In the ever-evolving world of hitch-mounted bike racks, the 1UP 2″ Xtreme Duty (XD) stands out as a formidable contender, promising a blend of robust construction, user-friendly design and expandable capacity.
With biking enthusiasts seeking reliable and efficient ways to transport their precious electric two-wheelers, this rack is a game-changer.
One of the standout features of the 1UP 2″ Xtreme Duty is its exceptional build quality. Constructed from lightweight yet durable aluminum, the rack exudes strength without compromising on weight and is capable of carrying up to 150 pounds per tray.
The materials used ensure resistance to rust and corrosion, enhancing its longevity. The anodized finish adds a sleek aesthetic, while the powdercoat finish on the tray contributes to the product’s overall durability.
The heavy-duty construction extends to the rack’s hitch mechanism, which boasts a unique double-action folding design. This allows users to easily access their vehicle’s rear compartment without the need to remove the bikes or the rack itself. The rack’s sturdiness inspires confidence, promising a secure and stable ride for your bikes even on rough terrain.
User-Friendly
The XD is packed with user-friendly features and comes fully assembled, minimizing setup time and installation effort. The rack works with a 2-inch receiver to easily add or remove from the vehicle as needed.
Simplicity of installation is further enhanced by the tool-free design, allowing users to attach the rack to their vehicle’s hitch quickly.
The rack’s adjustability is another great feature. With a unique sliding wheel tray and independently adjustable hooks, accommodating bikes of various sizes becomes a breeze.
The integrated security features, including a built-in locking system for both the rack and individual bikes, provide peace of mind during stops or overnight stays.
Add-Ons & Modularity
The real game-changer for the 1UP 2″ Xtreme Duty is its add-on capability. With additional add-ons such as the 1UP Quik Rack and Super Duty (sold separately), the rack can accommodate up to three lighter-weight bikes—up to 345 pounds, making it an ideal choice for families.
For those with two heavy electric bikes, one additional XD add-on can be attached to secure a secondary E-bike up to 150 pounds.
We tested it with two Super 73 R-Series bikes that weigh about 83 pounds each. The seamless integration of the add-ons maintains the same high-quality construction and features as the base rack, ensuring a consistent and reliable experience for all users.
We tested it with the optional Xtreme Duty Wheel Chock (sold separately) which provides even more stability by reducing steer tube rotation and minimizing bike movement.
Hitting the Road
In terms of on-the-road performance, the 1UP 2″ Xtreme Duty delivers. The bikes are held securely in place, minimizing sway and vibration during transit. The hitch bar has a built-in anti-wobble mechanism to ensure the safety of both the bikes and the vehicle.
The rack’s adaptability to various bike sizes and styles, from mountain bikes to road bikes, showcases its versatility. The rack fits 16-inch to 29-inch wheels, up to 5.25 inches wide, and can accommodate up to a 57-inch wheelbase. The rack arms close to secure the tires without touching the frame and ratchet tightly.
The ease of use extends beyond installation, as the rack’s tilting feature allows access to the vehicle’s rear without the need for removal. The ability to fold the rack compactly when not in use adds to its convenience, making storage a hassle-free process. Additionally, with the 1UP V-style Ramp (sold separately), loading and unloading a heavy E-bike is made extremely easy.
The Bottom Line
The 1UP 2″ Xtreme Duty Bike Rack is the best rack we’ve tested. For those with expensive bikes, this rack is worth the investment. With its sturdy construction, user-friendly attributes and expandable capability, this hitch-mounted bike rack stands out as a premier option for cycling enthusiasts in search of a dependable and effective method for transporting their bicycles. While the cost may surpass that of some competitors, the expenditure is justified by the XD’s resilience, adaptability and overall performance.
1UP
2″ Xtreme Duty Bike Rack
Rack Weight: 44 lbs.
Material: Aluminum
MSRP: From $850
URL: 1up-usa.com
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This article originally appeared in OVR Issue 08. For more informative articles like this, consider subscribing to OVR Magazine in print or digital versions here. You can also find the print edition of OVR at your local newsstand by using our Magazine Finder.
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