# 1
Swagman Trailhead Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
This is a very solid product! I have used it for over a year now and love it! I have had up to 3 bikes on this without a problem and have traveled over 8 hours in the car one way with absolutely no issues. Many other bike racks like this one that I see on other cars look unstable this is not unstable in anyway. I did have to file some of the paint off of the rack to get it to fit in my 1 and 1/4" hitch but once that was done it has been perfect. I also bought the locking hitch bolt which is awesome too.
The good: Solid, heavy construction. Easy to use method for attaching the bikes. Includes adapter for different type / size hitches. Fairly easy to swing out of the way for hatch access (although it is heavy). Plenty of room between carrier and rear of vehicle. The meh: Requires the use of anti-rattle bolt. This means that one must carry a socket wrench to install and remove the carrier. Should use a torque wrench. The bad: Instructions are awful. To assemble, "only one bolt needs to be installed", but the photos are so poor that they are useless. Does not say that a second bolt has to be tightened. Pin and pin locks cannot be used because the anti-rattle threads cannot be removed and are too small diameter for a pin. Recommended Swegman anti-rattle lock is too long to fit on some factory hitches such as Jeep Grand Cherokee. Bike strap and connectors make placing the bike on the inside holder a chore.
# 2
SeaSucker Komodo Bike Rack for 1 Bike - Fork Mount - Vacuum Cup Mounted - Black
The Komodo was the perfect solution for carrying my road bike on the trunk lid on my old BMW Z3 Roadster. I also purchased the front wheel Hogg and or works beautifully. Seasucker's Komodo Is a very high quality product that looks like a piece of art. I'm likely to get more compliments on the Komodo rack than my bike or car!
# 3
Yakima HangOut 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms
Service was excellent. Won't be using the rack until it warms up a bit.
I have a 2017 Acura RDX. I had to be creative for the hooks and straps to work. The lower strap hook is not compatible with my hatch. And I really didn't want to have them hook under my plastic bumper, so I shut the straps in the hatch and hooked them to 2 hooks I have in the trunk. Works perfect. A picture is attached. I have a Cannondale Bad Girl, which is the dumbest bike ever designed ( but that is a different review forum) so I had to be creative getting it mounted like I usually do. Works great. The only reason I gave this a 4 star is because I don't believe the hooks are really compatible with the RDX, unless you have an awesome spouse willing to get shut in the trunk and place the hooks for you while you tighten from the outside. etrailer.com has the best customer service I have dealt with in a while. Fantastic crew!
# 4
Swagman Trailhead Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
etrailer has the best pre- and post-sales customer service I've ever seen! I started out not knowing anything about hitch-mounted racks. So I wrote to etrailer telling them about my car and type of hitch I was about to have installed. Samuel wrote back with lots of great information tailored specifically to my car. He even included a photo that looked just like my 2017 white VW GTI with a hitch and rack installed. Okay something of a coincidence. But the rest of the assistance I got from the crew at etrailer was just as prophetic. I went into this a novice and came out knowing lots more about hitches and racks and finding the rack best suited to my situation. I have a small car, a class 1 hitch and a heavy mountain bike. I got exactly what I needed. As to the Swagman rack itself, it works fine. If I had a different situation I would probably buy a platform rack as they are easier to load. There's no reason to buy a bike rack anywhere else.
First off, thanks to Jason T. or "Troop". The exemplary customer service he provided is rare these days. Troop made several calls to the various manufacturers to ascertain which bike rack would afford me the most ground clearance as my new VW Golf sits low to the ground and my old bike rack frequently scraped the ground when I went up even a slight up hill grade. His efforts paid off as he found me the best bike rack for my car, the Swagman Trailhead 2 Bike Carrier. It sits up off the ground just high enough that it doesn't scrape on my driveway. It is also sturdy and holds my bikes securely. And, the delivery was amazingly fast. I had my rack in about 2 days! Note to Troop, see my Pittsburgh Pirates Logo on my bumper in the attached pictures? Pirate Fans persevere! The Bucco's will be coming after your Cardinals this year! Thanks again Troop!
# 5
Thule Camber Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
I love the bike rack itself. Works great for holding my bike. It is heavy for me to load and unload though, as I have to take it off to fit my car in the garage. I also do not like the straps that hold the bike on. You would think they could come up with something better!
