Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Review By Steve D White
The Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is a wheel mount style bike rack, which is in the mid-range price bracket. It has the capacity to carry a wide variety of bike frames without the hassle of removing any wheels, so it's both versatile and highly adjustable. This rack is a hit with consumers, receiving a lot of praise for its value and features.
So let's delve further into some of the features of the Swagman XC to help you determine if this is the right choice for you.
Features of the Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount
Carries up to 2 bikes Fits with 2-inch receiver Adjustable quick-release tire hoops and the ratcheting top arm allow a wide range of bike frame to be carried Frame grip arms have a soft padded coating to protect your bike's frame Folds up easily when not in use Minimal assembly required
Installation Installation is quick and straightforward, taking about 10 minutes in total. You need a 3/4" wrench to install the rack. It attaches to your vehicles receiver hitch. It's compatible with both 1 1/4" and 2" receivers. To attach the rack to a 1 1/4" receiver, you just need to remove the adapter at the end of the shank using a wrench.
To install, first you insert the threaded bolt into the mount and then insert the hitch pin clip on the other side of the bolt for added safety and stability. It's that simple. The rack is easy to fold up when it's not in use, so it's far more compact. You just need to take out the pins then fold up the arms then reinsert the pins in the different slot.
Loading Bikes Bikes can be loaded and unloaded with minimal fuss. The great thing about this rack is that it can carry almost any type of bike due to the way it holds bikes by their tires and the high-level of adjust-ability provided.
To load a bike you just need to loosen the wheel straps off, and then place your bike's tires into the tire loops after making any necessary adjustments to match your bike's length. Next, you put the centre post up then install the hook onto the post and secure it down firmly. The ratchet mechanism used is very secure and holds the bike well. Finally, you need to put the straps around the wheels.
On The Road
On the road, the Swagman XC excels. The bikes don't sway or rattle when you go over bumps or turn quickly. The solid construction of the rack is evident.
Final Thoughts
The Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount is an impressively well designed rack, which you can be confident hauling your expensive bikes on. It's versatile, sturdy, and easy to use so it has all the features you could want from a hitch mount bike rack.
On the downside, the paint quality isn't great, which is especially problematic in areas of the rack where there is movement. This causes the paint to come off, so you may need to repaint the metal at some point.
Swagman bike Rack