Yakima StageTwo bike rack put to the test

The Yakima StageTwo (↗) is a heavy-duty two-bike rack designed to carry bikes weighing up to 32kg each, making it particularly well suited to heavier e-bikes. Its high-clearance design is also a real advantage for 4×4 use, especially when heading off-road.

For vehicles with a rear-mounted spare wheel, like the Grenadier, the optional StraightShot Hitch Extender (↗) provides the additional clearance needed to position the rack behind the spare.

Fitting the StageTwo is straightforward. It slides directly into an existing two-inch towbar receiver and is secured with a threaded bolt, along with a secondary rotating locking mechanism that tightens the rack firmly into place.

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The rack has three positions. It sits horizontally for carrying bikes, folds vertically against the vehicle when not in use and can also tilt down below horizontal. This third position allows access to the vehicle’s rear door without having to remove the rack. Moving between the three positions is quick and easy, using a simple but sturdy handle that pulls directly out from the outer edge of the rack.

Loading and unloading is quick and simple, taking only a couple of minutes. Once the bike is lifted onto the rack, the front wheel is secured by an adjustable arm that locks down over the tyre, while the rear wheel is held in place with a built-in ratcheting strap threaded through the wheel. Each bike can also be individually secured to the rack using the built-in keyed cable locks.

Appearance-wise, the design is sleek and strong, and the dark metallic-grey finish should complement just about any vehicle. It looks and feels sturdy and built to last, with an oversized main hinge and heavy-duty hardware adding to the sense that this is a rack designed to handle some serious use.

And there’s one more feature worth mentioning. Like other Yakima products, the StageTwo comes with a built-in bottle opener. In fact, this rack has not one, but two, so you and a mate can crack one open at the same time. Ending a ride doesn’t get much better than that.

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FAQs

How much does the Yakima StageTwo cost?
The Yakima StageTwo (↗) has an RRP of $1299, while the optional StraightShot Hitch Extender (↗) is $119.

How much weight can the Yakima StageTwo carry?
The Yakima StageTwo can carry two bikes weighing up to 32kg each, making it particularly well suited to heavier e-bikes.

Will the StageTwo work with a rear-mounted spare wheel?
Yes. For vehicles with a rear-mounted spare wheel, the optional StraightShot Hitch Extender provides additional clearance to position the rack behind the spare.

Can you open the rear door with the StageTwo fitted?
Yes. The rack can tilt down below horizontal, allowing access to the vehicle’s rear door without removing the rack.

How are bikes secured to the StageTwo?
The front wheel is secured by an adjustable arm that locks over the tyre, while a built-in ratcheting strap holds the rear wheel in place. Each bike can also be individually secured with the built-in keyed cable locks.