Sea Otter Classic: Day 2’s Coolest Stuff

Saris showed off this new hitch rack, the MHS Duo, which comes in a variety of configurations. MHS stands for Modular Hitch System. Shoppers can buy just the hitch rack and outfit it the way they want, or with one, two or three e-bike carriers. An optional fourth carrier can be added, as well. The MHS Duo is intriguing because it can carry three e-bikes each weighing up to 80 lbs. The optional fourth carrier can carry up to 50 lbs. The MHS system also offers a telescoping ramp (this is an accessory—it’s not included with the rack) so that rolling an e-bike into position is easy. The single bike carrier goes for $549.98 and they go up from there. Because this is a modular system, buyers can outfit the MHS Duo rack with other equipment, such as a cargo basket that can carry luggage or a cooler.

For those looking to carry four or more e-bikes, Saris has introduced a Tailgate Pad that can secure up to six e-bikes. The pad not only secures up to six e-bikes, it will keep them separated so that they don’t get damaged on the drive. There is a fold-up window to give drivers access to the tailgate latch without removing the pad. Because it’s only $229.99, it’s a great option for anyone with a pickup who wants to stick to a more modest budget than a hitch rack permits.

Topeak showed off this storage stand, the TuneUp Station, for e-bikes. Two hooks hold the chainstay and seatstay on the left side (non-drive side), holding the e-bike upright. The base acts as a storage space for tools on one side and a hiding spot for the charger on the other side. It’s an ideal way to keep all your e-bike stuff in one, neat location. It goes for $129.95 and the TuneUp Tooltray atop the stand goes for an additional $37.95.

Marin displayed a brand new version of their Rift Zone E. Each of the Rift Zone models are 29ers with 150mm of travel front and 140mm travel rear, putting them firmly in the trail category. The Marin Rift Zone E XR features Shimano’s EP8 motor, a 630Wh battery, SRAM GX 12-speed drivetrain with wireless shifting, plus wireless dropper post and 4-piston SRAM Code brakes. This is now the top-of-the-line version of the Rift Zone with a price of $7999, which would not be a bad price at all for a full-suspension, Class 1 eMTB. The thing is, with some of the biggest brands in cycling discounting their models due to post-pandemic overstocking, other brands that can’t set the market are forced to play, uh, ball. Marin is selling this EP8-equipped eMTB for $6399, an outrageously good price for a very fine eMTB.

Benno Bikes displayed at Sea Otter as well and they showed off the Boost compact cargo e-bike. This is a Class 3 e-bike with a maximum assist speed of 28 mph courtesy of Bosch’s Performance Speed motor. Shown as outfitted, the Benno Boost will tote a rider, two kids and a picnic lunch in the cooler strapped to the front rack to the park and back. While many compact cargo bikes struggle to fit two passengers, the Benno Boost shows it is possible, provided the kids are still small enough to ride in Yepp child seats. The Boost comes in six colors and begins at $4900.