VelociRax Bike Rack Review

[@neehooya]

Great review Clint, you are the only one who pointed out the lever issue, with the variety of bikes, super helpful!! Thank you!

[@rustang222]

Thanks for this review! Really well done and thorough. I also really appreciate the "road test" as this is something I've not really been able to find amongst the other reviews of this rack. Thanks!

[@steveoh3527]

Great review Clint, my buddy has this rack (5 place) and you are absolutely correct in there is a little trial and error on the order to place the bikes. We wish we would have got the 7 place unit even though we typically carry 4 bikes mainly to space the bikes out further to keep from rubbing. The rack is built like a tank but as your test proved the bikes move around...especially traveling less than ideal roads getting to a riding spot. @Mark Sandolal it really depends on high your hitch is, my buddy's is on a van with a medium hitch height and we have not had any issues.

[@mr.c493]

Wow this is exactly what I need. We have a 2018 Toyota Sequoia and having roof racks it’s nearly impossible encause of the night of the vehicle. But this rack it’s perfect. Will need the 5 since is 5 of us!

[@anthonylascola11]

I bought this rack last spring. The 6 bike. As we have 6 in our family. I use it for shuttle runs or my family bikes from little kids 24" my bike. I take it off in the winter as the family doesn't ride in the winter to much. It is overbuilt and you just need to figure out the combination of bikes to get on with nothing hitting. Love it!

[@amydail8966]

Tony, are you happy with the 6 fully loaded? We have 6 to carry too and am debating getting the 7 in order to have a bit of extra space. We have 4 adult sized mtbs and 2 kids (20 & 24).

[@mjjohn7715]

That was a comprehensive review. Good job 👏

[@vietao]

dude did a off-road test. always providing great content.

[@dangr123]

You should try to get a Lolo rack. I'd like to see a comparison of the two. The bikes are oriented differently.

[@EpicRev1]

This is another topic of Vertical racks, "how bikes are loaded". Between the Northshore and Lolo racks, the bikes are either secured by the handlebars or the crown area of the front shock. This is one big reason why I selected the Velocirax rack, the bikes are secured via a tire fender design. When buying without experience you too need to rely on reviews. I found several reviews that highlighted the issues of mounting via the fork or handlebar mounts. The other reason I purchased the Velocirax was the ultra-easy effort it takes to load and unload bikes, you basically walk them on and off the rack. Keep in mind every bike rack has their own form of pros and cons, never found one that is perfect. With that said all the above mention racks are all the best of the best, all are very good.

[@normhanson981]

Looking good Clint , thanks from the UK , saving hard for the Specialized Creo turbo Evo in sageGreen , £6000 including the £300 range extender, my local territory is very hilly and I’m 58 so the electric motor will make the ride less of a slog.

[@thim8009]

That thing is nice. The only vertical rack I could find a while back was my Northshore rack. It cradles your fork and rubs the paint off. I was going to buy a different one like that one, but I came up with is putting a microfiber cloth in where you cradle fork and it works good. I just can't justify spending on another one, I modded mine to go up higher for ground clearance and back far enough to drop my tailgate.

[@nathanwright1980]

By far the best review. thanks for the time you put into this.

[@weridegiantsmtb284]

When it’s up in the travel position how far does it drop in its lowest position? Just wanted to see if it could work on my drawbar on our expanda outback caravan an open the front bed without hitting the bikes. Cheers mate👍🏼

[@janpedersen4381]

nice review. Was that a big migrating flock of cranes 3:20-4:30?

[@ClintGibbs]

Yes...Sandhill Cranes I believe. They were loud!

[@frankstrobel4350]

for protection (for any rack). pool noodles.... cut a slit down one side, and a bungee cord or strap to hold in place.

[@ClintGibbs]

Nice. Thanks

[@gregfabun3072]

Or the classic snap coozie. Works like charm.

