Bike Rack, Gear, Küat, NV 2.0 - July 31, 2016

Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Rack first look

Küat NV 2.0 on a Toyota 4Runner.

We hung out with the Küat crew at Northstar Resort, CA and they proudly showed us all their improvements on the new Küat NV 2.0. The original NV was quite an attractive rack with a bike repair stand but they’ve learned a lot since then. At first glance, it looks similar to the outgoing model but a deeper look reveals some significant improvements.

First and foremost, the pivot system has been significantly beefed up and improved. It is the heart of the system as it is tilted up, down, with bike and without bike all the time. It is the main load-bearing moving part of the system and so play is amplified over time which results in a wobbly rack. This new system is smooth and wiggle free. Moving it up and down reveals very smooth pivots with the tightest tolerances. A new release mechanism has been designed and it can be accessed under the rack by hand or with the foot. Or it can be accessed above the rails as well giving the user an easy option when bikes are not present. The lever is not quite at the outermost point of the rack for easiest access like Thule or Rockymounts but having different access points improves usability a lot.

Küat NV 2.0 folded up with lever at an easy to reach position.

Next up are the rails. They are now big and wide, ready to accommodate fat tires, 29 Plus tires or road tires. The tire cradles even tilt up and down to solve load-time interference between saddles and wide handlebars by lowering or raising one of the bikes.

Küat NV 2.0 cradle lowest position.

The finish on the rack has been improved too to give it a durable luster that is worthy of most automobile finishes. It will stand the test of time too as the rack is subjected to sun, rain, salt and road debris. Interestingly enough, the look of a rack is not often mentioned but it is a significant part of the experience as well, specially if the rack stays on the vehicle 100% of the time. A rack that’s easy on the eyes and complements the vehicle’s looks is always a plus.

Küat NV 2.0 Trail Doc.

Finally, the Trail Doc stand has been updated as well. It is sleeker and sturdier at the same time. There is also an optional tripod that receives the Trail Doc head to provide a stable bike stand in the garage or in the parking lot.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkTmA_JN3b0