Comparing the Yakima FullSwing and Thule Vertex Trailer Hitch Mount Swinging Bike Racks

Updated 03/10/2014 | Published 03/09/2014

Question:

Would you recommend one over the other? How do the straps compare ease of strapping on a and off, what about the locking mechanism, now that both are tool free?

asked by: Hujjat F

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have been a big fan of the Thule Vertex, # TH9031XT, since it came out a couple years back. But the new Yakima FullSwing, # Y02465, might have it beat. I find the new ZipStrips a great improvement over rubber straps for the cradles and that should make installing/removing the bikes a little faster and easier.

Yakima has updated the design of this rack and it now looks better than ever with a black finish and red accents. Even the swing-out mechanism and procedure has been improved.

The Vertex is still a very good rack and less expensive and I would not hesitate to use one on my vehicle. The rubber straps are not quite as quick and easy as the ZipStrips but the other features are pretty much on par with the FullSwing. I think the FullSwing is the winner here because to top it all off it also has a cable lock included.

But if comparing the FullSwing with the Thule Apex, # TH9027, I give the edge to the Apex. It has advanced cradle technology with road dampening technology to further protect the bikes and it includes an integrated cable lock. I have included a link to a video review of this bike rack for you.

expert reply by: Michael H