Yakima StepUp Swing 2” Hitch Bike Rack Review
A swing-out bike rack that allows for vehicle access while bikes are still loaded
September 16th, 2026
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Our verdict
The Yakima StepUp Swing 2” hitch bike rack is a solid rack that is especially useful for folks who want complete rear-vehicle access without a rack or bikes in the way at all.
We spent a summer testing the StepUp Swing 2” on road trips, camping trips, and for everyday use to nearby trailheads, and we were impressed. Even with the swing-out mechanism, this rack remains stable on rough dirt roads. The swing-out is easy to engage and especially useful for vehicles like trucks and camper vans.
It isn’t the lightest or easiest to load of all the racks we’ve tested, but it is a solid and effective rack that’s ideal for folks who prioritize vehicle access while bikes are still loaded on the rack.
Yakima StepUp Swing 2” Hitch Bike Rack
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Yakima StepUp Swing 2” Hitch Bike Rack Specifications
Rack type: Hitch tray
Bike capacity: 2
Hitch receiver size: 2”
Max weight per bike: 65 lb (off-road and RV, 43.5 lb)
Total weight capacity: 130 lb (off-road and RV, 87 lb)
Mounting style: Ratcheting cane arm for front wheel, ratcheting strap for rear wheel
Bike fit range: Wheel sizes from 16”-29”, wheelbases from 32”-52”, tire width up to 4.5”
Rear access: Yes, full swing-away access
Anti-wobble system: No
Security: Yes, hitch and bike lock included
Foldable when empty: Yes
Rack weight: 70 lb
Folded / stowed dimensions: 62”W x 28”H x 16”D
Materials: Steel, steel tubing, plastic, rubber
Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Price: $999
Comparison table
| Bike Rack | MSRP | Type | Hitch Reciever | Rack Weight | Capacity per Bike | Max Wheel Base | Max Tire Width | Wheel Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yakima StepUp Swing 2" | $999 | Swing away hitch tray | 2" | 70 lb | 65 lb | 52" | 4.5" | 16-29" |
| Yakima EXO DoubleUp | $549+ SwingBase or TopShelf | Hitch tray | N/A | 37 lb | 40/ 50 lb | 48" | 4.8" | 20-29" |
| Kuat Sherpa 2.0 | $759 | Hitch tray | 1.25, 2" | 35, 32 lb | 40, 40 lb | 47" | 3" | 25-29" (20-29" w/ adapter) |
| Hollywood Racks CrossTrack - 2 Bike | $750 | Hitch tray | 1.25, 2" | 58 lb | 66 lb | 52" | 4" | 20-29" |
Best for
Riders who want unencumbered rear-vehicle access without having to remove bikes or rack
Folks who often camp with bikes in tow and need easy vehicle access
Folks wanting a rack that can both tilt away and swing away for vehicle access
Cyclists and mountain bikers who want a frameless contact system for transporting bikes, including E-bikes
What we liked
Swing-away mechanism allows for complete rear-vehicle access
Tilt mechanism allows access with tailgate fully down
Great for camping and road trips, thanks to easy rear vehicle access
Rack is stable on dirt roads even with more moving parts than non-swinging racks
Included locks are easy to use
What could be better
Not as easy to load as racks with dual cradle arms for tires (ratcheting cane arm and strap take more time to secure)
Rack is heavy and a little complex to set up
Cannot increase bike capacity beyond two bikes
No anti-wobble mechanism in hitch attachment limits stability on rough roads, and lowers maximum weight limit
How we tested
We tested the Yakima StepUp Swing 2” rack primarily on a full-sized truck with a 2-inch hitch (which is the only hitch size this rack fits). We loaded full-suspension mountain bikes and gravel bikes onto the rack, and did the majority of our testing and travel with two full-suspension mountain bikes weighing around 30 pounds each, both loaded onto the rack.
We took the rack on a road trip from Colorado to Southern Utah to ride mountain bikes, along with several other shorter trips including weekend camping trips down rough dirt roads and many drives to various trailheads around Colorado. We spent time driving at high speeds on highways for long distances, too.
