Is Single Arm Detail K2 4-Bike Rack a Good Choice for 4 Different Bikes on a 2011 Nissan Rogue
Updated 09/03/2014 | Published 08/31/2014
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Question:
I am intrigued by this new bike rack you have available. I would be using with a 2011 Rogue. I have a limited budget and need something that can carry 4 bikes of varying sizes from child to adult male and female bikes. I also would like it to fold down so it can be kept on the vehicle if needed. Would the single arm accomodate these bikes without extra bars since the cradles can be rotated and since it is a single bar? Being that this is new, what is your opinion on the quality? Thank you.
asked by: Stacy L
Expert Reply:
Bike racks with single arms and rotating cradles are less likely to require an adapter bar for bikes with alternative frames or slanted top frame tubes. But, it is still possible that you would need to use an adapter bar in some cases, specifically if the bike frame is not long enough to fit in the cradle on the Detail K2 bike rack # K2BCR490.
The rack can tilt down but you would have to remove the bikes to do so. The K2 rack has a 1 year warranty. It is an entry-level bike rack so it is not the highest quality and lacks a lot of the convenience features that other racks have.
The option that is closest in price to the K2 rack and that will allow you to carry 4 bikes and leave them loaded and still tilt the rack out is the Softride Element # SR26248. This is a 2 arm rack though so you would likely need adapter bars, such as # 64005. I have linked a video that shows how this rack works. This rack also features a limited lifetime warranty.
The ability to tilt out with the bikes attached is a great feature for SUVs and vans because this rack will allow you to open the hatch with the rack and bikes still attached.
