The Benton Shifts&Grins Hitch-Mounted 2-Bike Rack is a versatile and user-friendly platform hitch rack designed for effortless bike transport. With its push-button tilt system, ratcheting hooks, and anti-rattle hitch pin, loading and securing bikes is quick and hassle-free. The rack’s adjustable pivoting arms allow you to secure bikes by the frame or front wheel, making it perfect for e-bikes, mountain bikes, fat-tire bikes, and cruisers. Plus, the extra-long wheel straps ensure a secure fit for wide tires, eliminating compatibility concerns.
What sets the Shifts&Grins apart is its Hole-in-One Hitch alignment system, which automatically aligns the hitch pin holes, making installation frustration-free. When not in use, the rack folds up neatly against your vehicle, saving space. It’s also expandable to a 4-bike capacity with an optional add-on. Whether you’re commuting, hitting the trails, or planning a road trip, this rack delivers stability, convenience, and peace of mind for all types of riders.
Finding a durable, user-friendly bike rack that securely transports your bikes without rattling or frustrating installation can be tricky. Many racks claim to be versatile, yet fail when handling e-bikes, fat tire bikes, or mountain bikes. The Benton Shifts&Grins Hitch-Mounted 2-Bike Rack aims to solve these issues with easy installation, a push-button tilting system, and secure bike mounts.
After testing this platform-style hitch bike rack with an e-bike, a mountain bike, and a beach cruiser, I found that it delivers on stability, security, and ease of use. Whether you’re an avid cyclist, weekend trail rider, or road biking enthusiast, this rack makes loading, transporting, and storing bikes hassle-free.
This in-depth review covers everything you need to know about the Shifts&Grins bike rack, including key features, real-world performance, pros and cons, and how it compares to top competitors like Kuat and Thule.
This bike rack is exclusively sold on eTrailer.com – Check price here
The Benton Shifts&Grins arrived in secure packaging, ensuring no damage during transit. The solid construction was noticeable immediately, with heavy-duty materials that suggest long-term durability.
Unlike traditional bike racks that require manual alignment and guesswork, Benton’s Hole-in-One Hitch system makes mounting frustration-free. This built-in hitch alignment collar ensures that the hitch pin holes align perfectly, eliminating wobbling or misalignment.
– Step-by-step instructions were clear and easy to follow.
– Weighty design means a second person may be helpful.
– No extra tools required—everything you need comes in the box.
A major selling point of the Shifts&Grins bike rack is its wide-ranging compatibility. I tested it with:
This rack features ratcheting hooks on pivoting arms, allowing secure mounting by the front wheel or bike frame—ideal for carbon fiber bikes, custom paint jobs, and bikes with fenders. The extra-long wheel straps easily accommodate fat tire bikes up to 5” wide, making it one of the most versatile bike racks for all riders.
The Shifts&Grins was designed for quick and hassle-free loading. Sliding wheel cradles adapt to different wheelbases, and the rubberized clamps provide a firm grip without scratching your bike frame.
Unlike racks that require complex straps or additional stabilizers, this rack’s pivoting arms and secure locking mechanism allow for a smooth and efficient loading process.
One of my favorite features is Benton’s push-button tilt mechanism, also called The Fun Button. Unlike traditional bike racks that require manual adjustments, this one-touch system allows the rack to tilt away from your vehicle, providing quick access to your trunk or hatch—even when bikes are loaded.
I used this feature multiple times when grabbing gear from my Jeep Wrangler, and it was effortless compared to racks that require removing a hitch pin.
Plus, when the rack isn’t in use, the Fun Button allows you to fold the rack up so it lays flat against your vehicle, saving space in tight parking spots.
A common problem with hitch-mounted bike racks is excessive rattling and road noise. The Benton Shifts&Grins eliminates this with an anti-rattle hitch pin and clip, which reduces movement inside the hitch receiver.
Since I tested this on my soft-top Jeep Wrangler (which amplifies road noise), I would have immediately noticed any rattling—but there was none. This makes it one of the best bike racks for a quiet ride, even on bumpy roads or highway speeds.
Benton offers a lifetime warranty for this bike rack. This speaks volumes about its quality. This kind of warranty usually covers everything except damages on the mounting surfaces or any other normal wear and tear expected in the use of the product. In case you notice your rack has failed as a result of a defect in workmanship or materials, Benton should take care of you.
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The Benton Shifts&Grins is one of the best hitch bike racks for e-bikes, fat tire bikes, and road bikes. It combines high-end features like push-button tilting, fat tire compatibility, and an anti-rattle system at a more affordable price point than competitors like Thule and Kuat.
| Feature | Benton Shifts&Grins | Kuat NV 2.0 | Thule T2 Pro XT | Yakima HoldUp |
| Bike Capacity | 2 (upgradable to 4) | 2 (upgradable) | 2 (upgradable) | 2 |
| Max Bike Weight | 55-lbs per bike | 60-lbs per bike | 60-lbs per bike | 50-lbs per bike |
| Tilt Mechanism | Push-button tilt | Foot lever tilt | Auto-tilt system | Manual tilt |
| Hitch Alignment | Built-in collar | Manual alignment | Manual alignment | Manual alignment |
| Rattling Prevention | Anti-rattle pin | Integrated wedge | Hitch tightening knob | Integrated wedge |
Verdict: The Shifts&Grins competes with premium racks like Kuat NV 2.0 and Thule T2 Pro XT, offering similar high-end features at a lower price.
Benton Website: Benton Shifts&Grins Bike Rack for 2 Bikes – BentonGear
Buy On eTrailer: Benton Shifts&Grins Bike Rack for 2 Bikes – 2″ Hitches – Wheel or Frame Mount Benton Hitch Bike Racks B54FR
