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Hot Topic (More than 10 Replies) Hitch bike rack recommendations. (Read 1459 times)
NC_Pyga
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Hitch bike rack recommendations.
01/15/14 at 10:02pm
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I'm going to need to install a hitch and hitch bike rack to transport my bike around and was wondering what is being recommended. I think I'd prefer the type that carries the bike weight on the wheels rather than being held by the top tube. I've looked at the 1Up rack and saw a few at the USNWC last Sunday. They looked sturdy enough but was wondering what other options to consider and how well the 1Up holds up.

Never having the need for a bike rack before, is there anything specific I need to be aware of from a security point of view like are some racks better in that regard?
  
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traildog
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #1 - 01/15/14 at 11:07pm
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The 1up racks are very nice and expensive.  I elected for the Raxter(raxterracks.com) instead.  About half the price, can accept any mix of bikes without adjustment or interference and is lighter than the 1up.  Either will do the job for you.  There are lots of other tray types, all with slight differences and prices.
  
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Patches
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #2 - 01/16/14 at 1:55am
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1UP is an engineering masterpiece ... it holds up exceedingly well.  95% of my bike transport needs are for one bike only, so having the capability to install with one tray is a plus.  Installation of the 2nd tray is a snap when needed.

You can initially purchase the main receiver hitch bike tray and then purchase a 2nd tray when funds allow.
« Last Edit: 01/16/14 at 1:56am by Patches »  
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Mr.B
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #3 - 01/16/14 at 3:11am
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Kuat
  
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NC_Pyga
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #4 - 01/16/14 at 11:24am
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WOW that Kuat NV is a beast. And expensive too.

So far the 1Up is my favourite. I'll have to try get a closer look at one at the next Winter short track race and compare it with other types I see there. It is a little expensive though.
« Last Edit: 01/16/14 at 11:24am by NC_Pyga »  
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RobP
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #5 - 01/16/14 at 2:05pm
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I have had a swagman on the back of my GLi since 2006.  It's carried 2 40+lb DH bikes up to Snowshoe multiple times, and needless to say I dont go slow on the last 60 miles of curvy road to the mountain.

They are close to 1/2 the price of almost anything else, and work great.  Just make sure you get the model with the ratcheting action.

I think this is it.  If you look around enough you can usually find them for under $200.

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Yellowduck
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #6 - 01/16/14 at 2:22pm
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If you pony up for the 1up you wont be disappointed.  The one thing I really like about mine is that when I'm not using it, it folds up tight to the car.  No issues with rear access. It's also really light.   

I haven't had a Kuat but if I were to get another rack besides the 1up, that would be what I got.  If you look at the price of a 1up with the add on for the extra bike, the Kuat is in the same price range.  

I don't know how often you haul your bikes around but I've got a couple of different cars and trucks with bike racks on them.  I probably have a bike with me 5 days a week.  It is worth some extra cash to me to have something that is secure and easy to use (I bring a bike with me to work and unload it when I get there and load it back up when I leave).  

« Last Edit: 01/16/14 at 2:23pm by Yellowduck »  
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sager
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #7 - 01/16/14 at 2:27pm
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I'm very happy with my 1UP purchase from over two years ago.
  
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NC_Pyga
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #8 - 01/16/14 at 2:48pm
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Thanks for all the feedback. Weather permitting I hope to ride 3-4 times per week. I think I will mostly likely remove the rack when I'm not transporting the bike.
  
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Yellowduck
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #9 - 01/16/14 at 7:05pm
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NC_Pyga wrote on 01/16/14 at 2:48pm:
Thanks for all the feedback. Weather permitting I hope to ride 3-4 times per week. I think I will mostly likely remove the rack when I'm not transporting the bike.


That would still push me to the 1up.  It's light, folds up off the car into a small form factor so It doesn't take up much space, and goes on and off easy.  If you have ever picked up a Thule T2 or a Yakima Hold Up and then tried to store it somewhere you would know what I mean.  They are both heavy and awkward.  I think the Kuat is lighter than those though.
  
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #10 - 01/17/14 at 3:25pm
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Thule t2 all day
  
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Re: Hitch bike rack recommendations.
Reply #11 - 01/17/14 at 8:13pm
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I would have to agree with the Kuat NV. They are very sturdy and have all the bells and whistles including a built in repair stand. If you want more of an economy rack i would go with teh Saris Freedom
  
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