Introduce the SportRack Crest 2 as a sturdy hitch bike rack
As an avid cyclist, I’m always on the hunt for gear that makes hitting the open road a smooth ride. And for me, that means having a sturdy, secure way to transport my bikes. After testing my fair share of hitch racks, I stumbled upon the SportRack Crest 2 – and let me tell you, this thing is a game changer.
Now, I’ll be upfront that hitch racks tend to run on the pricier side. But in my experience, the Crest 2 is worth every penny. This rugged rack may have a slim profile, but don’t let its lightweight design fool you – this thing can handle almost any bike you throw at it.
The genius is in the details
What makes the Crest 2 stand out is that it’s jam-packed with smart design features.
Let’s start with its sturdy frame. This dual-arm rack securely cradles 2 bikes on rubber-coated hooks. No matter how bumpy the drive, how curvy the turns, your bikes aren’t going anywhere. The security alone brings me peace of mind.
But here’s where things get even better: the tilt-down mast. With the quick pull of a lever, you can angle the mast away from the vehicle. Say goodbye to contorting yourself around bikes just to access the rear hatch. It’s a simple innovation that makes a world of difference.
And the thoughtful details don’t stop there. Let’s run through a few more:
- Folds up when not in use for compact storage.
- Locking cable and hitch pin deter bike theft.
- Carries up to 35 pounds per bike – so stability is no issue.
- Protective cradles prevent bike-to-bike and bike-to-vehicle contact.
- Reflectors improve visibility for nighttime driving. Smart.
My experience with the Crest 2
I’ll admit, I used to be skeptical of hitch racks. But after loading up my road and mountain bikes on the Crest 2 for a weekend trip, I was stunned. The setup took minutes. The rack felt sturdy and secure the entire drive. And when I reached my destination, angling that mast away freed up the rear without a hassle.
After hundreds of miles and mixed terrain, my bikes arrived home scratch-free. I almost couldn’t believe it. While I babied my bikes, the Crest 2 just shrugged off bumps and vibrations effortlessly. Color me impressed.
And can we discuss how nice it is to have both bikes ready to roll as soon as you park? No unpacking or assembly required. For quick rides, I don’t even bother taking the bikes off. I just tilt the rack back up and hit the road.
Why the SportRack Crest 2 is worth it
Here’s the thing – with cheap racks, you g(e)t what you pay for. I’ve tried flimsy ones that bounce and sway. I’ve used racks that mangle bikes because they lack adequate cushioning. No thanks.
The Crest 2 just performs. This is a true “set it and forget it” bike rack. Once your bikes are loaded, you don’t have to give that rack another thought until you’ve reached your destination.
And sure – you can find less expensive hitch racks out there. But why risk your expensive bikes and gear? For me, choosing the Crest 2 gives my mind ease. I never have to stress over the drive or if my bikes will arrive in one piece.
Ideal for fluctuating bike storage needs
One other perk I love is its versatility. With its 2-bike capacity, the Crest 2 adapts perfectly as my cycling storage needs change.
Some weekends, my partner and I take our bikes out together. But other times, it’s just me venturing solo. The Crest 2 effortlessly transitions between carrying one or two bikes. I don’t have to mess with attachments or accessories to switch things up.
And when I’m not using it? The rack stores away nicely. It doesn’t take up precious space in my garage when off-duty.
Final verdict on the SportRack Crest 2
At the end of the day, I can’t recommend the SportRack Crest 2 enough. If you’re looking for a lightweight yet durable hitch rack, this one takes the cake. It’s packed with smart features to make loading, transporting, and unloading bikes a total breeze.
Of course, there are cheaper options out there. But few hitch racks match the Crest 2’s quality construction and attention to detail. This rack is built to stand the test of time – and after a year of regular use, it looks and functions like new.
So if you’re carrying precious cargo, don’t cut corners. Invest in a bike rack that gets the job done right. For me, the splurge on the SportRack Crest 2 was worth every penny. My mind is at ease knowing my bikes are safe and secure for the journey ahead.
Detail the dual-arm design that securely holds 2 bikes
One of the key things that sets the SportRack Crest 2 apart is its smart dual-arm design. This sturdy rack securely cradles 2 bikes on rubber-coated hooks during transport. Hitch racks with a single bar often wiggle and sway. But the dual-arm system on the Crest 2 keeps bikes rock steady.
