Comparison of Hanging Hitch Mount Bike Racks that Fold Up for Storage on 2015 Ford Transit Connect

Question:

I am shopping for a hanging hitch mount rack for a 2015 Ford Transit Connect. I plan to store the rack inside the Ford when not in use and would like to get one that folds as flat as possible to save space. I would like a rack that holds at least 3 and prefferably 4 bikes. In researching racks I noticed that the KUAT Alpha and Yakima Ridgeback have tangs the part that goes into the hitch that fold up to make the rack flatter when stored. Can you recommend any other rack that folds flat. I would prefer aluminum but can live a steel rack. Thanks for your help!!

asked by: Tim W

Expert Reply:

There are a number of options that will work great on your 2015 Ford Transit Connect. The Yakima RidgeBack # Y02458 is an example however the Kuat Alpha is no longer available. I've linked out hitch mounted 4-bike racks for you.

The RidgeBack carries up to 4 bikes and fits on a Class II or Class III trailer hitch receiver. It folds down flat with arms and shank folding against the mast. It includes a lock to secure the rack to your Transit however to lock the bikes to the rack is a seperate part, # Y02466.

Since you're looking at a hanging rack you might be interested in the Kuat Uber Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01. This creates a straight cross tube for any bikes that don't already have one. Bikes without a straight cross tube, like a typical men's bike, will ride level on the back of your van and therefore are easier to load and will have less movement.

expert reply by: Charles S