By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Research Writer
Gloria is a young, but prosperous writer. A few years ago she graduated with a Master’s degree in Journalism, and since then experiences no difficulties with job offers.
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Expert Consultant
Apart from the fact that Steven is a car mechanic, we value his experience as an avid camper. Steven knows for sure how to make the most out of any space in your vehicle.
Last updated: May 09, 2023

Yakima FullSwing Review – an Ideal Hitch Mount Rack for a Family Bike Ride! (Spring 2023)

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By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Research Writer
Gloria is a young, but prosperous writer. A few years ago she graduated with a Master’s degree in Journalism, and since then experiences no difficulties with job offers.
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Expert Consultant
Apart from the fact that Steven is a car mechanic, we value his experience as an avid camper. Steven knows for sure how to make the most out of any space in your vehicle.
Last updated: May 09, 2023
Rack Advisor is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here
Who its best for
  • Families with several bikes
  • People with numerous types of bikes
  • Bike enthusiasts who frequently transport their bikes
Key features
  • Can carry up to four bikes
  • Padded arms that reinforce grip on the contacts
  • Sturdy framework made of steel
Editor's Rating
9.8
out of 10
  • Versatility
    9.7
  • Security
    9.9
  • Durability
    9.8
  • Ease of Assembly
    9.7
  • Overall
    9.8
Users’ Rating
4.3
out of 5
156 Users’ Rating
rating rating rating rating rating
rating
rating rating rating rating rating
4.3
out of
5
156 Users’ Rating
  • 5 stars
    40%
  • 4 stars
    50%
  • 3 stars
    8%
  • 2 stars
    2%
  • 1 stars
    0%
Add your rating:

Bike fanatics are well conversant with the importance of moving with their bikes, especially during vacations or up-country visits. Though there are numerous brands in the market, Yakima FullSwing has proven to be a better option. The brand is ideal for carrying multiple and fat bikes conveniently. In addition, it has a sturdy design that guarantees safety as you drive along.

This model is versatile as it accommodates racing, mountain biking, downhill, enduro, cruiser, fat bike, touring, among other varieties of family bikes. Keep reading the Yakima FullSwing review to unleash all its crucial segments; it will help all bike lovers while transporting their bikes.

Rankings

Our #2 pick for the best honda fit bike rack

Specifications

Mount type
Hitch-mounted, swing-away
Secure locking
SKS (Same Key System)
Weight limit
4 bikes, 150 lbs
Max. bike weight
40 lbs.
Rack arms
Fully padded
Dimensions
43.5” 25” x 46”
Weight
56 lbs.
Warranty
Limited lifetime

Yakima FullSwing Review

Yakima FullSwing rack is regarded as one of the best brands when transporting your bike. This is due to its distinctive features, as articulated below.

Design

Yakima FullSwing Review – an Ideal Hitch Mount Rack for a Family Bike Ride! (Spring 2023)
The Yakima FullSwing is designed to swing away from the car with bikes loaded to provide easy access to the vehicle’s rear.

This model is sturdy and offers a stable platform for positioning your bike on the rack. Its rack arms are padded, elevating grip and ensuring that your bike does not incur damages.

It has a security lock that offers protection when one stops over for a break or shopping. Security has been boosted as the lock secures the rack to the vehicle. However, it locks only the frames leaving the wheels susceptible. As its name suggests, the model complexly swings away from the vehicle; this ensures easy loading of your bike on the rack and provides access to the car.

Its developer customized the rack with anti-sway cradles that eradicate bike-to-bike and bike-to-vehicle contact. It also offers a low mountain height which minimizes much lifting of your bike when placing it on the rack. Yakima FullSwing consumes less space and allows easy storage as the upper arms fold away when not in use.

Versatility

Most bike carriers do not hold fat-tire bikes. However, this is not the case in Yakima FullSwing. It has gained popularity due to its versatility in carrying various types of bikes. The carrier has been designed to accommodate four bikes which is quite a decent number.

Operation of the FullSwing is relatively easy. Swinging out requires unscrewing the T-handle and pulling the red button, and the dual-articulated hinge performs the rest. The model of the car determines which carrier to use. FullSwing is also compatible with several car types, such as minivans and SUVs. This model also has numerous other functions such as hauling skis, attaching a cargo box, and henceforth.

Sturdiness and Finishing

This carrier is built very toughly to ensure that customers get value for money. It is composed of steel and has a chip-resistant, high gloss black powder coat finish. Its sturdy design accommodates multiple types of bikes and transports them seamlessly. Additionally, it has padded arms that uplift grip and enhances secure anchoring of the bikes. Rather than minimizing the slipping of the bike, the rubber padded area ensures that your bicycle encounters no scratches.

Yakima FullSwing has a weight of approximately 56 pounds which is imperative in conveniently transporting the bikes. Multiple bikes cause heavy loading, which might be risky for light and fragile carriers. Its manufacturer has set a limited lifetime warranty.

