Getting a bike to the trails shouldn’t be a headache, and the new Yakima 2014 line of hitch-mast bike racks make it a bit less of a headache. This includes the FullSwing and the FullTilt.
Available beginning in the New Year these models feature a function that puts all controls for the arm, fold, and mast tilt on top of the unit, eliminating the need for the user to bend down. The hitch pin also automatically engages when inserting the mast into the vehicle hitch, eliminating the need to reach under the vehicle.These also include ratcheting ZipStrips to attach the bikes, instead of the more common rubber straps. The FullSwing and FullTilt come pre-assembled and include a full SKS (“Same Key System”) lock package that locks the bikes to the rack and the rack to the vehicle.
The FullSwing, which carries four bikes and swings away from the vehicle laterally, will retail for $499, while the FullTilt tilts back (hence the name), away from the vehicle, and it offers four- or five-bike capacity. The four-bike FullTilt will retail for $399; while the five-bike model retails for $429.
Both models even have integrated bottle openers so you can enjoy a beverage at the end of the ride – but before you drive home.