By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Product Research and Writer
Gloria is a talented writer based in Chattanooga, TN and enjoys kayaking and mountain biking. She graduated with a business degree in 2007 and is now working on a master's i read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Vehicle Fit Expert and Consultant
Steven is a skilled car mechanic based in Denver, CO. He's a passionate hiker, devoted backcountry camper and his mechanic expertise allows him to maximize space in any vehi read more
Last updated: August 22, 2023

RockyMounts Splitrail LS Review: Can It Compete with Higher-End Brands? (Fall 2023)

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By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Product Research and Writer
Gloria is a talented writer based in Chattanooga, TN and enjoys kayaking and mountain biking. She graduated with a business degree in 2007 and is now working on a master's i read more
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Vehicle Fit Expert and Consultant
Steven is a skilled car mechanic based in Denver, CO. He's a passionate hiker, devoted backcountry camper and his mechanic expertise allows him to maximize space in any vehi read more
Last updated: August 22, 2023
Rack Advisor is reader-supported. We earn commission on products purchased via the links on this page. Learn more
Ideal for
  • A family looking for a tray-based rack that can carry 20-inch kids’ bikes
  • Those who wants the flexibility of swapping between a 2. 3, or 4 bike capacity
  • Anyone looking for a rack that folds up flush against the car
Highlights
  • Lightweight build
  • Can carry up to 120 pounds
  • Adaptable to carrying more than 2 bikes.
Editor's Rating
9,8
out of 10
  • Functionality
    9.7
  • Weight/bike capacity
    9.8
  • Durability
    9.8
  • Warranty
    9.9
Users’ Rating
4
out of 5
102 Users’ Rating
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rating
rating rating rating rating rating
4
out of
5
102 Users’ Rating
  • 5 stars
    17%
  • 4 stars
    72%
  • 3 stars
    9%
  • 2 stars
    3%
  • 1 stars
    0%
Add your rating:

The RockyMounts Splitrail LS Bike Rack is a fantastic hitch mount rack that can carry 2 bikes of almost any size. It is incredibly affordable and is packed with amazing features that make traveling with your bikes super-easy and secure. The rack works with a 2-inch receiver and it is expandable to carry up to 3 or 4 bikes with add-ons. You can carry any type of bike on the rack from 20-inch kids’ bikes to extra-large downhill bikes.

Some of the distinct features of the RockyMounts Splitrail LS Bike Rack are ease of use, adjustability, and an integrated locking system. Its adaptability makes it the perfect setup for a family of 3 or 4. The rack’s overall quality is also very impressive. It comes in a lightweight but very sturdy build. This RockyMounts Splitrail LS Bike Rack Review has all the information you would need to know before purchasing it. Read on to find out if it’s worth giving a shot.

Specifications

Vehicle type
Passenger car, bicycle
Hitch size
2”
Max. bike wheelbase
34-50”
Max bike wheel diameter
20-29”
Max tire width
3”
Load capacity
2 bikes, 60 lbs. each
Dimensions
9.1” x 9.1” x 9.1”
Weight
44 lbs.

Review

The RockyMounts Splitrail LS Bike Rack is one of the most affordable bike racks yet it offers the great functionality and quality as most higher-end brands. It has all the features you would need to transport your bikes efficiently, from a tilt down rear hatch access to adaptability to fit more than 2 bikes. Here are some of its distinguishing features in details.

Design and Functionality

RockyMounts Splitrail LS Review: Can It Compete with Higher-End Brands? (Fall 2023)
The Splitrail LS features a shepherd’s hook system and standard tray to hold the bikes’ tires

The Splitrail LS comes in an eye-catching design that is also highly functional. It is also pretty lightweight thus easy to mount and take off. Moreover, it has a low, sleek profile and its shepherd’s arms lay down flat to allow the rack to fold up cleanly and neatly. The rack uses the shepherd’s hook system and standard tray to hold the bikes’ tires. Each bike gets its own tray, shepherd’s hook, and wheel straps for the rear tires.

Mount

Mounting your bikes on the Splitrail is a no-brainer. It features multiple mounting points that allow you to offset the trays as you want. The trays are placed in opposite directions so that you mount the bikes in opposite directions. You can shift the trays left and right to prevent shifters, handlebars, and brakes between the bikes from rubbing against each other while on the rack.

