Let’s Dive into Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style
The Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style promises a convenient and secure way to transport your bikes on your RV, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. Offered by Stromberg Carlson, this rack boasts a four-bike capacity and a strap-style attachment system, all while aiming to be affordable. My years in the outdoor and tactical gear world have taught me to be cautiously optimistic about budget-friendly options, so I’m eager to see if this rack lives up to its claims.
My family loves to camp, but transporting our bikes has always been a logistical nightmare. Existing hitch-mounted racks blocked access to the RV’s rear storage, and rooftop options were simply too cumbersome. I needed a solution that was space-efficient, easy to use, and wouldn’t break the bank – the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style seemed like a potential answer.
Unboxing the rack revealed a surprisingly lightweight construction. The materials felt sturdy enough for the intended purpose, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that durability might be a concern with heavier bikes over time. The strap system looked straightforward, though I immediately wondered about the potential for slippage or damage to the bike frames.
Compared to higher-end hitch-mounted racks from Thule or Yakima, the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style is significantly less expensive. However, those racks offer more robust construction, individual bike cradles, and integrated security features. I chose this rack primarily for its post-mount design, hoping it would offer better clearance and accessibility to the RV’s storage compartments.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The rack seemed easy enough to install, and the lightweight design was a definite plus. However, the strap-style attachment system and the overall build quality left me with some reservations about its long-term durability and security.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style on a weekend camping trip to the local state park. The trip involved about 100 miles of highway driving and some bumpy gravel roads within the park. We mounted four bikes: two adult mountain bikes, a hybrid bike, and a smaller child’s bike.
The rack performed adequately on the smooth highway, but the bikes swayed considerably on the gravel roads. The strap system required constant readjustment during the initial miles, as the bikes shifted and the straps loosened. I was definitely nervous watching them bounce around!
Using the rack was relatively simple, but securing the bikes felt time-consuming and required careful attention. Achieving a snug and even fit with the straps was a bit of an art, and I worried about over-tightening them and damaging the bike frames.
The biggest surprise was the amount of flex in the post mount. While the rack never felt like it was going to fail, the swaying motion was unnerving, and I found myself constantly checking the rearview mirror.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several months of use, including about a dozen camping trips, the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style has held up reasonably well, but not without some issues. The powder coat finish has started to show some wear and tear, particularly where the bikes contact the rack. A couple of the straps have also begun to fray.
The durability is acceptable for the price point, but I wouldn’t expect this rack to last for years of heavy use. The metal components seem sturdy enough, but the plastic strap buckles are a potential weak point.
Cleaning and maintaining the rack is straightforward. A quick wash with soap and water is usually sufficient, and I occasionally lubricate the strap buckles with silicone spray.
Compared to my previous experience with hitch-mounted racks, the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style offers better access to the RV’s rear storage, but it sacrifices stability and ease of use. While it gets the job done, it doesn’t inspire the same confidence as a more robust and well-engineered rack.
Breaking Down the Features of **Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style**
Specifications
- Carrying Capacity: Four bikes, allowing you to bring the whole family’s transportation. The Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style is designed for this capacity.
- Maximum Weight: 120 lbs. While seemingly sufficient, this requires careful consideration of the weight of each bike, especially adult mountain bikes.
- Mounting: Post-mount design for motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels. The post-mount design is intended to provide easier access to the rear of your vehicle.
- Attachment Style: Strap style, using straps to secure bikes to the rack. This system requires meticulous attention to ensure a snug and secure fit, which can be time consuming.
- Compatibility: Designed for use with Bike Bunk model CC-275 or any other 2″ square accessory hitch. It utilizes an adapter sleeve to convert to the needed 2″ receiver.
These specifications matter because they directly affect the rack’s usability, safety, and suitability for your specific needs. A lower weight capacity might limit the types of bikes you can carry, while a less robust mounting system could compromise stability. The strap-style attachment impacts ease of use and the potential for damage to your bikes.
<h3>Performance & Functionality</h3>The Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style performs its basic function of transporting bikes, but it’s not without compromises. The strap system, while simple, requires careful attention to ensure a secure fit, and the bikes tend to sway considerably, especially on rough roads.
The biggest strength is its post-mount design, which provides better access to the RV’s rear storage compared to many hitch-mounted racks. The main weakness is the instability of the bikes and the time required to properly secure them.
The rack meets expectations in terms of providing an affordable way to transport bikes, but it falls short in terms of stability and ease of use compared to higher-end options. I was hoping for a more secure and confidence-inspiring experience.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style features a simple and functional design. The materials used are adequate for the price point, but the overall build quality is not exceptional. The rack is relatively lightweight, which is a plus for installation and handling.
The rack is reasonably user-friendly, but the strap system requires some practice to master. There’s a slight learning curve involved in finding the optimal strap tension and bike placement to minimize swaying.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>The long-term durability of the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style is a concern. The powder coat finish is prone to scratching and chipping, and the plastic strap buckles are a potential weak point.
Maintaining the rack is easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. However, I anticipate needing to replace the straps within a few years due to wear and tear.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style comes with the necessary straps for securing the bikes. There are limited customization options available.
The rack is designed to be compatible with Bike Bunk model CC-275 or any other 2″ square accessory hitch. While not specifically designed for other brands’ accessories, users might find bungee cords or additional straps useful for further securing bikes.
Pros and Cons of **Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style**
## Pros
Affordable price point making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
Post-mount design offers better access to RV’s rear storage.
Lightweight construction simplifies installation and handling.
Four-bike capacity accommodates the whole family.
Simple design with minimal moving parts.
Cons
Strap-style attachment system requires careful attention and can be time-consuming.
Bikes tend to sway considerably, especially on rough roads.
Durability of powder coat finish and plastic strap buckles is questionable.
Who Should Buy **Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style**?
- Perfect for: RV owners on a tight budget who prioritize access to rear storage and only occasionally transport bikes on relatively smooth roads. Also, good for those who transport lighter bikes.
- Who should skip this product? Those who frequently travel on rough roads, carry expensive or heavy bikes, or prioritize ease of use and maximum stability.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Additional bungee cords or straps for added security, frame protectors to prevent scratches, and potentially reflective tape for increased visibility.
Conclusion on **Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style**
The Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style is a budget-friendly option for transporting bikes on your RV, travel trailer, or fifth wheel. However, its strap-style attachment system and less-than-robust construction mean it comes with compromises in stability and ease of use.
The value proposition is decent, considering the price. If you’re on a tight budget and only need to transport bikes occasionally on smooth roads, it might be a suitable option.
I would cautiously recommend it to RV owners on a very limited budget. However, I strongly advise investing in a higher-quality rack if you can afford it, particularly if you value stability, ease of use, and long-term durability.
Ultimately, the Stromberg Carlson BC-108 Post Mount 4 Bike Rack Strap Style gets the job done, but it’s a reminder that sometimes, you get what you pay for. Assess your needs carefully, and consider whether the trade-offs are worth the savings. Don’t forget to secure your investment! Hit the trails and enjoy the ride, but always prioritize safety and security!