Tag Archive | "bike"

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SARIS GUARDIAN 2-BIKE TRUNK MOUNT RACK


Saris Guardian 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

Returning to store... poor design on arms holding bikes
The arms that hold the bikes are adjustable. You pull out a handle that pulls "pins" out of a disk that then allows you to reposition the arm along any of the other sets of holes. Easy enough to use... but these pins do not sit far enough through the disk when it is locked. Within a few bumps in the road, the arms kept on slipping down because the pins came out of place. Gave up and put bikes and rack into the trunk of my hutchback (good thing they fit). Returning this piece of junk.

Doesn't fit 350z, leaves nice scratches.
Saris website states that this "fits" a Nissan 350Z if you use the hatch huggers, I ordered both. It did not fit well enough for me to even think about using it for more then 10 miles. Don't waste your money. It also leaves nice scratches on your hatch.

Easy to mount bike rack
We bought this bike rack after researching to make sure it would fit both of our cars. Price and features are what made us chose the Saris. When you first pull it out of the box, it does take a moment to understand where the parts go and how to adjust the straps. Just have the instructions there with you--they are pretty clear. There is a lot of length on each strap and you do have to wrap them around the rack bars so they are not hanging and in the way. Now that we've done it once, it will be quicker in the future--not that it took that long to figure out the 1st time. Remember, too, if you have a woman's bike to buy the Saris bike beam (this is an additional cost). You will need it in order to hang a woman's bike b/c you need a bar (like a man's bike has) to drop into the supports on the bike rack. This item is easy to take on/off, too. You may also want to purchase some cushion blocks to keep the bikes from rubbing against each other at some points. We have not bought those yet. We only had a couple of areas where the bikes could rub during transport and we actually just used rags on the "maiden voyage". The rack has sufficient space for the bikes, but you need to think about the pedals possibly moving during transport and digging into the paint on the companion bike. Overall, a good value and would recommend to others! Happy riding!

so close to a great design but fell short in the details
for starters, i actually own the graber guardian 2, which looks remarkably similar to the saris one pictured. as far as i can tell the design is identical except for one small issue which was resolved.

the design of the product is really good, the way it attaches to the trunk is pretty good as well (six straps). it has nice foam pads, and is very adjustable. i would imagine that it would fit several types of cars. it also has an antisway bar to help protect the car bumper which is marginally effective. mine did not have something to keep the front handlebars from rotating and hitting the bumper, but it looks like this was resolved in this design.

mechanically it seems sound as well, and at i thought it was pretty sturdy. however, thin pins are used to lock the arms in place, and they do not extend very far through the holes. this was a huge issue for me when one of the arms collapsed on the highway, severely damaging both of the attached bikes and the bumper on my car. the damage to the car is probably 400-600 dollars and the bikes might be totalled. i will be contacting graber/saris about being reimbursed for the damages caused, since i am a pretty unhappy rider.

Saris Guardian 2-Bike Rack
Bike rack attached to vehicle quickly, with easy set up right out of the box. It also seems to be quite sturdy. Only used localy thus far but we will soon see how it does on the highway.

Product Description:
The Saris Guardian Rear Racks take all the things you love about roof mounted systems and put them where you can actually get at them. Like convenience. Simplicity. Peach of mind. Whether you need temporary bike transport that gets you through a weeked,
Product Description:
The Guardian two-bike trunk rack from Saris is the perfect option for transporting your bikes to the park, the trail, to the beach or wherever you want to go. Uncomplicated to use and easy to install, it comes fully assembled right out the box so all you have to do is strap it on your car. The bumper-mount design makes getting it on and off your car a snap with quick adjust pivoting anti-sways and hold-downs that fit to almost any bike size. The rubber-coated hooks and spring loaded metal buckles are integrated with the four ratcheting tie downs to securely attach the rack to your trunk. The standalone arms and legs can be folded out of the way when not in use, and can accommodate up to two bikes. You get all the benefits of a roof rack right at you level.


Features:
  • Comes fully assembled
  • Four ratcheting tie downs can accommodate two bikes
  • Pivoting anti-sways, hold-downs adjust to any bike size
  • Rubber-coated hooks and spring loaded metal buckles
  • Standalone arms and legs fold to stow
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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THULE 955 NO-SWAY CAGE ACCESSORY FOR HITCH AND CRADLE BIKE RACKS (2 PACK)


Thule 955 No-sway Cage Accessory for Hitch and Cradle Bike Racks (2 Pack)

Could use rubber attachment
The sway attachment does work, BUT you need something like rubber or a rag between the attachment and your bike because it will scratch your bike. I don't know why they didn't put rubber on the part that claps against the bike.
I use cabinet shelving material and it works great.
They just got cheap on the sway cage attachment.

