Comparison of Kuat Sherpa 2.0 and NV 2.0 Base Platform Bike Racks

Question:

Hi, Id like to get one of those two bike racks. Which one would you recommend to me? Ill be using it for 2 carbon fiber road bikes. Im looking for 2inch hitch version. Do those ones come with the 2inch square tube for 2inch receiver or they are 1.25inch with adapter for 2. Im looking for a direct connecting without using an adapter. Which one looks better mounted and what is the difference between the two. Do they come with a hitch lock?

asked by: Roman

Expert Reply:

The Sherpa 2.0, part # SH22G, and the NV 2.0 Base, part # BA22B, are the 2 inch models that fit a Class III hitch with no adapter. Also, they do both includes locks for the rack to the hitch and for the bikes to the rack. One difference is that the NV 2.0 Base has the option of adding a bike repair stand, part # TDKB, or the 2-bike add-on, part # BA02B.

The more notable differences come down to the weight of the racks and the weight of the bikes they each carry. The NV 2.0 Base is the heavier duty of the two being able to handle up to 60 pound bikes but the rack itself weighs 52 pounds. The Sherpa 2.0 is made a lot lighter and only weighs about 32 pounds but can only carry bikes that weigh up to 40 pounds. The NV 2.0 Base can also fit up to 4.8 inch tires where the Sherpa 2.0 only holds up to 3 inch tires.

Both racks hold the bikes by the wheels, which is good for you carbon fiber frames and they both include the locks, like I mentioned. They also both fold and tilt using an easy front-mounted foot pedal. They also both have a hand knob to tighten them into the hitch to remove the rattle while traveling.

You said you have roa bikes so the Sherpa 2.0 should be able to handle the weight and tire size without an issue. Unless you plan to use the bike stand or have a need to carry two more bikes later on I'd go with the Sherpa 2.0.

I've linked a video review of each rack for you as well.