carrier.
Bikes are not stable on the carrier	Straps not tight enough; anti-sway straps not used.	Re-tighten all ratchet straps. Ensure anti-sway straps are properly attached and tightened to prevent bike movement.
Tilting mechanism is stiff or difficult to operate	Lack of lubrication; dirt or debris.	Clean the mechanism and apply a silicone-based lubricant.
Carrier arms do not lock into position	Obstruction in the locking mechanism; mechanism not fully engaged.	Check for debris. Ensure the arms are fully extended or folded and the locking mechanism is fully engaged.

8. Specifications

Model: Bones Hitch (882)
Brand: Saris
Capacity: 2 Bicycles
Max Weight per Bike: 35 lbs (15.9 kg)
Total Weight Capacity: 70 lbs (31.8 kg)
Hitch Compatibility: 1.25-inch and 2-inch receivers
Material: Rust-resistant steel mainframe, injection-molded arms
Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 38 x 15.6 x 8.26 inches (96.5 x 39.6 x 21 cm)
Item Weight: 15 pounds (6.8 kg)
UPC: 751738845660, 012527014293

9. Warranty and Support

Saris products are designed for durability and performance. For warranty information, product registration, or technical support, please visit the official Saris website or contact their customer service department.

Online Support: Saris Find My Fit

Manufacturer: Saris

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