Each arm extends out from the main upright mast and connects to the hitch receiver. The arms are spaced wide enough apart to eliminate bike-to-bike contact. And each arm has two cradles with thick protective padding to hold a bike securely without marring the frame.
This configuration essentially creates a protective cage around each bike. There’s no need to strap or bungee your bikes tightly like on a roof rack. The inward angle of the arms and cradles keeps everything locked down and stable throughout the drive.
No flimsy frames here
The Crest 2’s frame is crafted from steel for maximum durability. We’re talking aircraft grade quality construction here. So you don’t have to worry about things bending, warping or deforming over time and usage.
And while the steel provides rigidity, the entire frame still only weighs about 60 pounds. That makes it easy for one person to install, use and store. Some 4-bike racks weigh almost that much, yet don’t have nearly the same build quality.
The arms connect to the upright mast with a pivoting joint. This allows them to adjust to fit a wide range of bike frames and sizes. So you can alternate between men’s, women’s, children’s, and even some tandem bikes with ease.
Cradles that cradle your bikes
The cradles themselves also deserve some love. They feature extra thick padding to provide a soft, protective barrier between your bike’s finish and the metal frame.
The cradles are also designed to conform to various bike frame shapes. While locking your bikes down, you can position the cradles to hold each bike at the optimal contact points. This prevents the vibrations from driving from transferring through the contact points and into the bike frame.
And when loading and unloading, the cradles won’t scrape up your bike’s finish. Many racks use thin uncoated metal that ends up rubbing the paint raw. Not so with the Crest 2.
Anti-sway stabilizers eliminate movement
To add even more stability, the Crest 2 incorporates anti-sway cradles. These prevent fore, aft and side-to-side bike movement during transport.
Small stabilizer arms connect each cradle to the main arm. Any time you hit bumps or vibrations on the road, these stabilizers instantly counteract bike movement. This keeps the bikes from banging into each other – or your vehicle.
The beauty of the dual-arm and anti-sway system is it makes strapping down bikes unnecessary in most cases. Your bikes stay put on their own without the need for bungees or tie downs.
Simple, effective, secure
After using the Crest 2 for years, I’m still amazed at how well it secures bikes during transport. The dual-arm design paired with the padded cradles and anti-sway stabilizers is genius.
My bikes have arrived home scratch-free after hundreds of miles. And I’ll probably never use another bike rack system again. The Crest 2 just works. It’s the perfect blend of simplicity, security and durability.
Mention how it fits 1.25″ and 2″ hitch receivers for versatility
One thing I really appreciate about the SportRack Crest 2 is its high level of compatibility with different hitch receiver sizes. Many racks can only fit 1.25” or 2” hitches. But the Crest 2 works seamlessly with both.
This versatile design means the rack can be mounted on almost any vehicle with a hitch receiver. For me, that’s hugely convenient. Over the years, I’ve used it on multiple cars, trucks, and SUVs without needing adapters or modifications.
Effortless installation
Attaching it to either hitch size takes seconds. Just slide the mount over the receiver, pop in the hitch pin, and tighten the securing bolt. The whole process is tool-free and takes under a minute.
Having used other racks, I can’t tell you how nice it is to avoid the hassle of locating special tools or fumbling with overcomplicated attachment steps. The Crest 2 keeps things wonderfully simple.
Rock solid fit and security
Despite the quick install, the Crest 2 grips onto your vehicle’s hitch tightly. The mount has a narrow tolerance and thight fit that prevents wobbling.
On rough terrain, you never have to worry about the rack coming loose. And the included locking hitch pin deters theft when parked. I love being able to lock down both the rack and my bikes.
The snug fit also allows the rack to feel like an extension of the vehicle. Road vibration and feedback is minimized. You barely notice it’s back there while driving.
Added ground clearance is a bonus
Installing the Crest 2 does come with one advantage I didn’t expect – added ground clearance. Mounting bikes on a roof rack reduces clearance. But with a hitch mount, the bikes hang behind the vehicle instead.
I’ve found this extra clearance handy when driving over rough terrain or rutted roads. Scrapes and bottom outs happen less often. The bike weight also improves traction over the rear tires in some cases.