Hitch Size and Height

The Splitrail has a very convenient low profile. Its lower position makes it easier for kids and shorter adults to load and unload it.

Weight Capacity

The Splitrail can carry 2 bikes of up to 60 pounds each but it is expandable to hold more bikes with add-ons.

The add-on kits are sold in singles allowing you to switch between a 2, 3, or 4 bike capacity as you like.

Bike Compatibility

The Splitrail can carry nearly all kinds of bikes Trusted Source Types of Bikes | Mountain Bike vs. Road Bike Use this handy guide to find the type of bike that best suits you and your riding, whether it’s a classic road bike, a new e-bike, or something in between. www.bicycling.com with 20-inches and more. It is compatible with bikes’ wheelbases that range from 34 inches to 50 inches. Unlike most bike racks, you wouldn’t need adapters to fit the 20-inch and 24-inch kids bikes on the rack. The rack holds tires up to 3 inches wide. It is not suitable for fat bikes and with its tray’s design, you cannot mount an adapter to carry fat bikes.

What’s more, the Splitrail rack offers adequate bike spacing. The first 2 bikes of the rack have a whole 11.5 inches of space. When you have a 3 tray setup, the space between the 2nd and 3rd bike is also 11.5 inches. A 4 tray setup forces a closer positioning of the last 2 bikes, but still get to be 9.25 inches apart.

Vehicle Compatibility

RockyMounts Splitrail LS Review: Can It Compete with Higher-End Brands? (Fall 2023)
The Splitrail bike rack has an adjustable fit and can be used on any type of passenger car

You can use the Splitrail bike rack on any type of passenger car. You can check RockyMounts website or call their customer care to find out if the bike rack is compatible with your car to avoid any inconveniences. However, since Splitrail’s fit is adjustable, it can be used with multiple cars. If you have a unique car then it would help to be prudent but if your car is common then you have nothing to worry about.

Durability

The RockyMounts Splitrail LS Bike Rack is built to last with robust aluminum and chromyl. It is sturdy enough to withstand a long off-the road drive without affecting the bike’s security. After months of use, you will notice that the rack’s parts are still intact and your bikes won’t show any signs of wear and tear that result from making contact with the rack.

Accessories

The Splitrail doesn’t come with as many accessories as some of its competitors. Its accessories include a wall mount hook that makes storing the unit easier and space-saving. Also included are an integrated cable lock and locking-hitch pin that enhances the security of your bikes.

Warranty

Rockymount offers a lifetime warranty Trusted Source Warranty Information At RockyMounts we offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty for products purchased after January 1, 2014 to the original owner. rockymounts.com on all of its products. The Splitrail bike rack is guaranteed to last you a lifetime and should you encounter any issues that result from manufacturing or material defects you can return it for a free replacement. The warranty doesn’t cover normal wear and tear or any damages caused during installation because of failure to follow instructions.

PROS CONS
  • Can switch to either 2,3, o 4-bike capacity
  • Offers ample spacing between bikes
  • Convenient low profile when folded up
  • Tray can be offset left to right to prevent the bikes for rubbing against each other
  • Can tilt to allow access to the rear hatch
  • Sits lower on the hitch compared to other racks
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Cannot hold tires wider than 3 inches

 

 

Conclusion

This RockyMounts Splitrail LS Bike Rack Review depicts the unit as a fully-featured and reasonably priced bike rack. It is a prime option for families or anyone who doesn’t have kids and would the flexibility of switching between a 2, 3, or 4 bike capacity. Its build quality is pretty solid. Plus, it wouldn’t break your back trying to set it up. Other unique features like ample spacing between bikes, slim low-profile build, and ability to offset trays set it apart from other hitch racks within its range.

References

1.
Types of Bikes | Mountain Bike vs. Road Bike
Use this handy guide to find the type of bike that best suits you and your riding, whether it’s a classic road bike, a new e-bike, or something in between.
2.
Warranty Information
At RockyMounts we offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty for products purchased after January 1, 2014 to the original owner.
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