The Yakima StageTwo hitch bike rack is a premium choice for anyone who love biking and need a reliable way to transport their bikes. After extensive testing, here’s my comprehensive review of the Yakima StageTwo Hitch Bike Rack‘s features, usability, and overall performance.
Design and Build Quality
The Yakima StageTwo is a tray-style hitch rack designed to fit both 1.25” and 2” hitch receivers. It accommodates two bikes, with the option to add the StageTwo +2 extension for a total of four bikes. The rack is built with a sturdy combination of steel and aluminum, weighing in at approximately 66 pounds, which makes it one of the heavier racks on the market. Despite its weight, the robust construction contributes to its stability and durability, making it suitable for both regular and off-road use. We’ve found the weight of the rack is only a small inconvenience when loading or unloading it from the car.
After taking the Yakima StageTwo with us for a long weekend it apparent this is a bike rack we will be using for years to come and may have to write it in the will to our children. We are excited to add the StageTwo+2 and the light kit for the ultimate carry system for our family.
Capacity and Compatibility
This rack can handle bikes with wheel sizes ranging from 20” to 29” and tires up to 3.25” wide. For those with fat bikes, Yakima offers an additional kit that accommodates tires up to 5” wide. The StageTwo can support a maximum weight of 70 pounds per bike, which is particularly beneficial for couples who ride heavier e-bikes.
Fat Bike Kit
For all of you who enjoy a thicker tire, Yakima provides a dedicated Fat Bike Kit that allows the StageTwo to accommodate tires up to 5 inches wide. This kit includes extended rear wheel straps, making it compatible with the fat bike of your choosing, including 20 x 4.0 inch, 26 x 5.0 inch, and 27.5 x 4.5 inch tires.
Features
Ease of Use
The Yakima StageTwo boasts several user-friendly features:
- Tool-Free Installation: The SpeedKnob system allows for easy installation and removal without the need for tools, ensuring a snug fit in the hitch. It honestly took us 3-5 minutes to install.
- Integrated Security: It includes integrated cable locks and a locking system that secures the rack to the vehicle, providing peace of mind during stops. This feature has been extensively tested by my Explorer’s Rear Brake Assist slamming on the brakes when we are backing up.
- Adjustable Trays: The offset tray design prevents bike contact during transport, and the tiered layout enhances ground clearance, making it easier to navigate off road terrain.
Accessibility
The rack tilts down to allow access to the vehicle’s rear, even when loaded with bikes. This feature is particularly useful to access trunk space during trips. With my Explorer’s hatchback setup, the tilt down comes in clutch when I need to access the trunk and the bikes are loaded.
When not in use, the StageTwo stores upright but doesn’t impede your rear window view.
Safety Features
The Yakima StageTwo comes with an optional LED safety light kit, enhancing visibility for drivers behind you, which is a critical feature for safety on the road. I wouldn’t hesitate on this add on to keep your bikes and you safe while traveling.
Performance
During testing, the StageTwo performed exceptionally well, maintaining stability and security while transporting bikes over various terrains. We tested it out on the highways, logging roads and through small mountain towns. The design effectively minimizes bike movement, ensuring that both bikes remain secure throughout the journey. Loading and unloading bikes is another highlight, thanks to the ratcheting arms that hold the front wheels securely in place.
Setup took about 15-20 minutes and that included loading the rack onto my car and the bikes onto the rack.
The instructions were very clear and every piece just clicked into place. If my 15 YO could manage the build out, there’s hope for all of us!
The Yakima StageTwo hitch bike rack is an excellent investment for bikers who prioritize quality, security, and ease of use in their adventures. The Yakima StageTwo’s robust design, high capacity, and thoughtful features make it a standout choice for transporting bikes safely and efficiently. While it comes at a higher price point and is on the heavier side, the benefits it offers in terms of functionality and reliability are well worth considering for avid cyclists.
You can purchase a StageTwo Hitch Bike Rack from the Yakima site directly and other trusted websites. It retails for under $800. In girl math, at $1 every time you use it, you are actually coming out ahead and should probably buy that other bike you’ve been eyeing because the StageTwo can accommodate all the models.