If you don’t have time and just want hear the key points of this article, here they are:
In the grand scheme of things, I feel the FullSwing 4 is a highly functional bike rack with a lot to offer. Its standout features include easy access to the car trunk, anti-sway cradles, full integrated security, and user-friendly installation. While it’s not lightweight and might not be suitable for all types of bikes or vehicle hitches, it compensates with features that ensure secure and damage-free transport of up to four bikes.
I like that it’s accommodating for families and groups of friends, offering easy access to the trunk and an integrated bottle opener for post-ride refreshments. However, its weight and compatibility limitations might deter people with heavier bikes, different hitch receiver sizes, or specific vehicle types.
It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but if you’re someone who values ease-of-use, security, vehicle and bike protection and doesn’t mind the weight, the FullSwing 4 could be a worthwhile choice. However, always ensure it fits your specific needs and bike type before making a decision. This is just my humble opinion, and what works for me might not work for you.
In conclusion, the FullSwing 4 is a robust and well-rounded product that caters to a wide range of users, despite its limitations.
Quick links:
Yakima FullSwing 4-Bike Hitch Rack Review: Who is it for?
In my humble opinion, the Yakima FullSwing 4 Hitch Rack, henceforth referred to as FullSwing 4, is a versatile bike rack that could appeal to various user profiles. To better understand who this product is for, let’s take a comprehensive look at its features and technical specs.
First, the FullSwing 4 allows for the bikes to swing out of the way with a single touch, providing easy access to the back of the vehicle. This feature makes it an excellent choice for those who frequently need to access their car’s trunk on trips. Whether you’re a family on a weekend getaway needing frequent access to your luggage, or an outdoor enthusiast who needs to reach their camping gear, this feature could be very beneficial.
The tilt-down mast, which lowers the rack when the bikes are removed, further enhances this accessibility. This would be particularly useful for people who regularly transport their bikes and require full use of their vehicle once the bikes are off-loaded, such as mountain bikers or trail riders.
Next, consider the anti-sway bike cradles that eliminate bike-to-bike and bike-to-vehicle contact. This is a feature that anyone transporting multiple bikes would appreciate. It ensures smooth, damage-free travel, making it ideal for those who value their bikes and want to keep them in the best possible condition.
The FullSwing 4’s generous padding on the arms and rubber straps on each cradle help secure and protect the bikes during transit, making it suitable for those who value their bikes and want to keep them in prime condition.
The product also includes fully integrated security that locks the bikes to the rack and locks the rack to the vehicle, ideal for those who need to leave their bikes unattended at times. So, if you’re stopping for a bite to eat on the way to your trail, or resting at a hotel during a long drive, the FullSwing 4 offers that extra peace of mind.
Its user-friendly installation requiring no tools could appeal to those who aren’t mechanically inclined or simply value quick and hassle-free assembly.
One unique feature is the integrated bottle opener. While this might seem like a minor detail, it could be appealing for those who enjoy a cold beverage after their ride.
In terms of technical specs, the FullSwing 4 can hold up to four bikes with a maximum weight of 40 pounds each, fitting into a 2-inch receiver hitch. This makes it ideal for families or groups of friends who enjoy cycling together.
However, it’s important to note that it’s not intended for tandem or recumbent bikes and carrying bikes with step-through frames requires the purchase of an adapter. This would rule out some user profiles, so it’s worth considering your bike type before purchasing.
Overall, I’d say the FullSwing 4 is a well-rounded product with features that would appeal to a broad range of active individuals and families. However, it caters best to those who prioritize ease of access, vehicle and bike protection, security, and simple installation.
Yakima FullSwing 4-Bike Hitch Rack Review: Who isn’t it for?
Now, let’s flip the coin and talk about who might not find the FullSwing 4 the best choice. While I believe it has a lot to offer, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
First off, the FullSwing 4’s weight might be a deal-breaker for some. At 56 pounds, it’s a bit on the hefty side. If you’re someone who often needs to install and remove your bike rack, you might find this to be a bit cumbersome. Especially for those who aren’t particularly strong or those who are looking for a lightweight rack, this could be a significant downside.
While the FullSwing 4 can handle up to four bikes, it has a maximum weight limit of 40 pounds per bike. Now, this might be fine for most standard bikes, but if you own heavier electric bikes or fat bikes, this might not be the rack for you. So, for those who are into e-bikes or heavier bicycle models, I would suggest looking into other options.
Also, while the side swing option for trunk access is a boon for many, it may not work well for all vehicle types. For instance, if your vehicle’s back door opens upwards instead of sideways, the swing-out feature might not be that useful. So, consider your vehicle type before deciding on this rack.
Another point to note is that the FullSwing 4 is designed for 2-inch receiver hitches. If your vehicle doesn’t have one, or if it has a smaller or larger hitch receiver, this rack won’t be compatible. So, if you’re a person with a vehicle that doesn’t match this spec, you’d need to steer clear of the FullSwing 4.
Lastly, the FullSwing 4 doesn’t support tandem or recumbent bikes. And if you have a step-through frame bike, you’d need to buy a separate adapter. This could be a hassle for some, particularly if you were hoping for a straightforward, no-extra-purchases-necessary kind of deal. So, if you own these types of bikes, you might want to look elsewhere.
To sum it up, I think the FullSwing 4 is a pretty solid choice for most people. But it may not be the best fit for folks who own heavy or unusual bikes, have different hitch receiver sizes, require a lightweight rack, or whose vehicles have upward-opening rear doors. Always remember – it’s about finding the right balance between your needs and what a product offers. Happy biking!
Yakima FullSwing 4-Bike Hitch Rack Review: Conclusion
In the grand scheme of things, I feel the FullSwing 4 is a highly functional bike rack with a lot to offer. Its standout features include easy access to the car trunk, anti-sway cradles, full integrated security, and user-friendly installation. While it’s not lightweight and might not be suitable for all types of bikes or vehicle hitches, it compensates with features that ensure secure and damage-free transport of up to four bikes.
I like that it’s accommodating for families and groups of friends, offering easy access to the trunk and an integrated bottle opener for post-ride refreshments. However, its weight and compatibility limitations might deter people with heavier bikes, different hitch receiver sizes, or specific vehicle types.
It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, but if you’re someone who values ease-of-use, security, vehicle and bike protection and doesn’t mind the weight, the FullSwing 4 could be a worthwhile choice. However, always ensure it fits your specific needs and bike type before making a decision. This is just my humble opinion, and what works for me might not work for you.
In conclusion, the FullSwing 4 is a robust and well-rounded product that caters to a wide range of users, despite its limitations.