Best Swing Away Hitch Adapters for Bike Racks

Do you want to carry your bikes on hiking sites without paying for carrier service or special swing away bike rack? The right solution to this is a swing-away hitch adapter because it lets you take one or more than one bikes at the back of your car.

However, due to so many options, this becomes challenging. Therefore, in this article, I will share the best swing away hitch adapter with buying guide. I am sure that after reading this article, you will be able to pick the most suitable product for your next camping plan. So let’s start it.

Best Swing Away Hitch Adapters for Bikes Overview

BrandModelCompatible HitchLoad CapacityLatest Price
KAC90 Degree Swing Away2 inch320 lbs.Check Latest Price
SarisSwing Away 2 inch2 inch240 lbs.Check Latest Price
KuatPivot Swing Away2 inch250 lbs.Check Latest Price
YAKIMABackSwing Swing Away2 inch260 lbs.Check Latest Price

Best Swing Away Hitch Adapter Review

Best Swing Away Hitch Adapter
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1. KAC Swing Away 90 Degree Hitch Adapter

Best Overall

Best Swing Away Hitch Adapter - KAC 90 Degree Hitch Adapter

9.9/10

Features

  • Best For: Minivans, SUVs, Cars, and Trailers
  • Compatible Hitch: 2 inch
  • Weight: 50.6 lbs.
  • Dimensions: ‎‎‎32.68 x 22.24 x 13.39 inches
  • Load Capacity: 320 lbs.
  • Mounting Type: Hitch Mount and Clamp Mount
  • Other Significant Features: Heavy-duty clamp, Anti-wobble locking hitch pin

Are you looking for something that takes no time for installation? Then check KAC Swing Away hitch adapter, as you can conveniently attach it with a 2-inch receiver instantly when you want to carry a bike rack. Moreover, even with 320 lbs carrying capacity, it will show no sag and flinch. With this product, you will experience a steady and balanced ride.

Furthermore, you can use it for long drives without any safety doubts because of the anti-wobble locking hitch pin. With this product, your bike paint stays untouched and remains safe from thieves. Also, it has a heavy-duty clamp that keeps the bike in place for an unlimited time, even during off-road rides. This is an ideal pick to get optimum usability.

If you are the one who is terrible at making things, then this product suits you the most because when you order this, you will get ready to use the product. You just have to install it through clips with a bike rack, and you are good to go. The addition of this product in your life will make it easy and you can go anywhere without bothering about this aspect.

What I liked

  • Ready-to-use product
  • Heavy-duty clamp for best fit
  • Effortlessly carry 320 lbs. weight

What I didn’t like

  • Can create a noise

Why I Recommended KAC 90 Degree Hitch Adapter

KAC Swing Away hitch adapter is the most durable option in this price range. Choose this hitch adapter if you want convenience, quality, and the best fit. This is the best product for adventurous camping because it can handle off-road rides without losing the nuts.

If you’re looking for a bike rack, you should also read about difference between platform and hanging bike rack.


2. Saris Swing Away Hitch Rack Adapter

Premium Pick

Saris Swing Away Hitch Rack Adapter

9.8/10

Features

  • Compatible Hitch: 2 inch
  • Weight: 42.5 lbs.
  • Dimensions: ‎‎30 x 25 x 10 inches
  • Load Capacity: 240 lbs.
  • Mounting Type: Hitch Mount
  • Other Significant Features: Pivots 90°, Locks in the open position

Do you want to open the tailgate or trunk of your car without any bike rack blockage? Here you need a Saris Swing Away Hitch rack adapter because of its amazing no disturbance feature. Also, it is a highly user-friendly product as its two handles make installation and removal effortless. Moreover, you can open and close it quickly, even in fully loaded condition, without any issue.

Furthermore, if you have a good receiver, you can use it with a tailgate, hatchback, or even for van doors. If you are concerned about losing nuts or bolts on rough roads, then no worries, as it has a tightening clasp that lets you do this with convenience. This feature makes this product a perfect companion for your next adventure.

