The new Swagman Chinook brings together a lightweight (35lb) tray-style hitch mount rack with user friendly features like a fold-down arm and locking ratchets for just $270 ($370 CAD).
Available for 1-1/4″ and 2″ hitches, it’s limited to two bikes, but carries them with minimal frame contact. The wheel cradles are adjustable, sliding in and out to offset the bikes and accommodate different wheelbases. The upright arm uses two ratcheting hooks to hold the top tube of the bike steady. It folds down for a more compact appearance when the rack’s not in use (also making off-car storage easier), and the entire rack tilts down with the bikes on it to access a trunk or SUV/minivan lift gate…
Adjustable ratchet straps keep the wheels held in place.
The ratchet arms each contain their own keyed lock for light duty “coffee shop” security. All metal parts are finished with a proprietary powder coat finish to protect it from the elements if you’re like me and leave racks on the car all the time.
They’ve also updated the Semi 2.0 and 4.0, Quad 2+2 and G10 racks with new locking features to keep your bike where you left it. Look for a new roof rack from them later in the year.
