Average Reviews:
(More customer reviews)This is my first hitch mounted rack but my fourth bike rack purchase. I researched many of the racks before purchasing this one but ultimately, as an occasional rider, price was the deciding factor. If you are looking for a convenient, easy-on, easy-off rack, this isn't the one for you.
PROS:
- Solid construction
- Relatively lighter weight than other 4 bike hitch racks
- Tilts 45 degrees at the base to allow for hatch access
- Easy rubber strap mechanism allows for simple and secure bike placement/removal
- Allows for both 2" and 1.25" hitch configurations with included adapter
- "Anti-wobble device" is a wingnut-type screw that works well; stable at speed
CONS:
- Lacks "quick release." Excessive use of locking pins to secure all bolts for all moving parts. The pins add time to the process, can sometimes pinch your fingers, yet they are essential to hold the bolts in place. There is no obvious place to put these pins when you are working the rack.
- Threaded bolt requires basic tools for hitch install (but it is quite secure)
- Tilting the rack 45 degrees is a four step process: 1) remove the pin, 2) pull the retaining bolt, 3) lift another locking bolt, 4) pull the rack while lifting the locking bolt.
- When tilting the rack it is clear one portion of the rack is slightly oversized and causes quite a bit of friction between pieces. This makes the tilting action graceful, but there is definite metal-on-metal scraping when the rack is tilted or placed back in position.
- No ability to add an integrated bike lock to the rackSUMMARY:
The Advantage SportsRack TiltAWAY Bike Rack is an average 4 bike, hitch-mounted rack. Out of the box, the assembly process took about 15 minutes. Installed, the rack is stable at freeway speeds and inspires confidence in the security of your bikes. As noted above, the biggest disappointment is the use of locking pins throughout the rack. They require a good deal of force for insertion and removal. These could have been avoided with more expensive self-locking bolts (with thumb-press unlock), but that would have raised the price of the rack to the level of costlier rivals. My wife and I agree it is easier to install and remove than trunk-style racks, and the distance between the car and rack eases any vehicle damage concerns. The SportsRack TiltAWAY is a fine rack for occasional use but the lack of a quick release for tilting precludes it from staying on the car when not in use.
NOTE: 200 lb max for 1.25" hitches, including the rack - means you will probably not be able to carry 4 full size bikes on any Class I/II 1.25" hitch, no matter the rack
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