Comparing the Yakima HoldUp, Kuat NV 2.0 and Thule T2 Classic Platform-Style Bike Racks

Question:

Is there someone, or several that would give personal comparisons of 3 bike racks? Im interested in the Kuat NV, Thule T2 and Yakima Holdup 2. Price aside, Id like to know that Ive made the best investment choice for myself among very similar products. Thank You

asked by: Mark P

Expert Reply:

I've linked you to product demonstration videos of all three bike racks. The best of the three racks will depend on the features you're interested in and which features you find most important.

First some similarities. All three racks are capable of folding up against the rear of the vehicle when the bikes are removed, and all three can tilt rearward with the bikes in place, allowing easier access to the rear trunk or liftgate of the vehicle. All three racks include hitch locks of some kind. All three racks are covered by a lifetime warranty.

Of the three racks, only the Thule T2 Classic # TH9044-TH9046 is manufactured in the USA, while the HoldUp for 2 inch receivers # Y02443 and the NV 2.0 # NV22G for 2 inch receivers are designed here but manufactured overseas. If purchasing a US made product is important to you, the Thule T2 would be the clear choice.

Two of the racks offer a 2-Bike Add On feature that can be used in 2 inch receviers only. To add two bikes to the Kuat, you'd need part # NA22G, for the Yakima HoldUp, use part # Y02446. The T2 comes with everything that you need to use it as a 2-bike rack or a 4-bike rack.

The HoldUp offers an integrated bottle opener for that after-ride barley pop, but the NV 2.0 provides a built-in bike repair stand for those before-ride adjustments or after-ride repairs.

I personally prefer the design and the features of the NV 2.0 # NV22G, but all three are high-quality racks manufactured by reputable companies. Any of the three will provide years of trouble-free service.