There’s a specific kind of frustration that every cycling enthusiast knows. It’s the logistical puzzle of wanting to share a ride with family or friends, only to be stopped by the question: “How do we get all the bikes there?” For years, my adventures were limited by the two-bike capacity of my old, flimsy trunk rack. Every plan to bring a third person along involved a second car, complex coordination, and a nagging sense that there had to be a better way. The dream was always a platform-style hitch rack—the kind that cradles your bikes by their wheels, protecting precious carbon frames and eliminating the anxiety of bikes swaying and clanging together. But the price tags on premium models always felt like a barrier to entry. This search for an accessible, reliable, three-bike solution is what led our team to a thorough test of the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack, a product promising the benefits of a platform rack without the premium cost.
- Easily carries three bikes from 12" To 29"
- New trays accommodate tires up to 3" Wide
What to Consider Before Buying a Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack
A Bike Carriers & Racks is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for unlocking new adventures. It’s the bridge between your home and distant trailheads, scenic byways, and family vacations. The primary benefit of a hitch-mounted rack is its stability and ease of use compared to roof or trunk-mounted options. It keeps your bikes out of the direct windstream, preserving fuel economy, and avoids the risk of scratching your vehicle’s paint with clips and straps. By investing in the right rack, you gain the freedom to transport your bikes safely, securely, and with minimal fuss, turning the “how do we get there?” problem into a simple, routine part of your ride preparation.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who frequently transports one to three bikes, owns a vehicle with a hitch receiver, and values the frame-protection and stability offered by a platform design. This includes families with a mix of adult and kids’ bikes, mountain bikers with modern frame geometries, or road cyclists who don’t want their frames hanging and potentially swinging during transit. Conversely, this rack might not be the best fit for those who need to carry more than three bikes, have e-bikes exceeding the 35 lbs per-bike weight limit, or absolutely require a tilt-down feature to access their vehicle’s rear cargo area while the rack is loaded. For those without a hitch, an alternative like a high-quality trunk rack would be a more suitable choice.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Hitch Size & Compatibility: The first and most critical check is your vehicle’s hitch receiver. They typically come in 1.25-inch and 2-inch sizes. The BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack cleverly includes an adapter to fit both, offering excellent versatility. However, always ensure your vehicle’s hitch and tongue weight rating can support the rack plus the full load of bikes.
- Capacity & Weight Limits: Capacity isn’t just about the number of bikes. You must consider the total weight. This rack is rated for 105 lbs total and 35 lbs per bike. This is ample for most road bikes, kids’ bikes, and standard mountain bikes, but it’s a critical check if you own heavier downhill bikes or lighter e-bikes. Always weigh your bikes if you’re unsure.
- Bike Compatibility & Spacing: A major advantage of a platform rack is its wide compatibility. The BELL Right Up 350 shines here, accommodating wheel sizes from a tiny 12 inches up to 29 inches and tire widths up to 4 inches. The challenge, as we discovered, is the spacing between bikes. Fitting three large, modern mountain bikes can be a tight “puzzle,” requiring careful arrangement of handlebars and pedals.
- Ease of Use & Features: How quickly can you load up and go? And what happens when you need to get into your trunk? The Right Up 350 is straightforward to load but lacks a tilt-away function for trunk access when bikes are on it. The wheel cradles are adjusted with bolts, which is secure but slower than the tool-free systems on premium racks. These are the trade-offs for its accessible price point.
Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a rack that not only fits your car but also perfectly suits your bikes and your lifestyle.
While the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack is an excellent choice for its category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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- Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DN-R
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First Impressions: Sturdy Simplicity Out of the Box
Pulling the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack from its packaging, our first impression was one of surprising substance. For a rack in this price bracket, we expected a certain level of flimsiness, but the main steel components felt solid and well-coated. At just over 22 pounds, it’s refreshingly lightweight, making it manageable for one person to lift and mount onto the hitch—a detail confirmed by users who appreciated not needing a helper for installation. Assembly was straightforward, though we echo the sentiment of some users who recommended using your own 10mm and 17mm socket wrenches instead of the basic stamped-metal tools included. The instructions were adequate, and we had the entire rack assembled and mounted in about 30 minutes. Once attached to our 2-inch receiver using the included adapter, it felt secure. The design is utilitarian and functional; there are no fancy levers or polished aluminum, just a focus on the core task of holding bikes, which, for many, is exactly what’s needed. You can see its full feature set and straightforward design here.