Works Great Until you see the Paint Chipped off your Bike!
The Thule No-Sway Cage does a great job holding my bike in place. I would have given it a 5 out of 5 stars but it chipped the paint off my bike! Like the guy said in an earlier review...I wish I would have known it did this because it could have easily been avoided. I put weather stripping on it and it works great...no paint chipping! This really upset me because I paid a lot of money for my mountain bike and the manufacturer of my bike does not sell touch up paint! Also, I called Thule and they are aware of this problem. They said the No-Sway Cage does not chip the paint off all bikes, just some! Thank you Thule for selling a product that does this. Again, this product works great and holds your bike in place....just make sure you put something on it...like weather stripping or some kind of soft pad. Make sure you take the No-Sway Cage off when you are riding and keep it in your car...it can easily be stolen if left on the bike rack.

Works great
This works great on the Thule bike rack...just make sure you secure the two sides and the bottom...this prevent the bike from swaying. I haven't had any issues with this eating up the paint on my bikes yet.

great product
I bought the thule 963 for my wrangler....these dont say they're built for use with it but believe me this is a wise investment...easy to install and easy to use and its durable ..A+

Good product to have
It is easy to install on the bike rack. Very satisfied. Enable me to secure the bike better on the rack. Unfortunately, I am only able to use 1 anti sway on my thule spare me rack. It is sold 2 in a pack.

Product Description:
The easiest way to keep your bikes stable when using the Hitching post pro carriers
Product Description:
The Thule 955 No Sway Cage Accessory for Hitch and Cradle Bike Racks are the easiest way to keep your bikes stable when using Thule hitch or strap carriers. The Thule 955 has been specifically designed to be backwards compatible with previous models of Thule hitch and strap carriers that don't already include anti-sway cables.

The Thule 955 system includes a pair of no-sway accessories to prevent up to two bicycles from making contact while you drive. This anti-sway device has been redesigned to be accessible at bike-arm level, and to work especially with Thule T2 cradles. The Thule 955 No Sway Cage accessory is constructed of a length specifically designed for maximum hold and stability, and is removable for easier bike installation.

What's in the Box?
2 x No-sway Cage accessories, and instruction guide

Manufacturer's Warranty
Limited lifetime warranty


Features:
  • Anti sway device is accessible at bike arm level
  • Removable for easier bike installation
  • Designed to work exclusively with T3 cradle
  • Included on Trailblazer, Expressway and Speedway
  • 2 anti sway cages, manual
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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SWAGMAN XTC CROSS-COUNTRY 2-BIKE HITCH MOUNT RACK (1.25 AND 2-INCH RECEIVER)


Swagman XTC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (1.25 and 2-Inch Receiver)

Great bike rack!!!!!!
I will spell it out for you BUY THIS BIKE RACK!!!!! Easy assembly, fantastic design and easy to install on vehicle!!!!!! I did alot of research to make sure I was buying the right bike rack for me and found the bike rack for me. Fits both 2" & 1 1/4" receiver end and no more scratches or hassle putting my bike on my vehicle. No more worries about driving with bikes behind me, no sway, no worries!!!!
Only thing I will tell you is the rack comes with two tiny screws and it does not tell you in the directions but they go on the ends where your bike tires go so the holders don't slide off..
Completely satisfied!!!!!!!!
Now go buy it you will not be disappointed!!!!

I'd give it more than the 5 stars, if possible.
I love it, love it, love it . . . what else can I say. Cheaper than the bigger name bike racks and very nice. I have two Sun recumbent bikes, an EZ-1 and a EZ Sport AX. The Sun Sport has a wheel base of 62" and this Swagman XTC 2 will hold up to a 66" wheel base, this is just what I needed. Loading the XTC 2 doesn't get any easier either, put the wheels into the hoops, ratchet the hook down on the frame and secure the wheels to the hoops with the strap. Your bike is in the rack and solid . . it does not move. My son and I have ridden together a couple of times since buying this rack. My son has a small BMX style bike and my Sport AX both fit on the rack with no problem. Believe me when I say this rack will transport some different style bikes!!!
I have also bought locks for this rack, I bought a 4 pack Masterlock (Model 131Q). You can use the 131 lock to lock the anti-sway pin/bolt as well, just replace the cotter pin with the lock (it does fit), actually locking the rack to the car. Very simple way of locking up the bikes to the rack and the rack to the vehicle.
All of the other reviews seem to sum up this rack very well. I really wanted to include the locking of the anti-sway pin and that it will accommodate a long wheel base recumbent. I will also post some pictures in the image gallery with the bikes loaded and locked. Do not hesitate to buy this rack, you will like it.

