Ever load up for a road trip or to go camping and wish you had a bigger trunk? This EXO system has you and your gear covered. On top of it's 20 cu ft of cargo space, we love that each box can be carried to your camp or hotel room to be unloaded.
Features:
Specs:
Notes:
This modular system includes 2 enclosed cargo carriers, so your camping gear stays secure, dry, and away from prying eyes. The two-tier base system swings away, while fully loaded, for rear cargo area access, and the top tier can be removed if you only need to carry 1 cargo carrier.
Because the Yakima EXO system is modular it lets you transform your hitch into the ultimate gear-carrying rig. You can outfit the system with various accessories (sold separately) to carry all your biking, camping, and skiing gear. The system is compatible with a bike rack, ski rack, cargo carrier, and an enclosed cargo carrier, and you can easily swap them out to match any outdoor activity. You can also add base camp accessories, like a camping table. Lastly, because you can carry two accessories on the back of your vehicle, it frees up space on your roof to carry even more gear.
Each enclosed cargo carrier has 10 cu ft of storage space for carrying sports equipment, clothes, and other gear. They're easy to detach the from the base unit, making them convenient for two people to tote all your gear to the campsite in a single trip or two.
The wide-mouth opening on each carrier makes it easy to load your gear and find individual items at the campsite. Integrated straps inside the carriers secure your gear so it doesn't slide around when you're on the road. Spring-based levers on each side hold the lid open, so you can use both hands while loading and unloading.
The hinged arm on the base lets you swing the unit away from your vehicle. This provides full access to your vehicle's rear cargo area and eliminates the need remove the cargo carriers when you're unloading your vehicle or your dog hop in or out of the back.
To open the hinged arm, simply rotate the release knob counterclockwise until it's unscrewed from the arm, pull out on the spring pin, and swing the rack away from the rear of your vehicle. The arm will lock in place when it's fully extended, so your hands are free to open your hatch and remove cargo.
In addition to allowing access to your vehicle's cargo area, the EXO can also provide access to your gear stored on the lower level. Once the base unit is fully extended, you can swing the top tier back 180 degrees, with your gear and cargo carrier still attached. This will provide unfettered access to the cargo carrier on the lower level.
To close the base unit, just pull the release lever at the hinge and swing the extended arm back into position. Once you hear the spring pin lock into place, rotate the knob clockwise until it's tight.
If you leave the base swung open for an extended period of time, you'll need to install the included jack stand to help stabilize the arm. Turn the rod on the jack to fine tune the height so the system stays level.
To install the EXO system, simply slide the shank on the base unit into your 2" hitch receiver, insert the threaded hitch pin, and tighten it down with the included 24-mm wrench. The threaded hitch pin also reduces noise and movement in your hitch. The second tier bolts to the base to provide the second level of storage.
Dual arms on each tier have tracks with cleats and SpeedKnobs that secure EXO accessories. To swap the a cargo carrier for a different accessory, undo the latches on the sides of the arms, rotate the SpeedKnobs to allow the cleats inside the tracks to free the carrier, and remove it. Next, put the new accessory in the tracks, rotate the SpeedKnobs so the cleats secure it, then close each latch.
This EXO system includes 10 SKS locks to secure the system, carriers, and your gear. The two tiers have locks that secure them to each other and to your vehicle's hitch receiver. Both tiers also have locks in the arms to secure the GearLocker enclosed cargo carriers. Finally, each enclosed cargo carrier has a lock to secure your gear inside. Because each GearLocker only uses 1 lock, this EXO configuration will come with 2 extra lock cores.
The SKS locks for the system come with the 2 base units - 5 with each. Because they are packaged separately, the locks for the top tier and bottom tier probably won't be keyed alike. However, they can be swapped out to match each other and even your other Yakima gear.
Because the EXO System is modular you can add accessories for whatever adventure you have planned, or swap them out for other activities.
The BackDeck camping table (Y84VR - sold separately) is perfect for use at the campsite. It lets you prep meals, lay out your gear, and even mix drinks at the end of the day. Simply remove the cargo carrier on the top level and install the table. It stores conveniently inside one of the enclosed cargo carriers, during transport.

The SnowBank (Y57VR - sold separately) is perfect for your ski trip. It carries up to 5 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards. It has an expanding hinge that accommodates thick skis and large buttons that let you access your skis even if you're wearing gloves. Simply remove the cargo carrier on the top level and install this carrier in its place.
The DoubleUp 2-bike rack has ratcheting hooks that grab your bikes firmly by the front wheel - not the frame. It's perfect for carrying nearly any bike, including bikes with carbon frames, disc brakes, thru axles, or full suspensions. Simply remove the enclosed cargo carrier on the top level and install this carrier in its place.
If you want to carry coolers, luggage, and other larger, bulky gear, you can swap out one of the enclosed cargo carriers for the GearWarrior cargo carrier (Y37VR - sold separately). There is also a wheel kit (Y97VR - sold separately) that converts the cargo carrier into a wagon, so you can wheel your gear to the campsite. The GearWarrior can be installed on either the top or bottom tier so you can maximize cargo space.
California residents: click here
Variations of pieces allow for multiple storage solutions.
I really like the setup and flexibility of this system
Never received the swingbase
Super quick shipping, great products!
Very sturdy
Complete assembly took awhile but was
worth it
It’s perfect for my needs
Excellent quality you get what you pay for
There is no part of this experience that hasn’t been professional. Ordering and delivery were excellent. Thanks to Ashley and the crew at etrailer.
Perfect item for that needed extra storage. Easy assembly and installation!
carries a lot, easy to swing out. Really like this when I need to haul. It does "waggle" back and forth alot, enough for friends to comment when following on the freeway, but didn't fall off, anyway
E trailer always delivers! Ordering was easy and package was delivered on time. I needed in time for a family trip, called in Roger and Joanne made sure the package went out on time. I will definitely prefer again when I need my next piece of gear.
Greatly increases storage with our Boldt RV
Heavy duty! Wife and I are planning a road trip and the locking mechanisms that secure this thing in place means I can worry less and keep my mind focused on other aspects of the trip. The metal racks are a great size and feel real sturdy! The swinging arm works perfectly with the hatchback door, I’m excited to get on the road!
We bought this set of back of the car storage carriers a year ago so we wouldn't have to rent a U-Haul trailer for vacation. Just finished our second month long trip.
We love it. Sturdy, well engineered. Would recommend it to anyone.
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