Fastening and Security

Yakima FullSwing Review – an Ideal Hitch Mount Rack for a Family Bike Ride! (Spring 2023)
Yakima FullSwing features the Same Key System locks that keep your bikes and rack protected from theft.

Security is not only paramount to the bike but also to the carrier. The model has integrated SKS locks that offer the secure anchor of your bikes and rack onto the vehicle. This is cru in curbing theft when having stops during your journey.

Additionally, there is an external cable that enhances security. You can use it to chain the bike and the rack together with any vehicle’s attachments. It is essential as thieves can go the extra mile and unfasten bolts, leading to great losses.

It also has a metallic notch piece that elevates the fastening of your bike on the rack. It is one of the most crucial parts of the carrier connected to the large red triangular knob, which locks the FullSwing accordingly.

Weight Capacity

The FullSwing accommodates four bikes, each with a maximum weight of forty pounds. The total maximum weight that the carrier can withstand comfortably is roughly 150 pounds. The rack has a weight of 56 pounds which may require assistance when fitting on the vehicle; the carrier’s weight offers great support for carrying the bikes.

Ease of Installation

Installation is quite easy as it is a tool-free process. After assembling, slide the rack partially into the hitch and press the autopen connector. After the autopen locates the matching hole in the receiver, it will drive into position, making the green button visible. You will now have the easy task of turning the red SpeedKnob to fasten the rack with no wrench required.

Zip tie-like straps adjust to various bike sizes as they can easily slide along the bar. There are three straps designated to serve each bike. Two straps are stipulated for the top tube, while the other is for the seat tube.

Ease of Assembly

Assembly is a straightforward process that requires about ten minutes based on your prowess with tools. Parts arrive in a box, partially disassembled. The box contains the hitch connector, swing element, upright and bike holder piece, ratchet straps, keys, fastening paraphernalia, and a nylon fastening strap. A handy installation guide also helps you get the job done. Also, you should follow the “sizing guide” to ensure that it fits the car. Satisfying results will be acquired using a 2” hitch common in most trucks and SUVs.

Value

Although the Yakima FullSwing bike rack review indicates that it is not one of the cheapest carriers, the model reciprocates value for money spent. The carrier has a steel framework that withstands the indicated weight maximums. It also has an excellent black coat finish which uplifts its looks. In addition, it has padded contacts, foldable arms, easy assembly, and installation, among other features that elevate user experience.

Other Features

Yakima FullSwing Review – an Ideal Hitch Mount Rack for a Family Bike Ride! (Spring 2023)
The swing arm design is easy to open and close – the bikes just swing out of the way for loading and unloading.

As stated earlier, the FullSwing can accommodate a wide array of bikes. Nonetheless, some mountain, kid’s, and women’s bikes may demand a TubeTop adapter which is sold separately. The carrier has been customized with a new AutoPin that automatically positions the hitch receiver.

The manufacturer has provided a Yakima signature bottle opener that is vital when enjoying a cold bottle, especially after a long traveling journey. The rack does not have the conventional rubber straps that were hectic to get on and off. The current dual-sided ratchet straps provide easy attachment.

Here’s a summary of the most outstanding features Yakima FullSwing has:

  • Swings away to allow access to the vehicle
  • Fully padded arms that elevate grip when carrying the bikes
  • Sturdy design made of steel
  • The black finish provides a glossy look
  • Carries up to four bikes
  • Fitted with anti-sway cradles that minimize bike-to-bike and bike-to-car contact

Pros and Cons of Yakima FullSwing

Yakima FullSwing bike rack review has numerous merits as well as some disadvantages. The table below summarizes the pros and cons of using the Yakima FullSwing carrier.

Pros Cons
  • Can accommodate up to four bikes
  • Lacks provision for permanent fitment of an auxiliary number plate
  • It has a sturdy framework made of steel
  • Loading two or more bikes may require a little wrangling
  • Comes along with fully integrated SKS locks for added security
  • Fitting the carrier on your vehicle may require assistance due to its heavy weight
  • Padded arms ensure that your bike experiences no scratches
  • Installation is tool-free
  • One can access the back of the vehicle aided by the swing away feature
  • Arms can be folded when the carrier is not in use

 

Conclusion

According to Canadian Cycling Magazine Trusted Source 8 reasons to mount your bike on a hitch rack | Canadian Cycling Magazine Transporting your rig at the back of your vehicle with a hitch rack has some big advantages. cyclingmagazine.ca , there are numerous advantages of using a bike carrier, such as saving gas, avoiding damage to roof vehicle, keeping car’s interior clean. Bike enthusiasts may face hurdles when finding ways to transport their bikes from one location to another.

This Yakima FullSwing review has articulated its features, specifications, and pros and cons to aid when looking for the best option.

References

1.
8 reasons to mount your bike on a hitch rack | Canadian Cycling Magazine
Transporting your rig at the back of your vehicle with a hitch rack has some big advantages.
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