A follow up review after using it more:
OK, I've now used the Swagman XTC 2 quite a few times and I am completely satisfied. I wouldn't change a thing on this rack. It does wobble a little bit, but what would you expect when attached to a single 1 1/4" receiver? The anti-sway pin does its job and takes a lot of the sway out. As for the construction of the rack, again, I wouldn't change a thing. If it were made any stronger it would be overkill and weigh more (it weighs about 27 lbs.). When the bikes are locked in . . . they aren't going anywhere, secure, rock solid with absolutely no rubbing. I have used the hanging type racks before and have always worried about rubbing, banging and how secure they are on the rack. With this Swagman, I load the bikes and forget about them. I don't even check them in the rear view mirror any more. No worries at all!!! The best rack I have used, heck . . . the best rack I have ever seen for that matter, and I looked at a lot of racks before I bought this one. NO DISAPPOINTMENTS!!!

An excellent bike rack
I agree with all the reviews that the Swagman is an excellent bike rack; however, I would like to add some cautionary advice.
First of all make sure you chose the XTC model with the wheel tethers. Make sure the bike wheels are sitting completely in the wheel well. This is extremely important. If it isn,t there is a chance the bike can fall off. As an added precaution I would get a rubber strap and tie the bikes together to be super sure. One mishap on the road could prove disastrous.

Great Rack!
I bought this rack to use on two vehicles. I have a full size Ford van and there are no problems with that installation. My other vehicle is a 2006 Jeep Liberty with a spare tire mounted on the back. I had to order a 12in extension for the 2in reciever and this adds another to the cost. I could not find an extension locally. I think that the seller should caution about this need on some vehicles. Other reviews and pictures led me to believe that I would not need an extension. For me, it is not so much that it adds to the cost, but rather the inconvienence of not being able to use the rack until I ordered the extension.

Assembly was simple, no parts were missing, and the rack is sturdy enough with minimal vibration on most roads. I have two Schwinn Comfort bikes that I am using with this rack and its a bit tricky to get the configuration right the first time.

I agree with other comments on here that there is room for improvement to the reciever bolt. This design makes it impossible to effectively lock the bolt and prevent theft. Does anyone have a solution to this problem? I guess I will still have to take my bikes in the elevator at the hotel and lock them in my room while I go to the bar!

Overall, I give this rack a high rating. It is constructed of heavy enough materials to last many years. I like having the weight distributed down through the wheels and balanced better than those racks that I see than just have the bikes hanging from the center bar. If you have very light weight racing bikes, perhaps it does not matter, but with heavier comfort bikes and packs, I would choose this one.

Thanks for reading my review and I hope this helps you make a wise choice.

See you down the road!

Mike C.

A rugged piece of equipment, well worth the price...
Having researched platform-style bicycle carriers thoroughly, I went for the Swagman XTC 2 carrier because it appeared to be well-constructed and thought-out... and I have been very satisfied in all respects! It carries two cruisers with minimal shifting around, has good ground clearance and the ratcheting rubberized arms really secure the bikes well. Recommend you visit the Swagman website for their videos.

Product Description:
Transports up to 2 bikes, fits both a 2" and 1-1/4" hitch receiver with a built in anti-wobble hitch device. The XTC2 carries a wide variety of bike frames without the hassle of removing wheels. Push button ratchet arm easily adjust to secure your bike. Bike hooks have a soft-frame friendly coating to protect the bike's finish. Easily adjust to different bike frame sizes with the simple movement of the wheel holders. Rack folds up for easy storage when not in use. Center arm folds down to allow access to the rear of vehicle without removing the rack.
Features:
  • Transports up to 2 bikes
  • Fits 2" and 1 1/4" hitch receiver
  • Built in anti-wobble hitch device
  • Now with new push button ratcheting arms
  • Center arm folds down to allow access to the rear of vehicle without removing the rack
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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ALLEN PREMIUM 3-BIKE HITCH MOUNT RACK (1.25 OR 2-INCH RECEIVER)


Allen Premium 3-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (1.25 or 2-Inch Receiver)

Nice Sturdy Unit
Bought this bike rack to use on the back of our class c motorhome. The rack was very easy to assemble. I noticed right away the construction was superior to other racks I have looked at (this is a heavy rack) with all parts fitted and finished nicely. Look forward to many miles of use with this unit!

Allen 3-Bike Premium
She's sturdy. We drove 490 miles with it this weekend and it was great.
Easy installation, quick release allows it to fold down easily, and another quick release allows it to tilt out of the way for liftgate access.
Very satisfied.

Product Description:
Premium carrier for 1 1/4" or 2" Hitch
Amazon.com Product Description:
Carry your bicycles securely and avoid the hassles of piled bikes or high threshold rooftop mounts, with the Allen Premium 3-Bike Hitch Mount Rack. Fitting vehicles with a 1.25 or 2-inch trailer hitch, the Allen Premium Hitch Mount Rack boasts the new Quick Carry Arm Release, making it both easy to operate and super secure for your bikes. Constructed out of steel with a durable black powder finish, the rack is built to last and is backed up by a lifetime warranty by Allen.

