Swagman bike rack

parfsten · 01-03-2017, 09:45 AM

Looking into bike racks and have, again, learned something new! Can't just use any old rack on the back of a trailer (suspension difference according to the manufacturer of a rack I just got). So, I am looking into racks for my not soon enough to arrive 17B. I saw earlier posts on the 1UP. Curious to hear if anyone has a swagman hitch mounted rack.

Ian and Sue · 01-03-2017, 10:12 AM

I have used this rack for a few years on my Scamp 5er and plan on using it on my Escape 5.0TA. It holds the bikes apart so they do not rub against each other. Just make sure you get the one that is only for the 2" receiver and NOT one that is for multiple sizes(weaker connection). Also their hitch lock is good. Both the pin and hitch lock thread into the rack to avoid all wobble. Swagman Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack for 2" Hitches or RV Bumpers Swagman RV and Motorhome Bike Racks S64663

parfsten · 01-03-2017, 10:35 AM

Ah good - so no problems with spare tire....

Ian and Sue · 01-03-2017, 10:49 AM

Have not mounted it yet on the Escape but I am sure it will work out as the Scamp had a spare too. It is pretty adjustable although it takes some fiddling to get it right. The hoops for the tires slide back and forth and you can put the bikes on facing one way or the other, so lots of adjust-ability. I have a mountain bike and my wife has an electric assist...it would be easier if the bikes were more alike! I will try to get out there and test it to see in the next couple of days although it may be some guess work as I have a cover on for the winter.

Fox hunt · 01-03-2017, 02:39 PM

i use the swagman works great. The hooks that hold the bikes down can rub your bike paint i put a sheepskin pad under it so no rubbing.

gharper · 01-03-2017, 07:59 PM

We have this rack and used it on our Escape 19. We carry two bikes and one bike's handle bars rubbed on the spare tire. After some adjustment of the rack's bike attachment points we no longer have any problems.

Rossue · 01-03-2017, 08:55 PM

Had it; ditched it. Heavy, awkward to use- releasing the u-clamp a PITA, and yes it does rub paint off. Very much an example of you get what you pay for. 1Up worth every penny.

casejh · 01-03-2017, 09:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rossue

Had it; ditched it. Heavy, awkward to use- releasing the u-clamp a PITA, and yes it does rub paint off. Very much an example of you get what you pay for. 1Up worth every penny.

We do love our 1UP rack. It is easy, fast, and solid.

Mary F · 01-03-2017, 10:05 PM

We have a Swagman. (Be sure to get the one "For RV use.") We cut a swim noodle into 12" pieces, and are using them to protect the bikes' paint.

The 1Up was tempting, but...

Chapitre · 01-03-2017, 10:07 PM

I wanted the 1up but you can't use it with any type of rack on your bike, needed a rear rack for our bike bags.

Steve Clark · 01-03-2017, 11:21 PM

We have the Swagman Dispatch, model 64684. 2" receiver locks in place, is very secure, and holds the bikes away from the spare tire. RV approved. Heavy at almost 50 lbs.. I also use a towel to cushion the paint from the hooks. The 1 Up does not work for me as my touring bike has fenders.

AKCamper · 01-03-2017, 11:40 PM

We bought a Swagman too. Although we don't have bikes for it yet I have put some rental bikes in it and it appears to be secure. I also will have fenders and a Topeka rear rack, they are a must.

Jim Bennett · 01-04-2017, 08:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rossue

Had it; ditched it. Heavy, awkward to use- releasing the u-clamp a PITA, and yes it does rub paint off. Very much an example of you get what you pay for. 1Up worth every penny.

Yep, same here. I was one of the early adopters here of the 1UP rack after the Swagman caused damage to our bikes from rubbing, and am still very impressed with the thing. Once you have used one, you will understand what all the rave is about.

Chapitre · 01-04-2017, 09:06 AM

We now have the 64684 swagman as well because the 1up wouldn't work for us, our first trip we drove from Halifax ,Nova Scotia to Tampa ,Florida it never moved and has lots of clearance from the tire. As others have said these type of carriers do tend to rub the paint on the frame, but you can find ways to make it less of a problem. As I said we weren't willing to give up our fenders, racks, and our ability to Carrie bags/panniers. the bikes are middle of the road types and we just touch up the paint.
It's different for everyone, but I can tell you this one will work and is rock solid. We had another platform swagman not RV rated and we had a lot of issues with it.

parfsten · 01-04-2017, 09:44 AM

I think the Swagman will better fit my needs.... one bike I will be toting has fenders and I will be putting a carrier on the back of the other. Thanks all for very helpful feedback!

ReagentGrade · 01-04-2017, 04:35 PM

I'd love to pay less for the Swagman, but the weight limit is 45# port bike. I'm getting an electric assist bike that weighs 50#.

I guess I'll have to pony up $$$ for a 1Up Super Duty rack. I'm sure I'll love it, but my wallet is going to hate it. My bike will have fenders and a rack, somehow I'll make it work.

Jim Bennett · 01-04-2017, 05:34 PM

There are lots of good removable bike racks.

Rossue · 01-04-2017, 08:32 PM

Lots of good Trailer rated (never mind RV rated as trailers have the most rock&roll) bike racks? Where?

Jim Bennett · 01-04-2017, 09:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jim Bennett

There are lots of good removable bike racks.

Here are a couple examples. Click on photos for links.

This one looks nice and solid.

Topeak Beamrack is the one I think a buddy has. I need to confirm though. They have lots of different ones on this page.

I know Â*Chain Reaction Cycles | MTB | Road | TRI | Run carries Topeak. My brother, who does hordes of work on bikes buys supplies from them all the time, and I have ordered there a bit too. Great prices, selection, and shipping is cheap considering they are in Northern Ireland.

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