# 1
Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
Excellent Very easy to install Quick delivery Well recommend this site to friends and family also get our future trailer items from here.
I wish the quality of this Thule bike rack was a good as the one I previously owned. I had a 3 bike hatch back rack. The cradles and the straps were much sturdier and better quality than this new trailer hitch bike rack. And most of the straps were permanently attached on one side. The metal framing for the trailer hitch is beefy and sturdy and good quality, but the plastic cradles and rubber straps are thinner and the vertical stabilizer that fits up against the vertical tube connected to the seat of your bike is attached to a super flimsy rubber "bar" that seems it could snap just by loading bikes and accidentally getting hung up on one when pushing a bike to the farthest cradles. I have almost lost several straps as they easily pop off when loading and unloading bikes. I am hoping they will soften and stay on the knobs better. The knobs themselves are thin and made of a hard non-durable plastic that seems to strain and bend when taking off a tight strap to unload a bike. I keep wondering if the tip of the knob will break off under the strain and then your strap won't stay on. Am definitely keeping my receipt and warranty info for awhile in case it breaks after a short amount of use. All the metal parts seem good, just the plastic is subpar.
# 2
Curt Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Tilting
Solid unit. The fact that it is only for 2" socket has it stronger than others.
It was obvious that we received a product that was returned by someone else when the box was overly taped shut, a support collar was broken, and most of the pieces were out of their ripped plastic bags. However, it was a great price to hold 5, 26" and/or 27" Trek bikes. I used a piece of the broken collar and went ahead and assembled the rack. Due to the weight of the 5 bikes it did not wobble that much when driving, as one of the bike tires was up against my car. I can only imagine that if we received an untampered product that this review would have been 5 stars. The picture is a little hard to see, but there are 5 Trek bikes on the rack on my 2020 Toyota Seinna.
# 3
Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
We've used this bike rack with our '14 Sienna for over a year now and it works wonderfully. I especially appreciate the way the rack folds against the back of the van when not in use. After many hours of research before making this purchase, I could not be more happy with this rack.
Placed my order on a Monday and had my new rack on Friday. While the instructions for assembly could tolerate some improvement they were plenty goood enough to get the job done. Took me about an hour to assmble but I wasn't in a hurry. I attached the rack to my Curt receiver (part #C13105) that I installed on my 2011 Toyota Sienna XLE. Only problem with this setup is insufficient clearance to swing the rack into the full upright storage position. I also have to loosen the handlebars on the bike closest to the van and turn them 90 degrees so they don't touch the back of the van. Both these issues could be solved with a hitch extesion but simple enough to work around without. No biggie. Guess that's the price I pay for having the Curt receiver discretely snuggied up under the bumper. This rack is a serious hunk of steel that does a great job of holding the bikes in place. NO wiggle at all. After test fitting the bikes in place, I'm very confident that the bikes will stay put for a long road trip. Getting all the bikes on the rack and clear of each other does take some experimentation. But once you get it set, it's much faster loading on subsequent trips. The provided locking, anti-rattle pin does a great job of securing the rack to the receiver and makes it all feel like one solid piece. The provided cable lock threads through the bikes and back to the locked anti-rattle pin so nobody can steal your bikes while you're at the hotel, etc. Overall, the construction looks/feels very solid and I really don't see anything where I thought they were trying to save money on construction. This does make the rack a little heavy and it could be challenging for a smaller person to manage. I really like the way this rack holds the bikes from the wheels up as oppposed to hanging off a bar. I was afraid the other style would have the bikes swinging lik e a pedulum. Sorry for the long review, hope there's some helpful information in here some of you.
# 4
Swagman XTC2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
First-time rack buyer / owner / installer. The rack arrived in a timely fashion, maybe a day or 2 ahead of schedule. It was well packaged. I’m LOVING this bike rack. It was easy to put together and to mount on my new Honda Passport. Thus far, no squeaks in my 2” receiver. Hardest part of initial set-up is figuring out the best way to position two bikes. Trial & error and some patience. The directions weren’t clear as to where the 2 left-over screws went. I found the answer in another review and have posted a pic in case others have the same problem (photo with pen pointing at screw). These screws go in the underneath side of both of the folding arms. They appear to keep the wheel wells from sliding off in case in you drive with an empty, un-folded rack, and forgot to tighten down the wheel wells. The folding arm push / pull pins can be difficult at times. I coated the tips with some lube. That and a little jiggling seems to solve that issue. I guess it’s better for the pins to be snug vs popping right out. I added a small Master lock to the hitch pin (in lieu of the provided cotter pin) as a theft deterrent. I read that a 3/16 shackle lock will fit into the bike clamp down arms to also act as a deterrent. I had an old 3/16 lock that did snugly fit and appeared to be locked. HOWEVER, I yanked on the lock and it came open as there isn’t quite enough clearance for the shackle to lock. I discovered that longer 3/16 shackle locks are hard to find. Have attached a photo of the lock that actually fits and works (Ace Hardware). One lock on the upper clamp down arm will secure both arms as the lower arm can’t be removed without removing the upper arm. The clamp down arms appear to be coated to prevent damage to your bike. I’ve tried a simple rag and ultimately settled on pool noodle pieces as a precautionary measure. I CAN NOT open my tailgate (regardless of whether or not the rack is fold up and in the bike carry position). If that’s a concern for you, then spring for the more costly titling version. My back-up camera still functions.