The Allen rack boasts a patented tie-down system and individually cradles up to three bikes in the 16-inch carry arms. A separate tie down strap is included with the rack and eliminates lower bike movement completely. As easy to install as it is to use, the rack sets up in less than 5 minutes with a no-wobble bolt that holds it still within the hitch. When the rack is not in use, the carry arms quickly drop out of the way and fold down flat with a patented single pin mechanism and the rack tilts up to allow easy access to the lift gate.

Specifications:

  • Fits vehicles with a 1.25 or 2-inch trailer hitch
  • Holds up to three bikes
  • 16-inch carry arms
  • Individual bike cradles
  • Steel construction
  • Black powder coat finish
  • Patented single key release system
  • Tie down strap
  • Minor assembly required

About Allen Bike Racks:
In 1967, after a few years of working on the aerospace technology for the Apollo missions, Dick Allen was out of a job. Government cutbacks led Allen, a Harvard-trained physicist, to transform his garage hobby into a new industry. A cycling enthusiast, inventor, and family man, Allen had a personal need for a bike-carrying device. On weekends, he would take his sons and wife to Cape Cod or the White Mountains of New Hampshire. What proved difficult time and again was the transport of his family's bicycles. Rather than fight through inconvenience with twine and a dinged car, Allen sought an answer for himself as well as a market in which he foresaw major growth possibilities.

Always a pathfinder, Allen took to work in his Lincoln, Massachusetts garage in search of a more efficient way to transport bikes. Drafting designs during the day and constructing them throughout the night, he put together a model made of electrical conduit, metal strapping, and fire hose casings (for padding). At first, the Allens tested the prototype on weekend excursions. Finding the first trunk-mounted rack to be a success, Dick started Allen Bike Racks. Dealer acceptance came quickly, and by 1971 Allen Bike Racks were sold nationally through a number of major bicycle distributors. Today, the company owns over three-dozen patents and offers a versatile product line of bike racks while Dick's son Alex now owns and operates the business. What started out as a small garage run operation now operates three warehouses nationally, two factories abroad, and has products sold in more than a dozen countries around the world.

Manufacturer's Warranty
Lifetime warranty


Features:
  • 3-bike rack fits vehicles with either a 1.25 or 2-inch trailer hitch and features the new Quick Carry Arm Release
  • 16-inch long carry arms individually secure bicycles with Allen's patented tie-down system
  • Folding carry arms quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use
  • Rack sets up and installs in less than 5 minutes
  • Sturdy steel construction with black powder coat finish; Lifetime warranty
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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YAKIMA RAPTOR AERO ROOFTOP UPRIGHT BIKE RACK


Yakima Raptor Aero Rooftop Upright Bike Rack

Great Rack
I use this rack on my Hummer H1 with oversized tires. Even if I am going through the most gnarly terrain my bikes are secure and always arrive at the most remote riding areas ready to go! It even fords rivers; I have never had a problem.

Riding everywhere now
The Yakima rack installed easily. It works well and is convenient for casual riders who just want to throw a bike up on the roof and go. No need to take the front tire off and have the special quick release hardware on your front bike tire.

You can reuse key cores from other Yakima racks, which is a plus; however, these racks don't come with cores. I swapped my snowboard rack cores (which came free with the rack) to use on the bike rack. So, if you're both an avid skier/snowboarder and a biker, get the snowboard rack first to get the free key cores and save your money.

My only concern, which hasn't been realized yet, is that while you can lock the bike to the rack with the main A-frame grip bar, you can't actually secure the rack to your car. The rack is attached with three nut-and-bolt clamps, and basically any enterprising thief who looked closely enough could steal the entire rack or rack+bike in about 2 minutes.

If you have a mountain bike with beefy tires, they might not fit. That said, I think most casual mountain bikes would fit just fine. You might check the specs, first.

Solid and Reliable
These racks fit three aside on a Subaru Tribeca. Putting them together took about 45 minutes and yes there are spare parts for different rack styles. It is easy to load if you are over six foot and relatively strong. If under six foot you will likely need help loading if the car is an SUV. The big benefit to this style of rack is that you don't need to remove the front tire. The bikes are very stable on the rack at highway speeds there have been no problems. Yakima does put out a very reliable product. We recommend this rack system.

Great Rack!
This is the perfect rack for transporting one bike on top of my Subaru Forester XT. The product is well made and reasonably easy to assemble & install. My bike stays firm and secure even at highway speeds. All and all...this is a great rack!