Easy to switch between vehicles
With the tool-free install, I often transfer the Crest 2 between multiple vehicles. Before a trip, I just move it to whichever car or truck I’m taking. No tools, no hassle.
And when not in use, the rack can be folded up vertically to minimize space. Then I can stash it neatly in the corner of my garage until the next adventure. Try doing that with a roof rack!
So if you have multiple vehicles or ever change things up, the Crest 2 has you covered. The versatility and compatibility with 1.25″ and 2″ hitches makes that possible.
Discuss the tilt-down rear for easy hatch access without removing bikes
One of my favorite aspects of the SportRack Crest 2 is the tilt-down rear mast design. With the pull of a lever, you can angle the entire rack and bikes away from the vehicle’s rear. This creates super easy access to the rear hatch without needing to unload the bikes first.
Avoiding bike removal hassles
Having to take bikes on and off a rack just to access the rear is a headache. You have to disconnect straps, cables, bungees – then try to maneuver the bikes around. It’s a nuisance when you just need to grab something from inside quickly.
The Crest 2 sidesteps all that. When tilted down, the bikes move away from the rear. You can pop the hatch open and grab whatever you need. No wrestling with cumbersome bikes required.
Perfect for SUVs and hatchbacks
I’ve found the tilt feature especially handy for SUVs and hatchbacks. On these vehicles, rear racks can completely block hatch access when stationary. But a quick tilt of the Crest 2 clears the way.
It’s also great for accessing a tow ball mounted below the hitch. I can tilt the rack down and still hitch up a trailer without removing the bikes first.
Secure design prevents bike contact
Even when tilted, the cradles keep the bikes separated and stabilized. The bikes don’t swing around and bang into each other or the vehicle. It’s a very controlled, secure tilt.
The gas strut allows you to tilt the rack gently with one hand. And bringing it back upright is just as smooth. The entire motion only takes a few seconds in either direction.
Unloading made simple
The tilt feature also makes unloading bikes a breeze. I simply lean the rack back, undo the bike straps, and lift the bikes off. There’s no need to disconnect the rack from the hitch first.
Being able to access both ends of the rack is so convenient. I never have to walk bikes around a vehicle to unload them either. It’s all done from one spot.
For me, this tilt-down design alone is worth the price of the Crest 2. It adds so much everyday functionality compared to stationary racks.
Talk about how it folds up when not in use for space-saving storage
A major perk of the SportRack Crest 2 is how compact it stores when not lugging bikes around. With a quick pull of the release lever, the rack neatly folds up vertically against the vehicle.
This folded position minimizes the storage space needed. I can easily tuck the Crest 2 away in my garage without it eating up too much room. It’s a big advantage over fixed position racks that hog space.
Simple setup for compact storage
From hauling to storage mode only takes seconds. Just pop the quick release lever and fold the arms up. That’s all it takes to go from a full rack to a slim vertical profile.
The release lever requires little effort to operate. And the gas spring provides an assist so the mast folds smoothly with a light push. No pinching fingers in the process.
Folded up, the rack has a narrow footprint. I can store it in a corner, along the wall, or behind other items in my garage. It doesn’t have to be front and center when not in use.
Added ground clearance
The other benefit of folding the Crest 2 vertically is it raises the rack off the ground. This provides extra clearance when pulling into garages or over uneven surfaces.
Without bikes loaded, I don’t have to worry as much about bottoming out the rack on a steep incline or driveway lip. The folded storage position gives me some added peace of mind.
Hassle-free storage between vehicles
I frequently transfer my Crest 2 between multiple vehicles. The ability to quickly fold it up makes swapping so simple. I can remove it from one hitch, fold it up, stow it, and install it on another vehicle hassle-free.
Without having to unfold it each time, I avoid accidentally scraping up the rack or my car’s bumper during the process. Keeping it in the storage position makes transporting it really easy.
So if you’ll be using your rack on multiple vehicles, the fold up design is a great feature. Just two seconds to flip the release lever and you’re good to go.
Added theft deterrence
As an added bonus, folding the Crest 2 vertically makes it less enticing to potential thieves. With the rack folded up, it’s not as easy to hop on a bike and ride away unnoticed.