The Swagman XTC-2 platform bike carrier arrived very quickly from etrailer and in good shape, the actual carrier box is inside another shipper box, which I'm sure helped with its condition. Assembly was relatively quick and painless, even though the instructions could be a little more thorough. Installing the carrier on the back of our Jeep Patriot also was quick, it helps to have an extra ratchet & 3/4" socket laying around for just this purpose. Installing the bikes takes a little patience and trial and error the first time you try and put them on the carrier. It's easy enough to adjust the wheel holders to fit the wheelbase of your bikes, but for us at least, the challenge was trying to swing the vertical support bar up into position after putting on the first bike (closest to the Jeep). We couldn't angle the bike enough toward the Jeep to have the bar clear the bike. We learned that the easiest way to secure the first bike was to remove the ratcheting frame hooks altogether, put the bike in the carrier, swing up the vertical support bar, put in the pin, and then slide one of the frame hooks down on the bar. The outside bike is much easier because you can set the bike in the carrier at whatever angle you need, not being limited by the back of the vehicle. One thing we did to protect the bike frames was to use some foam pipe insulation as cushion between the frame hook and the frame (see pictures). Once you get a system for installing the bikes, it is very quick to load/unload them. The rack seems to be well made and doesn't wiggle excessively when traveling. All in all a good product for a good price, would definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a platform bike carrier.
# 5
Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount - Tilting
WOW WOW WOW That is what I just kept saying after installing this Saris bike rack. I have been looking for a bike rack for almost 3-4 months now. Thule and Yakima didn't have what I was looking for. Their solution for a 4-5 bike rack is too complicated, not efficient, and it would be a nightmare to manage on a regular basis. So I couldn't get myself to pull a trigger on any of those and I kept searching. Finally, I came to eTrailer and found out about Saris. That is where the love starts :) We are a family of 5 (3 kids and 2 grown-ups). I needed something that will help me load bikes fast, unload them and still be able to have access to the back of my Toyota Sequoia. Saris delivered in every way. Assemble of the item is straight forward. Instructions are clear and to the point. They even give you a yellow strip that helps you mark where the hitch needs to be in order to align hole openings for easier installation after you install it the first time ;) The back-up camera is still usable but not 100%. Tilting down the rack with the bikes on it is simple as 1-2-3. There is plenty of room left between the trunk door and the bike as you can see on the pictures. One HUGE benefit is that you do not need any extra parts for kids bikes. Not like with other brands. Saris delivers tremendously on this part too. No shaking, rattling, or anything that would make you notice that you have this amazing product on the back of your SUV/truck. I can't recommend it more. I am just surprised that this product has not been more advertised and represented compared to other products.
this thing is a beast. while i haven't used it as much as i thought i would, i'm really happy with the quality of the rack. would def recommend to others looking for a 4 bike rack.
# 6
Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
I bought this rack to carry one mountain bike and one hybrid path bike on my Sienna van or my 4Runner. I wanted something easier than my hanging bike rack. I received the rack in good condition with slight damage to the inner box but the shipping box was in perfect condition. Very quick delivery. The rack is mostly put together when you receive it. I just installed the bicycle wheel rings and the receiver bar. Each of the hex bolts on the receiver bar have lock washers for very secure attachment, though you need to have a hex wrench to tighten. The wheel rings move smoothly on the support bars and tighten with knobs that have secure nylon locknuts inside to prevent loosening. By the way, the two Phillips head screws go into the ends of the support bars as stoppers ( wasn't explained in the brief instructions). The fit and finish of the rack was better than expected and easy to use. I did have to spend some time, with a helper, to figure out how to position the bikes for the best placement on the rack. It was a bit of a puzzle, but I figured it out. Make sure you put the tallest bike next to the hatch with the derailure inside. This protects the back windshield from the handle bar and moves the pedal further from the door. Now, removing the bikes and replacing them back on the rack should be very quick and easy. To easily remove the holddown clamps, simply push down the top while pressing on the latch. The rubber on the holddown clamps tend to rub off on the bicycle; so, I treated it with 303 protectant and have a layer between it and the bicycle. Also, on the holddown clamps there are holes to allow you to lock each of the latches, however I typically use a cable and lock.
I bought this for my 2015 Toyota Sienna to tote me and my husbands bikes to bike paths. I’m giving this 2 stars as I can only fit one bike on the rack. If I try to put 2 bikes on the bike on the inside hits the back window with the handle bar. So now I have to go back to using the truck to tote them. If it’s just me no problem the bike fits great and is really easy to use it folds down so you can pop the trunk, just a pain if you leave it on all the time as it’s in the way loading and unloading the groceries.
