[Review] The NV 2.0 Hitch Rack + Pivot by Küat

The NV 2.0 Hitch Rack plus the Pivot Swing Away Extension made by Küat is the ultimate setup for hauling your bikes behind your van, truck, or SUV. The functionality of the NV 2.0 and Pivot is unmatched and the finish is like a piece of art. Aside from the amazingly durable premium gloss metallic powdercoat finish and anodized orange accents, the Küat NV 2.0 includes features that impressed us immediately.

Out of the box, the Küat is easy to put together and install. All necessary parts and hardware are included so you won’t have to embark on a mid-project hardware store run. While you can extend the NV 2.0 to a four-bike rack with a 2-bike extension (sold separately) the two trays are perfect for our adventures. It should be mentioned that the NV 2.0 comes in both a 1.25” hitch size and a 2” hitch size. Only the 2” hitch size can accept the 2-bike extension.

The NV 2.0 can carry a wide array of bikes, which makes it even more accommodating for those who ride road bikes and mountain bikes. It fits 20” – 29” tires, holds wheelbases up to 48” and tires as large as 4.8” (Phat Bike Kit is included). For 20” to 24” tires, you will need to purchase the $9.99 wheel adapter. For us, we both ride mountain bikes with 29” wheels and this rack works flawlessly. The NV 2.0 can carry 2 bikes up to 60lbs each and weighs in at 52 pounds.

The ease of use of the rack will make you laugh the first time you use it. We’ve really only used roof rack mounted bike racks before and if you’re in the same boat, you’ll know that sometimes the struggle is real. Throwing your bike on the NV 2.0 is easy, quick, and struggle-free. The main front wheel arm is secure and easy to cinch with one hand.

It’s evident that Küat racks are made by cyclists because of the attention to detail in materials used so not to harm your gear. Both the front arm and the strap for the back wheel are made with materials that will not rub paint, etc. Although we don’t have $6000 mountain bikes, if we did we would not hesitate to haul them with the NV 2.0.

While we love the NV 2.0 and appreciate it for all it is, this system wouldn’t be the same without the Pivot. Essentially the Pivot is what makes this the perfect system for a van as it allows you to swing away the rack enabling access to your back doors (or tailgate or truck bed). This works extremely well for our Promaster and it is with the removal of one pin and unlatching one latch that the NV 2.0 swings 90 degrees away from your vehicle. While the Pivot is an additional investment on top of the NV 2.0, it’s absolutely worth it.

Aside from the amazing finish, we think that what sets the NV 2.0 apart from comparable racks on the market are the included accessories. First of all, the integrated locks are a huge bonus. The cable locks are located in the tray and stow out of the way. The cable runs through the rear triangle securing your bike to the rack. The NV 2.0 also comes with a hitch pin lock which is keyed alike with the integrated bike locks. It’s a simple thing really but to only have one key for 3 locks is huge for us. The Pivot also comes with a hitch pin lock however since the Pivot is sold separately, it is not keyed alike with the NV 2.0.

The included Trail-Doc is innovative and so useful. Tyson is always trying to figure out ways to bring a bike stand with us on trips but we never have the room so it’s always left at home. Now, with the NV 2.0, we have a built-in bike stand! That means less clutter and being able to work on our bikes on the road with ease. You can even buy a stand for the Trail-Doc for at home use. We love the idea and the fact that Küat takes their products and innovation to the next level with simple accessories and ideas.

Definitely be sure to watch the video provided above as it gives you a first-hand look at many of the included features of the NV 2.0 and Pivot system and dives into the ease of use, measurements, and more. The NV 2.0 + Pivot is a game changer when it comes to hauling your bicycles and you won’t be disappointed.

If you’re interested in buying some Küat gear, doing so using our provided links supports us in that we get a small kickback from your Amazon purchase. We appreciate the support!