Seeking opinions of bike racks

[sharpcode]

I'm looking to get a bike rack for my '25 Explorer ST's hitch, and I've never had one before. I'm looking for two main requirements 1) can swing out of the way so I can get in the hatch and 2) able to hold 4 bikes (right now, 2 kids, 2 adults, but ideally would be able to hold the weight of 4 adult bikes).

Are there special considerations for the size of the hitch? I'm not even sure where to start.

Thule Apex XT Swing looks like it might fit the bill, but seems somewhat expensive? Anything comparable, or is this the best for my requirements?

 

[powerboatr]

Imo

4 bikes and a swing away...don't skimp on buikd quality and anti rattle,and go see a few in real life
Before you buy
Can't tell you how many I have seen jump off the back of vehicles in my lifetime

 

[Cruising68]

Agree with all above especially if looking at swing out. Cheap models have a lot of play and movement.


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[3rdExplorer1stST]

Bought a kaut rack and extension to hold a total of four bikes during Covid, kids finally are able to ride for long enough to use it and bikes are big enough …. And I’ve still only used it to bring my bike home from the dealer. Not a swing out but I think they have an accessory to do that.

 

[mcjca]

A good quality rack for 4 bikes and a swing away you are looking at 2k or more (I just added up all the 1up components and it was $2,034, not including tax). Don't skimp on this.

I have been happy with my 1Up Equip D but only used it for 2 bikes and have not used a swing away. You are able to open the back with the 1up in the first notch down from fully closed. A swing away would be super convenient.

 

[Caster]

I have a 3 or 4-bike Thule (can't remember) that tilts down. It's probably 7-8 years old now and it has always worked great. Don't skimp on price for a nice bike rack. We all hate paying lots of $ for anything but usually the things that cost more $, cost more for a reason - because they are far better and worth it.

 

[sharpcode]

good quality rack for 4 bikes and a swing away you are looking at 2k or more

Wow. That's way more than the Thules, and they've gotten decent reviews. Looks like I'll be extending the time in research in this!

 

[KoyfamST]

I’ve been looking for a bike rack too and settling on the 1up. For me, I wanted something modular that I can add and remove trays as needed.

 

[mcjca]

Not sure what Thules you are looking at but the quality is not comparable to 1up IMO. The reviews on the Thule on their own site aren't great either. The 1up will last you a lifetime. Kuat makes nice racks but once you do the add-on to get to 4 bikes and the swing arm you are north of 2k. The best Kuat's are a lot more expensive than 1up.

 

[BrooseDaMoose]

Whichever one you opt for, get one of these to keep it from rattling. It adds a little time taking it on and off but it really helps prevent the rack from bouncing. Especially with four bikes!

 

[mcjca]

Whichever one you opt for, get one of these to keep it from rattling. It adds a little time taking it on and off but it really helps prevent the rack from bouncing. Especially with four bikes!

Most high quality hitch racks have some sort of pressure shim that you tighten up when you put the rack in no rattling at all.