Yakima RidgeBack Review
The Yakima RidgeBack is a popular bike rack that offers secure and convenient transportation for your bikes. It features a hitch-mounted design, making it easy to install and remove.
Its sturdy construction allows it to carry multiple bikes without wobbling or damage safely.
The RidgeBack also provides excellent security with its integrated cable lock system, giving you peace of mind while on the road.
Additionally, it has adjustable cradle arms and anti-sway cradles to ensure a snug fit and prevent bike-to-bike contact.
Overall, the Yakima RidgeBack is a reliable and user-friendly bike rack for outdoor enthusiasts.
Yakima RidgeBack Specs
Here are the specifications for the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack:
- Hitch-mounted design: Allows for easy installation and removal on your vehicle’s hitch receiver.
- Carrying capacity: Available in different models with varying capacities, such as 2-bike, 4-bike, or 5-bike options.
- Construction: Made with durable materials to ensure strength and longevity.
- Integrated cable lock system: Provides added security for your bikes during transportation.
- Adjustable cradle arms: Allow for easy positioning and securing of bikes of various sizes and frame styles.
- Anti-sway cradles: Help to prevent bike-to-bike contact and minimize movement during transit.
- Compatibility: Designed to fit most hitch receivers, including both 1.25” and 2” hitch sizes.
- Tilting feature: Allows access to your vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch without removing the bikes.
- Weight capacity: Each model has a specific weight limit that should be followed for safe transport.
Please note that these specifications may vary depending on the specific model of the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack.
- Swing-Away Design: Swing the fully loaded 4-bike rack away from your vehicle with just one touch, providing effortless access to your car’s rear whenever you need it.
- Quick and Secure Installation: Tool-free setup in minutes with the locking SpeedKnob and AutoPin features that automatically position and lock the rack to your 2″ hitch receiver.
- Ultimate Bike Protection: Fully padded arms and zero-hassle ZipStrips keep your 4 bikes (up to 40 lbs each) secure and scratch-free during transport.
- Versatile Compatibility: Fits a wide range of bicycle styles and sizes, from mountain to road bikes, with a total weight capacity of 150 lbs; Folds down compactly when not in use.
- Take It Easy: Since 1979, Yakima has worked to simplify the way people travel and transport recreational sporting equipment. We put safety, sensibility, and street smarts into every product design.
Last update on 2025-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Construction
The Yakima RidgeBack bike rack is constructed with high-quality materials to ensure durability and stability during transportation. It is built to withstand the rigors of the road and provide a secure and reliable platform for carrying bikes.
The frame of the RidgeBack is typically made of strong steel or aluminum, which offers strength and resistance to corrosion.
The cradle arms, which hold the bikes in place, are designed with adjustable features to accommodate different bike sizes and frame styles. These arms are often padded to protect the bike frames from scratches or damage during transit.
The RidgeBack also incorporates anti-sway cradles that help minimize bike movement and prevent contact between bikes while on the rack.
The hitch-mounted design of the RidgeBack allows for easy installation and removal on your vehicle’s hitch receiver. It is engineered to fit most hitch receivers, including both 1.25” and 2” sizes.
Some models of the RidgeBack may also have a tilting feature, allowing you to access your vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch without having to remove the bikes from the rack.
Overall, the construction of the Yakima RidgeBack focuses on providing a sturdy, secure, and user-friendly bike rack for outdoor enthusiasts.
The RidgeBack has been specifically designed to carry four bikes. It is also fully assembled, making it a convenient vehicle accessory. The rack also tilts down for easy access from the vehicle’s rear.
You can also lock your bikes with the help of the tool-free locking SpeedKnob system. The RidgeBack also has a strong, durable build and a reasonable price.
The rack attaches to your vehicle via the hitch. You turn the large red knob on the rack and tighten it into the hitch. Once you have completed the tightening process, the rack is locked. It can’t be removed without the permission of the owner.
The Yakima RidgeBack 4 bike rack is made from powder-coated steel. It’s durable enough to support four bikes without problems, and Yakima backs up its products with a limited warranty. This warranty protects you from problems with your bike rack, so you can rest assured that you’ll have a rack that will last many years.
The Yakima RidgeBack 4 bike rack is a practical bike rack that can be used for various purposes. While it’s rather heavy, it’s very easy to install. It also has a strong steel frame and is highly durable.
Therefore, it’s a good choice if you’re looking for a high-quality bike rack.
- Secure 4-Bike Transport: Carry up to 4 bikes, including road, mountain, or hybrid bikes; Not compatible with e-bikes; TubeTop (sold separately) is required for non-conventional, step-through, BMX, kid’s bikes, and some full suspension bikes
- Convenient Tilting Rack: Tilt the rack down for easy access to your vehicle’s rear thanks to the built-in tilting mechanism
- Fits 1.25″ & 2″ Hitches: This versatile bicycle carrier accommodates a wide range of vehicle hitch sizes from cars and SUVs to trucks and trailers
- Robust & Secure: Built with heavy-duty materials for stability on the road, compatible with the optional DeadLock system for added bike and carrier security
- Take It Easy: Since 1979, Yakima has worked to simplify the way people travel and transport recreational sporting equipment. We put safety, sensibility and street smarts into every product design
Last update on 2025-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Q and A’s
Here are some common questions and answers about the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack:
Q: How many bikes can the Yakima RidgeBack carry?
