Yakima EXO DoubleUp
Quick Verdict
Adventurers who need to carry two bikes plus gear on long trips—excellent for car camping and multi-sport road trips where interior space must be freed up.
Casual or budget users, solo commuters, or anyone needing a lightweight, inexpensive, or quick-attach bike rack.
Key Specifications
About This Gear
The Yakima EXO DoubleUp is a highly versatile and efficient bike rack system for your family camping adventures. It securely holds two bikes and offers convenient loading and unloading. However, it requires a compatible EXO SwingBase or EXO TopShelf to attach to your vehicle, which adds additional cost and installation complexity.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
6 positive findingsRobust, well-engineered build with strong powder-coated steel and smooth welds.
Most reviewersModular EXO system lets you add a lower GearLocker, baskets, or other accessories for two-tier cargo capability.
Most reviewersEasy loading and full rear access via swing-away design; TopShelf height makes lifting easier than roof racks.
Most reviewersWheel-clamp mounting (no frame contact) protects frames and fits most modern bikes and wide tires up to spec.
Everyone agrees
Things to Consider
7 considerationsExpensive overall because the EXO SwingBase (required) adds significant cost, making the full system roughly $1,200 MSRP.
Most reviewersHeavy and bulky (DoubleUp ~37 lb; SwingBase ~68 lb), often requiring two people to install and limiting quick removal.
Most reviewersInitial assembly and installation can be fiddly and require tools/muscle; SwingBase installation is notably heavy.
Some reviewersFront-wheel arm has limited adjustability for unusual wheelbases or very wide tires, causing fit issues for some bikes.
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- car camping and overlanding setups
- multi-activity road trips
- transporting muddy or heavy trail bikes while keeping interiors clean
Limitations
- Not rated for intense off-roading or rock-crawling
- Heavy system adds rear weight and can affect handling in high winds
- May obstruct backup cameras or require hitch extensions on some vehicles
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users generally praise the EXO DoubleUp for its durable construction, modularity, and easy loading, while common complaints focus on weight, cost, and occasional fit or small-part failures.
What Users Love
- easy loading at waist height
- durable build and materials
- modular cargo capability
Common Concerns
- heavy to handle
- expensive once SwingBase is added
- fit issues with some wide tires or unusual wheelbases
- Most users report long-term ruggedness and Yakima's lifetime warranty gives confidence.
- Some isolated reports of plastic rear-arm or strap failures after limited trips; inspect regularly.
true to size
Limited lifetime warranty; generally positive but register product and keep purchase receipt—few minor service reports exist.
Expert Reviews
No other rack in their test provides the same full rear access; strong security features and versatility make it the best swing-out hitch rack.Read full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- Inspect and tighten fasteners and pivot bolts regularly
- Clean salt and road grime after winter use and touch up paint chips to prevent rust
- Lubricate swing pivot and hinge points as recommended; replace worn straps/knobs with Yakima parts
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- Plastic rear-wheel support or straps can crack/snapped in isolated cases
- Plastic knobs or ratchets may wear over long-term heavy use
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Thule T2 Pro XTR
- simpler design (no EXO cargo integration)
- lighter (approx. ~39 lb)
- one-hand tilt convenience
- no modular lower cargo box capability
When you want a simpler, lighter platform rack with one-hand tilting and integrated locks without cargo storage features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear