Saris Bones EX 2 Bike Trunk Rack: Install and Load It Right (2026)

By Owen Palmer

Updated November 2026

The Saris Bones EX 2 bike trunk rack is a strap-on carrier that hangs two bikes from the rear of a car, using the trunk lid as its mounting point. This guide walks you through checking whether the rack fits your vehicle, mounting it correctly, loading your bikes so they stay put, and keeping the rack in good shape over time. Follow these steps and you will end up with a secure setup that protects both your bikes and your paint.

Before You Start: Check Fit and Gather Tools

Trunk-mounted racks are sensitive to the shape of the car they sit on, so confirm compatibility before you open the box. Saris publishes a vehicle fit guide, and the rack’s manual lists the trunk shapes it is designed for. A sedan with a flat, wide trunk lid and a clear rear spoiler area generally works better than a hatchback with a steeply curved lid or a car with a rear wing that gets in the way of the hooks.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Bike Back Rack Bag: 4 Best Picks for Commuters and Travelers (2026).

Fit checks to do first

• Confirm your exact year, make and model appears in the Saris fit guide for the Bones EX 2.
• Check that the trunk lid has enough clearance for the frame and straps when closed, with no contact against the tail lights.
• Make sure the trunk lid opens and closes freely with the rack attached, since you will need to use it often.
• Look for paint protection. Pads on the contact points help, but the lid should be clean and free of grit before you start.

Tools and supplies

1. Microfiber cloth and mild soap or a bit of rubbing alcohol to clean the mounting surface.
2. The rack’s included tools and hardware, including any cam or lock components shipped with the unit.
3. A tape measure to confirm spacing between wheels and the rack arms.
4. A helper, which makes the first mounting much easier, especially for heavy bikes.

How to Mount the Bones EX 2 Step by Step

Mounting this rack takes about 15 to 20 minutes the first time. Work slowly, and recheck tension after your first short drive.

Step 1: Clean the trunk lid

Wipe the lid where the rack’s contact pads and straps will rest. Dirt and wax residue can cause slipping, and grit can scratch the clear coat as the straps shift. Let the surface dry completely before mounting. If you want more background, see 14 Best Bike Wall Storage Racks.

Step 2: Set up the rack frame

Lay the rack on the trunk with the frame centered and the bike arms facing rearward. Position the upper hooks so they sit just below the spoiler or rear window seal, not on top of any trim piece that could crack. Open the trunk slightly if the manual calls for it so you can reach the strap ends from the inside.

Step 3: Attach and tighten the straps

Run each strap through the frame and around the rear of the vehicle, then hook it under the lid where the manual indicates. Tighten the straps evenly, working across the rack rather than fully tightening one side first. The rack should feel firm with no rocking when you push on the frame by hand.

Step 4: Confirm stability

Grip the frame and try to move it side to side and up and down. Movement at the contact points means the straps need more tension or the rack needs repositioning. Recheck the trunk lid clearance once everything is snug.

Step 5: Test the lock and latch

If your version includes a locking cable or lock cylinder, test it before loading bikes. Make sure the lid still closes cleanly after tightening.

Loading Your Bikes Safely

Loading comes down to weight distribution, wheel position and tie-down technique. Most owners find a steady routine makes this quick.

Weight and bike placement

Check the rack’s stated per-bike weight limit in the manual, and keep the combined load within the rated capacity. Place the heavier bike on the side you can reach comfortably, and keep both bikes’ center of mass as close to the car’s centerline as possible.

Wheel and frame contact

• Use the wheel arms or frame cradles so the bike rests on its frame, not on a derailleur or brake lever.
• Keep pedals and chainrings clear of the car body, the trunk lid and each other.
• Secure each bike’s wheel to the rack’s wheel strap, and tighten the frame straps until the bike does not swing.

Final load check

Before you drive, give each bike a firm shake. Nothing should move independently of the rack. Recheck the straps after 10 to 15 miles, since new loads often settle slightly.

Driving, Storage and Maintenance

Trunk racks change how a car handles and how it sounds. Drive more gently than usual, especially in crosswinds, and expect some added fuel consumption. Also remember the rack adds height to the rear of the car, so keep parking garages and drive-through lanes in mind.

