RockyMounts BackStage Review

The RockyMounts BackStage is a unique swing-away hitch rack that rotates bikes out of the way for total cargo access.

Pros:

• Swings bikes away from the rear hatch
• Easy access to the cargo area
• Locks receiver and bikes
• No frame contact with bikes

Cons:

• Carries only two bikes
• The swing mechanism protrudes far back
• High price over $500
• Heavy at over 60 lbs

Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Specifications:

• Carries: 2 bikes
• Hitch sizes: 2” (also 1.25” adapter)
• Max weight per bike: 40 lbs
• Max tire width: 5”
• Dimensions: 34” x 14” x 11” (folded)

Key Features:

• SwingAway design rotates bikes 180°
• The ratcheting hub adjusts to fit bikes
• Integrated hitch and bike locks
• Anti-sway cradles eliminate movement

Construction:

• Durable black powder-coated steel
• Oversize aluminum release handles
• Lock cores shield from elements

Usage Tips:

• Ensure adequate clearance for swing motion
• Check that the hatch can fully open before swinging
• Load the heaviest bike closest to the vehicle
• Review the locking procedure in manual
• Remove bikes before entering low clearances

If you’re in the swing-away platform hitch rack market, you might be interested in the RockMounts BackStage. It is sturdy and secure and is designed to be compatible with a two-inch hitch, and includes a cable lock for added security.

RockMounts BackStage is a swing-away platform hitch rack

The BackStage is the only swing-away platform hitch rack on the market and is perfect for vehicles with a wide-open back. It features a MonoRail bike rack with secure front and rear wheel locks. It swings out to 180 degrees to fit vehicles with a wide open back.

The BackStage swing-away platform hitch rack is well-built and sturdy. Its metal frame and plastic rear wheel straps hold it together well, and the finish stayed looking great through our tests.

Its two pivot points are robust, and the lock is made of heavy-duty cable. It also has a rubber cap for extra security.

Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This hitch bike rack is one of the best choices for carrying two bicycles. The BackStage swings out 180 degrees to give you easy access to the rear of your vehicle without removing the bikes.

The BackStage is compatible with most vehicles and includes a locking hitch pin and cable locks to prevent damage or theft.

The BackStage swing-away platform hitch rack is a great option for drivers who frequently carry a full load of luggage or bikes. It can easily swing out to the passenger side, making access to the vehicle’s rear much easier.

The rack is easy to install and remove and has a lower loading height than other styles. It also allows you to load and unload multiple bicycles at once.

The BackStage has a locking hitch pin to secure the rack. Though this locking mechanism is cumbersome, it does help keep your bikes secure.

The locking cable can be looped around your bicycles and secured to the hitch pin. However, it is not the most secure option.

Top Reasons to Choose the RockyMounts BackStage

1. Provides full rear hatch access with its 180° swing-away bike frame design.
2. Generous 60 lb per bike weight capacity easily handles heavier e-bikes.
3. Contact-free mounting avoids bike frame abrasion.
4. Durable and corrosion-resistant construction for longevity.
5. Versatile fit for a wide range of bike wheelbases and tire widths.
6. More cost-effective than a separate swing-away adapter.
7. Tilts down 30° for hatch access when bikes are loaded.
8. Integrated hitch and cable locks provide security.
9. Simple bike loading and unloading procedure.
10. Built-in failsafes prevent accidental opening or closing while driving.

Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Bike Security

The BackStage provides decent security through its integrated hitch pin lock and included 7-foot braided steel cable.

The hitch lock requires using a key but deters rack theft. We prefer a more robust lock, but it prevents casual stealing.

The thick-braided cable can be threaded through wheels and frames and then attached to the rack post. This locks down bikes more securely than slimmer cables.

The cable does need to be stored separately when not in use but it provides worthwhile extra security over just the hitch lock.

While the included locks add good theft deterrence, we’d still recommend additional locks for complete security. The hitch lock could potentially be compromised with enough blunt force.

And cables offer only a basic barrier for determined thieves.

For the utmost protection against bike theft, u-locks or heavy chains provide more robust locking. But the BackStage’s integrated locks provide acceptable security for short stops and lower-risk areas while keeping locking hassle-free.

Just be prepared to bring additional locks for overnight or high-crime parking. The built-in locks mainly serve as an effective deterrent.

It comes with a cable lock.

The RockyMounts BackStage is a dedicated two-bike rack. This rack is also equipped with a cable lock. The locking latch is located at the base of the rack. To release the latch, you must unscrew the blue handle. The locking system is more secure than Pivots.

This lock secures the rack to the vehicle. While installing can be cumbersome, it is an excellent deterrent to thieves. The only downside is that it can break when a thief runs a blunt object through it.

Another benefit of the RockyMounts BackStage is that it’s extremely versatile. It fits a wide variety of bicycles. It accommodates tires up to five inches wide. In addition, it supports a variety of wheelbases, from 36 to 50 inches.

It can support up to 60 pounds of weight per bike. This makes it a great choice for hauling bigger items.

This rack is an excellent option if you’re looking for a roof rack to carry your bikes safely and securely.

Another popular rack is the swing-away style. This style makes contact with the bike’s frame and includes padded arms. Its price is generally around $649, which undercuts the RockyMounts BackStage. Moreover, it can accommodate two additional bikes.

FAQs:

• Does it tilt down for access? No, it swings away from the hatch.
• What’s the warranty coverage? Limited lifetime warranty.
• Will it fit my hitch size? Fits 2” hitches directly, 1.25” with adapter.
• Can I add more than 2 bikes? No, max capacity is 2 bikes.
• Do I need to lock bikes to the rack? No, the integrated locks secure everything.

The BackStage provides unmatched cargo access thanks to its innovative SwingAway design. Just be prepared for the high cost and be sure to learn the proper locking protocol.

Happy Biking!