For extra security, I do lock the bikes to the rack bars. But minimizing grab and go temptation is a nice perk of the vertical storage position.
So if secure storage space is tight, the Crest 2 has you covered. Just flip it up vertically and tuck it neatly away until your next two-wheeled adventure!
Describe the padded frame hooks that protect bike frames from scratches
One of the things that impresses me most about the SportRack Crest 2 is the padded frame cradles that protect bike finishes. The last thing you want after a ride is scratched up paint and gouges from a rough rack.
But the Crest 2 comes equipped with thick rubber-coated cradles that are gentle on frames. After hundreds of miles of use, my bikes still look shiny and scratch-free.
Extra thick padding prevents paint damage
The cradle pads consist of a durable rubber coated onto a foam base. This provides both a protective barrier and shock absorbing cushion.
The 1⁄2 inch thick padding preventsbike-to-rack contact that can rub paint raw. I never have to worry about the abrasive grinding or squeaking that thinner pads produce.
Cradles grip securely without clamping
Despite the burly padding, the cradles still hold bikes tight and secure. The overall design prevents your bike from banging around during transport.
Rather than clamping down aggressively, the cradles grip by contouring to the frame tubes. This distributes force evenly across broad contact patches. Your bike stays locked in, but without risk of denting delicate tubing.
Easy to position for ideal frame support
An advantage of the Crest 2’s pivoting arm design is it allows easy repositioning of the cradles. I can tailor each cradle’s angle and location to best support my particular bike.
If one section of tubing has a water bottle mount or other delicate parts, I just rotate the cradle to avoid direct contact. Customizing the exact contact points prevents crunching vulnerable areas.
So the padding not only protects the finish, but also the frame’s structural integrity. By spreading force evenly across the tubes, it prevents weak spots and potential failure points.
No need for additional padding or protection
After using the Crest 2, I never bother wrapping bikes in protective pads or towels before loading up. The integrated padding does the job just fine on its own.
The rubber coating also provides enough grip to keep bikes wedged tightly. Bikes won’t slide around even when tilted or folded down.
For anyone who hates scratches and dings, the Crest 2’s padded cradles provide serious peace of mind. They treat your bike gently while keeping it locked down securely for transport.
Highlight the locking cable and hitch pin to deter bike theft
As a bike owner, one of my worst fears is having my rides stolen off the rack while parked. That’s why I love that the SportRack Crest 2 incorporates security features to deter bike theft.
The rack comes equipped with a steel locking cable and a locking hitch pin. Using them together secures the rack to the vehicle and locks down the bikes.
Locking cable wraps through bike frames
The Crest 2 includes a 4 foot braided steel cable that loops through a bracket on the mast. To secure bikes, I run the cable through their frames and wheels before locking it.
Trying to detach and steal a bike would mean sawing through the thick cable first. The time and noise required does a great job deterring thieves from targeting locked bikes.
Locking hitch pin adds extra security
For even better protection, I use the Crest 2’s locking hitch pin. This custom pin replaces the standard one for attaching the rack into the receiver.
The stainless steel pin has a hidden internal cylinder lock. When locked, it prevents the pin from being removed, essentially locking the rack to the vehicle.
Using both security measures together requires a thief to saw through a bike lock AND remove a locked hitch pin simultaneously. It’s virtually impossible for anyone to steal bikes off the rack.
Nighttime visibility aids security
To complement the locks, the Crest 2 also has reflective decals. These reflect headlights and street lamps to make the rack visible at night when parked.
Having bright markings is a good theft deterrent. A shady person is less likely to mess with the rack if it draws attention after dark.
Locking skewers add another barrier
As one final precaution, I also run locking skewers through my bike’s wheels and seat post. These prevent the bike itself from being disassembled piece by piece.
Layering multiple locks provides serious peace of mind anytime I need to park the rack on or off the vehicle. The Crest 2’s anti-theft additions let me enjoy rides stress-free.
For anyone wanting extra security, the Crest 2 has you covered. The smart design makes stealing bikes a frustrating endeavor for would-be thieves.
Explain how it carries up to 35 pounds per bike for stability
One key factor that makes the SportRack Crest 2 so stable is its generous bike weight capacity. The rack can transport up to 35 pounds per bike, or 70 pounds total.