YAKIMA RAPTOR AERO ROOFTOP BIKE RACK REVIEW
PUTTING TOGETHER THE RAPTOR AERO TOOK QUITE A BIT OF TIME (AND MORE COMPLEX THAN THE YAKIMA "FORKLIFT" RACK VIDEO I SAW IT SEEMS...I WOULD HAVE PREFERRED THE ''FORKLIFT" BUT THE FIT EXPERTS AT YAKIMA SAID THE RAPTOR AERO WAS BEST FOR MY WIFE'S VEHICLE). ONE REALLY NEEDS TWO PEOPLE TO GET THE BIKE SECURED AS THE CLOSING CLAMP THAT LOCKS THE BIKE UPRIGHT NEEDS LIFTED IN PLACE WHILE THE OTHER PERSON HOLDS THE BIKE UPRIGHT, SO IN THIS SENSE I DON'T FIND THE RACK ALL THAT CONVENIENT. I AM A SIX FOOTER AND I STILL NEEDED A GOOD STEP UP JUST TO CLOSE THE CLAMPING ARM ONCE THE BIKE WAS IN PLACE. THE RACK WILL BE LEFT IN PLACE ON OUR VEHICLE SINCE IT IS A BIT OF A HASSLE TO PUT ON. IT DOES LOOK PRETTY NICE ONCE IT'S IN PLACE. WE HAD TO MOVE THE RAIL THE BIKE WHEELS FIT IN UP A FEW INCHES IN ORDER TO BE ABLE TO OPEN FULLY OUR REAR HATCH ON OUR VEHICLE...SOMETHING YAKIMA DOES NOT COMPLETELY ENDORSE. ONCE WE HAD OUR BIKES UP ON THE RACKS, DESPITE WOBBLES AND OUR BIKES NOT BEING COMPLETELY STRAIGHT UP AND DOWN, THE RACKS DID WHAT WE HAD INTENDED, THAT IS WE GOT THEM FROM POINT A TO POINT B ALL IN ONE PIECE (ABOUT 800 MOSTLY FREEWAY MILES) SO IN THAT SENSE THE RAPTOR AERO(S) PERFORMED AS THEY SHOULD...HOPE THIS HELPS IN YOUR DECISION MAKING-KEEP ON BIKIN'!

Product Description:
Yakima Raptor is an affordable upright bike carrier fitting 1" to 3" diameter downtubes.
Amazon.com Product Description:
Looking to buy a bike rack but wary of spending a mint? Turn to the Yakima Raptor Aero upright bike mount, an easy-to-load, reasonably priced rack that fits on the roof of your car. Compatible with any vehicle with round or square crossbars, the Raptor Aero is a breeze to use. Simply secure the front and rear wheels with the ratcheting wheel straps, then attach the dual rods to the bottom of the bike frame. Once you've mounted the bike, you can safely haul it to the trail, across the country, or through the city. The Raptor Aero fits most 1- to 3-inch-diameter down tubes, helping it accommodate almost any style of bike. Plus, you don't have to remove the front wheel to use the rack. Also compatible with factory crossbars when paired with a set of MightyMounts (sold separately), the Raptor Aero is a must for cost-conscious cyclists.


Features:
  • Reasonably priced, easy-to-load rooftop-mounted bike rack
  • Compatible with any vehicle with round or square crossbars
  • Ratcheting front and rear wheel straps for added security
  • Dual rods fit most 1- to 3-inch-diameter down tubes
  • Supports factory crossbars when used with MightyMounts
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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HOLLYWOOD RACKS B2 BAJA 2-BIKE TRUNK MOUNT RACK


Hollywood Racks B2 Baja 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

Effective
This trunk mounted bike rack works nicely on my 2011 Mustang, just be careful to set every strap. I have only used it with one bike. It can hold two.

2 Bike Car Rack
Not sure how to rate the bike rack as it was a gift but I am rating the shipping and the way it was packaged. I received it with a 12" hole broken in the box and it was not packaged in a outer box so the gift was revealed and sitting on my front porch. I would recommend a different shipping and packaging as this was not satisfactory.

Works as advertised
Product worked very well and was fairly easy to mount. We got the 2 bike version but only mounted one bike and it rode very well, even though the car was very small. Due to our car geometry (Nissan Sentra) and large size of bike, we had to use the outer cradle to mount the bike as the inner cradle put the bike up against the trunk lid. However, we use ours only for one bike and it worked great. Made a 200 mile round trip with it and had no problems whatsoever.

Great bike rack at a good price
Transports our bikes perfectly. The bikes have not gotten marred and they do not sway at all. Held securely in place during our 500 mile trip. Not a single problem with this bike rack at all. I would highly recommend this to anyone thinking about getting a bike rack.

Not a very good quality rack.
I purchased this rack from my local bike shop about a year and a half ago. I liked that it was adjustable (I have a Nissan Maxima with a spoiler, which it just barely clears), and that it was cheap. I used it for a while with just one bike on it, and had no problems... at first.

