Recommended 4-Bike Platform-Style Bike Carrier

Question:

Looking for a 2inch hitch mounted bike rack. I have some features I am looking for and trying to find the rack that will accommodate these features. 1. QUICK DETACH from hitch Tool less installation like the Thule T2 Pro. 2. CONVERTS quickly back from 4 bike to 2 bike without tools as I likely will store them in the garage as two seperate pieces 3. Tire contact point, NOT frame. I was pretty much sold on the high end Thule T2 Pro/XT but then noticed the installation of the 2 bike Add on will mean I cant really swap between 2 and 4 bike setups without tools which I wont do. I know I could get a Thule APEX 4 or 5 bike but then I need adapter bars for most all of my bikes. Simply trying to find a convenient platform rack quick tool less attachment to hitch and quick 2 bike add on attachment. Thanks.

asked by: Daniel D

Expert Reply:

All of the 4-bike platform-style carriers that can be converted to a 2-bike option require a tool. This is for stabilization as well as a theft deterrence. I do like the platform style carriers versus the hanging bike racks because the platform bike carriers hold the bikes more securely that the hanging carriers.

The Thule T2 Pro XTR, part # TH83JV plus 2-bike add-on, part # TH9036XT uses Allen head bolts to hold the 2-bike add-on. This bike rack has a strap to secure the rear wheel of the bike when placed on the bike rack and a mast with a telescoping hoop that secures the front wheel to the bike rack.

The Kuat NV 2.0, part # NV22G-NA22G also uses Allen bolts to secure the add-on. This bike rack also allows you to be able to tilt the bike rack when loaded for rear cargo access.

Both bike racks have locks included to secure the bikes and help deter theft.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L