When it comes to platform hitch racks, the Yakima HoldUp has been a long-standing favorite for its straightforward design and reliable performance. The HoldUp Evo takes this legacy and refines it, offering enhanced ease of use, better bike fit, and Yakima’s signature SKS (Same Key System) security. Aimed at cyclists who want a no-fuss, no-frame-contact solution for two bikes, the HoldUp Evo is a workhorse designed for convenience and peace of mind. This in-depth review will explore its features, real-world usability, and overall value, particularly for SUV owners seeking a dependable bike transport solution.
The HoldUp Evo maintains the core appeal of its predecessor – simplicity and robustness – while incorporating modern touches that keep it competitive in a crowded market.
Key Features and Specifications: Refined for Modern Cycling
The Yakima HoldUp Evo is a 2-bike platform hitch rack packed with user-friendly features:
- 2-Bike Capacity: Designed specifically to carry two bicycles.
- StrongArm™ Hook Design: This is a key feature, securing bikes by clamping down firmly on the front wheel. This ensures no contact with the bike frame, making it ideal for carbon fiber frames, custom paint jobs, or unconventional tube shapes. The rear wheel is secured with a sliding strap.
- Tool-Free SpeedKnob™: Yakima’s proprietary SpeedKnob™ allows for quick, secure, and wobble-free installation of the rack into the hitch receiver without the need for tools. It also locks for security.
- Side-to-Side Tray Adjustability: The wheel trays can be adjusted laterally (side-to-side) after the bikes are loaded. This is crucial for creating optimal spacing between bikes, helping to prevent handlebar-to-saddle or pedal-to-frame interference.
- Integrated SKS (Same Key System) Locks: The HoldUp Evo comes with integrated cable locks to secure your bikes to the rack and a lock for the SpeedKnob™ to secure the rack to your vehicle. All locks are part of Yakima’s SKS, meaning they can be keyed alike with other Yakima SKS-compatible accessories.
- KickStart™ Foot-Pedal Tilt: An easy-to-use foot-activated lever allows the rack to tilt down, providing access to the rear of the vehicle even when bikes are loaded. It also allows the rack to fold up vertically against the vehicle when not in use.
- Hitch Compatibility: Available in two distinct versions: one for 1.25-inch hitch receivers and one for 2-inch hitch receivers. Unlike some racks that use an adapter, these are dedicated fits.
- Weight Capacity Per Bike: Typically rated to carry bikes up to 60 lbs (approx. 27 kg) per bike, making it suitable for a wide range of bicycles, including many e-bikes (though it’s always best to remove batteries if possible to reduce weight).
- Bike Compatibility:
- Wheel Sizes: Accommodates a wide range of wheel sizes, from 20 inches to 29 inches.
- Tire Widths: Fits tires up to 4.8-5 inches wide out of the box, making it compatible with most fat bikes without needing separate adapters for the front StrongArm.
- Wheelbase: Can handle bikes with wheelbases up to approximately 48-50 inches.
- Construction and Materials: Built with robust steel and durable plastic components for strength and longevity.
- Rack Weight: Approximately 51 lbs (approx. 23 kg), making it relatively manageable for a platform rack of this capacity.
- Integrated Bottle Opener: A signature Yakima feature, always ready for post-ride refreshments.
- RV Compatibility: Generally, the HoldUp Evo is not rated or recommended for use on RVs or trailers. Always verify with Yakima’s latest guidelines.
Performance and User Experience: Simplicity and Security in Action
The HoldUp Evo focuses on making the bike loading and transport process as straightforward and secure as possible.
The Good Stuff (Pros):
- Excellent No-Frame Contact Design: The StrongArm™ hook is highly effective and provides peace of mind for users with sensitive or expensive bike frames.
- Very Easy to Use: From the tool-free SpeedKnob™ installation to the KickStart™ foot pedal and the intuitive StrongArm™ hooks, the HoldUp Evo is praised for its overall ease of operation.
