Ok, here's the promise of the Totem Pole bike rack:
[*]Easy Assembly with with 3 main components and 3 support bars
[*]Can carry any size or any type of bicycle, and any combination at one time
[*]Load process is as simple as hanging bicycles from wheel rims
[*]Support bars ensure secure mount during transport
[*]Expected load/unload in 1/3 the time it takes with a standard rack
[*]Can load up to six bikes
[*]Compact stow away in vehicle when not in use
[*]Simple optional wall mount adapter kit available for stationary storage of bikes in a compact area
So we had to try it out. Actually, they had a lot more claims but we merged similar ones and only put in the claims we agreed with. So we think the features above are true and the Totem Pole Bike Rack actually delivers on its promise.
How is it so compact?
Six bikes in less space that it takes to transport four? Yes, the key is the bikes are resting on each other with the front tires. The tires by nature offer natural cushion from any damage. The handlebars are at opposite sides and away from each other in an alternating pattern. Furthermore, the bar to hang the front wheels on is sloped upward. This ensures that the handlebars are at a different height from each other, giving them just enough room to avoid interference. The rear wheels of the bikes and cranks are a little more at risk as there's nothing holding them in place and they're free to bang on each other. Special attention needs to be taken to make sure cranks and disk rotors and skewers are not in contact with other frames.