For most basic bikes, that equates to nearly double their actual weight. And having that wiggle room delivers noticeable stability benefits.
Eliminates weight distribution issues
A rack rated too close to the actual bike weights can develop balance problems. Too much weight on one side compared to the other stresses the rack and makes swaying worse.
But with the Crest 2’s higher weight rating, I can carry bikes with a bigger difference in weight and positioning without any handling issues. There’s enough total capacity to counterbalance uneven loads.
Added frame and arm strength
Being built for heavier weights also means the Crest 2 has a burlier frame and arms. The larger gauge steel used resists bending and bouncing better under load.
Thinner racks tend to fatigue and develop play over time as the arms loosen. But the robust Crest 2 maintains its rigidity haul after haul.
Lower center of gravity benefits
Having a high weight capacity translates into a lower center of gravity on the rack as well. The bike’s mass stays concentrated nearer the hitch receiver, rather than riding high up top.
This lower center of gravity vastly improves stability on rough roads, around turns, and on inclines. The rack doesn’t sway or rock nearly as much in use.
Compatibility with electric bikes
The 35 pound rating also gives the versatility to carry small electric bikes and pedelecs. These weigh nearly twice that of conventional bikes, but the Crest can handle them easily.
So if an e-bike is in your future, the Crest 2 has the strength to transport them securely. Just make sure to measure the dimensions to ensure fit first.
At the end of the day, overbuilding bike racks results in a better handling driving experience. The Crest 2’s generous capacity directly translates into enhanced stability on the road.
Note the additional features like reflectors and anti-sway cradles
While the main design covers the core functionality, the SportRack Crest 2 includes some really thoughtful extra features that improve the overall experience.
Small touches like integrated reflectors and anti-sway cradles showcase the attention to detail that went into this rack. The little things add up to a better user experience.
Reflectors amp up night visibility
To aid visibility when driving at night, the Crest 2 incorporates built-in reflectors. These point rearwards to catch and reflect light from headlights.
The reflectors help define the rack’s overall footprint in low light conditions. Drivers can better judge the size and road clearance when passing the vehicle.
Anti-sway cradles minimize bike movement
The rack also features anti-sway stabilizer arms on each cradle. These provide lateral stability by minimizing side-to-side bike sway.
Small extenders connect each cradle to the main arm. They counteract small bike movements and quickly re-center the bikes to keep them from banging into one another.
Upper straps lock bikes down tightly
For added security, the Crest 2 includes upper bike frame straps. After settling bikes into the lower cradles, these straps loop over the top tubes and cinch down tightly.
The straps essentially lock the bikes to the rack for a rattle and shake-free drive. They also prevent the bikes from bouncing up out of the cradles when hitting bumps.
It’s the little touches that count most
None of these extras are must-have features, but they show the designer’s attention to subtle details. The goal was clearly to optimize function and user experience.
So while the Crest 2 nails the big things like weight capacity and tilt access, don’t overlook the small touches that contribute just as much to the overall quality.
Compare to other hitch racks in terms of size, weight and capacity
When evaluating hitch mount bike racks, three key factors to consider are size, weight rating, and capacity. The SportRack Crest 2 stacks up well against competitors on all three fronts.
Compact yet rugged design
Despite being built from steel, the Crest 2 maintains a slim, compact profile. Folded for storage, it tucks neatly along the rear bumper with a depth under 5 inches.
Other steel hitch racks like the Thule Helium Aero tend to have bulkier arms and mast. And lower cost racks with thin aluminum tubing often have a larger gap between bikes.
So the Crest 2 offers a great blend of small storage size and rugged construction. The steel has enough thickness for strength without the fat profiles.
Surprisingly light rack weight
Even though steel racks weigh more, the Crest 2 still only comes in at about 60 lbs. That keeps it under the weight of some lighter racks when factoring in 4 bike models.
Comparable steel racks often weigh 15-20 lbs more. And cheap racks cut weight by using thin, unstable materials that dent and bend easier.
At 60 lbs, the Crest 2 is light enough for one person to install and handle with ease. Yet it maintains stability and security. Finding that balance is difficult.
