If you’re short on time and just want the highlights of this article, here it is:
In a nutshell, the HighRoad bike mount from Yakima seems to offer a lot of versatility and convenience for a broad range of biking enthusiasts. Its adjustment-free hoop and TorqueRight tightening knob, wide wheel compatibility, zero-frame contact feature, universal mounting hardware, and integrated lock loop all make it a highly practical and protective transport solution for your bike.
However, this mount might not be the best fit for everyone. Its 18-pound weight, lack of included locks, maximum weight capacity of 45 pounds, potential compatibility issues with certain roof racks, and subjective aesthetic appeal are all factors some people might find less than ideal.
Ultimately, it seems like the HighRoad could be a great addition to your biking gear if its features align with your needs and preferences. But like with any product, I’d recommend considering your specific requirements and circumstances before deciding if it’s the right fit for you.
Remember, this is just my humble opinion based on the product’s attributes and potential drawbacks. Always do your own research to make the most informed decision. Happy biking!
Quick links:
Yakima HighRoad Bike Mount Review: Who is it for?
From my humble perspective, the Yakima HighRoad Bike Mount, or let’s just call it the HighRoad from now on for simplicity’s sake, is a versatile tool that would suit a wide array of biking enthusiasts. Now, I’m not claiming to be an expert or anything, but let’s delve into its features and specs a bit more and try to unravel just who this mount is perfect for.
Firstly, it’s important to highlight the fact that the HighRoad has an adjustment-free hoop and TorqueRight tightening knob that can load a variety of bikes quickly and effortlessly. This means that, whether you’re someone who has a fleet of different bikes for different terrains and weathers, or just one beloved two-wheeler, the HighRoad has got you covered. Its versatile wheel hoop can accommodate 26 to 29-inch wheels and tires from 23 mm to 4 inches wide. No adjustments needed. Isn’t that nifty?
Furthermore, the mount requires no wheel removal and makes no contact with the bike frame. If you’re someone who’s invested in a carbon fiber bike or a bike with a custom paint job, this is pretty much music to your ears. The HighRoad’s design offers a great way to transport your bike without worrying about damaging it. I think this feature would particularly appeal to those more meticulous bikers out there who want to maintain their bikes in pristine condition.
On the practical side, the HighRoad comes with universal mounting hardware that fits most roof racks, and it’s tool-free. So, if you’re someone who isn’t really into DIY or doesn’t want to spend hours figuring out how to attach the mount to your vehicle, you’re looking at a winner.
Another important consideration is the security aspect. The HighRoad doesn’t come with its own lock, but it does offer an integrated lock loop where you can attach your own. This is a handy feature if you frequently park your vehicle (and bike) in public places and worry about security. You can even add two SKS locks to the included TailWhip cable for heightened security, although these aren’t included. So, for those very mindful of their bike’s safety, this feature is definitely reassuring.
The HighRoad is also capable of handling a maximum bike weight of 45 pounds, so it’s perfect for those heavier bikes or for those who have a bit of extra gear on their bike. But, keep in mind that the mount itself weighs 18 pounds, so you’ll need to ensure that your vehicle’s roof rack can handle the load.
So, to sum it up, I would say the HighRoad is an ideal pick for a wide range of bikers, due to its ease of use, versatility, and security features. It’s a good fit for those who own multiple bikes or have specialized ones, place a high value on their bike’s condition and security, and prefer a hassle-free, tool-free setup. It’s a pretty neat piece of kit that I think many bikers would find quite useful. But of course, always consider your specific requirements and needs before making any decisions.
Yakima HighRoad Bike Mount Review: Who isn’t it for?
For anyone out there who might not find the HighRoad to their liking, here are a few thoughts that may resonate with you.
Firstly, if you’re someone who doesn’t like to have extra or optional accessories to consider, you might find the lack of included locks a bit of a downside. While the HighRoad does offer the convenience of adding your own locks, the fact that it doesn’t come with any might bug some people. Especially if you’re in an area where theft is a common concern, this might be something you’d have to consider.
Secondly, if you’re not the type who likes to cart around heavy objects, you might find the weight of the HighRoad a bit off-putting. It weighs 18 pounds, and while for some this might not be an issue, for others it might be a bit of a chore getting it onto your roof rack.
In addition, the HighRoad’s weight capacity might also be a downside for some. Now, 45 pounds is pretty substantial and it probably covers most bikes out there. However, if you’re someone who rides a particularly heavy bike, or if you like to load up your bike with tons of extra gear, you might find this limit restrictive.
Also, the HighRoad is designed to fit most roof racks, but that doesn’t mean it fits all. If you have a particularly unusual or unique roof rack, there’s a chance that this mount might not be compatible. From my understanding, the HighRoad does offer the possibility to integrate with T-slot crossbars with the addition of a SmarT-Slot Kit, but this is not included. So, if your roof rack requires this kind of setup, you’ll have to shell out a bit more for that kit.
Finally, from a purely aesthetic point of view, the HighRoad may not appeal to everyone. While I think it looks quite sleek and professional, personal tastes can vary widely. So, if you’re someone who places a lot of importance on the look and style of your bike accessories, you might want to see the HighRoad in person before making a decision.
In conclusion, while I think the HighRoad has a lot to offer, it may not be the right fit for everyone. There are definitely a few factors to consider, such as the weight of the mount and your bike, the compatibility with your roof rack, the lack of included locks, and the aesthetic appeal. Like anything else, it’s about weighing the pros and cons and deciding what’s most important to you. But hey, that’s just my humble opinion. Happy biking!
Yakima HighRoad Bike Mount Review: Conclusion
In a nutshell, the HighRoad bike mount from Yakima seems to offer a lot of versatility and convenience for a broad range of biking enthusiasts. Its adjustment-free hoop and TorqueRight tightening knob, wide wheel compatibility, zero-frame contact feature, universal mounting hardware, and integrated lock loop all make it a highly practical and protective transport solution for your bike.
However, this mount might not be the best fit for everyone. Its 18-pound weight, lack of included locks, maximum weight capacity of 45 pounds, potential compatibility issues with certain roof racks, and subjective aesthetic appeal are all factors some people might find less than ideal.
Ultimately, it seems like the HighRoad could be a great addition to your biking gear if its features align with your needs and preferences. But like with any product, I’d recommend considering your specific requirements and circumstances before deciding if it’s the right fit for you.
Remember, this is just my humble opinion based on the product’s attributes and potential drawbacks. Always do your own research to make the most informed decision. Happy biking!