Review of the Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2” Receiver)

Finding the right type of bike rack to fit your needs can prove to be a real chore. Furthermore, once you have decided upon a specific type of rack, then you must delve into the pros and cons of the different models in that category. The decision process alone can make one lose quite a bit of hair (at least you will be more aerodynamic right?). This review will hopefully help you decide whether or not the Swagman XC Cross-Country will work for you.

Platform Style Racks

The XC Cross-Country is a platform style hitch mount rack. Like traditional hitch mount racks, it locks into the trailer hitch of your vehicle. Where it differs is the way in which it supports your bicycles. Standard “hang and dangle” hitch mounts brace bikes by use of plastic cradles placed around the frame. Platform racks support your bike around the tires and generally clasp or tighten down on the top cross bar to secure it in place. Some benefits of this type of rack are:

  • Low to the ground requiring less lifting to load (less risk of hernia prior to your ride)
  • Bikes sit further away from vehicle, reducing the threat of damage to them and your car
  • Easy installation and removal
  • Securely supports a higher weight capacity


    • Accessibility

    The last thing you want to do after a long, tiring ride is power clean a couple of bikes above your head to clasp down on your roof. Having a rack that is easily accessible to load and unload your equipment is paramount to a pleasurable riding experience. The Swagman XC provides about as much accessibility as one could expect. It’s low to the ground which makes it effortless to load. Also, the rack extends far enough from the vehicle so you can access either side easily.
    The Swagman XC not only makes accessing your bikes easy, accessing your vehicle is easy too! After all, you have a life outside of riding, so you’re going to need to open that back hatch or tailgate at some point. That’s why, when empty, this rack folds down neatly, ensuring a clear path to the back of your vehicle.

    Versatility

    A key feature of the XC Cross-Country is its ability to fit a wide array of bikes. From cruisers to mountain bikes, small and large tires alike, this rack can adjust to fit them all. Since the wheel platforms adjust to fit different sizes of bikes, there is no need to hassle with removing tires. The upper arms of this unit slide to fit different bike heights as well.

    Security

    With the purchase of a hitch pin lock, you can rest safely knowing your beloved rack won’t end up on someone else’s car. You wouldn’t leave a hundred dollar bill sitting on your bumper for anyone to take, so why would you with a bike rack worth even more?
    In addition to securing from theft, the Swagman XC also has an anti-wobble pin to secure the rack to your hitch. This fastens the unit to your vehicle tightly, keeping your bikes stationary.

    Drawbacks

    Now that I have pumped your expectations up about this rack, it’s time to take them down a couple of notches. Swagman has put together a great rack with this model, but along with the good comes the bad. In fact, some the very features that make the XC Cross-Country desirable, can also prove negative.
    While the stretched frame and low clearance height provide easy access for loading and unloading, they can also contribute to dragging or scraping. Since its lower to the ground, the rack may rub asphalt on sharp inclines or dips in the road.
    Another undesirable aspect of this unit is its weight. Coming in at a hefty 31 pounds, it’s a little portly when compared to other models. This may or may not be of major concern to you though. The additional weight is due to the fact it’s built well, and the platforms also add a little more mass than what you find on a traditional hanging hitch or rear wheel mount.

    Wallet Friendliness

    The Swagman XC may have a couple of drawbacks, but one place it does not disappoint is at the checkout stand. It retails at about $150 on Swagman’s site. At Amazon
    you can usually shave about $20-$30 off of that. At either price point, it is still very competitive.

    Wrap It Up

    After it’s all said and done, the Swagman XC Cross-Country does have a couple of negative aspects, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons in my book. There are many great features on this rack, and depending on your vehicle type or target destinations, the drawbacks may very well have little or no effect on your decision. The aggressive pricing makes this model very attractive for someone who is looking for an easy rack to install and use at an affordable price
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