Let’s Talk About Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier
The Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier promises a solution to a common RV problem: hauling bikes without sacrificing valuable cargo space. Manufactured by Lippert, this carrier mounts over the tongue jack on your travel trailer’s A-frame, freeing up the rear hitch. It’s a clever design that aims to solve the “where do I put the bikes?” dilemma.
My family and I love to camp, but fitting our bikes and gear into our travel trailer always felt like a Tetris game gone wrong. I needed a solution that didn’t involve cramming everything into the tow vehicle or giving up precious storage at the trailer’s rear. The Lippert Jack It seemed like the perfect answer.
Unboxing the Jack It, my initial impression was that the construction seemed robust, though the design also looked a bit more involved than I anticipated. The powder-coated finish appeared durable, and the hardware felt substantial. The weight of the carrier was noticeable, suggesting a focus on strength.
I considered other options, including rear-mounted hitch carriers and roof racks for the tow vehicle. However, the rear-mounted carriers would block access to our trailer’s storage compartment, and the roof racks would add significant height to the tow vehicle, impacting fuel economy. The Lippert Jack It offered a unique, potentially superior solution.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it lived up to its promise of convenience and space-saving design. I hoped the installation wouldn’t be too complex, and that it would securely hold our bikes during travel. Would it live up to the hype, or would it be another camping gadget relegated to the garage?
Real-World Testing: Putting Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lippert Jack It on a weekend camping trip to the nearby state park. The terrain varied from smooth highway to bumpy gravel roads leading to our campsite. Installation took about an hour, and required a bit more fiddling than the instructions indicated.
The Jack It performed admirably on the highway, with the bikes remaining stable and secure. However, on the gravel roads, I noticed some sway in the bikes, especially when encountering larger bumps. I kept a close watch in my rearview mirror.
The ease of use was somewhat hampered by the initial installation process; I definitely needed to refer to the instructions multiple times. Loading and unloading the bikes was straightforward, though lifting them over the jack took a bit of effort. The only initial issue was the minor sway on rough terrain.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several camping trips spanning a few months, the Lippert Jack It has held up fairly well. There are some scratches on the powder coat from road debris, but no signs of structural weakness. The carrier has seen about 1500 miles of use.
Durability has been acceptable, though I’ve noticed some minor rust developing on the hardware. Regularly cleaning and lubricating the joints seems crucial to prevent further corrosion. The carrier still feels sturdy, but vigilance is needed.
Maintenance involves occasionally tightening bolts and wiping down the frame with a damp cloth. I also apply a rust inhibitor to the hardware every few trips. Compared to the hassle of cramming bikes inside the trailer, the maintenance is a small price to pay. It’s outperformed my expectations in terms of freeing up space, but the sway issue remains a minor concern.
Breaking Down the Features of Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier
Specifications
The Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier is designed to mount on the A-frame of most travel and cargo trailers. It has a total weight capacity of 25 pounds, accommodating two bikes. The carrier is constructed from steel with a powder-coated finish.
The fact that it fits all bike frames is important, offering versatility regardless of bike style (within the weight limit). The 25-pound total weight limitation means heavier bikes, like some e-bikes or mountain bikes, might not be suitable. The compatibility with most A-frame travel and cargo trailers is also critical, although verifying fitment before purchase is essential.
Performance & Functionality
The Lippert Jack It performs its primary function—carrying bikes—effectively, freeing up space at the rear of the trailer. However, the sway observed on rough roads is a noticeable weakness. The carrier’s usability is good overall, but the installation process could be simplified.
Its strength lies in its ability to reclaim valuable cargo space. A potential improvement would be to incorporate a sway control mechanism. The carrier mostly meets my expectations, but the sway on rough roads needs addressing.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality seems reasonable, with the steel construction providing a solid feel. The powder-coated finish offers some protection against the elements, but is prone to scratching. The carrier’s weight is manageable during installation but requires two people to lift safely.
The design is functional, though not particularly elegant. The user-friendliness could be improved with clearer installation instructions. There is a definite learning curve during the initial setup.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Lippert Jack It should last for several seasons. Addressing rust on the hardware is essential to extending its lifespan. The carrier is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Regular maintenance will be key to preserving its structural integrity. While I don’t anticipate any major repairs, the rust issue needs vigilant attention. The carrier seems reasonably durable overall.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lippert Jack It comes with all necessary hardware for installation. There are no specific customization options offered by Lippert. However, you could potentially add aftermarket straps or padding to further secure the bikes and minimize sway.
While no formal accessories exist, bungee cords and ratchet straps can be used for enhanced security. Compatibility with aftermarket stabilizers designed for bike carriers may be possible. These could potentially reduce the sway observed on rough roads.
Pros and Cons of Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier
Pros
- Frees up valuable rear hitch/cargo area on the travel trailer. This is the primary benefit and a huge plus for those needing the space.
- Fits all bike frames (within weight limit). Versatility makes it suitable for various bike types.
- Will not void chassis warranty (according to Lippert). Provides peace of mind for trailer owners.
- Powder-coated finish offers reasonable weather protection. It should hold up well as long as the user keeps an eye on it.
- Relatively easy to load and unload bikes once installed. After the initial setup, usage is quick.
Cons
- Sway can occur on rough roads, requiring careful monitoring. The driver must use caution and check the rearview frequently on roads that aren’t paved.
- Total weight limit of 25 pounds may restrict the types of bikes that can be carried. This is a substantial limitation.
- Installation can be tricky and time-consuming. The instructions could be clearer.
Who Should Buy Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier?
The Lippert Jack It is perfect for travel trailer owners who need to free up the rear hitch for other cargo. It’s also ideal for those with lighter bikes (under 25 pounds total) who want a convenient way to transport them. This carrier is best for campers who primarily travel on paved roads.
Those with heavier bikes or who frequently travel on rough terrain should skip this product. Also, if you’re not comfortable with a somewhat involved installation process, this might not be the best choice. Must-have accessories would include extra straps or a sway control device if one can be adapted for use.
Conclusion on Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier
The Lippert 429756 Jack It 2 Bike Carrier offers a clever solution for hauling bikes with a travel trailer, but it’s not without its drawbacks. The primary benefit is freeing up rear cargo space, but the sway on rough roads and the limited weight capacity are significant considerations. The retail price of $294.95 feels slightly high given the performance limitations.
I would cautiously recommend it to travel trailer owners who prioritize space-saving and primarily travel on smooth roads with lightweight bikes. However, be aware of the potential sway issue and the installation complexity. Assess your needs carefully before making a purchase.
Consider the Lippert Jack It if you value convenience and space, but be prepared to address its limitations with careful driving and perhaps some aftermarket accessories. It’s a good solution for some, but not for everyone.