How to Easily Load Bikes Onto Swagman S64670 XTC 2 Platform-Style Bike Rack

Updated 06/12/2024 | Published 08/26/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Swagman XTC2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1633)

$197.86

Question:

Hello, I just purchased a S64670 bike rack. I’m a petite senior female and having trouble lifting my bike onto the bike rack. I’m wondering if there is a ramp available for this type of bike rack, before spending 1,000+ for a lightweight bicycle, which may not be recommended for this type of bike rack. Thank you!

asked by: Karen S

Expert Reply:

Swagman doesn't offer a ramp that's compatible with their # S64670 XTC2 bike rack, but I can provide you with a tip that will help make loading your bike easier.

Stand the bike up so it's right next to the rack with the front wheel about two feet to the side of the end of the carrier. Apply the rear brake and walk backwards a bit while simultaneously pulling the bike up like you're popping a wheelie. Once the bottom edge of the tire sits just above the wheel hoop, pivot the front wheel over and lower it into the wheel hoop. Now, you have a large portion of the bike on the rack and won't have as much weight to lift to get the rear tire up into the rear wheel hoop. This gets pretty easy after practicing a couple of times, and once you master the technique, you'll never need to dead-lift the entire weight of the bike to get it up on the rack.

expert reply by: Mike L

6/1/2024

If you are carrying just one bike on a two bike chinook rack, does it matter if the bike is loaded to the inside towards the trunk or to the outside furthest from the trunk? Thanks. jj

Mike L.

6/12/2024

@Jj It does indeed. If you're only carrying one bike, you want to place it closest to the rear of the tow vehicle. This is to lessen the leverage applied to the hitch and its attachment points to the vehicle.