Finding a quality bike rack can be very difficult nowadays with so many options. Therefore, you should never go to the market without doing your research properly. If you are in the market for an impressive bike rack, then you might want to take a look at the Swagman XTC2 hitch mount bike rack.
You will be getting a reliable bike rack at an affordable price point if you choose to buy the Swagman XTC2. Most of the Swagman XTC2 reviews are positive, and for a good reason. We will be going to give a detailed review of this product so you can decide whether it is the best option for you or not.
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Why Should You Buy the Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack?
While there are plenty of reasons why you might want to consider buying the swagman xtc2 hitch mount bike rack, for this section, let’s focus on its best features.
One of the most important factors that you have to consider when buying a bike rack is its durability, and let’s just say this bike rack meets more than the requirement. Made of high-quality, durable steel, this swagman bike rack can be used for a very long time without getting damaged and is able to hold bikes of up to 35 pounds per bike.
It is so strong that it could also be called the Swagman XTC2 2-bike platform rack. This is a great feature, especially if you are traveling with your significant other or a close friend, and it is a feature that not a lot of other bike racks have.
As you can tell by its name this bike rack is a hitch-mount rack which means it keeps your bikes at a distance from your car, which prevents both the car and the bike from getting damaged. Additionally, this rack will keep your bike securely in place with the strong rubber straps used through the wheels.
Key Features
Only by knowing the key features, you’ll find out if it’s worth the money. So, let’s get to know them.
Durability
If you want a bike rack for extensive usage, then the Swagman XTC2 is an excellent choice. Thanks to its sturdy stainless steel built, you won’t have to worry about your bike rack breaking down with your bike while you are driving.
With a premium powder-coated finish this bike rack manages to look stylish while also protecting itself from getting corroded. This means that you can drive through rainstorms without having to worry about the Swagman XTC2 getting damaged.
Weight Limit
The 35 lbs weight limit for each bike is usually great for any type of bike, with the exception of e-bikes since they usually weigh more than 40 lbs. Hence, you can’t use this rack as a Swagman e-bike rack. It is also necessary for us to mention that regardless of being durable, you might want to avoid using the Swagman XTC2 if you are taking your car on a drive through very rocky terrain.
Design
As this one is a hitch mount bike rack, it will keep some space between your bikes and cars to prevent any damage. However, this hitch mount bike rack doesn’t mount bikes by the conventional vertical system. Rather, it includes sturdy rubber straps and hoops to secure the bike frames, which help in making the bike on the rack stay more stable.
The hooks of the Swagman XTC2 bike rack are ratchet hooks, meaning they can be quickly released using a button. Also, if you were wondering whether you’ll have to remove your bike wheels while taking your bike out, then you don’t have to worry. The specially designed wheel mount allows users to easily take their bike off the rack by just pulling it out.
Convenience
Even while the bikes are mounted onto the Swagman XTC2 bike rack, the center arm can be folded away. That way, you can access the hatch if you need something from your hatch during traveling.
Security
For security, you have to buy the Swagman XTC2 lock hitch pin separately. In addition to that, this bike rack can easily fold away, so this means that you won’t have to stress about it getting stolen if you leave your car parked alone.
From the previous section, you must know that you can carry two bikes with the Swagman XTC2 bike rack. It is always a great idea to take a friend with you when you are going to bike around a remote area, and with this bike rack, this will be made easier for you.
Installation
Lastly, the installation of this rack is very simple and will only take you a few minutes to do so. If you are confused with the installation, you can always look at the detailed Swagman XTC2 instruction manual given with the package.
Pros
- A sturdy stainless-steel build to serve you long
- 35 lbs. weight limit is good enough
- Uses rubber straps and hoops to secure your bike
- Gives you easy access to the hatch thanks to the foldable handle
- Able to carry 2 bikes
Cons
- Some people might prefer longer hitch shafts
Swagman XTC2 vs XC2
The Swagman XTC2 and XC2 have plenty of similarities, and we must say that both of them are excellent bike racks. However, they do have some differences which are essential for you to know since the small differences can sometimes make or break a deal.
Although both of them use the wheel loop system, the XTC2 has a slightly different design and is also a bit more durable than the XC2. For more convenient usage, both of these bike racks by Swagman have a ratchet hook system, but only the XTC2 bike racks have wheel straps, so your bike is better secured in place.
If your bike has a longer wheelbase, then you might want to take a deeper look at the XTC2 bike rack since it can carry bikes with wheelbases of up to 66 inches compared to the 51.5 inches of the XC2. On the contrary, the measurement from the pinhole to the edge of the wheel loop for the XC2 is greater than the measurement for the XTC2 bike rack. Thus, you will be able to fit bikes with wheels of greater widths in the Swagman XC2 bike rack more easily.
Related: Swagman XC2 Bike Rack Review
Besides these differences mentioned above, these two hitch mount bike racks are quite similar.
How Do I Attach my Bike Rack to My Hitch?
The first thing you will have to do before investing in a hitch mount bike rack is check whether your car has a hitch receiver or not. Then you will need to check what is the class of your hitch receiver because it will have to match with the class of the bike rack.
To install your hitch-mounted bike rack, you will have to take the arm of your bike rack and slide it into the hitch mount of your car. For the next step, you will have to line up the hole of the hitch receiver and the mount. You will then have to take a bolt and screw it into the hole at first with your hands and then with a wrench to make sure it is tight.
To finish it off, you will need to put a pin into the bolt so that it remains securely in its placed position.
FAQs About Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Does it support all hitch sizes?
No, it only fits 1-1/4 inch and 2-inch hitch.
What is the maximum wheel width it can support?
The Swagman XTC2 can support bikes with wheels of up to 2.5 inches in width.
Can you install it onto your trailer or your fifth wheel?
Yes, of course, it can be installed onto your trailer, but you have to make sure the class of the hitch receiver on your trailer matches with the bike rack.
Are Swagman bike racks good?
Swagman has done a splendid job in engineering their bike racks, so we have to say they are great bike racks.
Does the Swagman Bike Rack Tilt?
Yes, it does. The Swagman XTC2 tilt feature is the reason why the center arm folds down, and you can access the hatch of your vehicle.
What type of hitch bike rack is the best?
This question is not possible for us to answer because there are many great hitch bike racks in the market, and the definition of best will vary from person to person. However, the Swagman XTC2 reviewed in this article is a fantastic hitch bike rack.
Is the Kent Springdale Men’s Hybrid Bicycle Compatible with the Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack?
The kent springdale men’s hybrid bicycle features a sturdy frame, suitable for tackling various terrains. Its compatibility with the Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack makes transportation easier for avid cyclists. Enjoy seamless rides and effortless bike storage with this convenient combination.
Final Words
Usually, driving your vehicle to a spot with a bike rack might be a bit stressful, but not with the Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack!
This sturdy and reliable bike rack will give you great service for a very long time, so we absolutely recommend it to you!