Frequently asked Questions
- Do Stealth Bicycle Carriers fit my car?
- One of my lower straps melted from being positioned too close to my exhaust tailpipe. Can I get a replacement?
- When I tighten my rack according to instructions, my bumper deforms. Is this normal?
- I can’t decide between a Bumper rack and a Hitch rack. Which is better?
- Is there a correct way that I should load my bicycles?
Do Stealth Bicycle Carriers fit my car?
Our patented SNC (Stealth Non-Contact) system allows for use on a wide variety of vehicles. Stealth bumper mounted racks are one of the most universally mountable rack designs available today.
One of my lower straps melted from being positioned too close to my exhaust tailpipe. Can I get a replacement?
We strongly advise of this possibility in our owner’s manual, but if you did not install your rack according to our instructions, this is a possibility. To obtain a replacement strap, either go back to the dealer from whom you purchased your rack so that you can purchase a replacement, or click here to find an authorized dealer near you.
When I tighten my rack according to instructions, my bumper deforms. Is this normal?
It is normal for a small amount of change in some bumpers, but too much can cause permanent damage and may be the result of insufficient support in the bumper’s construction.
I can’t decide between a Bumper rack and a Hitch rack. Which is better?
This is a very common question.
Bumper mounts are Less expensive, Lighter and can be stored in your trunk when not in use, however they are less convenient to lock to your vehicle, do not always allow for easy trunk access (depending on you model of automobile), and do have a limited amount of direct vehicle contact. Stealth is the only bumper mount rack design that is not limited by rear window wipers.
Hitch Mounts are generally more expensive and require a trailer hitch attachment to be able to use. However by utilizing a hitch mount your rack and bicycles are prevented from touching your automobile’s finish, and easily fold down to permit trunk or hatch access. Stealth Hitch racks are also lockable and incorporate an anti-sway bar to prevent you bicycles from scratching each other.
Is there a correct way that I should load my bicycles?
You should always load your heaviest bike first, and then load the remaining bicycles in descending order by weight. Also make sure that when you load you first bicycle, that neither one of the tires are directly in front of your exhaust tailpipe. If you do not do this you will melt your tire.
When you are carrying 2 or more bicycles, be sure to mount them in alternating directions. This helps to avoid uneven load distribution which could compromise your rack or vehicle performance.