Products arrived timely and well packed. assembly instructions clear able to assemble and mount myself extremely pleased with appearance and stability of products
# 6
SeaSucker Hornet Rear Window Bike Rack for 1 Bike - Handlebar Mount - Vacuum Cup Mounted
I have a step-through sport utility bike that I can’t put on a standard bike carrier because the frame doesn’t have a top tube. My car is a hybrid & will not accommodate a trailer hitch. My car is an SUV, so a roof rack is not practical for me. Hatchback bike racks are not suitable for the particular make & model of my SUV. The Seasucker Hornet seemed to be my only option. I’m happy to say that the Seasucker Hornet solved my problem & now I can transport my bicycle anywhere.
Shipping was quick and easy, and product exactly as described!
# 7
Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
The good: I like the way the bikes are held in and the ability to add the upright adapters to the bike frame holders. The straps are quality too. For a jeep with a spare tire, this is the perfect length to clear it. This rack is 5 stars from the bike holders to the base of it. The bad: the 2"receiver adapter and bolt are insufficient. I wish they made this in a solid 2" hitch. The entire setup is held into the receiver by a very short bolt. It only goes about half way into the receiver tube. So your hitch is only "secured" on one side. A hitch pin or bolt should go through the receiver tube completely imo so it can be secured on the other end with a retaining clip or nut. Because this only goes in the one side, the entire weight of the rack plus bikes are held tight to one side of the receiver by the undersized bolt and washer. A few bumps down the road and that bolt loosens. Now instead of distibuting the weight of the rack and bikes on the receiver and post, it's completely up to the bolt to keep you from losing the rack. The bolt threads get damaged too. I took this down a dirt road and nearly lost everything. I had to buy my own bolt with hd fender washers and lock washers to correct this. Thule should've provided this from the start. The current short bolt design where only one side of the receiver secures the rack is unacceptable. This rack is 1 star at best for the connection to the receiver.
I bought this bike rack back in April but wanted to make sure I used it to give the best review. First I want to say I did a lot of research on bike racks and found this one to be the best one to fit my needs. The best price I found was on etrailer.com, at the time it was When I called the customer service to place my order, I spoke to Dan. He was very pleasant on the phone and took the time and listened to what I needed and understood my concerns. I ordered the bike rack and also ordered the Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device and the Thule Cable Lock w/ One Key System Lock. Dan suggested I also get the Thule Bike Adapter Bar, which I never even thought of getting. Delivery was in about two business days, which was really fast and at the time of order they were running a special free delivery over $99. When I went to put it together I noticed I was missing the flat cap screw M6 x 16mm, part number #853-5787-02. I emailed Dan and within 24 hours received an email that the part was sent out and also in the email their was a link to track the order. After I received the part I did notice that the flat cap screw was actually in the 2 inch adaptor sleeve. The instructions were very easy to read, and it took me about 20 minutes to put together. I did have an issue when I positioned the stinger into the cradle, with the 8mm locking nut, it was not staying tight and when I took it off I noticed the threads inside were gone, so I ended up going out to Lowes and buying a new one and its holds perfectly fine. I also had a question about that part because it is not a locking part and was worried someone would try to steal the rack. I contacted etrailer.com to find if they make a locking device for this and they said no but I can contact Thule to double check, I'm still waiting for an answer back from Thule. The weather finally broke and we installed the rack onto my hitch, tightened it and it doesn't rattle. When I finally used the rack and put my bike on, it did sway a little but at 50 mph I was very happy with it. The trailer comes out just enough away from my car that I do not have to fold completely out and I can open my trunk with no issues. I am very happy with my purchase and had a great customer experience with Dan. Would highly recommend ordering from them to anyone.
# 8
Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Fat Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
Held up well over thousands of miles hauling bikes around full time rving. Almost impossible to get inner bike off without taking rack out of hitch. Wheel holders should be further from center bar as pedals have to be positioned a certain way to fit and still have rubbing issues.
Center support doesn’t lock tight, flimsy center bar. It does not stay locked in upright position. The locking pin doesn’t work very good.
# 9
Saris Bones 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms
Seemingly well-constructed and supported bike rack. It fits my 2018 Toyota Camry SE just fine and I haven't had any issues with sway or even feeling my bike while driving. I've only carried one bike on it and have used it a limited number of times, so I cannot speak on durability and longevity. Although you shouldn't open your trunk while the rack is attached, I have been able to do so with no issue (without the bike attached).