A few months ago, I had my bike and my girlfriend's on it to go to the Grand Canyon from Santa Barbara, CA, which is about a 7 hour drive. On the way there, the saddles of the rack began to shift a bit on the poles they are attached to. I thought nothing of it until the drive home, when the bike in the rear-most position began wobbling noticeably in my rear-view mirror. I pulled over, and found that the saddles were slipping down the poles, working their way toward the ends. I had to take the bikes off three times on the drive and wrestle the saddles back to their normal positions. On a recent 10-hour drive, I had to tie my bike's seat post to the vertical pole on the rack so it wouldn't do the same thing. I no longer trust the rack with more than one bike on it, especially since I came home from the Grand Canyon with fresh pedal scratches all over the back of my car.

Another thing is that the rubber straps became too stretched out and began popping off their attachments. Another problem is that the weight of two bikes caused the rack to make a big depression in my bumper, which luckily popped out again once the bikes came off. You also can't really open your trunk with a bike on the rack, because you have to slam it really hard to get it to latch again with the rack hitting the bumper.

To sum up, I really don't like this rack, and I wish I had a trailer hitch or roof racks so I could get a real bike rack. Hollywood sucks.

Product Description:
BAJA RACK The Baja series is Hollywood's new trunk rack line for 2004. The Baja racks feature patented Micro-Adjust hubs for fast and easy installation on almost any vehicle, including sedans, mini-vans and SUVs. Six straps solidly attach the Baja to the rear of the vehicle, and bike separators with anti-sway blocks keep the bikes firmly attached to the rack. Folds flat easily for storage in your trunk or garage. The Baja 2 carries two bikes.
Features:
  • The Baja racks feature patented Micro-Adjust hubs for fast
  • Easy installation on almost any vehicle, including sedans, mini-vans
  • Folds flat easily for storage in your trunk or garage.
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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YAKIMA BIGHORN 4-BIKE HITCH MOUNT RACK (2-INCH RECEIVER)


Yakima BigHorn 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver)

Great hitch rack - does not fit Honda Fit hitch
The rack is great, but the 1.25 version does not fit my Honda Fit 2008 hitch.
The problem is that the receiver tongue is about 0.24 inch too long, so that I could not insert the pin.
Called Yakima. They were nice and mentioned: Known problem.
To their defense I found a statement on their website that stated that with this car it might or might not fit.
Guess I am in the might not fit category.

Anyway I looked at Thule and their receiver is about 0.5 inches shorter and can hold more weight. Also was easier to install.
Personnely I like the Thule better. The only thing I like better with the Yakima are the standard anti-sway cradles. They are awesome.
With the Thule you have to purchase those separately for 20$.

Great rack but didn't fit on Honda Fit 2008 hitch.

Not ok as is for heavy use
We ride bikes several times per week. I say we meaning my me and my kids. So I carry 2-3 bikes on this several times per week. There are problems with heavy use. First of all, the pin that lets the rack fold down is 3/8 inch. Mine actually bent from running on the highway with 2-3 bikes. I drilled it out and put a 1/2 pin. Also, I didn't trust the threaded hitch pin that comes with the rack, it is also 3/8 inch and all that force is on the threads. If they break, by by rack. So I drilled it out to 1/2, used a regular class 2 1/2 pin and a product called a hich vise. for the hitch vise, but the system works much better and is more stable. Finally, the sytem holds the bikes with flexible plastic pieces which slide on 1 1/4" metal poles. They hold the bikes well, but they also slide on the poles resulting in bikes ending up touching and rubbing paint off each other. Since I have no idea how anyone could fit four bikes on this rack, I went with mounts for three. You can remove a screw on the end of each pole, take the end cap off and slide off or on the pieces that hold the bikes on. I took one set off and then cut 1 1/4 inch PVC pipe to keep the other three sets equal distance from each other. This is dirt cheap and works extremely well, the bikes stay put on the poles and don't touch each other. Lots of modifications for this rack but it works well now. I think I would buy a more expensive one in the future but there aren't many choices if you need 1 1/4 and all I have ia a class 2 hitch so I can't use a 2 inch hitch.

Very Good Bike Rack
This is a very nice bike rack for the money. I've been able to get my mother's bike on this rack without using an adapter bar. Sometimes it can be difficult to get some bikes on, but I haven't had a bike that I couldn't get it on it yet.

It does exactly what I needed it to do and I do not think I would have been more satisfied with a more expensive rack.

Solid bitch rack
Easy to assemble. Feels solid and well made. Fits well into the tow hitch receiver.

Excellent four bike rack for 1.25" hitch
I am very pleased with Yakima for creating this rack. We downgraded cars which forced us to have a 1.25" hitch instead of an earlier 2" hitch. Our previous four bike rack was from Reese, which worked very well but was heavy and over built.

Yakima BigHorn 4 is lighter yet very strong. It is the perfect size while supporting four bikes. The assembly instructions were clear. The parts and box were nicely thought out. The bike mounting and straps are as good as any I used. There was not a large selection of four bike hitch racks for 1.25" and I was please Yakima still supported this need. It appears this rack is identical between the 1.25" and 2" hitches with only one part change. Well thought out design.

