1UP USA vs KUAT NV Review and Comparison. Which is the best bike rack for Mountain Bikes? 

I just came across this review as I start looking for a new 2-bike rack for my Outback and this was very helpful. Thanks!

*Really great **Latest.Bike** trunk mount rack! Works well with my Honda civic & the price is affordable. Would recommend ✔*

Great video and thanks for sharing. Was looking at both and I am sold on the 1up because of your video as the 1up fits my needs better.

Awesome review! Thanks for sharing your insights. You didn’t mention price, but everything else was great. I’m going to get the 1up thanks to your video :)

Interesting review and comparison. However, you can't put add-ons to fit 4 total bikes with a single base 1Up. You can only add 2 add-ons to any base. So technically, your single can only be expanded to a 3-bike setup.

Tommy, thanks for the review. BTW the trails you and your crew rides, rack scratching the folk is probably the least of your worries...lol. I worry more about dislocating fingers, broken ribs.. Great video.

Really terrific review. I like your candidness about + & - of each rack. The fact you’re not getting money from the review is refreshing & super important. I don’t trust many reviews for that reason. Thanks! I need better access to the rear hatch than either rack gives so I was looking at Rockmounts Swing Away but it’s heavy. What do you think of the 1Up RakAttach ... any opinion?

Great vid. Thanks. I’m getting ready to buy a new car, a Subaru Forrester Wilderness and I want to get a new rack and it’s between these two. I’m still not sure. Lol.

Dope intro!

Good review dude... I drive a Volvo XC60 and have a North Shore 4 bike rack which even folded down blocks the trunk and it sticks out far so my wife hates it so I take it on and off every ride... the 1UP with 1 bike would be perfect as probably 80% of the time it's just me and my bike and could add the second when needed. I don't need the NS rack for shuttling very much anymore.

To make it easier for you you will need an EZ pull handle for the two bike set up but if you plan to use 4 bikes a 4 place EZ handle would be recommended but because 1Up will sell you the complete EZ pull handle & parts list you may wanna give some thought as to which handle length you want for your rack.

Appreciate the video! Great comparison! I'm a sucker for the nv lol

I am impressed by the way the 1UP USA rack folds up for storage. The Kuat racks take up so much room and are heavy. You may have sold me today despite 1Up's Web site being quite poor.

I will never buy a bike rack that does not have a locking bolt through the hitch. And hence, you reminded me why I choose KUAT. I pull camping trailers, boat trailers, and have a hitch mounted hanging bike rack (which I only use with kid's bikes). With all these hitch attachments, I can take a quick look and see the bolt, with a clip though it, and the lock on the end. Easy visual check and decent security. By the way, for security I use Peweg/Austrian security chains. My Commencal is never without them (even beside my house as my bikes are now), except when I am riding. Thank you for this excellent comparison and reminder why I will never buy 1UP USA.

Thanks. Bought the Kuat NV 2.0

Excellent video Tommy! Lots of good details! I also believe it is beneficial to be able to convert to a 1 bike only rack. It saves weight for most of the time and to your point, it allows better trunk access (although the KUAT bike stand is convenient for some frequent users). Regarding the excess hitch clearance/sloppy fit, users with the racks you mention may be able to find a solution if they search the web for "silent hitch" (they can add a fastener plate to the inside of the hitch) to remove slop. Everyone should understand and often overlooks what will happen if a bike tire has an AIR LEAK because the rack adjustment does in part rely on tire pressure. It's not uncommon to return to the trailhead and have an undetected slow air leak... in some situations it could mean the bike may fall out down the road. I recommend testing this scenario to be sure you are not affected. If the rack has or the user adds a redundant velcro strap for this potential issue the outcome will be fine.

Really informative, thoughtful, and thorough review. You actually provided the information that matters and that I wanted to know... crazy that I’m not used to that with reviews. Only thing missing were the models, but that was easy enough for me to find out. Thanks for taking the time to help is out, bro! 🤘🏽

With the two racks, use it as a shelf to stage your purchases when loading.