We often had only one tester loading the rack, which was easy to do. Occasionally, two testers would load bikes together, and with this rack a second hand can be helpful (though not at all necessary, as long as the person loading is strong enough to lift the bikes onto the rack).
With the primary testing vehicle being a truck used for family outings with a toddler and a large dog, often camping or road tripping, the options for rear vehicle access, including the swing mechanism, were used frequently and greatly appreciated.
After multiple months of consistent use, we have encountered no durability issues, rattles, or notable stability issues with this rack.
We also tested the Yakima StepUp Swing Rack alongside other bike racks for cars in our Best Bike Racks for Cars, Trucks, and SUVs guide.
Will it fit your setup?
The following checklist will help you avoid frustration and unnecessary returns by ensuring the StepUp Swing 2 will work with your current vehicle and bike setup.
Your vehicle has / is:
2” hitch receiver
Standard passenger car, truck, van, or SUV
RV compatible (with max weight per bike of 43.5 lb)
Your bikes are:
Frameless-contact mounting works with carbon bikes
Full-suspension, gravel, road
Step-through
Wheel size between 16”-29”
Wheelbase between 32”-52”
Fat tires up to 4.5” in width
Road/gravel skinny tires
E-bikes
Max weight of 65lb per bike
Max rating is 43.5lb per bike for off-road use
Loading ramp available separately
Capacity growth
2 bike maximum
Performance in the field
Loading ease
We primarily tested this rack with two full-suspension mountain bikes weighing around 30 pounds each. Bikes were easy to load onto the rack—similar to other racks with the same cane arm/back wheel strap loading system. The rack sits high enough for good ground clearance (with all of the rack sitting above the hitch itself), but not so high that it makes it challenging to load bikes.
Our 5’3” tester did not have an issue loading bikes onto the rack. Systems that use cradle arms can be quicker and easier to load, but we did not have any notable challenges loading this rack.
Bike security and stability
Overall, we did not find any notable issues with stability and bike security when testing the Yakima StepUp Swing rack. At high speeds on highways, the bikes remained stable, even when winds picked up. We also tested on dirt roads, and the rack and bikes remained stable and secure.
This rack is solid, but it is not the most stable we’ve tested, and that is largely for two reasons. The first is that it does not have an anti-wobble mechanism (like a threaded bolt that stabilizes the rack in the hitch) in the hitch attachment. This means the rack is a little less stable on rough roads compared to racks we’ve tested that do have this feature (like the Kuat Piston Pro, which is incredibly stable). The second is that the swing-away mechanism inherently limits stability to some extent, simply because there are more moving parts in the rack overall.
However, it’s worth noting that while this is not the most stable rack we’ve tested, it should be more than sufficient for most folks. But if you often off-road on particularly rough 4X4 roads, you may want to consider something more stable—but that more stable option likely won’t have the swing-away feature.
Rear-vehicle access
Rear-vehicle access is the highlight feature of the Yakima StepUp Swing 2” rack. Like many other racks on the market that we’ve tested, it tilts away from the vehicle to allow for quick access to the back of a vehicle. And it tilts far enough, with bikes fully loaded, to allow the tailgate of a truck bed to open completely and sit flat.
But then comes the swing-away feature. A threaded screw at the base of the rack allows the rack to unfold and open laterally, swinging away completely to the side of the vehicle. This allows complete rear access, which is particularly useful for trucks or vans, or any vehicle where you have a large storage space in the back.
We primarily tested this rack on a full-size truck with a cap over the bed and found this feature to be excellent for accessing the truck bed, especially while camping and on road trips.
Bike-fit versatility
This rack can accommodate a wide range of bike sizes, similar to many other racks out there. It can fit kids’ bikes with as small as 16” wheels up to larger bikes with 29” wheels. It can fit bikes with wheelbases between 32” and up to 52”, which covers most common bikes, from kids’ bikes and cruisers to mountain bikes and fat bikes (with tires up to 4.5” wide). We tested this rack primarily with full-suspension mountain bikes, but were also easily able to fit gravel and commuter bikes onto the rack without issue.