The only negative and the reason I didn't give it 5 stars relates to a plastic guide when lowering the rack. This plastic guide can pop off and needs to be pushed into placed when lifting the rack in the upright position. I don't anticipate lowering it often and with care it functions fine, but you do need to keep this in mind.

Do note that for 1.25" hitches, you do get more side to side sway compared to a 2" hitch but it is acceptable and the Yakima design is plenty strong enough.

Product Description:
This affordable Big Horn 4 is designed for families and occasional riders who want to keep the amount they spend proportionate to the number of times they'll use their rack. 4-bike capacity. Switchblade anti-sway cradles prevent bike-to-bike contact. Dual-arm design fits most bikes and eliminates the need for a tube adapter. Available in either 2" or 1 1/4" receiver hitch (no adapter needed). Tilts away for rear of vehicle access. Optional Deadlock available to lock bikes to rack and rack to car
Features: Capacity: 2 in.
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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HOLLYWOOD RACKS HR8000 TRAVELER 4-BIKE HITCH MOUNT RACK (2-INCH RECEIVER)


Hollywood Racks HR8000 Traveler 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver)

My first bike rack, and no complaints
This is my first bike rack, and I wanted something that: (a) accommodates 2 or more bikes with plenty of room; (b) hitch-mounts; (c) folds down so that I can open the gate of my SUV; (d) folds so that it doesn't stick out far behind the car; and (e) is reasonably priced.

This rack met all those qualifications, plus I can open the top glass portion of the rear gate of my SUV (a Chevy Trailblazer) without having to move anything. Installation took about 30 minutes and was mostly straightforward.

Just what I was looking for!
I had a bell 4 bike rack and it use to drive me nuts. the rack part wouldn't drop down...
This new rack does! It was super easy to put together. And is hindged in 2 places, allowing the rack part to drop, and the whole thing to swing forward allowing me into the back of my Traverse. Also there is this strap on it to weave thru the bikes, keeping them tight together, stopping the swinging completly... which was a problem on the Bell rack.
Now I need is a lock for the hitch as the pin is something I personnely don't care for!

Bike rack
Purchased this for our 3 bikes, with room to spare in case we had visitor / guest come with us. Easy to install and thus far very good. Didn't come with a locking bolt for attachment to the hitch, just a bolt / nut. So had to order that separately--not that someone would necessarily get their wrench out to steal, but hey, you never know. With a few tweaks (e.g. tightening the butterfly screw on the vertical bar), this rack is very quiet and feels relatively secure, a whole hell of a lot better that the usual tie on rack which, regardless of brand, always sucked to some extent. Find it a little wobbly at the top, but need to tighten with a (LARGE) allen wrench. Have to say that 4 bikes is near impossible, but 3 os OK. If you want 4 bikes, buy a 5-rack version :))

Secure highway carrier
I had first purchased the same rack locally but it had the 2" adapter. After looking at the width of the bottom bar, I decided I wanted the full 2" one. So I bought this one from amazon. We went from Seattle to Yellowstone with 2 adult, 1 teen and 1 BMX bike. Everything stayed secure.

This is my first bike rack and the jostling and shaking was a bit unnerving. I tightened down the thumbscrew which adds to stability and also gave the through-bolt an extra tightening. On our trip we saw many other carriers, they all have the same type of movement over highway bumps. It takes awhile to get used to seeing your expensive bikes back there swaying around I guess. They made it, so, I'm pleased with this product.

By the way, this rack will clear a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon's spare tire in the back. Its close, but, it fits. Bonus.

Bike Hitch
Great product and very solid on hitch. Quality accessories and very fast shipping to Hawaii

Product Description:
Hollywood New Traveler Hitch Rack. HR8000. Fits a 2in reciever. Carries up to 4-Bikes. Rack tilts down for luggage compartment access arms. fold down when not in use. 'No wobble' threaded hitch pin.
Features:
  • Hollywood New Traveler Hitch Rack.
  • Fits a 2in reciever.
  • Carries up to 4-Bikes.
  • Rack tilts down for luggage compartment access arms.
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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HOLLYWOOD RACKS F1B THE ORIGINAL 3-BIKE TRUNK MOUNT RACK


Hollywood Racks F1B The Original 3-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

Great for kids bikes
I purchased this rack to replace our existing rack, which would not accomodate to kids bikes. Mainly because our previous one didn't allow for the shorter bar span of the 16inch kids bikes. This rack works great, and unlike other reviews, I think 3 bikes fit fine. Perhaps just alternating handlebar/rear wheel. Great value, and I love that it folds flat for storage. Our old one was bulky and didn't fold. Took up entirely too much space during winter months.