Very informative review. Bought the one up rack. I think its lower depth and ability to use 1 bike is perfect for my need. I liked the lock mechanism that is scratch free and being metal, should last longer than plastic

When I was shopping for a hitch mounted bike rack I considered the 1UP USA and the Kuat NV. I ultimately decided on the 1UP USA rack mainly because 99% of the time I'm only carrying 1 bike so just like you I got the 1-bike rack with a 1-bike add-on attachment. Also I like the more compact footprint of the 1UP rack. I think the Kuat just looks too busy. BTW, with the Kuat is the repair rack attachment scraping on the ground at the 17:50 mark when you have the rack tilted down to gain access to the hatch?

cool review video.

Damn Asians luv waking up early 😂😂. Well I guess I know which bike rack imma buy. Thx!

Hi Tommy - do you have a suggestion for 2 Ebikes ( 65lb and 45 lb) with fenders? One is a fat bike. Thanks Terry

My personal opinion would be to have some kind of brake light connect built into the rack like on a trailer and have tail lights on them for safety.

I've owned both and agree that they are both great racks. Rocky Mount is also really good and typically lower priced. Some personal preference, but I like the lower profile of the 1Up with my car and I use it as a single bike rack most of the time. Thanks for the vid, always enjoy your content! Can't wait to hit you guys up for a ride next time I'm in SoCa (Mission Viejo). You guys will kill me, but it'll be fun! Peace

Cool review 😎👍👍👍👍👍👍😁😁

Thanks for the video. Selling my Kuat because it doesn't fit my mountain bike. I originally planned to buy another Kuat. Your video may have changed my mind.

Great vid, ty for taking the time to do this. These were the 2 racks I have been eyeing up... As far as security goes, it cool that the Kuat has a built in cable lock, BUT, cable locks of Kuats size are quite possibly the easist to "bypass" in the world of bike thieves. The ability to addon, (via bolt-on or welding) a security U-ring etc to the 1Up's aluminum frame, so you can utilize a X-LARGE cable or alloy U-lock, is much more of a benefit than meets the eye. Once you have had a bike stolen from you (or two) you start to take into consideration CUSTOM security features, or the ability to fabricate them yourself... 1Up is the clear winner here IMHO...

Hi Tommy, thanks for posting this great comparison video. I have been researching racks for electric bikes to death, and these two brands are my finalists. You effectively demonstrated some features that the manufacturer's websites did not.

To lock the frames go through the inside of the bikes chain stays. It should reach that way.

When you add the 2inch adapter, does the rack wiggle and bounce when your driving with both bikes on the rack?

I like how you can lock the main rack to the car. How do you keep people from stealing the add on racks.

1up seems to be the winner. Are the red levers to unlock the clamping thing? Seems like it.

Thanks a lot for doing this review. With 2 eBikes I'm deciding between the 1Up Super Duty and the Kuat NV 2.0 Base (don't need the bike rack). Both look excellent, so don't think I can go wrong with either of them. Now I just need to see if the Super Duty has a locking hitch pin (after seeing how the non-locking hitches can be pulled out, that's a major selling point...)

Good video, but a couple of things about the 1-up (I have had one for probably 8 years now or so). The rack you have is only recommended for up to 3 bikes. You can clearly put the 4 trays on there, but 1up recommends a max of 3. In order to do 4, you need to buy the "Heavy Duty" which only comes in a 2" receiver model and has 2 racks permanently installed. (So you don't get that single use, which I love as well). Secondly I would recommend putting and leaving those bolts in the single rack. I just leave mine in and have them tightened all the way down, when not in use. That way when you go to use the second rack you just back those bolts out. Also I find it MUCH easier to install the second rack with the rack in the "up" position. Lastly for security I just use a cable lock. I typically run it through the tabs on my hitch, through the bikes so with one cable you secure the rack to the hitch and bikes to the rack. You probably have the 2 most coveted racks for MTB, good comparison. I vote 1up !

