RockyMounts BackStage 2

[KandK]

Hey folks…we have two RadRover fat tire bikes that we need to haul on our truck that has a slide in camper. Being able to swing the rack out of the way was the most important feature to us, since the access to the camper is (only) in the rear. We also needed something that would make it a easier to load -- compared to the "challenging" hanging rack we had. We found the right rack, so sharing info in case others are in the same boat.

The BackStage 2 is a slick platform-style mount. It snugly holds two bikes (up to 60lb. each). You can swing the loaded carrier away from the back of your vehicle and off to the side to access your hatchback/camper/van etc.). Brilliant!

What I really love about this is that it came with everything needed to take care of two fat tire bikes…didn’t have to buy any extenders or anything.

The rack also tilts 30 degrees (easily) for quick access to the back. Came with hitch pin lock and integrated cable lock that is is a deterrent, though not much more.

Caveats: two bikes max. 2” receivers only. Assembly instructions were lacking - though it wasn't overly difficult.

Check it out if need this type of rack…we are really happy to have found it and recommend it.

https://rockymounts.com/collections...ucts/backstage-swing-away-platform-hitch-rack

 

[mrgold35]

Nice find! I have his/her Radrovers and a Saris SuperClamp 4 tilt down rack for rear SUV access. It is hard for me to tilt the rack up/down with 2 -4 bikes on the rack and nearly impossible for my wife to do so. How sturdy is the rack over rough roads? My Saris rack has some play at the joint where it tilts and the bikes bounce a little more that I like over bumps.

How heavy is the rack?

 

[KandK]

Rack is around 58 pounds assembled. Honestly, don't expect to use tilt much -- would prefer the easy swing-out function. There is definitely some bounce when hitting rough rough -- but I think that's the same for all of these racks. etrailer.com is a good resource for reviews/videos of loaded racks on the test course for comparison. Upcoming 1,500 mile trip should be a good test!

 

[mrgold35]

I found this weather proof travel cover on Amazon last year for $46+shipping that is large enough to encase the two radrovers and rack 100%. The cover has ties for a snug fit and semi-transparent panels near the ebike wheels to let vehicle brake light shine through. I mostly use the cover if I run into bad weather when traveling or want to hide the the ebikes at a hotel if I can't move the bikes into the room. Folds up in a case about the size of med size pillow.

LINK: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WENDUS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o07_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[itsaulgoodman]

I'd recommend getting a license plate relocation kit for your rack. Otherwise, ticket for sure!

 

[mrgold35]

I was able to rig up a license plate holder on the back of my rack that rotates to always stay vertical to be clearly viewed if the Saris rack is up or down position. I also added extra magnetic 4-way lights to the steel Saris rack because the fat tires with or without the cover block the rear lights on both of my vehicles: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GR7P55A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

 

[KandK]

Just a quick follow-up on the Backstage2...it performed flawlessly on our long drive down the west coast. I could not be happier! Before leaving, I added a hitch tightener that I had from my prior rack and it was as stable as can be. I recommend the device for any carrier with this kind of weight. That said, it's not necessary -- just for added piece of mind while whipping along the highways and byways (and off road).

https://www.amazon.com/StowAway-Tightener-Anti-Rattle-Stabilizer-Hitches/dp/B0001CMUV4