- Good Bike Stability: When properly installed and bikes secured, the rack offers good stability with minimal bike wobble, thanks to the SpeedKnob™ and the secure hold of the StrongArm™.
- Versatile Bike Fit (Including Fat Bikes): The ability to carry a wide range of tire widths, including fat bike tires up to 5 inches without extra kits for the front, is a significant advantage.
- Side-to-Side Adjustability: This feature is invaluable for fine-tuning bike spacing and preventing contact, a common issue with platform racks.
- Integrated SKS Security: The convenience of integrated, keyed-alike locks for both bikes and the rack is a strong selling point.
- Relatively Manageable Weight: At around 51 lbs, it’s not the lightest platform rack, but it’s more manageable to install and remove than some heavier-duty or 4-bike options.
- Quick Assembly: Many users report a relatively quick and straightforward assembly process.
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Points to Consider (Cons):
- 2-Bike Capacity Only: The HoldUp Evo is strictly a 2-bike rack. There is no direct add-on to expand its capacity to 3 or 4 bikes (users needing more capacity would look at Yakima’s StageTwo or other models).
- Plastic Components: While durable, some users may prefer the all-metal construction of more premium racks, though the HoldUp Evo’s plastic parts are generally robust and well-made.
- Cable Lock Length/Robustness: The integrated cable locks are convenient for quick stops but are not as thick or long as some aftermarket solutions. For high-risk areas or extended stops, supplementing with more substantial locks is recommended.
- Tilt Mechanism Effort with Bikes Loaded: While the KickStart™ pedal is easy to engage, tilting the rack down and, especially, lifting it back up with two heavy bikes requires a notable amount of effort.
- Rear Wheel Strap Can Be Fiddly for Some: While effective, some users find the rear wheel strap design slightly less intuitive or smooth than those on some competing racks.
SUV Compatibility
The Yakima HoldUp Evo is a popular and well-suited choice for many SUV owners:
- Hatch Access: The KickStart™ foot-pedal tilt feature allows the rack to be lowered, providing access to the rear hatch of most SUVs, even with bikes loaded. The amount of clearance will depend on the specific SUV’s hatch design and the size of the bikes.
- Ground Clearance: Offers decent ground clearance, comparable to other 2-bike platform racks in its class.
- Manageable Size and Weight: For SUV owners who may need to remove their rack periodically, the HoldUp Evo’s ~51 lb weight is more manageable than heavier systems.
- No Frame Contact for Various SUV Adventures: Whether carrying mountain bikes to the trailhead or cruisers to the park, the no-frame contact is beneficial for bikes that might see rougher handling or varied terrain.
- Dedicated Hitch Sizes: The availability of dedicated 1.25-inch and 2-inch versions ensures a proper fit without needing adapters that can sometimes introduce play.
In-Depth Look: Performance, Storage, Security, and Durability
Performance:
- Bike Holding: The StrongArm™ hook provides a very secure hold on the front wheel, and the rear wheel strap cinches down tightly. The side-to-side adjustability is key for preventing bikes from rubbing during transit.
- Stability: The SpeedKnob™ is highly effective at eliminating play in the hitch, leading to a stable and quiet ride.
- Tilt Mechanism: The KickStart™ pedal is conveniently located and easy to operate with a foot. However, users must be prepared to manage the weight of the bikes when tilting the rack down and, more significantly, when lifting it back into the upright position.
Storage:
- On-Vehicle: The rack folds up neatly against the vehicle when not in use, reducing its overall profile. The KickStart™ pedal also facilitates this.
- Off-Vehicle: At around 51 lbs, it’s manageable for most adults to remove and store. Its folded size is relatively compact for a platform rack, making it easier to find space in a garage or shed.
Security:
- SKS Integrated Locks: The HoldUp Evo features a cable lock that extends from the end of each bike tray arm to secure the bikes. The SpeedKnob™ also locks, securing the rack to the hitch. The SKS system allows for one-key convenience.
