Comparing 5 Bike Trailer Hitch Mounted Bike Racks From Thule, Yakima, and Swagman
Question:
I have a family of 2 adults and 2 kids soon to be 3 kids. Im thinking of getting a 5 bike hitch rack for my Nissan Armada. Id like to get a hitch that will allow me to swing it out the way or fold it down when I open the back. Are there 2 or 3 that you can recommend that I can compare?
asked by: Charles G
Expert Reply:
For a 5 bike, trailer hitch mounted bike rack, we have a few options. First is the Thule Apex XT, # TH9026XT, that you have referenced. This bike rack does tilt down away from the vehicle to allow you greater access to the rear of your Nissan Armada. With the rack fully tilted down, you should be able to open the rear hatch. This bike rack also features anti-sway cradles and a built-in anti-rattle device.
My second option may be more ideal for you, the Swagman XP, # S64970. It is a single arm rack but what it lacks in anti-sway capabilities it makes up for with its rotating cradles. What this means is that you would not have to use an adapter bar to hold the bikes level.
The deep cushioned cradles still offer anti-sway protection, and like the others, this rack tilts down away from the vehicle. The one draw back is that with the other racks, you can also fold down the arms when the rack is not in use. With the Swagman XP, you cannot.
Products Referenced in This Question
Swagman XP Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike Lock
- 5 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Swagman
more information >
Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- 16 - 31-1/2 Inch Long
- Thule
more information >
Yakima Tube Top Bike Adapter Bar
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- Yakima
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 5 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike and Hitch Lock
- 5 Bikes
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
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