# 1
Swagman Chinook Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
The swagman bike rack arrived in 3 days. After exhaustive review, of which etrailers videos and pics were a vital part (many products I had no idea existed), I chose the swagman tilting rack. I needed the tilt to open the door of my Volkswagon Tiguan and wanted the wheel trays to get additional stability. It all went together in 10-20 minutes, I built it right in the hitch receiver. Tightened all the bolts adjusted the wheel trays and loaded my bikes. I am so happy with everything. I added two rubber straps to further stabilize the rack during transit and everything is working perfectly. The swagman was even on sale for [$$] off. Etrailer has been emailing me for awhile, as we were off on a 3 month jaunt, so they have gone beyond the norm to provide this great service.
I wanted a lockable and stable rack. This rack accomplishes both very well. Where locking arms touch the bike I have noticed a little wear. A little pad/towel elimates that problem. I definitely would purchase again. The folks were very helpful in discussing my options. Delivery was time was great.
# 2
Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Gray
I'm very pleased with the Kuat Sherpa 2.0. Fast delivery, and straightforward assembly. Some reviews noted having trouble inserting the bolt in step 5, but the assembly video from Kuat shows that pivoting the rack a bit makes it trivial (Search for "Sherpa 2.0 - Assembly" on YouTube). It is very well constructed and solid on the hitch. The back up camera on my 2017 VW Tiguan SEL is obscured a bit, but still usable. Even with the wide bars on my mountain bike there is plenty of clearance between the bikes, and to the back of the car, including tilting it down to open the hatch. It fits the 3" tires on my 6Fattie perfectly. The cable lock is long enough to secure both front wheels and frames of my bikes. I also use the cable to secure the rack in my garage to deter casual thieves. Highly recommended.
So after much research into bike racks, I decided on pulling the plug on the Kuat Sherpa 2.0. I've looked into the Kuat NV and other brands, but they were just too much for my needs. If you've got "regular" bikes and not the heavier eBikes, then this rack is perfect. I wanted a hitch rack that was user friendly and not overly complicated. I have a mixed bag of bikes and this rack can handle them all, from mountain bikes, street bikes, and BMX bikes. I like that this rack comes with an adapter piece for 20"-24" wheels. Assembly of the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is really a no-brainer. I think it's only 4-5 bolts really. Everything else is ready to go. The anti-rattle hitch ball mechanism is simple to use with just a twist of the dial, easy. The tilt pedal/lever is also easy to access should you need to open your hatch, a solid "click" assures it's in place. So far, loving this rack. Fit and finish is superb. Thanks to Jerred and etrailer for answering my questions, always helpful.
# 3
Yakima RidgeBack Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
Check out my other review on the hidden hitch for a 2015 BMW 4 Series for the majority of the review, but this thing is great. Easy setup and install, does all the things it's supposed to do. Mounting and removing bikes is a snap with the included clips (big difference from some of the cheaper variants with nylon ratchet straps). Fits very snugly in my 2" receiver, and pretty solid on the highway and over bumpy roads.
First trip with 3 bikes. Nary a wobble. The anti-sway strips appear to make a big difference.
What our customers are saying:
"Sent out an e-mail to you earlier this week asking which hitch woudld be the best choice for installing on a 2000 Venture van for hauling a bike rack with two bikes. You suggested the one that would be easiest to install..received in a matter of days..installation went great ..very well thought out instructions. Everything went smooothly and the hitch is up nice and snug..doesn't stick out..looks great."