Hitch mount bike carrier security questions?
03-22-17, 10:17 PM
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Hitch mount bike carrier security questions?
I'm looking for a hitch mounted bike rack (hanging or platform).
When googling security on the subject they reference the bike not bouncing around or swaying, not bike locking options.
Is one better than another to prevent bike theft?
I'd like to take my son to lunch, and then go to the park and ride with him for a couple hours.
When googling security on the subject they reference the bike not bouncing around or swaying, not bike locking options.
Is one better than another to prevent bike theft?
I'd like to take my son to lunch, and then go to the park and ride with him for a couple hours.
03-22-17, 10:32 PM
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They're all about the same, and generally folks use cables to lock the bikes to the rack. There are also cables that can be trapped under the hitch mounting bolts, so the bikes are locked (sort of) to the car.
This system works fine for normal security when traveling, but I wouldn't park on 5th Ave while I visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
This system works fine for normal security when traveling, but I wouldn't park on 5th Ave while I visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
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03-22-17, 11:08 PM
#3
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I'm looking for a hitch mounted bike rack (hanging or platform).
When googling security on the subject they reference the bike not bouncing around or swaying, not bike locking options.
Is one better than another to prevent bike theft?
I'd like to take my son to lunch, and then go to the park and ride with him for a couple hours.
When googling security on the subject they reference the bike not bouncing around or swaying, not bike locking options.
Is one better than another to prevent bike theft?
I'd like to take my son to lunch, and then go to the park and ride with him for a couple hours.
I had a tray style hitch rack and used this. It locks the rack to the hitch and the bike to the rack. As FBinNY said, it works, but I wouldn't leave the bike for too long unattended.
https://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Acces...s/HRLHPTC.html
03-22-17, 11:38 PM
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If I had to park somewhere while we rode the bikes, it took me 5 minutes to take out the hitch bolt and stow the rack in my SUV or station wagon.
I didn't really like parking the car with rack and bikes on the street while we went to lunch. If possible, we'd park so we could see the car while we ate. I usually put a useless chain around the bikes. Easily cut with tools.
In general though, I worried more about a swaying 20 pound rack with 80 pounds of bikes twisting the 1 1/4" hitches. No concern with a 2" hitch.
I didn't really like parking the car with rack and bikes on the street while we went to lunch. If possible, we'd park so we could see the car while we ate. I usually put a useless chain around the bikes. Easily cut with tools.
In general though, I worried more about a swaying 20 pound rack with 80 pounds of bikes twisting the 1 1/4" hitches. No concern with a 2" hitch.
03-23-17, 07:49 AM
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I'd probably take a cable lock through them all, and then lock it to the tab meant for the emergency chains on a trailer.
Another nifty trick I once hear was finding a spot where one could back the vehicle right up to some sort of shrubbery or fence or pole, just to make access difficult.
Another nifty trick I once hear was finding a spot where one could back the vehicle right up to some sort of shrubbery or fence or pole, just to make access difficult.
03-23-17, 08:20 AM
#6
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Loop the cable around the bikes, then the cable through one of the end loops. Lock the other end loop to the safety chain loop on the hitch.
The sight of the big cable and lock will keep the bikes safe while we are parked at a rest stop on the NY Thruway. Unless someone strolls buy with a big bolt cutter, but that would be too obvious for all but the most dedicated thief. Then they would have to figure how to get the bikes off the rack, they are all mostly different.
Like FBinNY said, I wouldn't park in on a side street near Times Square while I went into Bubba Gump for lunch, but for most situations it will keep you bikes yours.
03-23-17, 08:32 AM
#7
Banned
Like Trailer Security, a lock thru the pin that secures the rack to the part on the car frame,
is a good base to start with ...
Putting the bikes in an enclosed trailer , will help, but realize some touring musicians
have lost gear worth a lot more when the trailer was stolen..
Folding bike in the boot, is probably best.
.....
is a good base to start with ...
