Does Replacement Rear Tray for Yakima FrontLoader Come with Ratcheting Strap

Question:

I need to replace the rear wheel tray on my Yakima Frontloader because the ratchets have busted. I did notice you had one solution Y8880845 but it looks like theses do not have a ratchet to tighten down the strap. Given the size of some rims the ratchet was necessary to secure the strap and wheel. Thanks for your assistance.

asked by: Bryan G

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the Replacement Rear Wheel Tray # Y8880845 for your Yakima FrontLoader does not have the integrated ratchet for tightening the strap. Yakima actually redesigned this a number of years ago and they went to a regular strap. It can still secure the wheel on a bike just fine but you'll have to use your own strength to tighten things down.

If that feature is a make-it-or-break-it kind of deal for you then it sounds like you'll unfortunately need to switch up bike racks. Luckily Thule came out with the UpRide # TH599000 which is a wheel mount carrier just like the FrontLoader # Y02103, and it has a ratcheting system for both the rear strap as well as the front tire arms.

I know it isn't ideal to get a new bike rack, but if it means transporting your bike(s) safely and knowing that the strap is properly in place (if you had a hard time securing the strap on the FrontLoader) then I think this is your best option. I've attached a review video for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jon G