VelociRAX, renowned for its innovative vertical hitch bike racks, is set to expand its lineup with the upcoming RAXzilla—a heavy-duty, user-friendly hitch rack designed to accommodate both bicycles and motorcycles. This new addition signifies VelociRAX’s commitment to versatility and ease of use in transporting a diverse range of two-wheeled vehicles.
Design and Functionality
The RAXzilla is a tray-style hitch rack available in one-bike and two-bike configurations. Each tray features a locking mechanism that secures it in a horizontal transport position and can be tilted downward for easy loading. An integrated, slide-out loading ramp extends from the end of each tray, facilitating effortless loading of bikes and motorcycles. This design ensures a smooth transition from vehicle to rack, minimizing the physical effort required during loading.
Loading Mechanism
Upon rolling a bike onto the tray, its weight automatically tilts the tray back to the horizontal position, where it locks securely. The front wheel engages a hydraulic piston, raising a wheel arm that clamps the front wheel against an opposing arm. Similarly, a rear wheel arm, also actuated by a hydraulic piston, folds up to secure the rear wheel. This system appears to automate the wheel securing process, enhancing convenience and stability during transport.
Compatibility and Capacity
The wheel arms are designed to accommodate a wide range of tire sizes, from narrow road and gravel bike tires to wider dirt bike tires. Demonstrations have shown the rack supporting both electric motorcycles and gas-powered motorcycles, suggesting a weight capacity of approximately 250 pounds per bike. This robust capacity indicates that the RAXzilla is suitable for transporting various bikes, including road bikes, eMTBs, and motorcycles. Potential compatibility issues may arise with bikes featuring very small wheels or fenders, due to the clamp-arm-style attachment system.
User Experience
The RAXzilla’s design emphasizes ease of use, with a loading process that appears to be among the simplest for any bike rack. Users can tilt the rack, extend the ramp, roll the bike into position, and secure it—all with minimal effort. In demonstrations, individuals have loaded and secured two mountain bikes in just six seconds, highlighting the rack’s efficiency. Additionally, the rack includes a tilt feature that allows it to fold flat against the vehicle when not in use, reducing its profile and enhancing aerodynamics.
Availability and Pricing
As of now, VelociRAX has not disclosed specific details regarding the RAXzilla’s weight limits, overall weight, availability, or pricing. The company has been teasing the new rack on its social media channels, indicating that it is production-ready. However, a dedicated product page is yet to be launched. Interested individuals can sign up on VelociRAX’s website to receive updates and preorder information.
In summary, the RAXzilla represents a significant advancement in VelociRAX’s product offerings, combining heavy-duty capacity with user-friendly features to cater to a broad spectrum of two-wheeled vehicles. Its innovative design and ease of use make it a promising option for enthusiasts seeking a reliable and efficient hitch rack solution.