Putting the bikes in an enclosed trailer , will help, but realize some touring musicians
have lost gear worth a lot more when the trailer was stolen..
Folding bike in the boot, is probably best.
.....
Last edited by fietsbob; 03-23-17 at 08:37 AM.
03-23-17, 08:36 AM
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Yakima racks have a "security" add on package that includes a lock for the hitch bolt and a cable lock that is integrated into the rack itself. Not 100% secure of course (cable locks can be easily cut) but definitely secure enough for short times away from your bike.
Here's the system, it's called "Deadlock" now. I had one attached to my doubledown rack.
https://www.yakima.com/dead-lock
EDIT2: Apparently many yakima racks have an "integrated bike lock". You can specifically search for it on their site. (On the left side)
https://www.yakima.com/activity?mount_location=52
EDIT: In reply to fietsbob above, I believe most hitch mount racks "bolt" to the hitch itself instead of using a hitch pin that slides in and out. Helps to keep the hitch from swaying too much. But the same principle that you suggested applies in locking that bolt.
Here's the system, it's called "Deadlock" now. I had one attached to my doubledown rack.
https://www.yakima.com/dead-lock
EDIT2: Apparently many yakima racks have an "integrated bike lock". You can specifically search for it on their site. (On the left side)
https://www.yakima.com/activity?mount_location=52
EDIT: In reply to fietsbob above, I believe most hitch mount racks "bolt" to the hitch itself instead of using a hitch pin that slides in and out. Helps to keep the hitch from swaying too much. But the same principle that you suggested applies in locking that bolt.
Last edited by corrado33; 03-23-17 at 08:45 AM.
03-23-17, 08:57 AM
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my swagman came with an integrated cable lock
03-23-17, 09:14 AM
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Garmin-Sharp bikes stolen at Tour de Med | Cyclingnews.com
03-23-17, 09:24 AM
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I used to have a hanging hitch mount rack. I would use a cable chain and lock the bikes to the loop things by the hitch mount. Then when the bikes were off I'd put the hanging rack in the trunk.
03-23-17, 10:14 AM
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I wasn't too concerned with someone steeling the rack, I'd get a locking hitch pin keyed alike to my other thule gear. I'll have to research which hitch locks can't get cut with cable/bolt cutters.
But before I get too caught up on a hitch lock I'm mostly concerned with the ability to lock my bike to the rack. I've been reading about bikes on a car bike rack getting stolen in the parking lot of a bike store.
Nearly every article states that cable locks are the easiest to defeat.
But before I get too caught up on a hitch lock I'm mostly concerned with the ability to lock my bike to the rack. I've been reading about bikes on a car bike rack getting stolen in the parking lot of a bike store.
Nearly every article states that cable locks are the easiest to defeat.
03-23-17, 10:28 AM
#14
Old guy on a Bike
Yakima racks have a "security" add on package that includes a lock for the hitch bolt and a cable lock that is integrated into the rack itself. Not 100% secure of course (cable locks can be easily cut) but definitely secure enough for short times away from your bike.
Here's the system, it's called "Deadlock" now. I had one attached to my doubledown rack.
https://www.yakima.com/dead-lock
EDIT2: Apparently many yakima racks have an "integrated bike lock". You can specifically search for it on their site. (On the left side)
https://www.yakima.com/activity?mount_location=52
EDIT: In reply to fietsbob above, I believe most hitch mount racks "bolt" to the hitch itself instead of using a hitch pin that slides in and out. Helps to keep the hitch from swaying too much. But the same principle that you suggested applies in locking that bolt.
Here's the system, it's called "Deadlock" now. I had one attached to my doubledown rack.
https://www.yakima.com/dead-lock
EDIT2: Apparently many yakima racks have an "integrated bike lock". You can specifically search for it on their site. (On the left side)
https://www.yakima.com/activity?mount_location=52
EDIT: In reply to fietsbob above, I believe most hitch mount racks "bolt" to the hitch itself instead of using a hitch pin that slides in and out. Helps to keep the hitch from swaying too much. But the same principle that you suggested applies in locking that bolt.
