Michael Thompson
Are you considering taking a couple of bikes on your next road trip? The HR1450 SE from Hollywood Racks might be just what you need. Designed to hold two bikes safely, this hitch mount rack is a real gem.
We recently got our hands on it and were impressed by its durable construction and secure design. The setup was quick, thanks to the no-tools hitch-tightening system, and the bikes stayed snug with the locking frame hooks and security cable.
We’ve tried a few racks in the past, but this one stood out largely due to how easily it folds against the car and tilts for back door access. Adjusting it for different bike sizes was straightforward, providing a hassle-free experience. On the downside, it’s only compatible with 2″ hitches, which could limit some users.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a hitch mount rack that’s reliable and easy to use, the Hollywood Racks HR1450 SE is a solid pick.
Its user-friendly features and sturdy build make it a top choice for bike enthusiasts.
Check it out for yourself and consider adding this efficient bike rack to your travel gear.
Overview: Hollywood Racks, HR1450 SE, Hitch Mount Rack
Our experience with the HR1450 SE has been mostly positive. The build feels solid and the installation process is straightforward. This hitch rack fits securely on a 2″ hitch and can carry up to two bikes, each weighing up to 50 pounds.
The “No Wobble” system really enhances stability, which is a relief during transit. We found the locking frame hooks and adjustable wheel holders quite handy for different bike types.
It folds flat against the car when not in use, saving space, and can tilt for cargo access. A few parts are made of plastic, but they seem durable. The included locking pin and cable lock add a layer of security.
Accessing the trunk is easy even with the bikes loaded. While it performs well, the rack’s price may deter some, but its quality justifies it.
Universal Locking Frame Hooks
These hooks make securing our bikes a breeze. We’ve experienced firsthand how easy it is to drop the bike into the wheel holders and slide the locking hook down onto the frame. The design is intuitive and solid, fully living up to the promise of keeping our bikes steady.
There’s a certain peace of mind with the universal design fitting almost any bike style. We did notice that while the frame hooks work smoothly, they include a plastic component that doesn’t feel as robust as the rest of the structure. Still, the hooks reliably hold the bikes in place, keying alike with the locking hitch pin, adding that extra layer of security.
Adjustable Wheel Holders
We had the chance to test out the flexibility offered by the adjustable wheel holders on the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2. These holders easily accommodated different bike sizes, which was a great relief. Whether we used the rack for a mountain bike or a road bike, the adjustments were straightforward, saving us time and effort.
On the downside, adjusting the holders initially required some getting used to, as the mechanism was a bit stiff at first. Over time, though, it got smoother and was less of an issue. Our bikes felt secure once fastened, giving us peace of mind during our travels. These wheel holders are a solid feature, especially for those who frequently switch between bikes of varying dimensions.
No-Wobble Hitch Tightening System
We recently tried out the Hollywood Racks bike rack, and one of the highlights is its No-Wobble Hitch Tightening System. This feature keeps the rack stable during our trips, reducing any movement that might distract while driving. With the no-tools setup, it’s quick to secure, which cuts down on prep time.
On the downside, we noticed that aligning the hitch can be tricky initially, but with a bit of practice, it gets easier. Being able to install this system without extra tools is a big advantage, making it user-friendly for most. The stability it provides enhances our confidence on bumpy roads.
Overall, the No-Wobble system contributes to a worry-free and smooth experience when transporting bikes. It’s clear that Hollywood Racks put thought into this practical design, focusing on convenience and security during trips.
Security Features
When it comes to keeping our bikes safe, this rack delivers some solid options. Its locking frame hooks give us peace of mind while on the road. These hooks stay tightly in place to prevent any unwanted movement. Plus, the keyed-alike locking hitch pin and security cable make sure everything stays secure. It’s great that we don’t have to worry much about theft. One downside we noticed is adjusting the hitch system can sometimes be tricky, especially in tight spaces. Despite that, the security features are reliable for most travel needs.
Ease of Use
Setting up the Hollywood Rack is a breeze. It took us just a few minutes to get it ready for the road. The design helps in quickly securing bikes with minimal effort. Adjusting it for different bike sizes is straightforward, thanks to the simple sliding hooks. That’s a big plus for those of us with bikes of various wheelbases.
Although sturdy with mostly steel and aluminum parts, some plastic components might raise questions about long-term durability. That said, the rack operates smoothly when mounted, and the included locking pin and cable lock add extra security. We appreciate these features, especially when we’re on the go.
Pros and Cons
Pros
One thing that’s appreciated about the Hollywood HR1450 SE is the sturdy build. This bike rack feels robust, giving us the confidence that it can hold two bikes securely. The design is quite intuitive and the assembly process is simple, making it user-friendly for regular bike trips.
The locking system is effective, with both a locking pin and cable lock included. We like how our bikes can be secured without a fuss. The no-wobble feature is a game-changer, keeping the rack steady even on bumpy roads. Plus, the rack easily folds flat and tilts, allowing quick access to the car trunk.
Cons
There are a few things to consider before getting the HR1450 SE. It’s not compatible with trailers or towed vehicles, which could be limiting for some. The plastic components, although necessary for weight-saving, can feel less durable compared to the metal parts.
This rack only fits 2″ hitch receivers. If that’s not what you have, you’ll need to consider this before purchasing. Additionally, it can be a bit tricky to maneuver with larger vehicles because of its solid platform style.
While it holds up well with the weekly bike rides, some might find it a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
Customer Reviews
Many users appreciate the sturdy build of the Hollywood Rack. It offers reliable transport for different bike sizes, largely thanks to its intuitive design. Assembly is straightforward, and the use of steel and aluminum parts surely adds to its durability. We found that it generally takes just a minute to mount and secure bikes, which is a big win for those in a hurry.
Some customers have pointed out that the plastic components in the sliding hooks could be a concern, but overall satisfaction remains high. The rack’s appearance, too, gets a thumbs up, as it looks good on the vehicle. Many buyers reported switching from simpler models and expressed happiness with their decision. The solid construction and reliability seem to be common themes among the reviews, and it’s these strengths that often lead to a positive recommendation from its users.
Conclusion
After using the Hollywood Racks HR1450 SE, we believe it offers a reliable solution for transporting bikes. The design feels sturdy and provides confidence during travel. It’s easy to set up and adjust, accommodating bikes with different wheelbases comfortably. The sliding hooks make securing the bikes quick and efficient, though they do have a plastic part that might not be as durable as the rest of the metal components.
Some may notice that it costs more compared to similar options, like the Swagman XC, yet the quality materials and added security features, such as the locking pin and cable lock, justify the expense. For those seeking a dependable bike rack, we find this one to be a strong contender.
- Heavy-duty platform style bike rack holds up to 2 bikes (max. 50 lbs per bike); Features patented no wobble-no tools hitch tightening system for fast and secure installation
- Locking frame hooks to secure the bikes to the rack; Includes keyed alike locking hitch pin and security cable
- Fits 2″ hitch receivers only; Not to be used with a 1-1/4″-2″ hitch receiver adapter; Not to be used on a trailer or towed vehicle.
- Adjustable wheel holders allow the bike rack to fit up to a 60″ wheelbase bike; Folds flat against the car when not in use and tilts down for easy cargo access
- Optional 2 bike add on kit (HR1475) or cargo basket (HR1485) sold separately
