Is Adapter Bar Needed For Carrying Bikes on Swagman Original Hitch Mounted Hanging 4-Bike Rack

Question:

I have ordered this bike rack but only after i ordered it I noticed the details said kids and womens bikes may REQUIRE a special adapter. Is it really required for this to be functional? I have not received the product yet but I am most certainly going to return it for another rack if this adapter is going to be required for 3 of the 4 bikes we will be travelling with. at 30$ a piece for this adapter, this rack is no longer the good deal it was when I found it. Thanks,

asked by: Schaelen H

Expert Reply:

Most hitch-mounted hanging bike racks will need an adapter for bikes with alternative frames like women's and kids bikes, although it is not required. This helps keep the bike level when on the carrier. Some folks do not use them and I am sure you have seen bikes that are really tilted one way or another on the road. With the single arm on the Swagman, part # S64400, it may be very difficult to carry bikes that do not have a horizontal bar from the seat post to the handlebar stem.

I have attached a link to our product page for the bike adapters we offer you can check out.

We do have an alternative for carrying 4 bikes. I recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE, part # HR1400Z. This bike rack has adjustable hooks on the center masts that let you hold bikes with varied frames secure without the use of adapter bars. It does cost more than the Swagman Original Bike Rack, part # S64400 but keeps the bikes level when being carried.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L