Compatibility of Yakima Hold Up 2 Bike Rack for Cruiser-Style Bikes with Fenders

Published 09/12/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(360)

$382.75

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(828)

$48.99

Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(516)

$878.95

Question:

I really like this style carrier but one of the bikes I will be carrying is an old school type cruiser with front and rear fenders. Will this Yakima rack work with the fender? thanks

asked by: Barb

Expert Reply:

A bike rack that holds the bike by the tops of the tires like the Yakima # Y02443 HoldUp wouldn't be the best choice for your style of bike because the presence of the fenders would prevent the rack's arms from getting a good grip on the tires, which could cause the bike to come loose during transport. It's also possible that the rack's arms could damage the bike fenders.

In your situation, a Platform-Style rack that would hold the bikes by the bottoms of the tires and the frame would work much better. I'd recommend the Thule Easy-Fold XT # TH903202. The rack can handle heavier bikes, up to 65 lbs apiece, and includes an anti-rattle hitch lock. The rack can also fold up flat against the rear of a vehicle when its not being used, so nobody trips over it. The rack is rated for use on Class I, II or III receiver hitches installed on passenger vehicles, trucks or SUV's, but not RV's or towed trailers.

This rack works great with many types of bikes, but if you have a step-through style Women's bike, using a frame adapter bar like part # 64005 might be necessary to provide the frame hook on the bike rack something to grab onto. I've linked you to a product demonstration video featuring the TwoTimer bike rack and the frame adapter bar.

expert reply by: Mike L