After each ride, rinse off road grime and salt, which can build up on straps and hooks. Dry the straps before storing them. Keep the rack out of direct sun when it is not in use to slow down plastic and rubber wear. Inspect the straps for fraying and the frame for cracks at least once a month, and replace any worn part before it fails. If you are unsure whether a part is still safe, a bike shop or the manufacturer’s support line can advise you. For related guidance on parts and lock keys, see Thule Bike Rack Lock Key Replacement: Step-by-Step Guide (2026).

Common Mistakes

• Skipping the fit check. A rack that almost fits will rub your paint and may loosen on the highway.
• Overtightening the straps. Cranking them down until the lid dents or the seal warps causes damage that the rack cannot fix.
• Loading wheels over the strap buckles. Buckles can scratch rims and frames, so position them clear of contact areas.
• Forgetting to recheck after a short drive. Straps often settle in the first few miles.
• Letting bikes swing into the car. Stop, reposition and retighten rather than hoping for the best.
• Ignoring the weight limit. Exceeding the rated load stresses the frame and hooks.

Tips for Better Results

• Keep a small kit with a spare strap clip, a microfiber cloth and a few zip ties for emergencies.
• Practice loading in your driveway before your first trip.
• Place a towel or pad under the frame arms if your trunk paint is older or softer.
• Mark your preferred strap tension with a small piece of tape so you can repeat it easily.

Recommended gear

A few accessories make the Bones EX 2 easier to live with. Pick items that match your car and bikes rather than buying everything at once.

• Trunk protection pads or felt liners: Protect the clear coat where the hooks and straps contact the lid and reduce scratching over time. View on Amazon
• Locking cable for bikes: Adds a second layer of security to each bike’s frame and wheel while the rack is parked. View on Amazon
• Cable lock or tie-down set: Extra straps and ties help secure loose accessories like helmets and bags inside the car. View on Amazon
• Microfiber cleaning cloths: Keep the lid and straps free of grit before each mounting. View on Amazon

FAQ

Will the Saris Bones EX 2 damage my car’s paint?

It can if the contact points are dirty or the straps are overtightened. Clean the lid before mounting, use protective pads, and avoid tightening past the point where the rack feels firm.

Can I carry an electric bike on this rack?

Check the rack’s per-bike weight limit first, since e-bikes are often heavier than standard bikes. If the bike is within the rated weight and fits the frame cradles, it can be carried, but confirm the total load stays within the rack’s capacity.

How often should I check the straps?

Check them before every trip, recheck after the first short drive, and inspect the entire rack for wear at least once a month.

Does the rack work with a spoiler?

Many cars with spoilers work, but the hooks must sit clear of the spoiler and any trim. Confirm your model in the fit guide and check clearance during setup.

Can I leave bikes on the rack overnight?

You can, but lock the bikes to the rack and consider locking the rack itself where the design allows. Remove any loose accessories from the bikes and keep valuables out of sight.

What should I do if a strap comes loose while driving?

Pull over safely as soon as you can, check the straps and bikes, and retighten or reposition as needed. If the problem repeats, stop using the rack until you have identified and fixed the cause, and consult the manufacturer if you are unsure.

Is a trunk rack better than a hitch rack for my car?

It depends on your vehicle and needs. Trunk racks are easier to store and cost less to set up, but hitch racks often hold bikes more securely and avoid touching the car body. Compare the options before deciding, and see Thule T2 Pro XTR Hitch Bike Rack Review: Is It Worth It? for a look at a hitch-mounted alternative.

Conclusion

A Saris Bones EX 2 bike trunk rack is a practical way to carry two bikes when you have a compatible sedan or hatchback. Check fit first, mount it with clean surfaces and even strap tension, and load your bikes with their weight balanced and their frames supported. Recheck the straps often and inspect the rack for wear, and your setup should stay secure trip after trip.

Related reading

• Wall Bike Rack Vertical: 6 Steps to Mount and Load Yours Safely

About Owen Palmer

Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our bike accessories guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.