Thule Revolver Hitch Bike Carrier with Retractable Locking Cable - 4 Bike - 2010 BCS

After using rooftop bike carriers for the past 10 years, we decided to get a hitch mounted rack for our new Audi Q7. Loading three bikes up on the roof of the Q7 would be a daunting task. Plus it'd be difficult for my wife to load/unload. This Thule hitch mounted rack was perfect. Solid construction with some weight so you know it's sturdy. I love the retractable locks although it would be easy to cut through and have someone run away with your bikes. Bikes are secured with no banging against each other.

Installation was very quick and easy but having another person there to lift and align would be helpful. Also, be sure to line the bolts up carefully so you don't strip the threads. You should be able to thread the bolts almost all the way in with your hand then tighten with the included wrench.

One thing we needed was the thule adapter to mount our bikes since a full suspension bike would not fit on the bars. It's basically the bar that acts like a top tube.

I have an FJ and didn't want to try to have my bike on the roof. Wanted to be able to utilize the back while having bikes on a hitch rack. The revolver is the better option. There is no way you could fit 4 full size bikes on. I have a Trek remedy 8 (L) and my wife has a Specialized and I keep them in the 2 middle spots. I just took a road trip from Charleston, SC to Maine and the bikes would jump off the frame holder and scratch the paint a little. Over all I am happy with it.

Update -May 31 2011-

We just got back from a 2800 mile road trip and I have a couple complaints of the rack. One, when we are trying to screw the bolt in that locks it from swinging, we have to lift up on the rack where the bikes sit or it won't screw in. Huge pain if you are by yourself. Also I've noticed paint chips and rust where the chips are. That is poor paint. Considering returning

I did a lot of research into hitch mount racks and decided on this one because it swings out of the way without removing bikes. After putting on about 4,000 miles on October roadtrip, THIS is the rack you want. I could not be happier with the ease of use and my wife agrees. The retractable lock is a nice bonus and I believe this is the last one I will ever need. The folks at backcountry.com were great help and shipping was very fast. Thanks guys.

Purchased this rack for a trip across country with the family Clark Griswald syle and it rocked. Very easy to use and the access to the back or vehicle is huge. Also BC service was awesome with getting me the best price! My wife can easily load up the bikes and unload them compared to the hassle she used to have by climbing up on the roof to remove bikes. Expensive but worth the money.

It gets three stars because fitting 4 bikes is more of a wish then reality. Maybe it will fit 4 street bikes but not 4 mountain bikes. I had 2 adult MB one kid (24" wheel) and a tag along, and I had to turn the handle bars (90degree) on all of the bikes and take the seats off three of the bikes. I see no way of fitting 4 adult MB without fiddling with the handle bars and/or seat.