Good stuff Tommy. How long of a wheelbase can the 1up rack handle?

I’ve had both. I prefer the Kuat. Great review

Lol. Drives expensive cars, rides cheapo bikes. Priorities.

can you use 1up for road bikes without buying that accessory?

Thanks! I appreciate your video. This appears to be the NV 1.0. There are differences on the 2.0.- might want to update the title to NV v1 or original.

Where did you get the lock to block the wrench access?

Would you have an idea of the maximum tire width that the 1UP can take? Do you think it would take most plus bike tires with 3.0 inch sizing?

solid real world review, dumb question of the day, automatic car washes? Do they require/ask you to remove the 1up?

It sounds like the Kuat 2.0 is what you really want. You can pivot it out of the way and you can now get a single bike holder and then an add on for a second bike. But I still like the 1up for how it locks your bike in. They just need to add a security feature for your bikes and if they throw in a pivot aspect they would be top dog hands down.

Imagine if this was a girl talking about her new rack 😆

If you are running the 1up 1+1, will their easy release tilt adapter work?

One of the advantages of the 1UP rack that you didn't mention is the ability to adjust the bikes in the rack to avoid handle bars hitting when you have 3 or 4 bikes loaded.

Super helpful video. Thank you!

Hey man where did you buy that lock for the rack?

Tell me about your restaurant. Great vid btw. You sold me on the 1UP.

Thanks for posting. Great video.

The 1up any issues with scratching tia sr

I have an ebike that weighs 55.5lbs with battery. If I take off the battery, I can save about 7 lbs. I’m looking to buy a car rack probably either the 1UP or Kuat. I realize for 1 or 2 heavy bikes, first I have to install a Hitch. What do you recommend as for the hitch, for the now and future needs. Thanks.

Can you lock the add on to the rack?

Thanks man. I have an STI and a hidden trailer hitch hoping the 1up will work

For the 1up they sell a super duty bar for your unit that turns your unit into a super duty rack for only $17 bucks. The bar is in the replacement parts section on their website. Not sure why they don’t advertise it.

I just got this rack a couple of weeks ago and I LOVE this thing. It's not cheap, but worth every penny if you're someone that uses your bike rack a lot. This baby is STOUT. With other racks it always made me nervous to see the bike(s) rocking and swaying in the rearview, this rack is by far the most stable I've used. Because of the way it folds up so compactly and the relatively light weight it is easy to remove/install. Also because of it's compact size when folded it is easy to store, and when folded up on the vehicle it's tucked in so tight you don't mind it being there at all. Every other rack I can think of is just plain ugly on the back of your vehicle, loaded or unloaded. With the 1up I catch myself turning back to admire it as I'm walking away. I just ordered the license plate holder to finish it off. I'd highly recommend this to any serious user, it's definitely worth the investment.

Hi Tommy. Just a question. Does it make a difference if you use a 1.25" receiver mount over a 2"? I saw that in your acura you have a 1.25". Just want to know if it wobbles or the fit would not be as snug as a 2". I am still thinking of which 1 up rack I would be picking a 1.25 or 2. Thanks!

Thank You Nice bikes.

Your DH bikes is the sickest bike I've seen in a long time 😯

OK, I already can see that pulling the leaver to lift down the rack is super inconvenient in 1UP.

Thanks for the review. I just purchased the same RDX A-Spec and have the same 2” Kuat as well. Tried the hitch adapter but too much unnecessary tongue weight. Just purchased the 1UP thanks to your review. 👍🙂

Bro if you don't going to use your Kuat, give it to me i got mine stole and now i have to put my bike on my truck bed... please.

I am considering buying the 1Up rack for my bikes and wondering if you've had any long term issues with locking mechanism on the rails starting to not hold or grip due the teeth wearing down?

Are you selling your old rack?