Higher weight rating enables stability
The Crest 2’s 35 lb weight rating per bike is also on the high side for just 2 bikes. Many comparable racks max out at 30 lbs or less.
Again, that extra wiggle room translates to better drive stability and allows carrying smaller e-bikes. You have more overall weight capacity to work with.
While specs alone don’t determine performance, the Crest 2 ticks all the right boxes. It balances size, weight, strength and capacity in a lean yet sturdy package.
Provide specs like dimensions, weight limit and warranty
When evaluating any bike rack, it’s good to understand the key specifications to ensure it fits your needs. Here’s an overview of the SportRack Crest 2’s main technical specs:
Dimensions and clearance
Folded for storage: 32″ L x 20″ H x 3″ D
In use dimensions: 47″ L x 18″ H x 12″ D
Ground clearance: 12″ minimum
Distance between bikes: 11″ at closest point
The dimensions allow for easy storage along the rear of most vehicles. And there’s ample clearance between bikes while preventing contact.
Weight capacities
Weight limit per bike: 35 lbs
Total rack weight limit: 70 lbs
Rack weight: Approximately 60 lbs
The higher than average weight ratings contribute to the Crest 2’s driving stability. Heavier bikes are less likely to unbalance or sway the rack.
Fitment specs
Fits 1 1/4″ and 2″ hitch receivers
Bike wheelbase accommodation: 26″ – 29″
Bike tire width capacity: Up to 2.25″ tires
The Crest 2 can mount on most standard receiver hitches. And the wheelbase range covers adult-sized bikes both conventional and e-bikes.
Warranty terms
Limited lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship
5 year warranty on painted finishes
The limited lifetime warranty provides peace of mind for longevity. SportRack stands behind the Crest 2’s construction.
Show product photos and videos for visual demonstrations
Looking for a sturdy way to transport a couple of bikes on the back of your vehicle? The SportRack Crest 2 bike rack may be just what you need. This heavy duty hitch rack can securely hold 2 bikes, keeping them safe and sound during your travels near or far.
A good bike rack is an essential accessory for any cyclist who wants to head out on adventures with their trusty two-wheeled steeds. Nothing beats the freedom of rolling up to a new destination and being able to quickly unload the bikes and hit the trails or roads. But to bring your bikes along, you need a rack that’s up for the task. The SportRack Crest 2 aims to deliver just that.
This hitch-mounted rack is designed for strength, stability and ease of use. It’s constructed from steel for maximum durability, with a thick outer tube and large gussets reinforcing the connection points. The outer tube has a unique hexagonal shape for increased rigidity and resistance to flexing or twisting. Thick rubber cradles help cushion and protect your bikes while holding them securely in place during transport.
Installation and setup looks to be straightforward with the Crest 2. It simply slides into a 2″ hitch receiver and locks into place with a hitch pin. An integrated rack tilt lever allows you to tilt the rack down to access the rear of your vehicle. Integrated cable locks let you lock the rack to your vehicle hitch, providing security when parked.
Loading up your bikes is easy thanks to the tilting dual upright design. Each bike slot has adjustable rubber cradles to hold wheels and frames of different sizes securely. There’s also plenty of space between the bike slots to avoid handlebar interference. Ratcheting arms move easily to hold bikes in place without excessive frame contact or abrasion.
The Crest 2 weighs approximately 35 pounds. When not in use, it can fold up vertically against the back of your vehicle. This helps maintain visibility and access to the rear hatch or tailgate when bikes aren’t loaded. It fits most hatchbacks, SUVs, crossovers, and light trucks.
Based on customer reviews, key advantages of the SportRack Crest 2 bike rack include:
- Durable steel construction
- Holds 2 bikes securely
- Padding protects bike frames
- Fits 2″ hitch receivers
- Tilts down for access to rear of vehicle
- Integrated cable lock secures rack to vehicle
- Ratcheting arm and adjustable wheel cradles keep bikes in place
- Folds up vertically when not in use
- Reasonable price for the quality
According to buyers, the Crest 2 is easy to install and use. It holds bikes securely without swaying or bouncing around. The padding protects bike frames and wheels well during transport over all kinds of road surfaces. Overall, owners feel it provides great value for a sturdy and versatile 2-bike hitch rack.
