Purchased one lightly used, 2 bike variant. Too difficult to play with top mounting racks (front wheel removed w/ disc adapter) on a RAV 4 and felt unsteady on a ladder with a bike, after rides, so hitch rack it is and no doubt some better fuel efficiency. Like how this rack does not occlude the rear camera, a definite plus! I have to order a tool to tighten the rear cam (did not come with) to remove the hitch movement. Appreciate the video!
So originally I was thinking about getting another rack from another company but good grief, it was taking way too long to get the order filled so hopefully this rack, the V2 1 will be in my hands by the end of this month…fingers crossed 🤞🏽. I’ll have my comments after I use it😎
Same here. I owned the original and was rear ended with this on. My car was not damaged but my rack took a bit of a beating. I waited forever for this new version to arrive so my insurance could replace it. Yes!
My V2 is starting to rock back and fourth a lot. Not the hitch but the cups that hold the wheels and pretty loose now. So when you turn or hit a bump, the bike rocks back and fourth. My honest review is it sucks.
Why does this rack state a 40lb per-bike limit when other cheaply built racks (Saris Freedom 2 for example) have a 60lb limit?? I cannot wrap my head around this...
I am having hard time choosing between these models. There are two versions 1.25" and 2" one. I am leaning towards 2" one since I don't really like adapters and is worried about wobble. But 2'' are harder to find for some reason. Is there really a big difference between them? All my bikes are pretty light, so weight capacity is not a deciding factor for me.
If you are worried about wobble, I'd also consider the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR built like a tank. But for road bikes or light bikes the Kuat is more the adequate. I also had the old version that was 1.25" adapted to 2" and I could load 3 full suspension bikes on it no problem. It did bounce a bit on bumps though.
I just received it -the V2-. The ads says it fits 2 and 1-1/4-inch receiver (my car hitch is 1.25). Because is clear it is for 2-inch, there is a video how it works? or do I need to buy first an adapter?
Correct, the mounting point is snug, but there definitely is some movement after that. It is a big improvement over the V1 though. Unless you go over really bumpy roads you shouldn't notice it moving.
No you can't open the trunk fully, my bars are very wide though. I no longer have that bike rack, I now have the Thule T2 Pro XTR and I can open the trunk. Was never a deal breaker though, it's just sturdier.
It's essentially the same thing. The ball cam is just a "ball" that when tightened pushes inside the hitch to hold it in. The flat lock cam is more of a square so there is more surface area that touches the inside of the hitch when tightened.
Sorry for the late response. I know some racks are specifically RV rated, but for this one all I could find is the information below. Dedicated 2” hitch version in the 2 bike configuration can be directly mounted on campers, recreational vehicles, or trailers with CHASSIS MOUNTED RECEIVERS ONLY.
Although I haven't seen the Sherpa in person, I imagine it would be more sturdy. One thing to also keep in mind is the wheelbase of the bikes you will be putting on the rack. I believe the Transfer allows for longer wheelbase bikes.
Thanks for the video! I ordered the rack today after thinking for a long time as it was the only 1-bike rack that reviewers said was probably most user friendly. I don't expect that I will be transporting my bike often except maybe several times a year, but was wondering whether it is a hassle to access the tailgate when there is no bike on?
Thanks! I don't find it that much of an inconvenience. It's quite quick to fold down the rack to open the trunk. I don't use my rear trunk that often though. Since I have a RAV4 I can also grab stuff from the inside and just fold down the rear seat.
@@sokhoeunou3086 That bolt shouldn't be super tight so that it can rotate assuming we're talking about the same bolt. If you loosen if off a bit, does it move freely?
Great review Duy- I am in the process of getting the V2 1 bike rack for my 45lb eMTB E-bike. I noticed you have a front fender flap that the hook clamps down on. Have you found that to be a problem when securing it causing the flap to deform or get damaged? I would have liked if the hook mech could be moved to the center to clamp down on the frame. I think the Rocky Mount has that feature. Thank you!
The fender on mine is mostly on the back side of the fork so the hook on the clamp doesn't actually touch it, I should have taken a closer video of that, oops! I have the Rock Shox fender.
@@dtvolleyball Yes, I have the SKS which flaps to the front by a couple of inches. I have seen riders place the hook more towards the front with no issues. Do you think I could load my 45lb E-bike while the rack is tilted downward closer to the ground for easier access? Just a thought.
