Saris Bones EX Assembly Instructions
Model Numbers: 803, 803R, 803B, 804
Long For The Ride
Saris believes no car is complete without a bike rack. Since its inception nearly 30 years ago, Saris racks have enabled millions of cyclists to explore new territories, participate in group rides, carpool to races, and commute to work. Saris continues to innovate and provide stylish solutions for cyclists.
As the all-time #1 best-selling bike rack, the Saris Bones® sets the standard for design excellence. All Saris bicycle racks are intuitive to load and secure, and are guaranteed for life. Built by cyclists for cyclists in Madison, Wisconsin, Saris strives to create the world's best bike racks.
Made in USA
Specifications: Bones EX
General Specifications:
- 2-Bike Capacity: Max load 70 lbs | 32 kg. Max bike weight: 35 lbs | 16 kg.
- 3-Bike Capacity: Max load 105 lbs | 48 kg. Max bike weight: 35 lbs | 16 kg.
Customer Support:
- Phone: 1-800-783-7257
- Email: support@saris.com
- Website: saris.com
Installation Videos: Available at saris.com/en/instructional-videos-1.html
Patents: For relevant patents, see www.saris.com/patents
Fit Guide: For vehicle fit information, visit www.saris.com/en/vehicle-racks.html
Optional Accessories
- #3037, 3040 Bike Beam: Required for bicycles with sloped top tubes, full suspension, or wheels less than 12" from the ground.
- #3035 Hatch Huggers
- #3033 Wheel Straps
- #3050 Trunk Rack Lock
Rack Orientation
The Bones EX can be configured for different vehicle types as illustrated.
Step 1: Opening Rack
- Turn the knob on the rack arm counterclockwise to loosen it.
- Slide the arm to the center of the aluminum tube.
- Open the arms as shown.
- Slide the arm back over the aluminum tube spline.
- Tighten the knob by turning it clockwise.
Step 2: Setting Leg Position
- Turn the knob counterclockwise on the outer leg knob to loosen the leg.
- Remove the leg from the spline and reinstall it on the spline at the desired position. Refer to page 6 for optimal rack orientation.
- Tighten the knob.
Step 3: Positioning on Vehicle
- Place the lower rack feet on the bumper. For some vehicles, the feet may need to be placed on the trunk lid. Refer to the saris.com fit guide for proper feet placement.
- Place the upper feet in the center of the trunk lid or the center of the rear window.
- Raise the rack arms as shown. Note: cradles furthest from the vehicle should be positioned higher.
Step 4: Attaching Straps
- Install rack hooks in the indicated locations (upper, side, lower).
- Upper hook straps can route through channels in the upper legs. Refer to the fit guide on saris.com for recommended upper leg strap positioning.
Step 5: Installing Bikes
Follow the diagram to correctly position and secure the bikes in the rack cradles.
Step 6: Installing Bikes (Continued)
- Install bikes in the rack cradles as shown.
- The lower anti-sway strap on the arm should be positioned at the rear of the bike.
- Close and tighten all straps securely.
- Place the heaviest bikes closest to the vehicle.
- Ensure bike tires are at least 12" (30.5 cm) from the ground.
- Note: Be aware of bicycle tire position relative to vehicle exhaust.
- Do not open the trunk or hatch with the rack and/or bikes installed.
Step 7: Precautions
- Ensure bike tires are at least 12" (30.5 cm) from the ground.
- Do not open the vehicle trunk or gate when the rack is installed.
- Avoid placing bikes directly behind the vehicle's exhaust pipe.
Technical Specifications
3-Bike:
- Carrier Weight: 12 lbs/5 kg
- Permitted Load Capacity: max 105 lbs/48 kg
- Max Bike Weight: 35 lbs/16 kg
2-Bike:
- Carrier Weight: 12 lbs/5 kg
- Permitted Load Capacity: max 70 lbs/32 kg
- Max Bike Weight: 35 lbs/16 kg
Cautions
- Follow all requirements for compatibility/fit as stated in the current Saris vehicle/carrier compatibility guide (available at Saris dealers or www.saris.com).
- Read and follow instructions carefully. Save the owner's manual for future reference.
- Ensure all users are familiar with the manual's content.
- It is the user's responsibility to ensure compliance with all local and state laws.
- Clean the vehicle and rack using only water-soluble cleaners. Do not use a car wash.
- Ensure bike tires are not positioned behind the exhaust pipe.
- Do not mount to any type of trailer or RV, including Class B vehicles.
- This carrier is not recommended for off-road use or speeds exceeding 70 mph (113 km/h).
- Vehicle handling characteristics change when a rack is fitted and loaded. Adjust driving techniques accordingly, reducing speed, especially on bends, and allowing for longer braking distances.
- Remove all loose parts from the bicycle before use (e.g., child seat, basket, lock, light, pump).
- The vehicle's total length increases when the rack is attached. Take care when reversing and entering garages or ferries.
- Remove the carrier from the vehicle when not in use.
- This carrier is designed for standard bike frames. Not intended for tandem or recumbent bicycles.
Recommended Rack Maintenance & Care Instructions
Each Use:
- Wipe down rack feet.
- Avoid ground contact with rack feet.
- Check straps for signs of wear.
- Check bike cradles and wheel scoops.
- Check for loose bolts.
Every 90 Days:
- Clean with water and mild soap.
- Lubricate locks if applicable (use a wet, oil-based lubricant; NOT WD-40).
- Grease hitch bolt threads.
- Check for scratches in paint.
Official Warranty Terms: Saris Racks
Saris Cycling Group, Inc (SCG), parent company of Saris Racks, warrants its products to the original consumer to be free from defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is extended only to the initial consumer purchaser and provides specific legal rights. Retain your sales slip for proof of purchase.
Warranty Terms:
- Car Racks: Limited Lifetime*
- Home Storage/Bike Storage: Limited Lifetime*
- Kool Rack: 1 Year
- Parking Racks: 1 Year
*Warranty valid for original purchaser only. Limited lifetime warranty available in North America only.
Limitations:
- SCG's warranties are limited to the replacement of defective products or parts.
- SCG is not liable for incidental or consequential losses, damages, or expenses.
Exclusions:
- Damage due to non-compliance with warnings, cautions, or instructions.
- Impact/collision damage.
- Damage from improper arm placement.
- Transporting items other than bicycles.
- Paint damage (chipping, cracking, fading).
- Rust (considered normal wear and tear).
- Weather impact (UV, salt air/water).
- Damage to mounting surface.
- Damage or loss from failure to replace/maintain consumable items.
- Failure to follow recommended maintenance.
- Consumable items (adjustment knobs, straps, wheel trays, cradles, threaded assemblies, ratcheting assemblies) are not covered.








