First Impressions of Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless ways to transport gear, but securing bikes to a vehicle, especially one with a spare tire, always seemed like a clumsy compromise. Enter the Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike, a product promising a solution tailored for vehicles with rear-mounted spares. This rack attempts to solve a common problem for Jeep owners, SUV drivers, and anyone wanting to haul their bikes without needing a hitch.
My off-roading adventures were getting increasingly complicated, as wrestling bikes inside my rig became a Tetris-like puzzle after a long day on the trails. I needed a reliable, easily installed solution to carry two bikes without obstructing my vehicle’s functionality. This Swagman rack seemed like the perfect candidate to address this, offering a potentially elegant alternative to roof racks or hitch-mounted options, especially since I didn’t want to mess with installing a hitch on my already heavily modified SUV.
Unboxing the Swagman 80501, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel of the steel construction; it felt reassuringly robust. The powder-coated finish hinted at durability, though the somewhat basic design lacked the sleek aesthetics of some higher-end racks I’ve encountered. It’s a function-over-form kind of product, and I can appreciate that.
Compared to other spare tire-mounted racks I considered, like the Yakima SpareTime or Thule Spare Me, the Swagman stood out due to its seemingly simpler mounting system and lower price point. I chose it over others because it promised a secure fit around my 33-inch spare tire without requiring a separate adapter. Initial impressions left me cautiously optimistic; it appeared well-built and reasonably priced.
I was excited to see if the Swagman 80501 could finally deliver a hassle-free bike-carrying solution for my spare tire-equipped vehicle, or if it would fall victim to the common pitfalls of flimsy construction and awkward installation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Swagman 80501 was a weekend mountain biking trip to Moab, Utah, a challenging environment that would quickly expose any weaknesses. I installed it in my garage before the trip. The installation process took about 45 minutes, longer than anticipated, due to fiddling with the adjustable straps to achieve a snug fit around my spare tire.
The rack performed surprisingly well during the initial highway drive; the bikes remained securely in place, with minimal sway or wobble. However, once we hit the rougher terrain of the access road leading to the trailhead, I started to notice some rattling and movement from the rack itself against the spare tire. I was relieved to see, upon arriving at the trailhead, that the bikes themselves remained secure.
The initial experience was positive, but the rattling and the slightly cumbersome installation raised concerns about long-term durability and ease of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous weekend trips and shorter excursions, the Swagman 80501’s durability is holding up. The powder coat is showing only minor signs of wear, despite exposure to dirt, mud, and occasional rain. The anti-sway cradles have kept the bikes from banging into each other, although I did add some extra padding for more protection.
Cleaning the rack is relatively easy; a quick spray with a hose and a wipe-down with a cloth removes most of the grime. However, I’ve noticed some rust developing on the hardware, which suggests that regular maintenance with a rust inhibitor is necessary. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper racks, the Swagman 80501 is proving to be more reliable, although not without its minor shortcomings.
It outperforms a universal strap-on trunk rack I used to use; that old rack would shift and damage the car’s paint. The Swagman offers a dedicated solution, it secures the bikes better and causes no paint damage.
Breaking Down the Features of Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike
Specifications
The Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike is designed to transport up to two bikes, making it suitable for couples or small families. It’s designed to fit 4-inch to 4.5-inch square, continuously welded steel bumpers, providing a stable mounting point. The rack mounts around most spare tires, offering a universal fit for vehicles with this configuration.
- The anti-sway cradles are designed to prevent bike-to-bike contact, protecting the bikes from damage during transit. All necessary hardware is included, simplifying the installation process. These specifications are crucial for ensuring the safe and secure transport of bikes.
The fact that it fits such a broad range of spare tire sizes is also a major advantage, reducing the need to measure meticulously before purchasing.
Performance & Functionality
The Swagman 80501 performs its primary function of carrying bikes reasonably well, offering a secure and stable platform. Its strengths lie in its simplicity and ease of use. The anti-sway cradles are effective at preventing bike-to-bike contact.
- However, the rack’s weaknesses include a slightly cumbersome installation process and potential for rattling on rough roads. It meets expectations for basic bike transport, but falls short of higher-end racks in terms of refinement and noise reduction.
With a little adjustment, this rack can easily exceed the user’s expectations on the road.
Design & Ergonomics
The Swagman 80501 features a robust steel construction and a powder-coated finish. This provides a durable and weather-resistant design. Its weight is manageable, making it relatively easy to install and remove. The design is functional, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics, but it’s not ugly.
- From a user-friendly perspective, the rack has a slight learning curve during the initial setup, but once installed, it’s straightforward to load and unload bikes.
There isn’t much that can be improved on its ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The steel construction of the Swagman 80501 suggests that it will last for several years with proper care. Regular cleaning and rust prevention are essential to maintain its condition, particularly in harsh environments. The rack is relatively easy to repair, with readily available replacement parts should the need arise.
- Given its simple design and robust materials, the Swagman 80501 is built to withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements.
Given that I live in a desert environment, I make sure to wash it down regularly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swagman 80501 comes with all the necessary hardware for installation. There are limited customization options beyond adding extra padding or straps for added security. While not specifically designed for compatibility with accessories from other brands, generic straps and pads can be easily integrated to enhance its functionality.
- For instance, I used bungee cords to secure the wheels so they don’t spin while in motion. I also added reflective tape for visibility.
Pros and Cons of Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike
Pros
- Reliable and secure bike transport, holding up to two bikes safely.
- Relatively affordable price point compared to hitch-mounted options.
- Durable steel construction with a weather-resistant powder-coated finish.
- Fits a wide range of spare tire sizes, increasing its versatility.
- Anti-sway cradles prevent bike-to-bike contact, protecting your investment.
Cons
- Installation can be somewhat cumbersome and time-consuming.
- Potential for rattling and noise on rough roads.
- Hardware is prone to rust, requiring regular maintenance.
Who Should Buy Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike?
The Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, weekend warriors, and casual cyclists who own vehicles with rear-mounted spare tires. It is especially useful for Jeep owners, SUV drivers, and anyone who wants a simple, affordable way to transport their bikes without the need for a hitch. Those who prioritize simplicity, affordability, and functionality over sleek design and advanced features will find this rack to be a solid choice.
Individuals who should skip this product are those who frequently transport more than two bikes, require a rack that is extremely quiet and rattle-free, or prioritize high-end aesthetics. Frequent users who require rapid installation and removal should look elsewhere. Must-have accessories include extra straps for added security and a rust inhibitor for the hardware.
Conclusion on Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike
The Swagman 80501 Around The Spare Deluxe Bike Rack 2 Bike offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking an affordable and functional solution for transporting bikes on vehicles with spare tires. While it may not be the most refined or feature-rich rack on the market, its robust construction, secure bike cradles, and relatively easy installation make it a practical choice for casual cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. The Swagman rack works, it doesn’t break the bank, and gets the job done.
Its value is definitely justified, particularly when compared to more expensive hitch-mounted options. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable spare tire bike rack.
If you’re tired of cramming bikes inside your vehicle or struggling with universal strap-on racks, give the Swagman 80501 a try; it might just be the solution you’ve been searching for.