# 1
Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
So far, so good! I just got this rack and have only used it once, but I am overall very happy with it! Set up was easy, it took me about 30 min to get the rack together and on my car. The rack is well made and very sturdy on my hitch. My only wish is that there was a locking pin for 1 1/4" hitches too. But I just bought a padlock for it, so not a huge worry. I also had to pad the hooks with foam noodles, as they scratched my frame. Again though, I have a carbon frame and was expecting to do this.
Things I wanted in a platform bike rack: -Rack that could accommodate at least a 49" wheel base -At least 35 lbs per bike capacity, but preferably 45 lbs -A Rack that could fold up and out of the way without hitting the bumper or interfering with the rear hatch opening. -A rack that would have enough clearance to still open the hatch with the bikes mounted and tilted away. -My bike (that I was concerned about fitting): 2017 Trek Fuel EX 7 29er, size XXL. This rack hit all of those requirements! I was a bit hesitant because there was no confirmed fitment for the 2014+ Forester (beyond some measurements), but I ordered it anyway. I'm happy to report that the rack fits perfectly. I attached pictures that show that there is plenty of clearance when the bike is mounted, bike is mounted and tilted away (to open the hatch), and when the rack is folded up (to clear bumper and open the rear hatch). Rack itself: -Assembly and installation was fairly easy. The directions could be somewhat confusing, but read carefully and pay attention and it will be easy. -The cam locks that are used to tilt/fold the rack and to release the vertical arm are much more convenient than having to remove and re-insert a pin. --there is some up and down play from the tilt/fold cam lock, but it actually does not cause excess movement when the bikes are mounted and the car is moving, hitting bumps, turning, etc. -Very minimal movement from the rack while in motion. -The padding on the hooks is fairly hard, so I did buy some pipe insulation to protect the top tube on my bikes. -The rack hooks lock and there is a lock for the hitch pin. No cables necessary! -The wheel trays are very sturdy and easy to adjust. -The price was very reasonable, especially considering that locks are included. Regarding etrailer.com -awesome database of information AND the best prices that I could find. -the support team is also very responsive and helpful. I'm very happy with my hitch rack so far, and I'm very happy to have ditched my roof bike carriers!
# 2
Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Gunmetal Gray
Rack arrived today. I will not lie, it is heavy and therefore cumbersome to assemble. Despite that, I was able to assemble and install it in just under one hour. I did this on my own, another person would have cut this time in half. The rack checks all the boxes of wants and needs. That same weight noted before makes it rock solid. The anti-rattle feature to tighten the hitch is wonderful. Handle/pedal to change from upright position to bike holding rack to tilt away from my Subaru 2010 Forester was incredibly simple and smooth. I was all set to buy the Thule T2 Pro XT 2 and a friend told me about this Kuat NV 2.0. I am so happy. I knew it was more expensive, but free shipping and price was discounted at checkout when I purchased it from etrailer.com. Great surprise. This rack is well thought out, has superb quality features, and I am convinced that I made the best choice. All things aside, it also really looks nice.
Showed up fast and was easy to assemble. Rock solid product. No wiggle or chatter once installed. 27.5+ MTB fits perfect.
# 3
Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
Put this together in about 30 min and looooooooove how easy it is to load 4 bikes!! Two adult bikes(one road) two kids! Incredibly sturdy while driving along the winding mountain roads! If the $1000 racks are easier/better I'd like to know just how much to justify the price!! Super happy with this purchase and the staff at etrailer!
Good rack. Although, it was much heavier then I thought. I was looking for something to put on my wife's car 2-3 times a week, so I can ride home. It's a bit much for daily use, but is very sturdy and great for the long haul.
# 4
Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
The BEST bike carrier by far!! We are both in our 7th decade and even I alone (5’2” 120 lbs) can manage to attach this in my hitch without any issues. It’s so easy to load both our hybrid and e-bike and they are super secure. We love that it folds up small and wheels away when not in use. This bike carrier is worth every penny!!
What our customers are saying:
"I recently purchased a trailer hitch and a bike rack from you. I could not be more satisfied with the products and your service. I have searched for a couple of years for the right product at the right price and your company is the best. I just wanted to tell you that when people ask me about the hitch, I will definitely tell them to contact you. Thank you."