A: The Yakima RidgeBack is available in different models with various capacities, such as 2-bike, 4-bike, or 5-bike options. The specific model you choose will determine how many bikes it can carry.
Q: Is the Yakima RidgeBack easy to install?
A: Yes, the Yakima RidgeBack features a hitch-mounted design that makes it easy to install and remove on your vehicle’s hitch receiver. It typically requires minimal assembly and can be quickly secured in place.
Q: Does the Yakima RidgeBack have any security features?
A: Yes, the Yakima RidgeBack has an integrated cable lock system. This allows you to secure your bikes to the rack, providing added security during transportation.
Q: Can I access my vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch with the bikes loaded on the Yakima RidgeBack?
A: Some models of the Yakima RidgeBack have a tilting feature that allows you to tilt the rack away from your vehicle, providing access to your trunk or rear hatch without removing the bikes.
Q: Will the Yakima RidgeBack fit my vehicle’s hitch receiver?
A: The Yakima RidgeBack is designed to fit most hitch receivers, including both 1.25” and 2” sizes. However, it is always recommended to check the compatibility of the specific model with your vehicle’s hitch receiver before purchasing.
Please note that these answers are general and may vary depending on the specific model of the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack.
Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons of the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack:
Pros:
- Easy installation: The hitch-mounted design of the RidgeBack makes it quick and straightforward to install on your vehicle’s hitch receiver.
- Secure transportation: The integrated cable lock system provides added bike security during transit, giving you peace of mind.
- Adjustable cradle arms: The RidgeBack’s adjustable cradle arms allow you to accommodate bikes of various sizes and frame styles, ensuring a secure fit.
- Anti-sway cradles: The anti-sway cradles help prevent bike-to-bike contact and minimize movement, reducing the risk of damage during transportation.
- Tilting feature: Some models of the RidgeBack have a tilting feature that allows you to access your vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch without removing the bikes from the rack.
Cons:
- Limited weight capacity: Each model of the RidgeBack has a specific weight limit, so it’s important to ensure that you stay within the recommended weight capacity for safe transportation.
- Hitch compatibility: While the RidgeBack is designed to fit most hitch receivers, checking the compatibility with your specific vehicle and hitch receiver before purchasing is always recommended.
- Price: The Yakima RidgeBack bike rack is generally priced in a higher range compared to some other bike rack options on the market.
These pros and cons provide a general overview, and individual experiences may vary. It’s always a good idea to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing a bike rack.
- Versatile Bike Transport: Effortlessly carry your bicycle on your rooftop with a sleek, low profile tray that minimizes hatch interference. Perfect for sedans and SUVs that don’t have a hitch.
- Reliable Design: Wheel hoop fits 26” to 29” wheels and tires from 23mm to 4.0” with no adjustment needed. Accommodates wheelbases up to 48”, requires no wheel removal, and makes no contact with the bike frame.
- Security First: New integrated TorqueRight knob quickly and easily secures the bike with precision. Tool-free, universal mounting hardware fits most roof racks, and fits all Yakima StreamLine crossbars, and factory or aerodynamic crossbars.
- Upgrade Your Journey: Add (2) SKS Locks to the included TailWhip cable to secure your bike and mount to your roof rack (sold separately). Easily convert to integrate with T-Slot crossbars with the addition of a SmarT-Slot Kit (sold separately).
- Take It Easy: Since 1979, Yakima has worked to simplify the way people travel and transport recreational sporting equipment. We put safety, sensibility, and street smarts into every product design.
Last update on 2025-12-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Should I Purchase One?
Your specific needs and preferences depend on whether to purchase a Yakima RidgeBack bike rack.
Here are a few factors to consider:
- Number of bikes: If you frequently transport multiple bikes, the RidgeBack’s 2-bike, 4-bike, or 5-bike options may suit you.
- Security: The integrated cable lock system of the RidgeBack provides added security for your bikes during transportation. If bike security is your priority, this feature may be appealing.
- Ease of use: The hitch-mounted design and adjustable cradle arms make the RidgeBack easy to install and adjust for different bikes. If convenience and user-friendly features are important to you, the RidgeBack can be a good choice.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the Yakima RidgeBack is compatible with your vehicle’s hitch receiver size before purchasing.
- Budget: Consider your budget as the Yakima RidgeBack is typically priced in a higher range than other bike rack options.
Ultimately, it’s important to assess your specific needs and preferences and read reviews from other users to determine if the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack aligns with what you’re looking for in a bike rack.
What People Are Saying
Here are some general sentiments that people have expressed about the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack:
Positive feedback:
- Users appreciate the sturdy construction and durability of the RidgeBack, noting that it holds up well during long trips and rough roads.
- Many find the installation process straightforward, with the hitch-mounted design receiving praise for its simplicity.
- The adjustable cradle arms and anti-sway feature are often commended for securely holding bikes in place and minimizing movement.
- The integrated cable lock system is frequently mentioned as a valuable security feature, providing peace of mind when leaving bikes unattended.
Potential concerns:
- Some users mention that the weight capacity of the RidgeBack may be a limiting factor, especially for heavier or electric bikes.
- A few individuals have reported difficulties with the tilt feature, stating that accessing their vehicle’s trunk or rear hatch with bikes loaded can be challenging.
- Price is occasionally mentioned as a consideration, as the Yakima RidgeBack is generally priced higher than other bike rack options.
Remember to research specific models and read user reviews to get a more comprehensive understanding of what people say about the Yakima RidgeBack bike rack before deciding.
Happy Biking!
