How to Buy the Right Kuat Hitch Rack for You

Hitch racks can be mounted on just about any vehicle with a tow-hitch receiver, making them a very versatile choice regardless of the kind of vehicle you're driving. Kuat has several different types of hitch racks to choose from depending on your budget and needs. Some important factors to consider are the bike weight, the frame style (road bike, mountain bike, beach cruiser, etc.) and the tire width you need to accommodate as well.

There are two main styles of hitch racks, platform or tray, and hanging style. Platform or tray-style racks are the most versatile of the two options and are what we're focusing on here. Hanging-style racks can be a great choice, but frequently require adapters for full-suspension bikes and can cause damage to the bike if it's incorrectly mounted and for that reason, we tend to avoid them.

Kuat Transfer v2 Hitch Rack

The Kuat Transfer v2 Hitch Rack is a great option for those looking for a versatile platform-style rack without all of the bells and whistles. It's made with all-steel construction and a durable finish that will give you years of trouble-free service. The rack is easy to install and has a semi-integrated cable lock to give you peace of mind for that quick run into the convenience store on your way to the ride. The Kuat Transfer v2 also comes in 1.25" and 2" hitch options so it will fit whatever size receiver is on your car. The best part is that it's got modular configurations so you can get a multi-rider rack at a wallet-friendly price.

Key Features

• Flatlock cam for 2" hitch receivers, ball cam for 1.25"
• A semi-integrated bicycle cable lock
• Tamper-resistant hitch security
• Holds up to a 50" wheelbase bike
• Holds wheels 18"-29"
• Holds tires up to 5" (with accessory strap)
• Folds up and out of the way when not carrying bikes
• Automotive-grade 750 hour salt spray hardware for years of corrosion-free service
• The dedicated 2” hitch version in the 2 bike configuration can be directly mounted on campers, recreational vehicles, or trailers (must have a chassis-mounted hitch receiver)
• Up to 4 bikes with the Transfer v2 3-Bike model and the Transfer v2 1-Bike Add-On

If you're looking for a hitch-mounted bicycle rack at an affordable price without sacrificing quality, look no further than the Kuat Transfer v2.

Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Hitch Rack

The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 Hitch Rack is a versatile platform hitch-mounted bike rack that can accommodate a variety of different frame types and tire widths. It's also one of the lightest options on the market since it's all-aluminum. It comes in both 1.25" and 2" hitch receiver sizes.

Key Features

• Lightweight platform rack design as low as 32 lbs. (assembled)
• Available in both 2” & 1.25” hitch sizes
• Pivot lever with foot assist for folding it down or up
• Bike lock with matching hitch lock
• Front tire hook design with an intuitive release mechanism

An important caveat on the Sherpa 2.0 is that it's NOT compatible with mounting on an RV. If you need to put a hitch rack on an RV, then the Kuat Transfer v2 is the best option.

Kuat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack

The Kuat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack is Kuat's best do it all hitch mounted bike rack. It's strong enough for any bike, including e-bikes, expandable with 1-Bike Add-On or 2 Bike Add-On, and overall built to last while looking amazing. Like the other Kuat racks, it comes in both 1.25" and 2" hitch receiver sizes. It's also available in Kuat NV 2.0 Base model which has a tough matte finish that's a bit more wallet-friendly while maintaining the features of the NV 2.0.

Key Features

• Adjustable front tire cradle system for the best positioning
• Pivot lever with foot assist for folding it down or up
• Trail Doc is included (excluding the Base models) for a built in work stand to do quick adjustments or repairs at the trailhead
• Fully integrated cable locks and hitch lock included that are keyed alike
• Rear tire strap features a co-molded strap to protect wheels
• No-tool install with hand tight hitch cam system
• Premium gloss metallic powder coat on the non-Base models
• Available in both 2” & 1.25” hitch sizes

Like the Kuat Sherpa 2.0, the NV 2.0 is NOT compatible with mounting on an RV. If you need to put a hitch rack on an RV, then the Kuat Transfer v2 is the best option.

Kuat PISTON PRO X

This rack is the ultimate hitch-mounted rack with every last detail in place. With Genuine Kashima coated hydro-pneumatic arms this rack is a one-handed loading and unloading operation keeping your bike ultra-secure and paint in pristine condition. It includes low-profile integrated taillights that plug into your vehicle trailer connector providing greater rear visibility to other drivers.

Key Features

• 2 bike capacity
• 2" hitch size
• Max weight of 65lbs per bike so it can take the stoutest of e-bikes
• 53" max wheelbase
• 18-29" wheel size
• 5" max tire width (no accessory straps needed)
• 1-Bike or 2-Bike Add-On options
• LED Tailights
• Tiered trays for best fit with different size bikes
• Stainless steel hardware
• RV approved

The Kuat PISTON PRO X is the absolute ultimate in hitch-mounted racks and will give you years of trouble-free service and look amazing on your vehicle while doing it. It's also the most expensive option in the lineup, so it admittedly isn't for everyone, but if you're looking for the best, this is the one for you!

In conclusion, if you're looking for a hitch mounted bike rack, Kuat is one of your best options that will give you years of trouble free service regardless of the option you choose.  Check out our handy comparison table below to see the specs side-by-side. 

We'd be remiss to not mention the awesome Kuat Pivot v2 as it's the perfect accessory to make sure that your rack never gets in the way again.  Designed specifically for 2" hitch setups, it goes between your hitch and the rack to allow you to swing the rack out of the way when you need to.  Perfect for SUVs and pickup trucks where you need to get to gear in the back.

Hitch Rack Comparison Chart