03-23-17, 11:01 AM
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Yep, those look essentially identical (in function) to the ones on the yakima. Probably made by the same company honestly.
03-23-17, 11:22 AM
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Securing rack to receiver:
Master Lock 5/8" Heavy Duty Receiver Lock
Does not rattle in the receiver.
Can't be cut with bolt cutters, nor saw-z-all, the space is too tight, and the bolt dia. is too large. The length only allows room for it to pass through the receiver, and into the locking mechanism.
Securing bike to Rack/Hitch:
There are many options, a steel cable (with protective sheath so it doesn't damage other items) is your best bet.
The thicker the cable the better. Wind it through your bike to some point on the rack. And/or through the "chain hook holes" on your receiver.
Master Lock 3/4" (20mm) Thick Cable lock
Kryptonite 3/4" (20mm) Thick Cable Lock
You can't cut 3/4" with bolt cutters, and if you get the correct material (through hardened steel), they won't be able to cut it without a serious powertool.
Of course if you are a little handy, you could make your own cable. Buy some cable, some crimpers, and some heat-shrink.
Example of a rack with a lock anchor:
(I only want you to pay attention to the "loop" at the base of the rack, near the hitch. This loop is for threading a cable through for securing your bikes to it.)
Allen Sports Hitch mount bike rack
Master Lock 5/8" Heavy Duty Receiver Lock
Does not rattle in the receiver.
Can't be cut with bolt cutters, nor saw-z-all, the space is too tight, and the bolt dia. is too large. The length only allows room for it to pass through the receiver, and into the locking mechanism.
Securing bike to Rack/Hitch:
There are many options, a steel cable (with protective sheath so it doesn't damage other items) is your best bet.
The thicker the cable the better. Wind it through your bike to some point on the rack. And/or through the "chain hook holes" on your receiver.
Master Lock 3/4" (20mm) Thick Cable lock
Kryptonite 3/4" (20mm) Thick Cable Lock
You can't cut 3/4" with bolt cutters, and if you get the correct material (through hardened steel), they won't be able to cut it without a serious powertool.
Of course if you are a little handy, you could make your own cable. Buy some cable, some crimpers, and some heat-shrink.
Example of a rack with a lock anchor:
(I only want you to pay attention to the "loop" at the base of the rack, near the hitch. This loop is for threading a cable through for securing your bikes to it.)
Allen Sports Hitch mount bike rack
Last edited by Fett2oo5; 03-23-17 at 12:09 PM.
03-23-17, 12:20 PM
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I've done a lot of research on each of the items, their competitors, and alternative options...
These are the items I use for transporting my bike securely:
Hitch receiver lock - Master Lock 1469DAT 5/8" Heavy Duty Receiver Lock
Rack - Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted 4-Bike Carrier
Bungy cords to keep the bikes from swaying while in transit:
Master Lock 3041DAT SteelCor Bungee Cords with Organizer
Cable and lock - Kryptonite 999867 HardWire Black 3/4" x 72" (2018) Key Cable Lock
These are the items I use for transporting my bike securely:
Hitch receiver lock - Master Lock 1469DAT 5/8" Heavy Duty Receiver Lock
Rack - Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted 4-Bike Carrier
Bungy cords to keep the bikes from swaying while in transit:
Master Lock 3041DAT SteelCor Bungee Cords with Organizer
Cable and lock - Kryptonite 999867 HardWire Black 3/4" x 72" (2018) Key Cable Lock
03-23-17, 12:22 PM
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at some point, I let go of the fear & anger of being robbed
03-23-17, 12:30 PM
#19
Fredly Fredster
I have a Hollywood Racks 4-bike platform rack, for 2" receiver hitch, with keyed-alike locks for the hitch and security cable for bikes. I've left my bikes on the rack while eating at restaurants with no line of sight on the bikes. Nothing major has ever happened, but I live in a low-crime area. Only one minor incident.. some idiot loosened the quick release on the front tire of my X-Caliber 29er. I took the bike off the rack and the lever was dangling. Good thing I noticed it before I started riding. 