This was an awesome video!! ….You got right to the point and highlighted pros/cons with minimum words

Can you comment on whether any parts of your bikes are touching each other or is the Kuat touching any part of your bikes other than wheels ie forks

FYI - You can raise or lower the angle of the front wheel cradle on the Kuat to avoid needing to drop your seat. It's a matter of loosening and tightening an allen wrench... Relying only on the tension from the ball means a thief can run a tow strap around the 1UP and just pull it straight out of your hitch with their vehicle, and then take a cut-off wheel to that blocking lock thing at their leisure. I wouldn't run it without some extra security, any more than I would rely on my Kuat's cables to "secure" my ride...

nice thanks

Great video bro bro! Thank you✅

Great presentation, brother!

Nice review!

Great review. Thanks!

thank you for all the tips and info.

Dope video bro thank you

Thank you

I wish every product comparison video is made like this. Great information for me to make a decision between 1Up and Kuat. Thanks and keep em coming. Appreciate it a lot.

Nice video, great content. Thanks

Remember to lock blue levers when folding (no bike on it). I forgot onetime, it scraped to the ground and damaged the rack

Wow! Impressed. Thanks Tommy. Appreciated. Great comparison Video. Do you know anything about the Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Rack?? I have the old old version. It’s a good rack, but want new It’s beat up. After watching your Video, I think I’ll go with the 1 Up also, although the Kuat just looks sic! 👍. The bike stand thing is cool, but the lighter weight, single rack thing and simplicity makes sense as you noted. Just curious about the Thule. Either way, GREAT JOB! You got instruction skills 👊😉

U need to try tmac pedals they rule

Excellent review.

Hey FYI careful using that work stand on your top tube. You can crush the tube and ruin the frame. Its better to use on seat tube.

Hey man nice video. Question: I’m highly considering the rdx aspec. Is that the factory Acura hitch or aftermarket? When I go to Acura’s page it won’t let me build an aspec with the factory hitch. Wondering if that’s just a glitch.

Does the Acura have any kind of backup collision detection? Does the 1-up interfere with that system?

Where did u buy the lock/key?

Tommy for security with the one up they also have lock kits that go through the holes on the arms that hold the wheel down. I use one for the front and rear wheels. I guess technically someone could steal the frame but it’s going to slow them down a lot trying to mess with the rear derailleur and chain while trying to get it out of the rack and technically they could always just cut the cable on racks with integrated cables (cables can be cut extremely easily) so in my view it’s just as secure and like all security it’s a deterrent not a preventative. They also sell a bolt that a lock can be threaded onto for the secondary rack. Good news is you can have them all be keyed the same, bad news is you have to order them keyed at the same time however your local lock smith can re key them so you can just take your single you have now and re key it to match the added locks if you choose to do so.

Great review. Is this the heavy or super duty? Also, did you consider the black? I also have a white SUV. Seems like black would look a bit better.

Solid comparison! Need to slide the add-on to the side (1:47) so the edges line up.

Great job Tommy!

Thanks for the comparison. I've been looking at both of these racks as top contenders.

Cool rack but I build mine brother.. ✌🏻

Good review I need something for two of my e-bikes that are 65 lb each

I like the Kuat NV (and the Sherpa) but I will never buy one again.

how many add on's can you add?

Nice comparison Tommy! I really love my 1up rack and leave the single rack on my Sequoia full time since it's tucked away and doesn't block my tailgate or backup camera like you mentioned. One thing I found to make it easier when adding on the 2nd or more trays is to leave the rack tucked up and install the bolts halfway on first, then you can drop the add on tray right on top because the bolt holes on the add on tray have a larger opening on one side it will slide on past the bolt head and then you shift the add on tray over to lock it in and tighten the bolts up.

Is that a kuat nv 2.0?

Great info. Do you know if the 1up rack can be used with a side swinging attachment that get a the bikes out of the way of the trunk.

Looks like my office when I was building my Intense DH bike. One small spot to actually work and a maze if bike parts all over the floor. Great video what are your thoughts a year later? Going to get rid of my roof rack.

1up are the best racks out there period. No plastic pieces on it what so ever. I have the 2 rack Super Duty black version. No other rack I know comes out the box and ready to install with nothing to put together.