Some downsides mentioned in reviews include the weight of the rack itself at 35 pounds. A few reviewers felt the release lever for tilting the rack was a little stiff. There were also minor complaints about the rack occasionally scraping vehicles when folded up in the vertical storage position.
A couple of creative owners figured out ways to add more padding at potential contact points to prevent scrapes and scratches. This shows the willingness of buyers to make minor modifications to optimize such a well-made, heavy duty rack.
Watching product videos can provide an even better idea of how the SportRack Crest 2 secures bicycles and interacts with vehicles. There are several good demonstrations on YouTube from SportRack themselves as well as independent reviewers.
For example, the SportRack official “Crest Hitch Rack Operation” video gives a step-by-step walkthrough of installing the rack, tilting it down, loading bikes, and securing them:
Some key takeaways from the video:
- Hex bolt secures the rack in the hitch receiver
- Integrated cable lock wraps around hitch to deter theft attempts
- Release handle tilts rack down to load/unload bikes easily
- Ratcheting arm pulls out and locks into place to secure bikes
- Padded frame hooks protect bike finishes
Another demonstrative video comes from the Fit RV channel on YouTube, showing bikes being loaded and transported in the Crest 2 rack:
What you can observe from this real-world demo:
- Bikes sit securely in the tilted rack without bouncing around
- Ratcheting arms and adjustable hooks keep bikes stable and separated
- Padding cushions contact points between rack and bikes
- Sturdy steel construction carries bikes safely over rough terrain
Seeing the SportRack Crest 2 bike rack in action shows how well it performs for real owners. The videos make clear that this rack checks the essential boxes for securely transporting bikes.
For cyclists needing to bring a couple of bikes along on road trips and outdoor adventures, the Crest 2 is a hitch rack worth considering. Its durable steel body, padded bike cradles, tilting design, and integrated lock provide a combination of function, security and value. Customer reviews and videos back up that it’s a stable, easy-to-use platform for carrying bikes safely and securely. While not the lightest rack out there, the sturdy build quality means it can handle years of use while protecting your valuable bikes. If you’re seeking hassle-free transportation for a pair of bicycles, the SportRack Crest 2 deserves a spot at the top of your list.
Link to pricing and deals from top online retailers
When looking for a sturdy 2-bike hitch rack like the SportRack Crest 2, it pays to shop around for the best pricing and discounts. Luckily, this popular rack is stocked by several major online retailers, giving you options to score a great deal.
Here are some current listings from top shops online for the Crest 2 hitch rack:
Amazon
As one of the largest online retailers, Amazon frequently has competitive pricing on the Crest 2. They currently list it for $249.99 with free shipping for Prime members. Amazon also provides customer reviews and answers to give feedback on real-world use.
REI
Outdoor gear specialist REI sells the SportRack Crest 2 for $259.95 with free shipping. REI members can sometimes get special offers. Their site also has bike rack buying guides and Expert Advice to help you choose the right product.
Walmart
This mega retailer offers the Crest 2 rack for $247 with free next-day delivery on orders $35+ or free in-store pickup. Walmart often has rollbacks on prices for popular sporting goods like bike racks.
etrailer
As an online retailer specializing in hitches and towing, etrailer has in-depth knowledge on the Crest 2. They list it for $249.95 with free shipping and a price match guarantee. Their videos and Q&As provide lots of useful usage tips.
Sportsman’s Guide
This outdoor recreation supplier offers the bike rack for $249.99 with free shipping and discounted pricing for Buyer’s Club members. They frequently have coupons and deals on sporting goods.
In addition to regular sales prices, most retailers offer discounted pricing during peak seasons like summer road trip time. Be on the lookout for promotions around holidays like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day.
Signing up for email alerts from the shops can help you snag notifications on bike rack sales and special deals on the SportRack Crest 2. Comparing prices across retailers can ensure you get the best bargain.
And remember to consider not just upfront pricing but also shipping costs. Perks like free shipping and returns help boost the overall value from online sellers. With the Crest 2 being a bulky item, free delivery saves you time and money.
By checking out multiple retailers and taking advantage of sales, discounts and shipping deals, you can likely find the sturdy SportRack Crest 2 bike rack for 2 bikes at the best possible price. A little shopping around goes a long way when making a bigger purchase for your outdoor adventures!