03-23-17, 01:40 PM
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sure, but it takes a dedicated thief to go after a cable lock in a busy parking lot. I'd suggest 999/1000 times the presence of a lock is deterrent enough, unless you're locking up some mega$10k wunderbike, then I'd take it with you inside.
03-23-17, 05:06 PM
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I recently installed a hitch and bought a Swagman rack. After reading reviews at Amazon.com concerning the locking pins, I have been very hesitant to buy one. In particular, many complain about the threading being wrong and the metal used for the bolts being too soft, with several people reporting the bolts seizing. Would you mind sharing your experience, please? E.g., how long have you been using it, do you leave the rack on all the time, and what sort of weather has it been exposed to? Thanks in advance!
03-23-17, 06:04 PM
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My Thule Apex also has a cable lock built in. Works good too. Still don't leave the bike on the rack out of sight very long though. I like Yakima stuff a lot seems to be good stuff. But I didn't have any issues with my Yakima either before it was no longer serviceable.
Last edited by sdmc530; 03-23-17 at 06:09 PM.
03-23-17, 06:05 PM
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I like the Saris Freedom Superclamp 4 that we purchased. Saris also makes the Freedom Superclamp 2 https://www.saris.com/product/superclamp-2
I liked that it does not have any contact with the frame of the bike and it is made in WI USA
These racks comes standard with the anti rattle locking hitch connection and built in locking cables. Lifetime guarantee/warranty. I purchased mine through www.rackwarehouse.com and they used FEDEX to deliver requiring a signature or you can schedule to pickup from your local FEDEX store.
I suggest going to youtube and watching personal reviews of products.
Good luck!
I liked that it does not have any contact with the frame of the bike and it is made in WI USA
These racks comes standard with the anti rattle locking hitch connection and built in locking cables. Lifetime guarantee/warranty. I purchased mine through www.rackwarehouse.com and they used FEDEX to deliver requiring a signature or you can schedule to pickup from your local FEDEX store.
I suggest going to youtube and watching personal reviews of products.
Good luck!
03-23-17, 06:12 PM
#24
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I recently installed a hitch and bought a Swagman rack. After reading reviews at Amazon.com concerning the locking pins, I have been very hesitant to buy one. In particular, many complain about the threading being wrong and the metal used for the bolts being too soft, with several people reporting the bolts seizing. Would you mind sharing your experience, please? E.g., how long have you been using it, do you leave the rack on all the time, and what sort of weather has it been exposed to? Thanks in advance!
that aside, I have a Titan
it carries 4 bikes just fine
it has some wiggle at the elbow
I use 3 stability straps so it's not an issue
the hardware seems strong enough
it's too bad there are so many variations with hitch type racks, and it's even worse that we have to buy them sight unseen. stupid really
I only carry 4 bikes in good weather so I can't answer about how it holds up in bad weather, sorry
any other questions?
all hitch style bike racks should use at least 1 stability strap from the mast to the roof. I added 2 more from the mast to the sides of the hatchback. it's truly ridiculous that this info is not widely disseminated
CURT 18050 Bike Rack Stabilizer Strap
https://www.amazon.com/CURT-18050-Bi.../dp/B003721CC8
regarding the Swagman threaded locking pin - It started & then stopped when I finger tightened it. I took a wrench to it & it went in just fine. I added a smidgen of lithium anti-seize lube to a couple threads & it continues to work just fine
more info & pics in this thread I posted in the Jeep forum
https://jeepcherokeeclub.com/49-exter...s-hitch-3.html
Last edited by rumrunn6; 03-23-17 at 06:33 PM.