Bialy

Does anyone have any experience with the Swagman 4-bike tray/platform style rack (hitch-type)? Good, drawbacks, secure, no sway, lock security, others to consider? Thanks.
https://www.swagmanbikeracks.com/shop...&cat=24&page=1

sunflowerflyer

I've been looking at the same rack. My wifes bike will not fit our hang style rack, as you can't put a bar on it. I've looked at several, and the swagman is the least expensive by far. I'll second a shoutout from some owners.

cminter

Have the rack and it is the best one we have owned. Previously had a Saris something where they hang by the top tube.

The Swagman is well built and once setup for your bikes is quick to load/unload. The setting up can take some trial and error to get the clearance between bars and seats of adjacent bikes but once done they fit well. The bikes don't move while on the road and the rack is secure in the hitch by a bolt type pin that stops all movement. I do cover the top tube with a rag due to the foam? padding on the hook seeming to leave a mark on the paint. I think it would rub off and isn't harming the paint but I like clean bikes.

Locking is by a small hole in the ratcheting hook, it only would take a small lock. If you really want them locked on I would use 1 or 2 cable locks to lock them all together and to the car.

Overall I'm very happy with the rack and would recommend it. Mine was purchased off e-bay sorry I don't remember the seller, I know they claimed to be the biggest US outlet for Swagman.

GGDub

I have the exact one. I recommend getting the hitch stabilizer just for your own sanity. I never had any problems without it except I always got uneasy seeing it bounce in the rearview mirror.

Also, only get this rack if you have a truck or SUV. Its very heavy and even on my B4000, I noticed the rear suspension sagging when I had it on.

masiman

What you mount on a vehicle should be dictated by the towing capacity and tongue weight of the vehicle not the type of vehicle. Some SUV's have their suspension engineered for comfort and have very low towing capacity and tongue weight. Some of the SUV's are built on car frames while others are built on car frames. Check your manual for what is possible with the vehicle.

To better handle towing you can enhance the vehicle with some options. A suspension lift system and transmission cooler are two DIY capable projects. Air Lift is one example suspension aid if you have coil springs. These kits do not increase your towing capacity but they can make the car handle better with the load. There are a number of transmission cooler manufacturers.

Mr Danw

You may just need one of these, we use one on my wife's Trek Pure.

sunflowerflyer

Thanks, but I have 2!

She has an Electra Townie 700c that is longer than a standard bike, with unusual geometry. The standard adapter bars are not long enough (I've tried), and the vertical offset from the seat to the handlebars it larger than typical as well. It has mostly eliminated her hand numbness problems however.

I truly do appreciate the suggestion.

BTW, we have a saris, and a Thule. The buttons on the Thule are recessed, and very difficult to press. I'm probably going to give it to someone I don't like. =]~