I wouldn't move the hook too far forward, but a couple inches is probably fine. Just be careful because if you clamp further away from the fork the clamp doesn't close down as much as it does when it's closer to the fork. So if the bike shifts around while driving and the clamp happens to move closer towards the fork, now there will be a gap and your bike will move around. If there is a fender stopping the clamp from moving though, it should be fine. Tilting the rack down to load would be fine, you just need to get the front wheel hook partially on, then you can tighten everything else up after. The open U shape of this rack does make loading bikes much easier then other traditionally shaped racks though.
@@dtvolleyball You are awesome dude! This is exactly what my concern was before purchase. Less lifting saves the back with a heavy bike. Ride safe and enjoy!
I ended up switching to the Thule T2 Pro XT. My reason was because I got a good deal on it and I can drive into my garage with a 2 bike rack folded down. No issues with the Kuat, for the price it's a good rack, although the Thule is quite a bit more overbuilt.
Thanks for the quick and helpful review. Do you find the difference in price between your Thule and this Kuat is worth it? Why or why not? I’m looking for a 2 (with add on) or 3 bike platform rack for a 1.25” hitch.
It depends what bikes you're transporting. I find the Thule more stable when I have 2 full suspension bikes on, especially over bumpy roads. But with the 1.25" hitch I think I'd go with either rack as I don't think there would be a big difference. The Kuat is fully capable of carrying 3 full suspension bikes, but over bumpy terrain it does seem to bounce more. For me I think it's worth the little extra money for the Thule T2 Pro over the Kuat Transfer V2. Especially since I plan to get the 2 bike add on in the future. I originally switched from the 3 bike Kuat to the 2 bike Thule because I wanted to be able to drive into my garage with the bikes still on the rack haha.
@@dtvolleyball thanks for your insight! I’ll be carrying a FS, hard tail and 16” kids bike. Leaning toward the Kuat given the lower cost and carrying a lower overall weight of the bikes. However, I’ll dig into the features to get a better idea of value for my use.
@@magnate2372 no worries! I think if you put the heavier bike closest to the car you won't have any issues. I carried 3 full suspension bikes up Bragg Creek (in Alberta, Canada) with the version 1 of this rack and although it did bounce a bit, it was fine, the V2 is more sturdy too.
@@dtvolleyball I just found out from a Kuat support rep that their 1.25 inch options are limited to 2 bike version that doesn’t support an add on. I wonder if using a 2 to 1.25 inch hitch adapter would be safe...
@@magnate2372 If you wanted to go with the Kuat I think I would look for the version 1. It can for sure hold 3 bikes and is for a 1.25" hitch. I personally wouldn't try to use an adapter.
@@dtvolleyball Thanks..From your knowledge how does V1 compare to V2..I got this used decent two bike rack with integrated locks for 200$ should i be concerned about V1 was unable to research my bad.
Any concerns with long wheelbase bikes kind of hanging off the rear tire mounting point? I see that it’s strapped in but I wonder if they’re less secure than shorter bikes. I ride an XL so a little worried about it not being fully secured. The rack also looked a little wobbly when you gave it a shake. Is that from the receiver or from the connections on the rack itself? Thanks
My bike is an XL too with quite a long wheelbase. I wouldn't have any concerns with the bike falling off. Now as far as how wobbly the rack is, I now also have a Thule T2 Pro and it is a lot sturdier especially when going over speedbumps, but the Kuat is definitely useable. The connection to the car on the Kuat is solid, it's everything you else that moves.
I just purchased this rack. I have a 1-1/4 receiver on my car. I don't understand the hitch pin they give you it's very small my receiver normally takes a half inch hitch pin can you explain? Good job on the video thank you
I haven't seen the 1.25" receiver version (this one was the 2"), but since the rack holds itself in with the ball cam lock system the hitch pin is just there for added security. If a bigger hitch pin fits you could buy a bigger one to get rid of the slop, they're usually less then $5 for a basic one.
@@dtvolleyball thanks for the fast reply. I just put the rack on the car tonight and ran into this. I thought maybe the pin was just a backup. Like you said it basically holds itself. If you use the pin that comes with it what stops someone from steeling your rack? Or do you put it in your car
Ya, unfortunately unless you buy a pin lock, anyone with an allen key could come and take the hitch. You could use the supplied lock to attach it to your hitch though when bikes aren't loaded on.
@@dtvolleyball yes that's a very good idea thank you. Good luck with more informational videos. I know they're a lot of work but they do help people out.
Yes if you pause the video at 4:18 you'll see the black hitch pin in the bottom left corner. Kuat sells a hitch lock for about $30 Canadian if you wanted some added security.
I bought it from Racks For Cars. Unfortunately the price has increased quite substantially though. I can't recommend the rack at the hugely inflated price of $1k CAD. There are much better racks at that price point.