E-bike capability
This rack is capable of carrying e-bikes weighing up to 65 pounds a piece. It is worth noting that off-roading or putting this rack on an RV reduces the weight capacity for each bike to 43.5 pounds, so this rack is not suitable for RVing or off-roading with heavy e-bikes on board. We did not specifically test with e-bikes, though based on our testing experience, we do trust that rating. There is a ramp available for purchase separately for easy e-bike loading, which costs an additional $119 at the time of publication.
Build quality
The overall build quality of this rack is solid, and we appreciate that replacement parts are available if they are needed. In our multiple months of testing with constant use on a vehicle, we have not noticed any rattling or instabilities, or any other durability issues with the rack.
Installation and hitch fit
This rack is partially assembled out of the box, and it does take some time to install—about double the time of some other racks we’ve tested. Our testers found it a bit frustrating at times, but ultimately after about an hour or so the rack was set up and ready to roll. It is worth noting that this rack is quite heavy–70 pounds! Our tester was able to install it on his own, but some folks may find setup for this rack easier with two people.
Stowed footprint
The Yakima StepUp Swing 2” rack folds upright against the back of the vehicle when not in use. It is fairly low profile, though not the smallest, lightest, or most minimal when stowed—it sticks out 16 inches from the vehicle when stowed. This is largely because of the additional metal and parts needed to allow for the swinging mechanism.
Features
Loading and bike hold
Frame-free tire/wheel clamping avoids contact with the frame—safe for carbon and unusual frame shapes
Adjustable ratcheting arm accommodates a wide tire-width and wheel-size range, up to 4.5”-wide tires and 16”-29” wheel sizes
Loading ramp is available separately for e-bikes ($119)
Generous bike-to-bike spacing minimizes handlebar and pedal interference
Individual tray adjustment slides bikes fore/aft to clear each other
Rear-vehicle access
Lever tilt drops the rack to reach the hatch / tailgate—works when loaded
Tailgate sits flat and fully opened with rack tilted back—works when loaded
Optional swing-away pivot for full rear access on vans and SUVs
Tilt returns and locks positively so the rack doesn't flop in transit
Stability and hitch attachment
Rigid platform keeps bikes from swaying on rough roads
Security
Integrated locking hitch pin secures the rack to the vehicle
Cable lock secures each bike to the rack
Keyed-alike system across locks for convenience
Build and stowability
Steel construction balances weight, strength, and corrosion resistance
Folds upright/flat against the vehicle to reduce footprint when empty — sticks out 16 inches from vehicle when folded
Setup and maintenance
Partially assembled out of the box; 60-plus-minute setup to road-ready
Serviceable moving parts and available replacement hardware
Finish resists chipping and road grime; simple to clean
Sustainability
Yakima’s Climate Action Roadmap includes plans to reduce emissions, waste, and corporate travel/commuting; increase use of renewable energy (e.g., their headquarters in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is now 100% powered by wind), use of sustainable materials, recycling in headquarters and manufacturing facilities; and develop products that last a lifetime.
FAQ
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No. This rack only comes in a 2” hitch option. Yakima does sell a hitch adapter, but only for 2.5” hitches, turning them into a 2” hitch to fit their racks. If you have a 1.25” or 3” hitch, Yakima doesn’t currently have any adapters for those.
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Yes, this rack is capable of carrying e-bikes up to 65 pounds each. That weight limit is decreased to 43.5 pounds off-road or when the rack is mounted to an RV.
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No, this rack uses frameless contact for mounting and will not damage a carbon frame. The ratcheting hook arm secures the front wheel at the fork, while a ratcheting strap secures the rear wheel at the base of the wheel.
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Yes, this rack provides full rear vehicle access. You can access the back of the vehicle by tilting the rack, or by swinging the rack away and to the side, which allows for complete rear access.
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Yes, this rack fits a wide variety of bike types and sizes. The frameless contact attachment system means that step-through bikes and other odd frame shapes work, as long as the wheels fit. Kids’ bikes fit with wheels as small as 16”.
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Can I expand the Yakima StepUp Swing to carry more bikes?
Should you buy the Yakima StepUp Swing?
Buy if you want easy, unencumbered, rear-vehicle access, if you often car camp with your bikes in tow, or if you drive a truck or van and want full access to the back.
