When you need quick access to your vehicle’s rear hatch or tailgate while carrying bikes, cargo, or equipment, a swing away hitch arm can be a game changer. This guide highlights reliable swing arm extensions designed for 2-inch receivers, focusing on durability, ease of use, and compatibility with common racks. Below you’ll find five top-rated options, a quick comparison, and a buying guide to help you choose the right model for cars, trucks, SUVs, and more.
| Product | Key Benefit | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| VALYHOOD Swing Away Hitch Adapter | 90° swing for unhindered hatch access | 320 lbs |
| Young Swing Away Hitch | Solid steel build with pre-assembled design | 250 lbs |
| Saris Swing Away Hitch Adapter | USA-made, foldable and easy access | 250 lbs |
| Osluken Swing Away Hitch Adapter | 0°-180° pivot with smooth operation | 250 lbs |
| Yakima EXO SwingBase | Versatile base with secure locking system | Varies by accessory |
VALYHOOD Swing Away Hitch Adapter
The VALYHOOD swing away hitch adapter is designed to rotate a full 90° to provide unhindered access to the rear of your vehicle. It is built to support up to 320 lbs, securing both racks and bikes during travel. Compatible with 2-inch hitch receivers, this adapter broadens the functionality of existing bike racks or cargo racks without requiring rack removal for hatch access. Its universal 2-inch receiver fit makes it a versatile choice for cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans, ensuring reliable performance across a range of setups.
Young 250LBS Swing Away Hitch
This model emphasizes heavy-duty performance with a 250 lb total load capacity. It features solid steel construction and reinforced joints for dependable support of heavy bikes or cargo carriers on varied terrains. The unit arrives fully assembled, allowing quick installation and immediate use. It also undergoes rigorous long-life testing, including 1500-hour salt spray exposure and IP68 waterproof rating, contributing to resistance against rust, rain, mud, and snow in demanding environments.
Saris Swing Away Hitch Adapter
The Saris Swing Away Hitch Adapter provides easy trunk access with a 90° swing function, enabling hatch access without removing bikes or cargo. It supports up to 250 lbs of combined rack and bike weight, ensuring your gear remains secure during travel. Designed for 2″ hitch receivers, it supplements the functionality of existing bike racks or cargo carriers while maintaining compatibility with a broad range of vehicle configurations. The unit is built for reliable, everyday use and simple, tool-free installation.
Osluken 0°-180° Swing Away Hitch Adapter
The Osluken model offers a versatile 0°-180° pivot with a smooth, self-locking hinge capable of handling up to 250 lbs. It features a hardened steel axis and low-friction bushings for consistent articulation, even under maximum load. Tailgate clearance is optimized for SUVs, trucks, and vans with the rack installed, enabling convenient access without rack removal. Its robust construction is designed for long-term reliability in challenging weather conditions and demanding road use.
Yakima EXO SwingBase (2-In)
The Yakima EXO SwingBase transforms a 2-inch hitch into a versatile base for a wide array of accessories. It enables easy rear access by swinging away from the vehicle with a simple motion, making loading and unloading hassle-free. The system includes security features such as HitchLock and two SKS locks, ensuring your gear and rack stay protected. Quick, tool-free installation and the locking mechanisms provide peace of mind for regular on-road and camping scenarios.
Yakima BackSwing Hitch Adapter
The Yakima BackSwing adapter converts most 2″ hitch products into a swing-away rack, prioritizing tailgate access even with bikes loaded. It features a 90° swing with a secure lock and safety latch to keep the rack closed while on the road. The adapter is designed to fit any 2″ hitch receiver using a threaded pin, providing straightforward retrofitting to compatible racks and carriers for enhanced convenience during travel.
Koerdo Adjustable Trailer Hitch
The Koerdo adjustable trailer hitch offers a 2″ receiver with dual 6-inch drop/rise. It provides compatibility with a broad range of trailers, including trucks, RVs, campers, and off-road vehicles. With two hitch balls rated at 15,000 lbs and 20,000 lbs respectively, this unit supports varied towing configurations. Built from solid bar stock and finished with corrosion-resistant coatings, it emphasizes durability and stability for heavy-duty towing scenarios.
Sidasu Double Can Garbage Hauling Hitch
The Double Can Garbage Hauling Hitch is designed for 2″ hitch receivers and supports secure transport of garbage cans with a swivel bin arm. It includes sturdy straps and quick-adjust buckles to secure bins to varying terrains, ensuring stable movement across grass, gravel, and uneven surfaces. The top swivel bracket enables smooth trailing around curves, reducing tipping risks and improving overall handling on the road.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Weight capacity: Check the combined weight rating for rack plus cargo or bikes. Choose a model with a comfortable margin above your typical load.
- Pivot range: A full 90° swing is common and provides the most convenient access to the rear hatch. Some models offer extended range or 0°-180° options for specialized setups.
- Receiver compatibility: Most swing arms fit 2-inch receivers. Confirm that your vehicle uses a standard 2″ hitch and evaluate any aftermarket hitch accessories for compatibility.
- Build and materials: Look for steel construction with protective coatings to resist rust and weather exposure. Hardened axes and low-friction bushings improve longevity and movement.
- Security features: Locks for the EXO SwingBase, and anti-theft pins or SKS locks add protection for your gear in public spaces.
- Weight distribution and balance: A well-balanced swing arm minimizes vibration and stress on the hitch. Pre-assembled units save setup time and reduce installation effort.
- Tailgate clearance: Some designs prioritize tailgate access with minimal interference, even when the rack is loaded.
- Installation and maintenance: Consider models that arrive pre-assembled or with straightforward assembly steps. Regular inspection of hinges and pins helps ensure safe operation over time.
- Vehicle type considerations: For vans, SUVs, trucks, and cars, verify fitment with your make and model, especially if you regularly switch between passenger and cargo configurations.
- Accessory ecosystem: Some brands offer accessory arms or add-ons that extend compatibility with a broader range of racks and cargo solutions.
In selecting a tow hitch swing arm extension, prioritize a combination of capacity, reach, and reliability. Consider your primary use (bikes, cargo, or trash-hauling) and how often you need full hatch access without unloading. Cross-check customer reviews for real-world durability and compatibility with your vehicle type to ensure a safe, long-lasting setup.