Cyclists and drivers might sometimes seem like they occupy different worlds, but a shared truth unites them: cars are incredibly useful for getting bikes to the best riding spots. While some dedicated riders can cycle for miles to their destination, many of us prefer to drive closer to scenic trails or exciting bike parks. That’s where a reliable bike carrier becomes essential.
The market is flooded with bike rack options, catering to various vehicles and needs. From trunk-mounted racks, like one the reviewer previously used on a classic Mustang, to hitch-mounted and roof racks, the choices can be overwhelming. In the search for a convenient and sturdy bike transportation solution, especially during times when outdoor escapes are more appealing than ever, the Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Rack emerged as a contender. Drawn to its compact design and secure hitch mounting, and influenced by positive Amazon reviews, the question remained: would this budget-friendly option live up to real-world expectations?
Allen Sports Bike Rack
To determine if the online hype matched reality and to assess its suitability for cycling adventures, the Allen Sports bike rack was put to the test, purchased for $149.99 from Amazon. Let’s put aside any car vs. bike debates and delve into whether this Allen Sports 4-bike hitch rack is a worthwhile addition to your vehicle for transporting your bikes.
First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembly
While a detailed unboxing video wasn’t captured, initial setup of the Allen Sports bike rack is straightforward. Minimal assembly is required, mainly involving attaching a few bolts. Here are closer looks at the rack’s components and features after assembly.
Locking pin.
Locked in place.
Locked and unloaded.
Close up of the rack.
Allen Sports Bike Rack: Getting Ready to Ride
The Good: Affordable four-bike capacity, user-friendly installation.
The Not-So-Good: Strap system can be fiddly, lacks a quick-tilt feature for rear cargo access.
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To utilize this hitch rack, your vehicle needs a receiver. While a 2-inch hitch receiver is the most common, aftermarket options are available for vehicles without one, attaching to factory anchor points.
The Allen Sports rack is relatively lightweight at around 24 pounds compared to many competitors. Mounting it is manageable for most individuals. Installation is simple – slide it into the receiver. Instead of a traditional cotter pin, it employs a spring-loaded pin for alignment and tension. Simply depress the pin during insertion, and it clicks into place when aligned with the hitch receiver hole. Very straightforward.
Regarding build quality, plastic components are limited to the red locking handle and bike cradles. The handle’s metal attachment mechanism appears robust. However, the plastic bike cradles showed some bending after a long road trip, suggesting potential durability concerns over extended heavy use. Each securing pin includes a cotter key on a safety cable, a thoughtful detail.
The Allen Sport rack loaded with bikes.
Like many hitch racks, the Allen Sports rack offers positional adjustments. It can be kept folded down when not in use. To load bikes, release the top pin and rotate the arms upwards. For rear cargo access, removing another pin allows the rack to tilt forward, though this isn’t a quick, lever-activated tilt.
The rack’s locking mechanism is easy to engage. Turning the red dial expands the rack arms for bike loading. Each bike position has two cradle points for securing. While the tie-down system could be improved, it functions adequately. Position bikes, secure the rack, and you’re set to go.
Ready for bikes.
Highlights of the Allen Sports Bike Rack
The primary advantage of this rack is its affordability. Numerous bike racks on the market cost two to three times more than the Allen Sports model. It’s a budget-conscious choice for transporting multiple bikes.
Although the straps aren’t ideal, their rotating design aids in finding the right angle for securing them to various bike frame shapes. Finding a workable tie-down point is usually achievable, even on angled bike frames.
While Allen Sports advertises a “no-wobble hitch installation,” some movement is expected during driving, common to most hitch racks. Using bungee cords to stabilize bikes, especially the front wheels, is recommended to minimize swaying and potential damage.
The Allen Sports bike rack full of bikes.
Drawbacks of the Allen Sports Bike Rack
Using the Allen Sports rack isn’t without minor frustrations. Bike spacing is tight. With a 26-inch rack length and roughly 4 inches between bikes, fitting four adult bikes is challenging. Realistically, fitting two adult bikes and a smaller kid’s bike is more practical.
The most significant downside is the strap system. Compared to more user-friendly rubber straps or ratchet systems found on racks like Thule models, the Allen Sports straps are less convenient. Threading the straps through openings and tightening them, especially with multiple bikes already loaded, can be cumbersome. While secure, it requires more effort and time. Allen Sports does offer a “Premier” model with upgraded rubberized straps, addressing this issue.
Cotter pins, while secure, can be stiff to remove at times. Furthermore, the top pin for tilting the rack down becomes difficult to use with bike weight on the rack. This means accessing the vehicle’s rear cargo area isn’t a quick process. Unlike some racks with quick-release tilt levers, accessing the cargo area requires pin removal, which isn’t ideal for frequent access. Higher-end Allen Sports racks do incorporate a rapid-tilt feature.
Allen Sports bike rack attached to the test vehicle.
Final Verdict: Allen Sports Bike Rack
The Allen Sports Bike Rack gets the job done, but it’s essential to understand its limitations. It’s a more basic option compared to feature-rich racks, even within the Allen Sports range. However, its budget-friendly price point is a major selling point. It’s relatively light, easy to install, and effectively carries bikes. While long-term durability of certain components might be a question, it securely transported bikes during testing.
For those seeking an affordable 4-bike hitch rack, the Allen Sports Bike Rack, priced at $149.99 on Amazon at the time of review, is a viable option. If budget is a primary concern and you need to transport multiple bikes without breaking the bank, it’s worth considering. However, if ease of use and quick access features are paramount, exploring higher-end models with improved strap systems and tilt mechanisms might be worthwhile.
TL;DR Review
Allen Hitch 4-Bike Rack
Frequently Asked Questions About the Allen Sports Bike Rack
Have questions? Here are answers to common queries about the Allen Sports Bike Rack.
Q. What is the maximum weight capacity of this rack?
A. Allen Sports specifies a 140-pound weight limit. This translates to approximately 35 pounds per bike on average.
Q. Does this rack include a bike locking system?
A. No, the rack itself doesn’t lock bikes to the rack. You’ll need to purchase a separate bike lock cable to secure bikes to the rack and/or vehicle for theft prevention.
Q. What are the dimensions of the Allen Sports Bike Rack?
A. The rack stands 36 inches tall when assembled. The bike carrying portion is 13.25 inches wide and 26 inches long. The hitch insert section is 15.25 inches long and designed for a 2-inch receiver.
Q. Is this bike rack compatible with all types of bicycles?
A. It should accommodate most standard bike types, including men’s and women’s mountain bikes, kids’ bikes, and tag-along bikes, as tested. Recumbent bikes or bikes with unusual frames might present fitting challenges.
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The Drive’s Gear section is dedicated to providing unbiased and thorough product reviews. Products are sourced through various means, including purchases and manufacturer samples. Regardless of the source, editorial independence is maintained, ensuring honest assessments of every product tested. Our reviews are based on real-world testing and aim to provide practical insights for readers.
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