[@kenneththomas7460]

Great review. My only concern with this rack is the tremendous pressure ont the front forks. E-bikes can weigh upwards of 70 pounds and with the bike hanging like that and bouncing over pumps and potholes, I'm concerned about the forks failing. A rest for the rear wheels would eliminate or at least greatly reduce that problem.

[@devinj4221]

I'd imagine that most bikes are made to carry their own weight. Considering a rider can weigh upwards of 200lbs and the bike can withstand jumping, smashing through roots, rocks, and taking crashes. I think the bike would be fine hanging by the wheel :)

[@TracySwenson]

Agree. The angle of the weight is nothing like what the bike is made for, like smashing single tracks or hitting jumps. Numerous long trips are going to put a lot of pressure on the headset bearings, the forks and probably the rim. I really want to like this rack, but too many flaws.

[@scottr484]

Great review. What is the measurement from the bottom side of the hitch bar to the top of the mount without bikes. I trying to see if it will clear my garage door, which is a little lower than typical.

[@awright16789]

Any idea on the aerodynamic differences between a vertical bike rack and a more traditional tray mount?

[@ClintGibbs]

It seems about the same to me, especially with 3 to 4 bikes.

[@ChuckMSH]

Thank you for the review it was very good. I have just one question for you. How is the weight on the hitch. Does the back end of the vehicle seem to sit low from it? Or drive poorly?

[@ClintGibbs]

The Honda passport is it pretty stout SUV with the 350 lb towing capacity. I have not noticed anything different about the driving. Then again I'm used to driving with a four bike rack on the back (Kuat NV). If I was going to use this rack with more than four bikes I would have a vehicle with a 500-lb tire capacity.

[@jackiegammon2065]

There's also a 230 pound limit for that rack, so if someone purchased the 7 bike option they might want to weigh each bike first... as they may only be carry 5-6 bikes.

[@Drogos79]

Looks like pulling into indoor garage at the bike park might be an issue?

[@LTBlightthebeam]

If you get a chance try Alta Racks next Clint. I think it's a better design

[@marksandoval5361]

Would love to see the dip test. What happens if you go across a fairly deep dip. Do the bikes or the rack drag on the ground.

[@EpicRev1]

This is a problem will hitch-mounted racks. If you plan on driving on a dirt road I would make sure the auto has plenty of ground clearance. My Expedition provides excellent clearance for the rack, almost 20" clearance at the hitch

[@NewDoughs]

Great review, major downside im seeing is that this rack doesnt fold or telescope smaller for use without any bikes.

[@carlberto7214]

Have you considered bike van ? You guys are perfect fit for one

[@richdavis5791]

Nice review, have you seen are are aware of a rack that can support some of the new Moped style e bikes that are around 100 lbs? I've been looking for one that can carry 2 of these style bikes. Thanks

[@benoitmurray85]

Do you think bikes will get less dirty than on a regular hitch rack? Since they're setting up hire...

[@cue03]

Thanks for the vid Clint. I have been checking this rack out. Was also looking at the Lolo rack setup but that carries by the handlebars instead. Kids are getting older and it is now time (with smallest bike at 20 inches) to transition from in the van to the rack. So the Thule Pro XT 2 is already pretty heavy and I don’t think I want to change it into a 4 bike. I may take your suggestion and get a 5x setup from Velocirax and keep the Thule 2 bike for when it is me and one of the boys heading out. Even though it is just the 4 of us the 5x just seems like the better option. Can you upgrade the bars on yours to support a 5x (15 inch spacing) or do you have to completely swap out the rack?

[@ClintGibbs]

I checked with the Velocirax and they said that you can just buy new bars and an additional wheel tray to convert it, which I may try later on

[@ClintGibbs]

And BTW one advantage of the VelociRax vs the Lolo is how quick and easy it is to load bikes.