Thanks for the awesome review! Had a feeling you were in Edmonton and I was right lol. Where did you buy yours? I'm wondering where's the best place to get one in town.
That rack looks really nice! For me it came down to price. I'm currently using the Thule T2 Pro actually. Reason I switched is because I wanted to be able to back into the garage with the bikes still on the rack haha.
Great vid!! Was wanting to know the difference. I have the V1 version and I recall buying it for under 200 US dollars. This V2 is in the 300+ dollar range, which is crazy. Going to sell my V1, and getting the Thule Outway platform. Since I lost my hitch, going from an Audi Q5 to now a Q3. I was going to sell it for under 150 dollars, with the hitch and front tire/frame locks. Might be able to sell it fairly quick.
*Fits my car perfectly with my new **Latest.Bike** raker , very easy to set up and take down. Great quality and price, very happy with this purchase!*
Purchased one lightly used, 2 bike variant. Too difficult to play with top mounting racks (front wheel removed w/ disc adapter) on a RAV 4 and felt unsteady on a ladder with a bike, after rides, so hitch rack it is and no doubt some better fuel efficiency. Like how this rack does not occlude the rear camera, a definite plus! I have to order a tool to tighten the rear cam (did not come with) to remove the hitch movement. Appreciate the video!
Great review! I’m sold.
Just got mine. Great video
So originally I was thinking about getting another rack from another company but good grief, it was taking way too long to get the order filled so hopefully this rack, the V2 1 will be in my hands by the end of this month…fingers crossed 🤞🏽. I’ll have my comments after I use it😎
Just installed the V2 1 bike model, and loving it!
Same here. I owned the original and was rear ended with this on. My car was not damaged but my rack took a bit of a beating. I waited forever for this new version to arrive so my insurance could replace it. Yes!
How’s this holding up after a year? A local shop is telling me to go with Thule because it’s made in the US but I’m interested in this Kuat.
I no longer have it. I bought the Thule T2 Pro XTR 4 bike rack. There's nothing wrong with the Kuat, but the Thule definitely feels sturdier.
My V2 is starting to rock back and fourth a lot. Not the hitch but the cups that hold the wheels and pretty loose now. So when you turn or hit a bump, the bike rocks back and fourth.
My honest review is it sucks.
Please confirm at 5:31 the tail gate touches the handle bar even the rack is tilted 45 degrees.
Yes, unfortunately on my setup the tail gate does touch the handlebar by a decent amount. My bars are 780mm wide so a smaller bike might be fine.
To add on to that, on the version 1 the bike rack would touch the ground when tilting it back, the Version 2 does not touch the ground.
@@dtvolleyball i have also a 780mm handlebar, now kuat transfer might not be my 1st option anymore, your review review really helps. Thank you
No problem, if you don't need a 3 bike rack, the Tule T2 Pro XT is a really good option
@@dtvolleyball cool, XT is in3my list also, thanks for recommending.
Why does this rack state a 40lb per-bike limit when other cheaply built racks (Saris Freedom 2 for example) have a 60lb limit?? I cannot wrap my head around this...
I am having hard time choosing between these models. There are two versions 1.25" and 2" one. I am leaning towards 2" one since I don't really like adapters and is worried about wobble. But 2'' are harder to find for some reason. Is there really a big difference between them? All my bikes are pretty light, so weight capacity is not a deciding factor for me.
If you are worried about wobble, I'd also consider the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR built like a tank. But for road bikes or light bikes the Kuat is more the adequate. I also had the old version that was 1.25" adapted to 2" and I could load 3 full suspension bikes on it no problem. It did bounce a bit on bumps though.
I just received it -the V2-. The ads says it fits 2 and 1-1/4-inch receiver (my car hitch is 1.25). Because is clear it is for 2-inch, there is a video how it works? or do I need to buy first an adapter?
Do you recall how the stability was? It looks like the mounting point it’s very snug but above that there is some give and rattle?
Correct, the mounting point is snug, but there definitely is some movement after that. It is a big improvement over the V1 though. Unless you go over really bumpy roads you shouldn't notice it moving.
so you cant open your rav4 trunk door it seems??? I have the same rav4 so I need to know.
No you can't open the trunk fully, my bars are very wide though. I no longer have that bike rack, I now have the Thule T2 Pro XTR and I can open the trunk. Was never a deal breaker though, it's just sturdier.
1:51 not sure what this means. wish you put up a picture showing difference.
It's essentially the same thing. The ball cam is just a "ball" that when tightened pushes inside the hitch to hold it in. The flat lock cam is more of a square so there is more surface area that touches the inside of the hitch when tightened.
I have heard that this rack is now "RV" camper rated . Do you know if this is correct ?
