Review on DRAW TITE 63134 Fold Carrier by Eric Smithlin

I wanted to fit a hitch holder because I don't believe in bike racks that attach to bodywork, fairings, trunk lids etc. With so many different sizes and configurations of bikes, some trial and error is inevitable to find a good mounting method, and the chances of paint scratches are too high for these guys. In addition, a significant portion of bike racks are designed to clamp the frame only, with no devices to prevent wheels from slipping or handlebars from wobbling. So you have to do your best with bungee and the like. This attitude contributes significantly to solving these problems. The hinges that attach the wheels are independently adjustable, and the frame's vertical clamps actually "clamp" the bike between them. The rack places two bikes fairly close together, so pedal and handlebar interference can prevent a perfect fit, so trial and error is required here too. Loop tubes have Velcro straps to enclose the rims, but I found these ineffective and resorted to my trusty rubber bands to secure the rims to the loops. The vertical post folds down to allow access to the tailgate or tailgate, while the uprights fold down to allow for more compact garage storage. All pivot points are secured with pins, so no additional tools are required. With so many adjustable and moving parts, this rack tends to vibrate and wobble a bit under load. It was a little annoying at first, but the car handles down the road with confidence and I didn't notice any annoying movement around corners or over bumps. I'm sure if the designer had added a few more bushings, thrust washers and such then most of the wobble could have been eliminated, but for the money it's fine.