- Deterrent Factor: The robust appearance of the StrongArm™ hooks and the locked SpeedKnob™ provide a good visual deterrent.
Durability:
- Construction: Yakima uses quality steel for the main structure, and the plastic components are generally UV-resistant and designed for outdoor use. The powder coat finish is durable.
- StrongArm™ Mechanism: The ratcheting mechanism in the StrongArm™ is a critical component and is generally built to withstand repeated use.
- Warranty: Yakima offers a limited lifetime warranty on many of its racks, which speaks to their confidence in the product’s durability.
Critical Mindset: Weighing the Options
The Yakima HoldUp Evo sits comfortably in the mid-to-upper mid-range of platform hitch racks.
- Value Proposition: It offers a strong balance of features, ease of use, and Yakima’s reputation for quality at a price point that is generally below the ultra-premium tier (like Kuat Piston Pro or Thule Epos) but above basic budget racks.
- User Profile: Ideal for individuals or couples who regularly transport one or two bikes, value ease of use and frame protection, and appreciate integrated security. Its fat bike compatibility out of the box is a plus.
- Fixed 2-Bike Capacity: If you foresee needing to carry more than two bikes, even occasionally, this rack isn’t for you. You’d need to look at expandable systems like the Yakima StageTwo.
- Comparison to Competitors:
- Kuat Transfer v2: Often similarly priced, the Transfer v2 offers a different aesthetic and loading style (goalpost arm), and some versions are expandable. The HoldUp Evo might feel slightly more robust to some and has wider tire compatibility out of the box.
- Thule DoubleTrack Pro XT: Another strong competitor in this segment, also offering no-frame contact and integrated locks. Feature sets and ergonomics will differ slightly.
- Saris SuperClamp EX 2-Bike: Features dual wheel-clamping arms per bike, offering a very secure hold, and is often in a similar price bracket.
- Yakima StageTwo (2-bike base): A step up in features and often price from the HoldUp Evo, with a different tilt mechanism and potentially higher weight capacity options for certain uses.
The HoldUp Evo is a great choice for those who want a proven, reliable, and user-friendly 2-bike platform rack from a well-regarded brand without venturing into the highest price echelons.
Installation and Assembly Insights
- Assembly Process: The Yakima HoldUp Evo generally requires some assembly, but it’s known for being relatively straightforward compared to some more complex racks. Instructions are typically clear, and all necessary tools are usually included. Users often report assembly times in the 30-60 minute range. Key steps involve attaching the main mast to the hitch base and then mounting the wheel trays and StrongArm™ assemblies.
- Hitch Installation: The SpeedKnob™ makes installing the assembled rack into the hitch receiver exceptionally easy and tool-free. Simply slide the rack into the receiver, ensure the pinhole aligns (though the SpeedKnob does the primary tightening), and then tighten the SpeedKnob™ by hand until the rack is secure and wobble-free. Lock the SpeedKnob™ with the SKS key.
- Bike Fit Adjustments: After initial assembly and installation, take a few minutes to adjust the side-to-side position of the trays to best fit your specific bikes and maximize clearance.
The Verdict: A Refined Workhorse for Secure and Easy 2-Bike Transport
The Yakima HoldUp Evo successfully carries forward the legacy of its predecessors, offering a highly user-friendly, secure, and versatile platform rack for two bikes. Its StrongArm™ no-frame-contact design, tool-free SpeedKnob™ installation, and integrated SKS security make it a standout choice in the mid-range market. The ability to accommodate a wide range of bike styles, including fat bikes, without extra kits is a significant advantage.
While it’s limited to a two-bike capacity and the effort to tilt a fully loaded rack is a consideration, these are common characteristics for racks of this type. For SUV owners seeking a reliable, easy-to-operate, and frame-safe way to transport two bikes, the HoldUp Evo presents a compelling package. It strikes an excellent balance between features, quality, and price, making it a dependable companion for countless cycling adventures.
