Comparing The Yakima Ridgeback To The Thule Parkway On 2011 Honda CRV

Question:

I have a Honda 2011 CRV with a class 3 hitch. I am debating between the Thule Parkway 2 and the Yakima Ridgeback 2 bike. I like the locking of hitch to car with Yakima but it seems heavy form the reviews I have read. However, I am not sold on these zip strips. Whats your opinion? I currently have a Yakima trunk carrier which I purchased from you a couple of years ago. I am short 54. Does one of them require a less high lift to get the bikes seated? Do they have the same bottom clearance backing out of driveway... I know they are both good racks. But any help in deciding which to buy form you would be deeply appreciated.

asked by: Carol N

Expert Reply:

I personally would choose the Yakima RidgeBack 2 Bike Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting # Y02457 over the Thule Parkway. I prefer the button tilt over the pin and I really like the ratcheting ZipStrip straps. They are easy to use and work great. I do recommend the Yakima HandCuff Cable Lock for RidgeBack and SwingDaddy Bike Racks # Y02466 to secure your bikes to the carrier.

Thule Parkway is also a nice rack as you stated but it has been discontinued. It did not come with the hitch lock or cable lock, so it was missing some security features.

With either of these rack options, I recommend the Swagman Deluxe Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's, Children's, and Alternative Frame Bikes # 64005 if you don't already have one for level transport and greater ground clearance. One does not necessarily give you less lift height than the other and they are within 1 lb of each other for carrier weight.

expert reply by: Jason S