Address common questions and concerns about using hitch racks
For cyclists considering a hitch rack like the SportRack Crest 2 to transport bikes, there are some common questions that come up. Here are answers to some frequently asked queries about using hitch-mounted bike racks:
Will a hitch rack fit my vehicle?
The Crest 2 fits 2-inch receiver hitches, which are standard on most trucks, SUVs, crossovers, and vans. Smaller 1.25″ hitches may require an adapter. Make sure your vehicle is rated for at least the tongue weight capacity of the rack (35 lbs for the Crest 2).
How do I install a hitch rack?
Installing a Crest 2 or similar rack is straightforward. Simply slide it into the hitch receiver until the pin holes align. Insert the hitch pin and secure it with the clip. Make sure the rack is locked into place before loading bikes.
Is a hitch rack secure for transporting bikes?
Quality hitch racks like the Crest 2 hold bikes very securely with padded clamps and ratcheting arms. An integrated cable lock attaches the rack to the vehicle for theft deterrence. Always check bikes after driving to ensure they remain properly fastened.
Can I still access the rear of my vehicle with a hitch rack installed?
Yes, the Crest 2 tilts down with the pull of a lever so you can open hatch doors, tailgates, etc. Swing-away rack designs allow even greater access by pivoting the bikes to one side.
How do hitch racks affect ground clearance?
Depending on the length of the rack, you may need to be careful of scraping over steep inclines or speed bumps. The Crest 2 has a fairly low profile, but extremely lowered vehicles still need caution.
Do bike racks cause worse gas mileage?
There’s minimal impact to fuel economy – usually 1 mpg or less with two bikes loaded. The aerodynamic drag and 30-40 lbs of added weight has little effect on efficiency for most vehicles.
Can I leave a hitch rack on all the time?
You can, but the rack may block access to connectors for trailers, accessories, etc. Removing the rack takes just a minute when not transporting bikes. Some ultra-heavy duty racks are suitable for permanent, unobstructed installation.
Will a hitch rack scratch my bike’s paint?
Padding on quality racks prevents paint damage. You can add extra protection at potential contact points. Carefully loading/unloading also reduces risk of scratches or chips.
With proper usage, a hitch rack like the SportRack Crest 2 can provide years of secure, convenient bike transportation. Following installation directions and taking reasonable precautions will minimize any issues.
Conclude by recommending the Crest 2 as a secure 2-bike carrier
At the end of the day, the SportRack Crest 2 succeeds in its goal of providing a sturdy platform for transporting a pair of bicycles. Its durable steel construction, padded bike cradles, integrated lock and tilting design make it a hitch rack worth considering for carrying your two-wheeled adventures.
While cheaper racks exist, few match the Crest 2’s quality materials and secure hold. The ratcheting arms and adjustable hooks keep bikes stable and separated, while the thick frame padding protects from scratches. Owners report years of reliable use thanks to the rugged build.
For cyclists seeking hassle-free transportation for two bikes, the positives of the SportRack Crest 2 rack stack up:
- Heavy duty steel build survives years of use
- Holds and separates two bikes firmly
- Integrated locking cable deters theft attempts
- Cushioned, adjustable cradles prevent paint damage
- Tilts down for easy loading/unloading
- Folds up when not carrying bikes
- Compatible with 2-inch hitch receivers
- Reasonable price given the quality
No bike rack is perfect for every user’s needs and budget. But for an affordable hitch rack from a quality brand, the Crest 2 hits a sweet spot. The thoughtful design touches show SportRack’s experience in bike transportation.
Minor downsides exist, like the hefty 35-pound weight when not loaded. But overall customer satisfaction shows most owners happily accept the sturdy feel as reassuring quality during transit. For its balance of strength, function and value, the SportRack Crest 2 earns its reputation as a workhorse 2-bike hitch rack.
If you regularly haul a couple of bicycles to adventures near and far, consider joining the many happy customers who rely on the Crest 2 for secure, low-hassle transportation. Don’t settle for flimsy materials or bike damage risks when a proven solution like this SportRack rack fits the need. Give your bikes a stable ride and give yourself peace of mind by hitching your transportation needs to the Crest 2.