# 7
Hollywood Racks Destination Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
Works well with the e98853 hitch I bought it with for my 2012 Sienna. We’ve used it with 4 bikes (including an electric) and solid and secure so far. It’s a bit annoying having to move the cotter pin to get access to the van hatch door if the unit happens to be left in the up position, but not so bad. I’d buy this again.
# 8
Swagman Trailhead Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
Excellent bike rack. Holds up to 4 bikes securely. Easy to mount the bikes, very solid construction. My wife had a little trouble with the tie down straps, but managed it. No such problem for a guy. I would recommend, in fact I believe my son is buying the same rack.
Sturdy, stable, holds bikes securely and reasonably priced. Easy to hang bikes on rack and secure them. Rack is easy to mount on vehicle and does not rattle. I haven't found anything not to like about this bike rack.
# 9
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.
The rack itself is fantastic. Not too heavy, easy to attach to hitch, and very easy setup. The only real downside is if your bicycles don't have a standard frame, you'll need to buy the Yakima Tube Top Bike Adapter Bars (~$50 each) in order to be able to mount them on the rack. I will say that smaller bikes (for my 9 year old) can be a challenge to mount with larger bikes as you'll need to finagle the handle bars and such to get them to line up but once you do it a few times you figure it out.
# 10
SportRack Ridge Swing 4 Bike Rack - 2" Hitches - Swinging
Unit doesn't fit a Jeep Rubicon with a spare tire. I tried 4 times and contacted etrailer.com that the unit doesn't work as sold and they offered to sell me a 7 3/4 extension and reduce the load capacity 50%. The length of the 2" hitch needs to be 3" longer for a standard Rubicon to get past the spare. You not going to want to take your spare tire off for the hitch to work. It defeats the purpose. Customer service was excellent, however the product is a flawed design. Can't recommend this hitch. Its also heavy.
Solid rack for half the price of the name brands. Don’t waste your money! Thanks to the extensive reviews on etrailer and a free shipping promotion I took a chance and ordered this along with the three of their crossbars, anti rattle hitch pin and cable lock. All for well less than the name brand rack alone. Shipping was painful. Etrailer said it was in stock but then due to a delay with the manufacturer it took 35 days from order to arrival. I wasn’t in a hurry so I waited patiently, and etrailer reps emailed often to lmk they hadn’t forgotten. I thought some kind of reward for my extreme patience was in order- discount, gift card, free bag of chips- but they politely declined. Oh well. In the end it arrived when they (eventually) said it would, all in one box, in great shape. The rack was super easy to assemble. You’ll need a ratchet or two and you’ll need to crank those bolts to assemble- they don’t just “insert.” But otherwise it’s only a few steps; I had mine hanging on my truck in probably 15 minutes. Swings away and locks smoothly and requires no effort to do so. Everything feels quite sturdy and well made. No rattle on initial test drive either. This will be a once in a while rack at best for our family of four. We have two SUVs so I needed a rack that could get out of the way of the rear hatch WITH bikes on it. This will do that. And now I don’t need to stuff four dirty bikes into the back of my truck, getting them all tangled and scratched!
# 11
Swagman XP Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Tilting
Bike carrier works great. It is built well and does what I expected.
Purchased this after reading some of the other reviews and Q&A on etrailer - i hadn't thought about the fact that how the crossbars on the bike are configured makes a difference - 3 of our 5 bikes wouldn't have fit on a two bar bike rack because the openings are two small (I ended up measuring them before selecting a rack). I still ended up having to use the adapter for one of them which works great. Installation was easy (I had uhaul put a receiver hitch on my 2012 odyssey the week before) - you do have to pull a pin on the bottom of the rack when you tilt it, which some might consider an inconvenience compared to some of the other brands that just have release levers, but i view it as less stuff to break compared to those racks. If you're going to have it on a lot and park in a garage, consider the fact that it doesn't collapse because it does add significant length to the vehicle. 5 bikes are definitely doable if you set it up correctly. I think its the most versatile rack you can get based on the way it holds the bikes and would definitely recommend.
# 12
RockyMounts BackStage Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
We love our RockyMounts BackStage Bike Rack. The fact that it can hold our two e-bikes and swings out for rear door access makes it perfect for vanlife. Service and communication from etrailer is outstanading!
etrailer.com asked me for a review about 1 week after it arrived. A better review would be in about 6-12 months after delivery to allow me time to use and experience the rack. Disclosure: my review is just for the assembly and install. Assembly is not easy. I needed to go to the internet and look at photos. The instructions lack detail. So only 4 stars for assembly instructions. It seems like a good design. The included locks seem cheap - like why bother including. The hitch pin design seems to tighten down the rack so there should be minimal rattle and movement. The rack sits up relatively high, so it would be safer to lift heavier e-bikes with two people or use some type of field engineered ramp. Wish it was made in the US and I wish the country of original was fully disclosed in the etrailer.com description. Perhaps it is disclosed but I learned it was from china after it was delivered.
What our customers are saying:
"The bike rack went together with ease. Everything was in the box, no missing parts. It was very stable on my first trip with it.Works well with womens bikes also. Delivery was prompt with no mishaps. Good job"