It’s been a bit since we saw the BackStage prototype at Interbike, but based on the display at Sea Otter, the RockyMounts BackStage is swinging in for the win. We went over this in the Kuat story, but there are a number of reasons to want a swing away tray style rack. The problem is figuring out how to make it work with a package that isn’t so ridiculously heavy that you can’t get it on to you vehicle. With that in mind, the BackStage has undergone a significant tweak since we saw it last, but it should still be a killer rack for anyone who wants the convenience of a tray style rack that can also swing away…
Just like any swing away rack, the BackStage allows you to swing the loaded bike rack away from the vehicle so you can access the trunk, hitch, tailgate, or hatch. It also allows for the bikes to remain locked to the rack overnight if you’re car camping and need to be able to get out of the hatch in the morning. Capable of carrying two 60lb bikes, initially there was to be a third bike add on, but RockyMounts has eliminated that possibility. The swinging beam uses two spring loaded safety pins to keep it from closing on you on a hill, and when closed, there is a threaded pin to tighten everything down. Held in the receiver with their anti-wobble system, the rack will fit bikes from 20-29″ including fat bikes with suspension forks and 197mm rear spacing. Maximum wheelbase is 48″, and the fat bike tires will require the included strap extenders shown below. Sold with a locking hitch pin and cable lock, the 2″ only rack will sell for $549.95. While the first container is already sold out, another is arriving soon so if you want one, you might want to get in on a pre-order so you can have it at the peak of summer riding!
Essentially a BackStage without the swing away feature, the MonoRail is a two bike rack with the ability to add a third using their add-on kit for 2″ racks. Pivoting up and down for storage or for access to the back of the vehicle, the MonoRail uses the same easily accessed pull handle (blue, above) as the BackStage.
Both racks use the same simple wheel cradles with a flip up support, and fit for 20-29″ tires including fat bikes. The bottom left photo shows the strap with the included extension for fat bike use.
The ratcheting wheel hook holds each bike without frame contact, and the included locking cables attach to a pin on the rack body. The MonoRail is available in 1.25″ or 2″ receiver versions for $369.95, while the 2″ version can add another bike for $169.95. The weight limit per bike is 60lbs, unless you’re using the three bike rack where it becomes 50lbs.
