Lightweight Hitch Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2014 Jeep Cherokee

Question:

Hello! I am looking for a bike rack for my 2014 Jeep Cherokee that I am installing a Class 3 trailer hitch on. Here are a few things I am looking for. - Fits securely, little to no wobble in a 2inch receiver - Bikes dont move or sway very little, but dont really want the bikes 3 feet away from the back of the Jeep. - Security/Reliability in long distance travel, as well as considering storage in a hotel room when on vacation, so maybe lightweight? - Dont want to break the bank, $200 would be a nice ballpark I currently am between the Kuat Beta 2 Bike hanging rack, the Swagman XTC 2Bike platform, the Swagman Trailhead 2bike, and the Thule Vertex. Im definitely open to suggestions and not sold on any just yet. Ive been combing through the reviews, but Im a very indecisive person. If you havent picked up on that yet! I am also fully aware that I may not get one rack that satisfies all my needs, with the most important thing being keeping the bikes safe and damage free. Thank you in advance for your help!

asked by: AJ

Expert Reply:

The Swagman XTC2, part # S64670 is one of the most popular racks because it's so easy to use, and because the rack has an angled shank that would raise the bike rack up by three inches providing additional ground clearance. The rack includes an anti-rattle hitch bolt, but a combination anti-rattle hitch lock/cable lock is available separately as part # S64031.

I attached a review video that shows this rack be taken out on our road course that has speed bumps to show you how stable it is.

For the lightest option you would want the Kuat Beta part # B202-2 that you referenced. This only weighs 16 inches and can fold up nicely for storage. This rack fits your price range perfectly.

expert reply by: Jameson C