Comparing Hollywood Trail Rider or Swagman XTC Bike Rack for 2002 VW Golf

Question:

Hi I’m looking at the swagman XTC and the Hollywood trail rider 2. I drive a 2002 vw golf. I will be transporting my Surkey steel tourism g bike and my daughters aluminum mt bike. With fenders, which is why I’m looking at this type of rack. Looking at your reviews it looks like you might like the Hollywood rack better because it carries more weight and has a 5 inch rise. Would you still recommend the Hollywood? Looking around on the Internet I see a lot of reviews for swagman xtc...thoughts?

asked by: Geneva G

Expert Reply:

Of the two bike racks you referenced, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider # HR200Z over the Swagman XTC-2 # S64670 because the Trail Rider gives you more security and ground clearance than the XTC-2.

The Hollywood Racks Trail Rider and Swagman XTC-2 are similar but the Trail Rider will secure both your bike and your daughter's bike with its locking ratcheting hooks; it also locks to your hitch which helps protect your investments. The XTC-2 can lock as well but you would need to add locks separately with part # S64031, which is an added expense that isn't necessary with the Trail Rider.

The Trail Rider # HR200Z also has a 5" rise in the shank compared to the 3" rise that the XTC-2 gives you; this is important for a car that sits relatively low such as your '02 VW Golf so the rack does not come into contact with the ground. Like you mentioned, this rack also has a 45 lb weight capacity which is 10 lbs more than the Swagman.

This rack will fold up for storage, is made of steel to ensure it is durable, and comes with a lifetime warranty so it very well could be the last bike rack you ever need.

I have added links to a couple video reviews of the Trail Rider for you to take a look at.