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: September 05, 2023

Yakima Fullback 2 Review: A Solid Option for Multiple Bikes (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: September 05, 2023
Rack Advisor is reader-supported. We earn commission on products purchased via the links on this page. Learn more
Ideal for
  • Those looking to transport 2 or 3 bikes
  • Anyone looking for a visually appealing bike carrier
  • Cycling enthusiasts looking for a mix of durability and affordability
Main features
  • Premium high-gloss finish
  • 4-strap, compact design for easy installation and storage
  • Folding arms with anti-sway cradles
Editor's Rating
9,6
out of 10
  • Functionality
    9.6
  • Weight capacity
    9.2
  • Durability
    9.6
  • Installation
    9.8
Users’ Rating
4.5
out of 5
98 Users’ Rating
rating rating rating rating rating
rating
rating rating rating rating rating
4.5
out of
5
98 Users’ Rating
  • 5 stars
    67%
  • 4 stars
    21%
  • 3 stars
    8%
  • 2 stars
    3%
  • 1 stars
    0%
Add your rating:

Anyone who likes to move around with their bike knows how much of a hassle it can be, especially with the conventional strap racks. The strap racks are usually the top choice for most people because they are affordable, but they are not the most durable option in the real sense. Also, they put the vehicle at risk of getting damaged. The Yakima Fullback 2 bike carrier is the ultimate solution. It is an affordable and durable trunk-mounted two-bike rack.

Strap-on trunk racks like this popular Yakima fullback are usually much easier to install, remove, and store. It comes in a 4 strap and compact design that makes installation and storage a breeze. It also has impressive features like ZipStrip cradles that offer premium bike protection. In this Yakima fullback 2 bike carrier review, we provide all the information about the unit. It could be your next best investment.

This product's also been included into these rankings:

Our #5 pick for the best bike racks for prius

Specifications

Bike capacity
2
Weight capacity
30 lbs. per bike
Dimensions
30 x 25 x 22 in.
Weight
22 lbs.
Warranty
Lifetime limited

Review

With the Yakima Fullback 2 bike carrier, transporting your bike will be a breeze. The trunk-mounted 2-bike rack compares favorably to roof-mounted bike trays and hitch-mounted rear racks because it doesn’t put all the bike’s weight on the car. It is easier to install, uninstall, and store. Plus, it will leave your car in perfect condition even after a couple of uses. Here are a few more reasons why you should buy the bike rack:

Design and functionality

Yakima Fullback 2 Review: A Solid Option for Multiple Bikes (Fall 2023)
This bike rack comes in a compact design and features a durable frame with an appealing high-gloss finish

The Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier comes in a solid design that makes it easier to use and store. It boasts a bomber external frame with a premium high-gloss finish that gives it a fantastic visual appeal. It won’t mess up your car’s aesthetics. Together with protective padding, the robust frame guarantees you full protection of your bike against any form of abrasion.

Moreover, the unit features ZipStrip cradles that take care of all of your security concerns as they allow you to attach your bikes securely. The cradles also make installation and removal of the bikes a breeze. Besides, the cradles are 4 strategically placed straps to allow for easy and intuitive bike attachment.

As if that’s enough, the bike carrier comes in a compact build that is pretty easy to store when not in use.

Weight capacity

In case you didn’t know, the Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier is called a 2-bike carrier, but it is built to carry up to 3 bikes. This makes it a prime option for families with multiple bikes. The carrier can bear at least 30 pounds for each bike it carries. In total, it can carry a maximum weight of 90 pounds, which is pretty impressive because the average boot bike carrier can hold a maximum weight of between 66 and 99 pounds.

The latest research Trusted Source How Much Does A Bike Weigh? | Bicycle Universe So, how much does a bike weigh? In this article we take a look at a few different types of bikes and see what the average weight is is and why. bicycleuniverse.com suggests that the average bike weight is anything between 20 and 40 pounds. You have to be sure of the weight of your bikes before loading them on the bike rack to avoid weighing them down.

Bike compatibility

Yakima Fullback 2 Review: A Solid Option for Multiple Bikes (Fall 2023)
The rack best fits road bikes with narrow handlebars

Industry experts Trusted Source Bike Car Rack Guide | Tredz Bikes Our car rack guide will show you how to choose the best car rack for your needs – roof, boot or towbar. Click here for car rack compatibility information www.tredz.co.uk advise on being extra keen on bike compatibility before purchasing a bike rack. The Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier is best suited for drop-bar road bikes. It does come with a sub-par top-tube bar meant for use with any type of bike, but it seems to struggle with full-suspension mountain bikes.

