Lowdown: Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack

Küat changed the game a few years ago, introducing a hitch rack that looked as good as it performed. Now they've launched v2.0, which like its predecessor includes a bike stand. We're not sure how much use it actually gets, but Küat went ahead and improved the usability of the stand in the second version of this rack. They've also learned a lot about current needs and trends, including building in compatibility for all the new wheel and tire sizes. To learn more check out the full review below, starting with this video demo.



Check out our Küat NV 2.0 first look here.

Bike capacity: Two, expandable to fourBike weight limit: 60 pounds each
Bonus function: Built-in workstandPrice: $629
Tire compatibility: Up to 4.8" Rating:
4.5 Flamin' Chili Peppers
4.5 out of 5
Stat Box


Pluses

Minuses
  • Incredible function and finish
  • Most expensive in category
  • Compatible wide array of bikes
  • Paying for workstand you may not need
  • Includes workstand
  • So-so bar conflict adjustability
  • Locks included
  • Heavy (55 pounds)
  • Great looking rack
  • 3D plates reinforce main arm

Review: Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack

The Küat NV 2.0 is a significant improvement over the first version in terms of features, fit and finish. Wheel size compatibility is the most noticeable update, but every feature of this rack has been improved. It also continues to be a standout in the looks department. And its other unique feature, an integrated bike work stand, has been improved as well.

The pivoting chases has been improved to be smoother and to have less play through many years of use.

The pivoting chassis has been improved to be smoother and have less play.​

Installation

The rack has a tool-free cam system that wedges into the hitch. The knob has a bladed arm that is easy to turn and torque. A locking hitch pin is included as a safety measure in case the cam gets loose. And it has a lock too to prevent theft of the rack.

Continue to page 2 for more on the Küat NV 2.0 hitch rack »

This 1.24 inch hitch version features 3d plates on each side to improve rigidity of the mount.

This 1.25" hitch version features 3D plates on each side to improve rigidity of the mount.​

Sturdiness

This is a strong point of the rack, as every joint and surface is stiff. The pivots have been improved to remove play or wobble. We're confident these pivots will still be secure after many years of use.

As a sign of build quality, we noticed that our 1.25" hitch had reinforced, stamped plates on both sides of the small mast to give it added strength and rigidity.

The front wheel trays are some of the best around as they cradle road tires all the way to fat tires. There's three height/tilt positions available  to address bar and saddle interference when transporting several bikes.

The front wheel trays are some of the best around, as they cradle road tires all the way to fat tires. There's three height/tilt positions available to address bar and saddle interference when transporting several bikes.​

Wheel Size Compatibility

This is a significant reason to consider a new rack, as new, bigger tires are becoming more common. Fat bikes or even 29+ bikes are no problem for the Küat NV 2.0

When the bikes interfere with each other and bars and saddles collide, there is now an option to lower/raise the front wheel tray to get the bars out of the way. It is fairly effective with a one bolt adjustment, as the user can just pre-select a setting that will work best for their bikes and not have to do it during load-time. But we also fear that this one bolt introduces a failure point if the bolt is not tightened properly. The bike will fall if the front tray is not secured with the bolt properly.

The tilt lever can now be activated from the bottom with the foot or from the top with the hand.

The tilt lever can now be activated from the bottom by foot or from the top by hand.​

Lever With a Kick

Among the other new features of the NV 2.0 is a bigger tilt lever that can be accessed from the bottom or the top of the rack. From the bottom, it can be kicked and from the top it can be pulled to release the rack. It makes it a lot easier to use versus the old cam quick-release at the bottom of the rack.

It's not as good as the offerings from Thule and RockyMounts, which have the lever at the end of the rack chassis for easy access, but it certainly is a good improvement for usability.

An optional stand (left) called the Tri-doc accepts the work stand head in found in the NV 2.0. It is a lightweight and stable base available separately for $89. The work stand head (right) can be pivoted easily by loosening the knob at the end.

An optional stand (left) called the Tri-doc accepts the work stand head. It is a lightweight and stable base available separately for $89. The work stand head (right) can be pivoted easily by loosening the knob at the end.​

Bottom Line

This is a fine piece of equipment. It has a metallic powder-coated finish and sturdy construction. But it's pricey and heavy, and we're not fans of the integrated work stand, as we feel there's better options for field-use bike stands (such as the Scorpion Bike Stand). We wish the bike stand was not included to make the NV 2.0 cheaper and lighter. But if you like that feature, then this is a great option. Certainly, the quality and usability of the NV 2.0 will not disappoint.

For more information visit kuatracks.com.