Comparing The Swagman XC And The Swagman XTC-2 Bike Racks

Question:

Hi there, I have a 2008 VW Rabbit and am looking at a few different bike rack options, and I think the hitch style will work the best with my vehicle and my comfortability. Just wondering about your recommendations and maybe a comparison between: Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack Platform Style for 1-1/4inch and 2inch Trailer Hitches and the Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Platform Rack for 1-1/4inch and 2inch Trailer Hitches? Thanks in advance

asked by: Gina P

Expert Reply:

For your 2008 VW Rabbit, a hitch mounted bike rack is a great option. The two bike racks you are looking at are both good options. The Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack # S64650 will be compatible with class I thru class III hitches, has sliding wheel loops and ratcheting hooks that hold your bike frame. It has a shank rise of 4 inches to help with ground clearance and has a weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike or 70 lbs total. It comes with an anti-rattle pin and clip. The maximum wheel base is 51-1/2 inches long from center of wheel to center of wheel. The distance from the center of the hitch pin to the closest part of the rack is 10-1/2 inches. You may be interested in the Softride Soft Hook-and-Loop Tie Downs for Bike Racks # SR54FR with this bike rack.

The Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Rack # S64670 is a similar style rack that has wheel hoops that also have rubber straps to further secure the wheels. This rack has the same ratcheting hooks to secure the frame, and has the same weight capacitites. It has a 3 inch shank rise and comes with the anti-rattle pin and clip. The distance from the center of the hitch pin to closes edge is 8 inches. It has a Wheel base max of 66 inches long from center of wheel to center of wheel.

With either option, I recommend using the Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks - 7' # S64029 to secure your bikes and the rack.

If you don't have a hitch receiver on your VW Rabbit, I recommend the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver Class I - 1-1/4" # 24825. This is a custom fit and doesn't need the stabilization strap the Curt hitch requires.