Header banner
Revain logoHome Page
Ian Bates photo
1 Level
1270 Review
56 Karma

Review on 🚲 Versatile and Easy-to-Use Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Racks for 1 1/4 in. and 2 in. Hitch by Ian Bates

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Ideal AFTER the next 3 problems are solved - very simple - see how

Like it but ONLY AFTER the next 3 problems are solved. I can now ride with two wobble-free bikes mounted with the bike's front wheel in place, and more importantly, I can remove the rack and its mounts in 10 seconds when not needed. Three problems and solutions I used. 1. When I'm not carrying bikes, the rack and carry handles cover the license plate. From what I've heard, it's illegal in my state to ride with a rack and no bikes. Blocking a license plate is illegal. They also interfere with the rear camera. So I replaced the single 3/8 screw connecting the knee to the post with the next 3/8 coupler, locked pin and handle. DOUBLE HH 103 original clutch pin, 3/8 x 4". Cost about $8.40. It now takes me 15 seconds to remove the bike, pull the pin out of the replaced bolt and remove the arm post from the car BTW: The police can't give you a ticket, but they have a reason to stop and fine you if you're driving with a blocked license plate, you may ask what's going on, why are you carrying bikes, I don't know. However, I ride 90% of the time without bikes 2. I have a class 1 clutch so I used a 1 1/4" elbow. With the right screw it still wobbles a bit. So I used the following clutch tensioner - As others have recommended. I used the included bolts face up otherwise they stick out too much in my sedan hitch tensioner for 1.25" and 2" hitch sizes - tough, easy to install, rust resistant - made in the USA. Costs about $203. EU There is a need to stabilize the front wheel against spinning. I use heavy bungee cords with snap hooks. Unfortunately I found these in a set and they are very expensive. A range of heavy duty 3/8 bungee cords with machined zinc plated steel snap hooks, made in the USA by Super Smithee. The cost is about $48! I had to try a similar $8 24-inch product. Keeper 06152 24" Super Duty Elastic Cord with Carabiner Carabiner I find these three items to be must haves for anyone using this hitch mounted bike rack. I'm surprised the company doesn't include all three of the above items with the Product delivers I am now very happy with this bike mount.

Pros
  • Great price
Cons
  • Big and bulky