How to build a $99 bike rack for the T@B 320 Yakima Rack (Revised)

tinglebells

This is a simple, inexpensive way to attach two bicycles to the slanted Yakima Rack on the T@B 320. The Yakima FORKLIFT bike racks are readily available on Facebook Market Place and Craigslist for about $40 each.  Below is how to build it plus pictures.

1. Buy two used Yakima ForkLift Bike Racks (wheel trays). 

2. Drill a 3/8" hole thru the bottom of the tray about 30" from the bottom end of each tray.

3. Cut and file two 16" long sections of 3/8" threaded rod (available in hardware stores).

4. Securely bolt and lock washer each rod onto the tray.

5. Cover the rod with plastic pipe to protect the bicycle paint.

6. Use a small shot of hot glue inside the top of the pipe to secure it to the rod.

7. Attach the modified trays to the Yakima rack spaced 16" apart.

8. Before loading the bottom bike: Loosen the handlebar (Allen wrench) and turn it parallel to the bike frame. This will prevent your handle grip from touching the roof of the T@B.

9. On the top bike:  Attach foam pipe insulation at contact points to protect the bikes when stacking them.

10. Secure the bikes to the rack with bungee cords or rope.

Now go out and enjoy your awesome achievement!!!

Above: Use an allen hex wrench to loosen the handle bar and then turn it parallel to frame to prevent contact with roof.  Note the altered handlebar is outlined with highlighter.

Above two photos: Two mountain bikes are stacked onto two Yakima ForkLift Bike Racks that are spaced 16" apart and that were modified by bolting 16" vertical threaded rods thru holes drilled 16" from the bottom of each wheel tray. 

Above: Plastic pipe, 3/8" threaded rod and Yakima ForkLift Bike Rack.

Tabaz

Photos would be helpful to those considering this mod.

pthomas745

Very nice.

Can you tell us how much your bikes weigh?

And, what is the plan for getting them up and down?

Radcat

Agree, would like to see some pics from a couple of angles. Note that if you have a bike with hydraulic disk brakes, turning the bike upside down is not recommended. 

webers3

I got a twitch in my back just looking at the photo