This is an ideal product for safety as it moves only when you want it to move. Also, it has a hitch bolt to keep it in place and ensure no movement during the drive. Moreover, the 90-degree position lets you access things at the back of your vehicle without any blockage. You can open it anytime by using the available handles. This is a perfect adventure partner and surely never leave you alone.

What I liked

  • Easy to use
  • 90-degree position for convenience
  • Hitch bolt for safety

What I didn’t like

  • Plastic locking mechanism

Why I Recommended Saris Swing Away Hitch Rack Adapter

Saris Swing Away Hitch rack adapter is the best swing away hitch adapter because of its sturdy build, quality material, and locking system. With this fantastic product, you can go anywhere without leaving your bikes. Pick this one of the best swing away hitch mounts to enjoy camping with your bike.

If you are planning to transport bikes on jeep, have a look at best bike racks for jeep wrangler


3. Kuat Pivot Swing Away Hitch Extended

Top Pick

Kuat Pivot Swing Away Hitch Extension

9.7/10

Features

  • Compatible Hitch: 2 inch
  • Weight: 40 lbs.
  • Dimensions: ‎34 x 20 x 8 inches
  • Load Capacity: ‎250 lbs.
  • Mounting Type: Hitch Mount
  • Other Significant Features: Stainless steel and aluminum thru-axle pivot, Both right and left swings are available

Do you want the best swing away hitch adapter? Look at this amazing product; the KAC Swing Away Hitch Adapter is the suitable option for you. With this product, you will experience a premium vibe. This is possible because of its quality material to face every harsh treatment and best shape not to disturb your driving experience.

This is available in the left or right swing so that you can choose accordingly. The left swing option is suitable if you have an exhaust pipe in your vehicle. If this is not the case, the right swing will work for you. Moreover, this product has a slim build that makes it lightweight and reduces pressure on vehicle aerodynamics. Even with this built, it can carry 250lb effortlessly.

The best thing about this best swing away hitch adapter is its stainless steel and aluminum thru-axle pivot. Its oversize thru-axle pivot lets you carry high weight without any flinch. Due to this feature, you can open and close it quickly and smoothly. Moreover, it uses a toggle clamp system with a lever to disengage and lock it in seconds.

What I liked

  • Easy installation and removal
  • Can carry 250lbs.
  • Stainless steel and aluminum thru-axle pivot

What I didn’t like

  • May need a lift to close after use

Why I Recommended Kuat Pivot Swing Away Adapter

KAC Swing Away Hitch Adapter is the fastest heavy-duty swing away hitch that lets you do the engaging and disengaging process in seconds. Moreover, it never sags to make the opening and closing process convenient. Try this product and experience its qualities by yourself.

For US residents, it is recommended to read about bike rack legal requirements of their state.

4. YAKIMA BackSwing Swing Away 2 inch Hitch Adapter

Top Pick

YAKIMA BackSwing Swing Away 2 inch Hitch Adapter

9.7/10

Features

  • Compatible Hitch: 2 inch Hitch
  • Weight: 36 lbs.
  • Dimensions: ‎20 x 30 x 8 inches
  • Load Capacity: ‎260 lbs.
  • Mounting Type: Hitch Mount

In the realm of swing away hitch adapters, the YAKIMA BackSwing Swing Away Bike Rack Adapter reigns supreme as a must-have accessory for bike enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Its innovative design, sturdy construction, and seamless functionality makes it one of the best swing away hitch adapter.

The standout feature of the YAKIMA BackSwing is its ability to provide unrestricted access to the rear of your vehicle easily. With a simple swing away motion, the adapter allows you to effortlessly access your trunk or cargo area without the need to disassemble the entire bike rack. Whether you need to grab your gear, load and unload items, the Yakima BackSwing ensures hassle-free access, saving you time and effort.

YAKIMA is renowned for its commitment to quality, and the Yakima BackSwing Swing Away Bike Rack Adapter is no exception. Crafted with robust materials and precision engineering, this adapter guarantees exceptional durability and longevity.

It exudes a solid and reliable feel, capable of supporting heavy loads of up to 250 lbs. and accommodating various bike sizes without compromising stability. The smooth swing mechanism and secure locking mechanism i.e. safety latch and SKS (Same Key System) instill confidence while driving, ensuring your bikes and rack remain safe and intact.