[@JAM76ER]

Mr Gibbs, What rack

[@bigredlibra]

I bought this rack due to this video.. but my full suspension bike is swinging massively left to right. Have you since noticed that and what did you do?

[@ClintGibbs]

I haven’t noticed that much of a swing. Have you tried putting a rubber band or something on the brake levers?

[@kevinlarsen5466]

Do you have any road bikes to try on the rack? I enjoy both road and MTB and would like a rack that can accommodate both. I'm wondering it deep dish rims would rub on the wheel carrier.

[@ClintGibbs]

Only the gravel bike. I really don't think that deep dish wheels would be an issue. But you may want to reach out to VelociRax about that. I'm sure they've encountered many questions regarding it.

[@jonzylka9474]

Clint… would this rack fit a kids 20” small bike frame??

[@ClintGibbs]

We tried it with my sons BMX race bike and the fork did hit. This is what they say on their website and the FAQ section about 20 inch: Generally 20 inch tires work fine in the standard tire brackets with a small amount of padding inbetween the fork of the bike and the tire bracket just in case. We do have an option for 20 inch tire baskets. Typically we recommend these for higher end racing BMX bikes and 20 inch bikes with hydraulic forks. Email or call us if further clarification is needed.

[@bikeerack900]

Nice review! The New kid on the block in the vertical rack world here. 2 years ago we were already self loading 5 eBIKES! 😊

[@JogBird]

can you open the rear car hatch with the bikes on? seems like it wouldnt angle down low enoguh to clear

[@ClintGibbs]

Yes

[@groengm2012]

Make sure you tilt this as you they wouldn’t fit in under your garage door,you have experienced the crash

[@Hanger995]

Cool drive way, wish I could drive on my lawn. Great review. I just bought the x3 can’t wait to receive it

[@machine7767]

Have the 5XL and love it

[@MrBig617]

Great video once again. How do you like your Honda passport?

[@ClintGibbs]

I've finally found the perfect vehicle for me! The Accord just didn't cut it on gravel roads in the mountains.

[@adolfolozano5573]

How safe is it for carbon wheels? Does it present undue stress/torque/rub on wheels?

[@ClintGibbs]

Only the tires make contact with the wheel trays.

[@JohnSmith-dq1rx]

Quick question, what about a kids 24" wheeled bike, how does that fit?

[@ClintGibbs]

24 works, 20 is hit or miss. I may make a separate video on that.

[@JohnSmith-dq1rx]

@@ClintGibbs thank you brother, I'm gonna look into this rack. I have a good one, but sadly my back door does not clear it.

[@danielmcgowan9534]

@@ClintGibbs Thank you for checking. I'm loading 20" for a while. Also loading Fat Tire bikes 27.5x4.5 in MN. Looking at the 1Up-USA. It would be great to see you review it.

[@rkoskier1919]

@@danielmcgowan9534 We have the Lolo rack and I can load fat bikes down to kid bikes of any size (right now that includes a 24", 20", and balance bike). Holds bikes by the handlebars instead of the tire, tire size is irrelevant. I love it.

[@zxtenn]

I have a SARIS hatchback 2 bike version for my new car but i think the max. weight is 30-35 so in reality i can't put 2 bikes on there. I have a SWAGMAN 2 bike for my 96 Jeep Grand Cherokee which is heavy duty but my Jeep gets less than half the gas mileage of my 2021 Kia Forte 6 speed manual, i take the Jeep to Uwharrie most of the time so i can drive directly to the trailhead. I could and should have spent the extra $$$$ for the SWAGMAN that will tilt back so i can open the Jeep tailgate but still VERY happy with it and only the 1 bolt for on and off, nice design.

