Softride Bike Rack FAQ
What are the differences between the Classic Pull Pin model, Dura Pull Pin model, and Versa models?
| Classic Pull Pin Series |
Dura Pull Pin Series |
Versa Series |
Classic Pull Pin Series
The Pull Pin model is our most popular model. It offers a great value and is the preferred model for weekend warriors.
It gets its name because it features a T-handle pull pin on the side of the rack
that actuates the fold-down mechanism of the rack. You simply reach behind the bikes, pull the pin, and lower the rack down. To raise it again,
you just push the rack back into the top position and the pin automatically locks into place. The bike arms securely grip your bike frame and are removable for convenience or storage.
Dura Pull Pin Series
The Softride Dura is a brand new model that incorporates new features into the Softride line. The Softride Dura offers two primary upgrades over the Classic Pull Pin rack.
First, the Dura offers an aero design that offers upgraded looks and durability. Second, and most importantly, the rack includes a new anti-sway bike mount design.
The rack offers the same Pull Pin style fold-down mechanism as the Classic version. Customers concerned with the possibility of bikes swaying during transit will
enjoy the added stability of the Dura racks.
Versa Series
The Softride Versa is a brand new rack design. It is a great system for carying up to two bikes. The wheel hoop design
allows the rack to carry virtually any frame geometry because the rack never touches the frame of the bike, only the wheels. This rack is extremely stable and
prevents the bikes from hitting one another during transit. It is easy to load and offers the same fold down capabilities of other Softride racks. Unique to this
design is the ability to fold up the rack into a small, visually appealing package. We recommend this rack for people with Class 1 hitches and for people who only
carry one or two bikes at a time.
I'm having a hard time deciding which one to buy. Which one do you recommend?
It is hard to go wrong with any choice from Softride, but we do have opinions and you can take them for what they're worth. We asked our President, Ken Whiteman,
what he thought and this is what he had to say:
My personal favorite is the Softride Dura. I like it because of the anti-sway mechanism and smoother base design. I've used the Softride racks for years
and have not had problems with bike sway, but the added stability of the Dura is definitely an noticable improvement. I'd recommend the Dura for
anyone looking to travel long distances with bikes on their car. I also recommend it for mountain bikers who drive over rough back roads to get to their
favorite riding spots.
The Classic Pull Pin model is a great bike rack and has been the gold standard for the last five years. This updated design is durable and time tested. It offers
most of the same features as the Dura and has a better price point. I recommend the Pull Pin for bikers who are looking for a bargain and don't need the anti-sway
features that the Dura series offers.
The Versa rack is something that you won't find elsewhere. It is a great rack for those looking for a one or two bike solution. It is especially good for people who
ride odd frame geometries like Y frame mountain bikes. Because the rack doesn't actually touch your frame, it also protects your bike's finish and helps keep your bikes from
swaying or contacting one another. Like the other Softride racks, it folds down for easy cargo access with or without bikes on the rack.
What makes Softride racks different from other racks?
Softride's bike rack products offer a unique fold-down mechanism that allows you to lower your rack with your bikes attached and gain easy
access to the truck or rear hatch of your vehicle. The mechanism keeps your bikes perpendicular to the ground at all times, preventing a twisting
that can cause damage to the bikes. The Versa rack also folds down with bikes on the rack.
How is the rack secured to my vehicle?
All Softride bike racks come with a QuietRide locking hitch pin. The rack is placed into the hitch receiver and a threaded hitch pin is used to secure
and tighten the rack to your hitch. Once the rack is tightened, you simply slide the hitch lock over the hitch pin to lock the pin and prevent
thieves from removing it.
Why do they call Softride racks "Sport" racks instead of a standard "Bike" rack?
That's because Softride racks are designed to be more versatile than a simple bike rack. By removing the bike arms and installing the Softride ski
attachment (sold separately), you can also carry skis in the winter time. Some of our customers have even built custom attachments for their
own sporting equipment such as surfboards, wheel chairs, and recumbent bikes.
Are you an authorized dealer?
Yes. We were the top online seller of Softride bike racks in 2005 and 2006 and have been an authorized dealer for over three years. We offer the lowest prices
allowed under Softride's pricing policy. If you find one cheaper, be wary. It is probably a refurbished rack, and older model, or being sold by an unauthorized dealer.
What is the Storage Station?
The Softride Storage Station is a great accessory for storing your bikes when they're not on your rack (sold separately). Simply mount the Storage Station on your
garage wall, remove the quick release bike arms from your Softride bike rack, and insert them into the Storage Station. Now you've got a great
place to store your bikes.
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