Installing the Yakima Hitch Adapter is a breeze because it will not take more than 10 minutes to get installed. The adjustable cradle arms and padded hooks provide a secure and snug fit for your bikes, minimizing the risk of damage during transport. No matter what type of bike you own, the Yakima Swing Away Hitch Adapter ensures a safe and worry-free journey.

What I liked

  • Easy to install
  • Can carry 260 lbs.
  • Elegant and functional design
  • SKS Locking System
  • Lifetime Warranty

What I didn’t like

  • Limited Compatibility
  • Higher Price

Why I Recommended YAKIMA BackSwing Swing Away Rack Adapter

The YAKIMA BackSwing Swing Away Bike Rack Adapter is a standout accessory in the realm of swing away hitch adapters. Its ability to provide unrestricted access, robust build quality, effortless installation, versatility, and thoughtful features makes it perfect addition to any outdoor adventurer’s arsenal. For those seeking a seamless and hassle-free experience when it comes to transporting bikes, the YAKIMA BackSwing bike rack adapter is an investment worth making.

You can also read my detailed review about bike racks for Subaru Forester

How to choose Right Swing Away Hitch Adapter?

How to Choose Right Swing Away Hitch Adapter
Swing Away Hitch Adapter Buying Guide

Durability

Without this feature, your product is just a waste of your hard-earned money. A hitch adapter faces all weather changes, dust, and rain, making it rusty and damaging.

However, a durable product with suitable construction material, like aluminum, can efficiently face these issue and stays with you longer. Moreover, a thick structure can hold your bike more firmly and better. Make sure to look for a durable option that is worth your money.

Compatibility

This is the most important factor to consider if you want to avoid multiple issues in the future. Therefore, never ignore it and look for the following features to judge compatibility.

  • Swing Away Hitch Receiver: This is where you attach the bike to your car. The standard receivers come in 2″ size, but some have 1.5″, which is not suitable for all. For best compatibility, choose one with a 2″ receiver.
  • Swing Away Distance: This is another crucial feature, and the absence of right swing away distance can cause many issues. If you don’t know about this, it uses cargo space. So look for a swing away distance that also covers the sides of your car to ensure the best usability.
  • Tilt Away Angle: This feature is here to let you open the trunk without any resistance. Sometimes, it is not up to the mark and causes problems in the trunk’s opening. Therefore, check it and pick one with the correct tilt away angle.

Security

While keeping your bike at the back of your car, you can lose your bike if you stop in public or in traffic. Therefore, adding security to the hitch adapter can save you from any such incident. Look for a product that gives your bike security even when you are not around.

Fuel Economy

A hitch adapter affects the aerodynamics of your vehicle and directly boosts fuel consumption. If you attach a heavy product, it will increase fuel consumption by 30% more. You can reduce fuel usage if you choose a hitch adapter with a minimum disturbance level. Here swing away hitch bike is an ideal option as it puts almost no stress on the aerodynamics of your car.

FAQs about Swing Away Rack Adapter

What is a swing away bike rack?

This metal structure lets you carry your bikes with you at the back of your car. This product allows you to enjoy bike rides anywhere without paying for any carrier service.

How does swing away bike rack work?

This tray-like structure for your bike wheels holds the bike and keeps it steady during a drive. With this, you use a hitch adapter for easy movement. It works more like a bike stand but with additional features. You can attach it to the hitch of your car without any mechanical work.

Can you open your trunk with a bike rack on it?

Yes, you can open the trunk. This is possible because of the swing away and tilts away feature of the connected hitch adapter. Most of the time, the hitch adapter has one of these features, but some offer both elements in a single product.

Concluding Swing Away Bike Rack Adapters Review

Having the best swing away hitch adapter makes biker’s life easy. However, it would be best to look for the required features first and then pick the best for you. Suppose you avoid important parts, like compatibility, durability, or swing-away features. In that case, you will face many issues in the future. Therefore, pick this product wisely to add convenience to your life.

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