[@EpicRev1]

I own a Thule XT Pro, a 1Up, and the VeociRax 4 rack. I live in the mountains and I continually shuttle 3-4 bikes. The VelociRax is my go-to rack, at 85 lbs it stays on the SUV even if I carry just one bike. I want my rack to be built like a tank if shuttling $20K worth of bikes. I have zero interest in the wall mount other than long-term storage of the rack. Vertical is so much better for the hitch rating (all the bikes are close to the hitch). You better have at least a 500lb tongue weight-rated hitch while using a horizontal 4 bike rack. There's a reason why a Thule and Kuat recommend not loading E-bikes on the two outside trays. The Kuat and Thule run close to $1400 if want to carry 4 bikes, the VelociRax is $850 with shipping. With all that said everyone that wants to carry more than 2 bikes needs to verify what their hitch mount will handle the weight. Horizontal 4-bike racks require the highest of ratings (minimum of 500 lbs). Most trucks and larger SUV's will have a 500 lb rating, smaller vehicles may only have 200lb rated hitch.

[@ClintGibbs]

Good feedback. Thank you.

[@donmeyers3090]

I just ordered a 1-Up (Equip-D Double), but it'll be a month or so till I get it. Would love the ability to occasionally carry more than 2 bikes though and add-ons for the 1-Up are very pricey. I have thoughts of cancelling my order and getting the VelociRax (5X, possibly). Any major positives and negatives on either of these before I decide? Thanks!

[@EpicRev1]

@@donmeyers3090 The VelociRax is my go-to rack. I have the 4X version. It's 1/2 the price of the 1-Up ( for 4 bikes) and built like a tank. It's mounted on my Ford Expedition and at 85lbs stays on the vehicle. I'm not sure what auto you drive buy I would say this rack is meant to be used on a big SUV or Truck. I live in Bend Oregon, I see a ton of 1-UP racks on sedans and trucks. I see the verticle VelociRax mainly on large SUV's or Trucks.

[@donmeyers3090]

@@EpicRev1 Thanks a lot for the reply. I drive a 2016 Volvo XC-90. Fairly large suv with a Class III hitch, but certainly not as big as an Expedition. I currently have a Thule hitch rack that holds 3 (packed uncomfortably), but usually I just carry 2 bikes. It's good for short local trips and sturdy, but it holds the bikes by the top tube and they can swing a bit, which I'm not crazy about. Main reason I need a beefier rack that holds the bikes more securely is I travel 5,000 miles r/t each winter from NY to AZ. That's why the 1-Up looked good. But now, I'm tempted when I saw this because I can always carry 4-5 (with 2 fat bikes) and they won't stick out 8' behind me. UP seems better than OUT back, IMO and I think this would be ok on my Volvo. Probably going to go for it....although not crazy about the fact I have to add extra $$$ for 2-3 fat bike holders.

[@EpicRev1]

@@donmeyers3090 While I rave about the Velocirax, again like all racks there are some downsides. The only issue I have with the V rack is the fact the bike will be 18" above the roof of my Expedition. Almost pulled into the garage with a bike on the back. Would have been bad! I now hang a reminder from the mirror

[@DM-hw4cr]

I just wonder how long the damper would last

[@mancello]

Have you ever used a roof rack to transport one or two bikes?

[@ClintGibbs]

Yep. That's all I used to use for about 10 years. then someone from the family, not mentioning names, drove into the garage with bikes on top... not just once but twice. It was sayonara for roof racks. Hitch racks are so much easier and safer.

[@johnwilliamson9453]

Contact and height is quite an issue with this rack and it’s not versatile. The only reason to use this rack imho, is more than 4 bike traveling. Otherwise use a 1up USA 4 bike rack....total adjustability with zero contact. Another good review Clint.

[@DVDCAM27]

Fits 3 inch tires??

[@renalcolic3361]

Can you get your rear hatch open with the rack tilted back?

[@ClintGibbs]

Yep

[@scottaw]

Good video Clint! I’ve been shopping all the 4-bike rack options out there lately, so a very useful video. When you have the bikes loaded up could you measure how far the bikes stick out off the rear bumper? (I have a Passport as well). Looks like the saddles will be the furthest out, so I’m sure it’s dependent on frame size and if one has a dropper, but I will be transporting some large frame MTBs with no dropper.