Sorry for the late response. I know some racks are specifically RV rated, but for this one all I could find is the information below.
Dedicated 2” hitch version in the 2 bike configuration can be directly mounted on campers, recreational vehicles, or trailers with CHASSIS MOUNTED RECEIVERS ONLY.
Great video, is the v2 3 bike meant for 1¼ hitch?
I think I have the kuat transfer 2 v1. I just bought the single add on extension. Will it fit??
I haven't tried, but the v2 add on has a lock on the end of the rails. I believe that's the only difference though looking at photos online.
Thanks for a great video! Any thoughts on the transfer vs Sherpa?
Although I haven't seen the Sherpa in person, I imagine it would be more sturdy. One thing to also keep in mind is the wheelbase of the bikes you will be putting on the rack. I believe the Transfer allows for longer wheelbase bikes.
Thanks for the video! I ordered the rack today after thinking for a long time as it was the only 1-bike rack that reviewers said was probably most user friendly. I don't expect that I will be transporting my bike often except maybe several times a year, but was wondering whether it is a hassle to access the tailgate when there is no bike on?
Thanks! I don't find it that much of an inconvenience. It's quite quick to fold down the rack to open the trunk. I don't use my rear trunk that often though. Since I have a RAV4 I can also grab stuff from the inside and just fold down the rear seat.
How do you fold the locking arm so easily ? Isnt it screwed on?
The one that clamps the front wheel? It's on a plastic pivot joint. Is that what you mean?
@@dtvolleyball yes . Hopefully I didn’t install it wrong
@@sokhoeunou3086 That bolt shouldn't be super tight so that it can rotate assuming we're talking about the same bolt. If you loosen if off a bit, does it move freely?
@@dtvolleyball Thank you
Great video
Great review Duy- I am in the process of getting the V2 1 bike rack for my 45lb eMTB E-bike. I noticed you have a front fender flap that the hook clamps down on. Have you found that to be a problem when securing it causing the flap to deform or get damaged? I would have liked if the hook mech could be moved to the center to clamp down on the frame. I think the Rocky Mount has that feature.
Thank you!
The fender on mine is mostly on the back side of the fork so the hook on the clamp doesn't actually touch it, I should have taken a closer video of that, oops! I have the Rock Shox fender.
@@dtvolleyball Yes, I have the SKS which flaps to the front by a couple of inches. I have seen riders place the hook more towards the front with no issues. Do you think I could load my 45lb E-bike while the rack is tilted downward closer to the ground for easier access? Just a thought.
I wouldn't move the hook too far forward, but a couple inches is probably fine. Just be careful because if you clamp further away from the fork the clamp doesn't close down as much as it does when it's closer to the fork. So if the bike shifts around while driving and the clamp happens to move closer towards the fork, now there will be a gap and your bike will move around. If there is a fender stopping the clamp from moving though, it should be fine. Tilting the rack down to load would be fine, you just need to get the front wheel hook partially on, then you can tighten everything else up after. The open U shape of this rack does make loading bikes much easier then other traditionally shaped racks though.
@@dtvolleyball You are awesome dude! This is exactly what my concern was before purchase. Less lifting saves the back with a heavy bike. Ride safe and enjoy!
Looking at the 3 bike Transfer v2. Have you found any issues?
I ended up switching to the Thule T2 Pro XT. My reason was because I got a good deal on it and I can drive into my garage with a 2 bike rack folded down. No issues with the Kuat, for the price it's a good rack, although the Thule is quite a bit more overbuilt.
Thanks for the quick and helpful review. Do you find the difference in price between your Thule and this Kuat is worth it? Why or why not? I’m looking for a 2 (with add on) or 3 bike platform rack for a 1.25” hitch.
It depends what bikes you're transporting. I find the Thule more stable when I have 2 full suspension bikes on, especially over bumpy roads. But with the 1.25" hitch I think I'd go with either rack as I don't think there would be a big difference. The Kuat is fully capable of carrying 3 full suspension bikes, but over bumpy terrain it does seem to bounce more.
For me I think it's worth the little extra money for the Thule T2 Pro over the Kuat Transfer V2. Especially since I plan to get the 2 bike add on in the future. I originally switched from the 3 bike Kuat to the 2 bike Thule because I wanted to be able to drive into my garage with the bikes still on the rack haha.
@@dtvolleyball thanks for your insight! I’ll be carrying a FS, hard tail and 16” kids bike. Leaning toward the Kuat given the lower cost and carrying a lower overall weight of the bikes. However, I’ll dig into the features to get a better idea of value for my use.