Pleased
Used the rack today for the first time. I hadn't realized that side straps came with it, and so there are six straps securing the rack to the car and two straps to secure the bike to the rack. The rack doesn't budge when I tug at it and from what I could tell while driving, the bike rode quietly while on the rack. Straps are plenty long. This product strikes me as very good value. Don't know why someone would decide to pay lots more for a trunk rack.

Perfect product...!
First time buyer..first time user of Bike Mount Rack. Purchased two months ago after reading many reviews and comparing many products on price/ quality ratio. Was very skeptical about mounting arrangement, but Very pleased with easy (less than 2 minutes) installation technique.....Gald that I bought this product.

It's a rack and it's for bikes...
From the beginning, I was impressed. From the quality of the actual item, to after I installed it (which was amazingly easy), to using it for the first, second, third, etc. time. My wife and I had grown tired of biking in the same side of town for a while and decided it was time to take it to the conveniently near foothills. So, logically, we needed a bike rack for our car. Here's how it stacks up:

PROS:

Easy to install
Tough build
Holds bikes securely with up to three straps
Padded to prevent scratches (to car or bike)

CONS:

None

BOTTOM LINE: I would recommend this product to anyone with a car (like a sedan or coupe style) who wants to be able to throw a couple bikes on the back and go for a ride somewhere distant. If you have a trailer hitch, you should stick with those styles as they are easier to setup and take down a lot easier.

I just leave mine on my car with the straps and slack secured inside the trunk so you'd have to cut the straps to steal it.

An ignorant review
I only say ignorant because I never really gave this product a try on my car. But I HAVE installed it just to get accustomed to it. First, it uses nylon straps to secure onto the car. I have no real problems with this since it seems secure enough (although I have my reservations). However, if you baby your car like I do, the straps and the rubber coated hooks can rub against parts of your car. If you're not careful, this will mar parts of your car's paint or bend an edge here or there. Second, the hooks that come out do not have separate straps to hold down your bike. I am guessing you would have to just tie them down with rope or buy another strap/strapping product. What I liked about the product was that it was simple and easy to store. It folds up pretty flat and can stand up on its own (very convenient). You can also transfer it to another car if needed with little effort. In the end I opted out for a hitch and a hitch mount bike rack and gave away the Hollywood rack to the first neighbor that I saw had a bike. It was more expensive but it was faster to deal with and a hitch has much more usefulness, but that is another story.

Product Description:
Our original 3 bike folding trunk rack, the F1B, is the virtually indestructible rack we designed back in 1973. Completely user friendly, this models multi-position hinges lock into place to fit practically any car, van or SUV.
Features:
  • Our original 3 bike folding trunk rack
  • Model is multi-position hinges lock into place to fit practically any car, van and SUV
  • Comes completely preassembled, folds flat for easy storage
  • Spoiler version, model F2 available
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:56

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HOLLYWOOD RACKS BOOMER BAR WOMENS OR DUAL SUSPENSION BIKE RACK FRAME ADAPTER



Perfect for the two girl bikes we had
We bought the Trule Roadway 4 bike hitch carrier

Thule Roadway 4 Bike Hitch Carrier

and after spending a half hour trying to get our four bikes to fit (2 boy bikes and 2 girl bikes) A decided to buy two of these boomer bars.

They worked out great. They were trivial to use and quick to attach and detach from the bikes. After attaching them to the two girl bikes all 4 bikes fit on the carrier easily. It took 5 minutes or less to get the 4 bikes on (much longer to attach the straps and bungee cords to the bikes but that has nothing to do with this product). I did use bungee cords as extra security to hold the bikes to the boomer bars, but that was more me being paranoid than out of actual necessity.

Note, the bikes used were 24" and 26" wheels, so they were both adult size bikes. They fit with the minimum setting so I can see that this may not work well with kid bikes.

We used this for a trip from upstate NY to Ocean City, MD and back (800 miles of driving). We had no issues and it made using the bikes with the carrier a breeze.

Great for the price
After reading many reviews on this, I decided to buy this Hollywood frame adapter along with my Hollywood trunk mount bike rack. It is a very sturdy piece and very easy to install. I am happy with this purchase.

Great product, good price too!
Worth the $ - many are pricier around here & not as sturdy! Worked well w/our Hollywood 4 bike rack!

A must for a womans bike used with a bike rack.
Before we bought this we would have to mount the bike at a very steap angle to get it to fit on the back of a car mounted bike rack...and would be imposible with her new bike. there are cheeper and there are more expensive ones(like the one the bike shop wanted to sell us.) Although a simpler design this bar does the same thig very well...giving a womans bike the nesasary mounting points to easily put it on the rack.

Exactly what I needed
If you are carting around a woman's bike on a bike rack, you have to have one. this one was reasonably priced and works great

Product Description:
HOLLYWOOD CAR RACK BOOMER BAR
Features:
  • Hollywood Racks Boomer Bar
  • Padded attachment loops on both ends to create artificial top tube
Product Information and Prices stored: September 2, 2010, 22:55

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