[@jimthompson4258]

Big fan of my vertical rack! Recon

[@az_mjer5837]

I wish I had gotten the wider 4 rack... I only move 3 bikes at most but more room would have been cool

[@Tippmannblackk]

what is the weight of the rack.????

[@ClintGibbs]

I haven't weighed it but I'll guess a little north of 100 pounds.

[@gloriousfreedom9722]

Can u put kids bikes on this unit

[@ClintGibbs]

Down to 24-in wheels. Below that most likely not.

[@elpina587]

You starting a shuttle business ?

[@MrIanD1]

Any anti theft on the rack?

[@ClintGibbs]

The rack locks to the vehicle but there are no locks for the bikes

[@speedbird8987]

Sounds like the Sandhills cranes were leaving while you were filming 😊

[@minthos4045]

During bike shuttling through off-road to top of the mountain, this rack is guaranteed to fail and leave your bike hanging. This happened to me 5 times when we were going up through mountain roads with pot holes . Bad rack . The stretchy rubber strap loose strength over time .

[@groengm2012]

Seen this on the back of a pick up truck ,and to speed up for a closer look very cool rack

[@shadyss96]

Completely unrelated to the vid... You live in a beautiful neighborhood, I love your yard.

[@ClintGibbs]

Thanks. It's a lot of work at times but worth it.

[@frankish5314]

I'm a DIYer and was looking to make something like this.. I also have a AWD PAssport. I made my own tow hitch from a Honda Element tow hitch that I found for free.. I even managed to get it about an inch higher than the OEM Honda hitch. Then I made a tool to put the car in neutral instead of Honda's $200+ tool. Oh yeah and an anti-theft cage for that third catalytic converter too...:)

[@thatsthatdude]

Great review...but not for me. I use the Kuat NV 4 rack and works great!

[@robtodd4726]

I don’t know man. Seems sketchy. You gotta spend who knows how much....then hope your bikes don’t interfere.🤦🏻

[@ClintGibbs]

To be fair, any four bike rack that I've used takes some trial and error to get the bikes in the right position. Even then, I had to rotate the saddle on some of them.

[@TimMillernapavalleyfilmworks]

Clint I love your videos! But this Rack looks like harbor freight. Heavy, bulky and poorly designed. Looks way too huge on the car. I use the'tried and true' old school thule, fits four bikes including emtb. 👍

[@ClintGibbs]

The real benefit of these vertical racks is carrying more than 4 bikes (and also caring 4 e-bikes).

[@jeffpower6473]

Need to caulk that crown joint on your garage. 😉

[@yeahthatshouldwork]

That is why I always cut MDF Crown a little long...so its put in under pressure.

[@jeffpower6473]

@@yeahthatshouldwork I’m not sure how well mdf crown would fare outside

[@yeahthatshouldwork]

@@jeffpower6473 was it outside? We used to install decorative exterior post wraps made from an "exterior grade" mdf. I never had a service call on the material swelling buy did have to recaulk some areas.

[@jeffpower6473]

@@yeahthatshouldwork over the garage door. Miratek is outdoor stuff but I’ve not seen any moldings just 1x. Here in Florida everything is pvc now. At least in my area

[@yeahthatshouldwork]

@@jeffpower6473 i finally got to review the video again. Crown looks like a standard 4" preprimed fingerjointed pine that they used to doll up the garage roll up. I still would have done a non-compound butt joint. With a small piece of material glued up behind since its exterior.

[@turner02]

It needs more pins.

[@justanopinion-ub9pp]

For the price of this rack, it should be made from aluminum

[@leonelceballos3709]

I like my kuat nv 2 better

[@chrisreports9031]

Pins not pens!!!!!!!! Lol

[@iranbutt7927]

This fit a woman 5’0”