How is the Yakima RidgeBack Bike Rack Secured in the Vehicle's Receiver Hitch

Updated 07/13/2020 | Published 05/14/2017

Question:

Can anyone with the special allen key undo the lock?

asked by: Howard R

Expert Reply:

The Yakima RidgeBack 4 Bike Rack, # Y02466, uses the SpeedKnob locking system to secure the rack into the vehicle's receiver hitch. As you turn the knob the anti-rattle wedge on the rack's hitch shank will expand to provide a tight fit inside the hitch.

The wedge is held on with Allen head screws, but with the shank in the hitch it would be impossible to remove. When tighten, the Yakima SpeedKnob can be locked to deter theft. When lock the knob will free spin.

expert reply by: Jared P

Doug B.

7/7/2020

I had a ridgeback bike rack, locked on my car. I pulled the assembly as hard as I could be it would not budge. Last night, it was stolen off my car. The hitch shows no sign of damage, so could it be removed if they were willing to damage the bike rack? Naturally, I want to replace it because I used it a lot, but not if it is this easy to steal. Thanks for any suggestions. I have had it about 5 years with no issue, and it looks exactly like the picture. Or rather, it did.

Chris R.

7/13/2020

I'm really sorry to hear this! The Yakima RidgeBack # Y02458 honestly offers a really secure attachment, especially when utilizing the integrated hitch lock. Nothing is theft proof, however the thief in question would have certainly had to damage the RidgeBack's shank to remove it from the receiver unless he/she somehow had a key. This is awful that it happened, but I wouldn't hesitate to go back to the RidgeBack again.