@@magnate2372 no worries! I think if you put the heavier bike closest to the car you won't have any issues. I carried 3 full suspension bikes up Bragg Creek (in Alberta, Canada) with the version 1 of this rack and although it did bounce a bit, it was fine, the V2 is more sturdy too.
@@dtvolleyball I just found out from a Kuat support rep that their 1.25 inch options are limited to 2 bike version that doesn’t support an add on. I wonder if using a 2 to 1.25 inch hitch adapter would be safe...
@@magnate2372 If you wanted to go with the Kuat I think I would look for the version 1. It can for sure hold 3 bikes and is for a 1.25" hitch. I personally wouldn't try to use an adapter.
how to determine the version i have is it v1 or v2. Is there a way to say ?
The v2 mounting mechanism expands inside the hitch to keep it from wobbling. The v1 is a bolt that stops it from rattling.
@@dtvolleyball mine got a pin with a lock once inside the hitch..
@@rocket2811 that sounds like the v1
@@dtvolleyball is it bad in comparison to v2?
@@dtvolleyball Thanks..From your knowledge how does V1 compare to V2..I got this used decent two bike rack with integrated locks for 200$ should i be concerned about V1 was unable to research my bad.
Any concerns with long wheelbase bikes kind of hanging off the rear tire mounting point? I see that it’s strapped in but I wonder if they’re less secure than shorter bikes. I ride an XL so a little worried about it not being fully secured.
The rack also looked a little wobbly when you gave it a shake. Is that from the receiver or from the connections on the rack itself?
Thanks
My bike is an XL too with quite a long wheelbase. I wouldn't have any concerns with the bike falling off.
Now as far as how wobbly the rack is, I now also have a Thule T2 Pro and it is a lot sturdier especially when going over speedbumps, but the Kuat is definitely useable. The connection to the car on the Kuat is solid, it's everything you else that moves.
I just purchased this rack. I have a 1-1/4 receiver on my car. I don't understand the hitch pin they give you it's very small my receiver normally takes a half inch hitch pin can you explain? Good job on the video thank you
I haven't seen the 1.25" receiver version (this one was the 2"), but since the rack holds itself in with the ball cam lock system the hitch pin is just there for added security. If a bigger hitch pin fits you could buy a bigger one to get rid of the slop, they're usually less then $5 for a basic one.
@@dtvolleyball thanks for the fast reply. I just put the rack on the car tonight and ran into this. I thought maybe the pin was just a backup. Like you said it basically holds itself. If you use the pin that comes with it what stops someone from steeling your rack? Or do you put it in your car
Ya, unfortunately unless you buy a pin lock, anyone with an allen key could come and take the hitch.
You could use the supplied lock to attach it to your hitch though when bikes aren't loaded on.
@@dtvolleyball yes that's a very good idea thank you. Good luck with more informational videos. I know they're a lot of work but they do help people out.
Hi, does the hitch pin come with a lock? Can a lock be purchased
Yes if you pause the video at 4:18 you'll see the black hitch pin in the bottom left corner. Kuat sells a hitch lock for about $30 Canadian if you wanted some added security.
@@dtvolleyball thanks. I will look into a hitch lock. Thanks again!
@@dtvolleyball hi. Is the hitch pin threaded?
@@Jojoboogie only on the Version 1. The version 2 is essentially held in by friction. The hitch pin is just there for added security.
@@dtvolleyball thanks!
Hi Duy, I am from Alberta as well, would you mind sharing where you ordered it?
I bought it from Racks For Cars. Unfortunately the price has increased quite substantially though. I can't recommend the rack at the hugely inflated price of $1k CAD. There are much better racks at that price point.
What size bike is that? How long is the wheelbase?
It's an XL, 1240.1mm/48.8" wheelbase
Thanks for the awesome review! Had a feeling you were in Edmonton and I was right lol. Where did you buy yours? I'm wondering where's the best place to get one in town.
Haha thanks! Got it from Racks for Cars
@@dtvolleyball thanks. They didn't have it in stock so I got a Thule Helium instead. I think it's a nicer rack. You should check it out.
That rack looks really nice! For me it came down to price. I'm currently using the Thule T2 Pro actually. Reason I switched is because I wanted to be able to back into the garage with the bikes still on the rack haha.
Great vid!! Was wanting to know the difference. I have the V1 version and I recall buying it for under 200 US dollars. This V2 is in the 300+ dollar range, which is crazy. Going to sell my V1, and getting the Thule Outway platform. Since I lost my hitch, going from an Audi Q5 to now a Q3. I was going to sell it for under 150 dollars, with the hitch and front tire/frame locks. Might be able to sell it fairly quick.
Rift Zone!!