How much can heavy duty bike racks carry, and where could I find one online?

Question

I'm looking for a bike rack that would be able to carry a passenger over the rear wheel. I realize that it's a little bit of a stretch, but I've seen people giving others rides and I'd like to be able to do the same.

If you don't believe this is possible, please help me find the highest capacity rack you know of, or most reliable, or just your favorite if you've had one you've liked for a while.

I would like to be able to find this online or near Boston, MA, so I would appreciate a website or a business name so that I can find it.

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

The strongest rack I know of is the Tubus Cargo.  It only holds 90lbs.    The only safe way to do this other than buying a tandem is to modify your bike with a Xtracycle Free Radical conversion kit.  You can pretty much turn your bike into a cargo hauler.  They even have an option for a passenger seat.

Answer 2

There are some incredibly strong racks available.  The best are made for fully loaded touring and are capable of supporting as much weight as you'd want to carry.

BUT..............

Equally important is the ability of the bike (both the frame and the wheels) to carry that weight.  Touring bikes...those that are intended to be used with the heavy duty racks...are built to carry the weight.

AND...

That much weight in the rear will put your bike severely off balance, effectively pulling your front wheel off the ground and reducing your control.   Touring cyclists counter this by distributing some of the weight to the front fork.

Answer 3

Topeak makes some good racks, not sure I would carry someone on them though.

http://www.amazon.com/Topeak-TA2026-B-Ex...