While getting a bike rack for a sports car isn't ideal, I really wanted to transfer my bike with my own car instead of borrowing my friend's pickup truck. After hours of trying to find a bike rack that would be good for my 07 Mustang, I decided to give this one a try and I gotta say, it has been pretty good so far. It fits very well over the factory spoiler. One of my biggest concerns I was worried about when ordering a rack for my Mustang was ruining the paint, but the feet on the legs haven't left one scratch. I have used this to transfer my bike at freeway speeds (up to 80 mph) on car rides that typically last an hour and my bike was perfectly secure throughout each ride. For extra security, I wrapped both bike wheels with a ratchet strap so the wheels and pedals wouldn't shift in transit. So far, I am very pleased with this bike rack for the price and quality. I would highly recommend this if you want a rack that is affordable and durable.
# 10
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.
# 11
Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount
I like the overall design of this rack, but unfortunately after hauling a couple bikes around for a while the point where the crossbar connects has apparently rounded off so the rack swings back and forth. I've used rope to tie the ends of the rack to the car to stop this from getting worse, but it's inconvenient. Note: the hitch connection itself is good and solid, but the point where the crossbar connects to the bar coming from the hitch has gotten loose and there's no way that I can see to tighten it.
I own a 2005 Jeep Wrangler X with 31x10.5x15 oversized tires and wheels. I installed B6196001 HighRock 4x4 Oversize Tire Carrier by Bestop to carry larger spare tire. I needed a bike carrier that would carry our two crusier bikes and clear my spare tire. After measuring, I ordered: -> S64650 - Swagman 2-bike carrier -> 80300 - 7" Hitch Adapter 2" to 1-1/4" Trailer Hitch Receiver -> RM-061 - Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 2" Trailer Hitches Our order arrived very quickly, etrailer.com upgraded the shipping. All these products arrived well packaged and without damage. In 15 minutes I had every thing assembled, installed on my Jeep and bikes loaded. The bike carrier is very well constructed, finish is excellent and easy to adjust. When adjusting wheel loops and loading bikes, make sure you pay attention to bike pedal position. I chose this extension because I did not want to use the adapter that comes with the bike carrier, I wanted as few parts as possible to keep rattles to a minimum and gives me more options for towing. The anti-rattle bolt/pin firmly secures the bike carrier to the extension and the Roadmaster Quiet Hitch keeps the extension adapter from rattling in the receiver. Road tested approximately 25 miles over rough city roads ( including railroad tracks ), county roads and highway. Bikes traveled very well without any rattles. I can remove my complete setup quickly, fold and put in rear of Jeep if desired. I am very well pleased with my purchase. Note to etrailer: Please consider offering Roadmaster Quiet Hitch in black to match receiver and accessories. Paul In the Land of Oz . . . Just South of the Yellow Brick Road!
# 12
Yakima HangOut 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms
When I started the search for a bike rack, I was so disappointed and upset to hear that I would need to install a hitch and spend even more money to buy another bike rack for my 2016 jeep renegade. I ordered this bike rack with a little hope but got a huge surprise! Not only is it super convenient and easy to install but I can fully use my trunk and not spend a ton of money!
Very nice, works well. The only thing that was an issue was with the "Anchor" part of assembly. The straps it came with were 2-3 ft. too short. So I had to replace/substitute my cargo straps for the Yakima top straps. Other than that, I'm pretty satisfied with this item.
# 13
SeaSucker Komodo Bike Rack for 1 Bike - Fork Mount - Vacuum Cup Mounted - Aqua Blue
The Komodo was the perfect solution for carrying my road bike on the trunk lid on my old BMW Z3 Roadster. I also purchased the front wheel Hogg and or works beautifully. Seasucker's Komodo Is a very high quality product that looks like a piece of art. I'm likely to get more compliments on the Komodo rack than my bike or car!
# 14
Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount - Clamp On or Channel Mount - Aluminum
Very easy to use (once you do it a couple of times). I have ebikes and they handled the weight (48lbs each). The biggest issue I have with this racking system is wishing there was a left and right models of it...unless I didn't see one when ordering.
Basically, bolt it to your rack and you're ready to go. Easy to use once you do it a few times. My only complaint is for $200 they could throw in a lock core. Also, this etrailer response is incorrect, it is actually pretty simple to swap the operation of the rack to work on the driver's side (without having your bike face the wrong direction). Two plastic locks hold the main assembly together, unlock, take the hook out and put in the other way. The loop thing at the front is held in by one allen bolt on the bottom; take it out, swap the direction. Finally, the rear tire strap slides out the back; reverse it and slide it on. It takes longer to put the carrier on /off your rack than to swap the direction (not more than 10 minutes).
What our customers are saying:
"Everyone that bought before me was right! I got my rack in time for my next days off and putting it together was fast too. And I'm a grandma!! Thank you for being fast and honest! You beat anyone in my town hands down!"