I have the cheaper and ligher (than the dura) softride, and it works well the straps aren’t that hard to use but they do break easily, no paint issues here, Mine did come with velcro straps that work to hold the bikes on as well and they are great. Price was about 150 CAD, so nice and cheap and it has a few thousand K on it and is going strong, I also like that he arms fold down easily when not in use. This comes in handy when vacationing and I don’t want to take the rack off when we get to the destination as well as when we drive then commute for work.
None of the above. Go with the Cycle-Ops Thelma. I value my frame and do not want the straps over my top tube scratching them every bump down the road. The Thelma has wheel shields that hold the bike in place while it is attached and is very secure. NO CONTACT with the frame. I got one for my mother in law (she is weak) and she can fold up and install it no problem.
I just got the Turtleback (3 bike hitch platform). Great value at ~160 USD, very sturdy, solid design. No rattling, very secure hold of the bikes, quick to load&unload. http://www.discountramps.com/bicycle-carrier-rack.htm
None of the above. Go with the Cycle-Ops Thelma.
How well does the Thelma work with race wheels? Specifically, I’ve a HED 6/9 set and would really like it if I didn’t have to pack them separately…especially for more local-ish races.
The clamp locks to the top of the tire. Wheel depth is not not an issue.
The clamp locks to the top of the tire. Wheel depth is not not an issue.
Great to know! Thanks for the reply.
I picked up a Reese sportwing at Walmart for $150 when I was in a bind. I love it. I didn’t think it would be something I’d use with the “nice” bikes but it’s not an issue. The frames don’t touch anything. It’s perfect for hauling family bikes without quick releases.
The only drawback is you can’t haul a disc wheel on it. I’d be hesitant to haul a bike with deep carbon fairing built wheels either since it hangs the bike by the rims.
+1 for the Kuat Nv. I have the two bike version but it’s awesome. The stand is brilliant for swapping race wheels at the venue on race morning. There is an adjustment knob for the hitch tongue to make sure it fits snug in the hitch without rattling… A complaint many other hitches seem to get. Oh, it also looks frigging cool. But none of us really care about that, right?
Get yours from TheCyclingHouse.com Those guys sold me mine and they are awesome to deal with.
The Kuat looks like a very nice rack but I currently have the THule with the 2 bike extension. Sticks out the lenghth of a smart car 
but it works very well. Just heavy as some has mentioned.