Skip if you need maximum stability on rough roads, are on a tight budget or you want to be able to expand your rack to carry more than two bikes.
Where to buy the Yakima StepUp Swing?
The Yakima StepUp Swing hitch bike rack is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership (can be same-day delivery in major metropolitan cities)
evo
Pros: 365 day returns, store locations in ski towns for easy last-minute pick-up, may offer rentals if you want to try before you buy, earn 10% back in Rewards, free membership gets discounts on services and rentals
Advice on where to buy
In general for gear, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI.
Similar bike racks
Yakima StepUp Swing vs. Yakima EXO DoubleUp
Rack type: Hitch tray
Bike capacity: 2
Hitch receiver size: N/a (this rack requires EXO base, sold separately, which fits 2” hitch receivers)
Max weight per bike: 50 lb per bike on EXO Swing Base; 40 lb per bike on EXO Top Shelf
Total weight capacity: 100 lb on EXO Swing Base; 80 lb on EXO Top Shelf
When paired with the Yakima EXO Swing Base, the EXO DoubleUp rack is another option for folks who want a swing-away rack. Rather than being an all-in-one system, the EXO DoubleUp rack is sold as one piece, with a Yakima EXO base needed to mount the rack. Purchasing the EXO Swing Base with the EXO DoubleUp rack makes for a setup that is significantly more expensive than the StepUp Swing rack. This system is ideal for folks who want to carry both bikes and gear on one rack system and that’s the main benefit. If you simply want a swing-away bike rack, the StepUp Swing 2” is more affordable and will likely offer better value overall.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the Yakima EXO DoubleUp bike hitch rack.
Yakima EXO DoubleUp
Yakima StepUp Swing vs. Kuat Sherpa 2.0
Rack type: Hitch tray
Bike capacity: 2
Hitch receiver size: 2” or 1.25”
Max weight per bike: 40 lb
Total weight capacity: 80 lb
The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is one of Kuat’s most popular bike racks, and for good reason. It’s a solid, user-friendly option that is more affordable than other Kuat racks. While the Sherpa 2.0 does have a similar mounting system to the StepUp Swing—it also uses ratcheting cane arms and ratchet straps—the Sherpa does not swing out like the StepUp Swing. So, your rear-vehicle access will be more limited with the Sherpa than it is with the StepUp Swing, though the Sherpa does still tilt to allow hatch access. But we think the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is a bit more stable on rough roads overall. So, if that’s a higher priority for you than rear vehicle access, this is a solid and reliable rack worth considering.
Kuat Sherpa 2.0
Yakima StepUp Swing vs. Hollywood Racks CrossTrack 2
Rack type: Hitch tray
Bike capacity: 1 or 2 (tested)
Hitch receiver size: 2” (tested) or 1.25”
Max weight per bike: 66 lb
Total weight capacity: 132 lb
The Hollywood Racks CrossTrack 2 is an affordable rack that’s easy to load. It uses two ratcheting cradle arms on either wheel to mount and secure the bike, which makes this rack a little easier to load than the Yakima StepUp Swing. The CrossTrack is also easier to set up out of the box than the StepUp Swing and weighs less, too. But, like the Kuat Sherpa, it does not swing away to allow for full rear-vehicle access, so if that’s your top priority, the Yakima StepUp Swing is a better bet.
Learn more in our in-depth review of the Hollywood Racks CrossTrack bike hitch rack.
Hollywood Racks CrossTrack 2
Why you should trust us / About the author
A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications, and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full-time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.
Stasia learned to mountain bike as a kid in Utah, and rekindled her love for the sport after moving to Summit County, Colorado, and getting a new (and very much improved from her very old hand-me-down) full-suspension bike several years ago. She spends most of her summer days out on the singletrack, and while she often has the privilege of biking right from her house, she and her family love a good road trip or romp down a rough dirt road with bikes in tow. So, she spends a lot of time loading bikes on and off of racks to travel for vacations and bike races around the Mountain West—often keeping an eye on the side view mirror to make sure the bikes are secure when 4-wheel-drive really kicks in.
Find more of Stasia’s work on her Treeline Review author page.
