What Type of Bike Rack is Best for Needing Access to Rear Cargo Area

Question:

I had a Thule Apex Swing on a 2inch hitch that was recently trashed in a rear end collision. Honestly, I didnt like it - I access the trunk of my 2017 Subaru Forester a lot and having to swing out the arm every time I wanted to get into the back was a hassle. It carried 4 bikes and Id like my next one to also carry 4 bikes. That said, Im now looking between the Yakima Doubledown, Ridgeback and Fulltilt with the Doubledown having a free bike lock as a gift versus the Thule Hitching Post and Apex. I like the tilt away feature for hopefully an easier access to my trunk. Im not super concerned about a hitch lock but definitely want and am willing to buy if it makes sense a bike lock. Thanks!

asked by: Mona E

Expert Reply:

The tilting bike racks you mentioned from Yakima cannot tilt with bikes loaded so if you need to access the rear cargo area with bikes loaded it would be quite the hassle as you'd have to unload the rack and then tilt it and may not have full access.

A swinging bike rack really is only and best option for you based on what you want/need. For that I'd recommend the Yakima FullSwing part # Y02465 as it can carry up to 4 bikes, comes with locks, and is easy to swing. The knob that loosens to allow the rack to swing is pretty easy to activate and use. I attached a review video for this bike rack for more info as well.

expert reply by: Jameson C