A mountain bike with wide handlebars would be a great undoing to the Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier. When you place it on the inner spot, it will hit your car on one side and get tangled with the second bike’s rear wheel on the other side. You may want to look elsewhere if you have mountain bikes unless it’s a hardtail mountain bike with narrow bars.

What’s more, placing small bikes or bikes with a large water bottle in the mainframe needs some patience or expertise.

Vehicle compatibility

The Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier is compatible with most modern cars and is super-easy to install. However, it is not compatible with older car models. This is because of its modern design. The older car models require different configurations offered by the unit, which makes installation a bit of a challenge.

Durability

Just one glance at the Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier’s solid frame is enough to convince you that it is built to last. The rack boasts a rugged design with its bomber external frame and other durable parts. It is way better than strap racks that wear out quickly. With this unit, you would never have to worry about making another purchase soon.

Accessories

Yakima Fullback 2 Review: A Solid Option for Multiple Bikes (Fall 2023)
Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier comes with a handy bottle opener, removable ZipStrips, and an SKS locking package for maximum security.

The more accessories a product comes with, the better the value for your money and the easier it is to use. Luckily, the Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier comes with a couple. It features an SKS locking package that offers maximum security. It not only secures the rack to the vehicle but also protects your bike from being stolen. The removable ZipStrips are also useful accessories. They make bike loading and unloading super easy.

Another impressive accessory is a bottle opener that allows you to enjoy a cold beer or energy drink when you reach your destination.

Warranty

Yakima offers a limited lifetime warranty for this bike rack. In case of any manufacturing defects, Yakima will repair or replace the product free of charge. The warranty does not cover issues caused by normal wear and tear, accidents, or unlawful vehicle operation. They also don’t repair items damaged when being transported on the bike carrier.

If you feel you qualify for the warranty, you can easily return it to the Yakima dealer for repairs or replacements. Do note that you will be responsible for the cost of sending the unit back to the manufacturer.

Price

The best thing about the Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier is that it is a premium quality trunk bike rack with a price tag that doesn’t match its name. It is incredibly affordable, compared to other units within its range. As of now (October 4, 2021), the unit goes for 259 dollars only. This is pretty fair considering the bike rack has a cool modern design to complement your ride, is remarkably easy to install and uninstall, and has tons of cool features that make it both fun and functional.

Security

Yes, you want to move your bikes from point A to B, but what you want the most is to reach your final destination with their quality intact. You will appreciate that the bike rack’s design is centered on offering maximum security to your bikes. Your bikes ‘ safety is guaranteed from the SuperCrush ZipStrip cradles to the full locking package with SKS bike locking. The SKS bike locking is pretty cool. It can be locked without a key and is very tight to pull out its tiny recess.

Number dial

This is a bonus feature that makes the installation of the carrier quicker and simpler.

Installation

Yakima Fullback 2 Review: A Solid Option for Multiple Bikes (Fall 2023)
To install the rack on your vehicle, you just need to thread the straps through the mounting hooks. Then mount a bike and lock it up with the integrated lock.

Putting the Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier on a vehicle is pretty straightforward. You don’t even need a toolbox to set it up, and you will not spend more than 5 minutes. Plus, in case you get stuck, you can always refer to the instruction manual provided.

The first thing you will need to do is thread the straps through the mounting hooks. Unlike other trunk racks, this carrier only uses two lower and two upper straps to attach to the car. Most trunk racks usually have at least two straps on the sides. Despite having no straps on the side, the carrier feels snug and secure with the 4 straps.

The straps are adequately long, and Yakima includes little loops for managing the extra length. After installing it successfully, you can mount the bike then lock it up with the integrated lock. You can even lock it without a key.

PROS CONS
  • Easy to install and remove
  • Compact design for easy storage
  • Can carry up to 3 bikes
  • Premium high-gloss finish that offers a high aesthetic value
  • SKS locking package that prevents theft
  • Durable construction
  • Easy number dial for fast and easy installation
  • Affordable
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Not compatible with older car models
  • Not the best for small bikes

 

Conclusion

From our detailed Yakima Fullback 2 Bike Carrier review, it is evident that the unit is a solid choice for anyone who has multiple bikes. It is hard to beat its aesthetic value, consistency, ease of use, and durability at its price point. It is perfect for hauling road bikes and hardtail mountain bikes with narrow bars. If you want to mount other types of bikes, you can buy the Yakima top tube separately.

References

1.
How Much Does A Bike Weigh? | Bicycle Universe
So, how much does a bike weigh? In this article we take a look at a few different types of bikes and see what the average weight is is and why.
2.
Bike Car Rack Guide | Tredz Bikes
Our car rack guide will show you how to choose the best car rack for your needs – roof, boot or towbar. Click here for car rack compatibility information
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