Softride Bike Rack FAQ

What are the differences between the Element, Dura, and Versa models?


Element Pull Pin Series Dura Pull Pin Series Versa Series

Element Pull Pin Series

The Element model is Softride's entry level bike rack. It offers a great value and offers most of the features that we've come to expect from Softride racks. 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 fold down when not in use. To fold down the arms of the Softride Element, you remove two pins, fold the arms and then re-insert the pins in the folded position. The Element does not include a locking bike cable or locking hitch pin like the Dura. It also does not offer an integrated anti-sway system like the Dura. Instead of the locking hitch pint like the Dura, the Element has a standard hitch bolt. However, the bolt is threaded and does tighten the rack against the side of your hitch to prevent wobbling.

Dura Pull Pin Series

The Softride Dura incorporates new features into the Softride line. The Softride Dura offers two primary upgrades over the Elite. 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 Elite version. Customers concerned with the possibility of bikes swaying during transit will enjoy the added stability of the Dura racks. The rack is also a sturdier design with thicker gauge tubing. Rather than fold-down arms, the arms on the dura incorporate quick-releases that allow you to remove and stow the arms when not in use.


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 Element model is a great bike rack. The new design has allowed Softride to lower the price of the rack and still maintain a very durable and usable rack. It offers many of the same features as the Softride Dura. I recommend the Element for bikers who are looking for a capable rack at a great price point and don't need the anti-sway features, lockable bike cable, hitch lock, and thicker gauge tubing 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 except the Element 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.

Are you an authorized dealer?
Yes. We were the top online seller of Softride bike racks in 2005, 2006, and 2007 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. The storage station is only compatible with the Dura bike rack arms.

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