What We Like
- Excellent value for a 3-bike platform-style rack
- Very versatile, fitting a wide range of wheel sizes (12″ to 29″) and fat tires (up to 4″)
- Lightweight design makes it easy for one person to install and remove
- Sturdy core construction that holds bikes securely by the wheels, protecting frames
Limitations
- Does not tilt down to allow for rear cargo access when loaded with bikes
- Lacks integrated security features like locks for the rack or bikes
Deep Dive: Performance on the Pavement and the Trailhead
A bike rack’s true test isn’t in the garage; it’s on the highway, over bumpy back roads, and in the organized chaos of loading up after a long, muddy ride. We put the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack through its paces over several weeks, transporting a varied fleet of bikes: a large 29er full-suspension mountain bike, a women’s hybrid, and a 24-inch kid’s mountain bike. Our findings mirror the real-world experiences of many users, revealing a rack that performs admirably well, especially when you consider its price.
Assembly and Installation: A 30-Minute Job
As mentioned, the initial assembly is a one-time task that is manageable for anyone with basic mechanical skills. We found the online instructions clearer than the included paper manual, a tip echoed by several owners. The key components—the main mast, the hitch bar, and the three wheel trays—bolt together logically. The hardware felt adequate for the job. Once assembled, mounting the rack is simple. It slides into the receiver, and the included anti-rattle hitch pin is tightened with a wrench. While some premium racks feature tool-free installation, this bolted approach provides a very solid, reassuring connection. We noted zero wobble at the hitch connection point itself during our entire testing period, even when using the 1.25-inch to 2-inch adapter. The rack’s low weight is a significant advantage here. Unlike some beastly 50+ pound racks that can be a real workout to maneuver, we could easily lift and align the Right Up 350 without straining.
The Bike Loading “Puzzle”: Versatility Meets Intricacy
This is where the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack truly shows its character. Loading the first bike is incredibly easy. You lift it into the trays, slide the padded vertical hoop over the frame, and secure the hook. Add the wheel straps, and you’re done in under a minute. It’s the second and third bikes that require some strategic thinking. As multiple users noted, fitting three full-sized mountain bikes is possible but requires solving a “puzzle” of pedal orientation, seat height, and handlebar position. We experienced this firsthand. Our large 29er had to go on first, closest to the vehicle. The women’s hybrid went in the middle, facing the opposite direction. The kid’s bike fit easily on the outside. We found that once you figure out the optimal arrangement for your specific collection of bikes, the process becomes repeatable and much faster. The wheel cradles are adjusted via bolts, which is the rack’s biggest operational drawback. You need a wrench to slide them along the tray to match your bike’s wheelbase. Our advice, shared by savvy users, is to “set and forget.” Once you find the perfect spot for your primary bike, tighten the bolts and leave them. For families with a consistent set of three bikes, this works beautifully. If you frequently carry different bikes, you’ll need to keep a wrench handy for adjustments, which is a small but notable inconvenience compared to tool-free systems. The versatility, however, is undeniable. We tested it with a friend’s fat bike with 4-inch tires, and it fit perfectly, a feature that often costs much more. The adjustable nature of the cradles is a feature that really sets it apart at this price.
On-the-Road Stability and Security Concerns
With three bikes loaded, we hit the road. On smooth highways, the rack is fantastic. There’s very little side-to-side sway, and the bikes feel planted. The stabilizing hoops and wheel straps do an excellent job of preventing bikes from rocking or touching. As some users pointed out, there is a noticeable amount of vertical bounce when going over speed bumps or rough patches of road. This is common to many hitch racks, but it can be unnerving at first. We found that ensuring the anti-rattle pin was fully tightened helped, and many users recommend adding an aftermarket hitch stabilizer or anti-sway device for extra peace of mind on long journeys. One user reported driving nearly 3000 miles with the rack loaded, which speaks volumes about its fundamental durability. The core structure is sound.
The main area for improvement is security. The rack itself attaches with a standard pin, which could be easily removed with a wrench. Likewise, there are no integrated locks to secure the bikes to the rack. The padded hooks that hold the frame down do not lock. This means you can’t confidently leave your bikes unattended on the rack while you run into a store or grab a post-ride meal. For us, this wasn’t a deal-breaker; we simply used a heavy-duty cable lock and threaded it through the bike frames and the vehicle’s safety chain loops on the hitch. It’s an extra step, but a necessary one for anyone concerned about theft. This is a clear trade-off for the rack’s affordability, and for many, a simple cable lock is a perfectly acceptable solution.
What Other Users Are Saying
After our hands-on testing, we combed through dozens of user experiences to see how our findings aligned with the broader community. The consensus is overwhelmingly positive, centered on the theme of “unbeatable value.” One user captured this perfectly, stating, “It does the job well at a fraction of the cost… I was so surprised at how sturdy it was.” This sentiment was repeated often, with many pleasantly surprised by the quality relative to the price. Another user who took the rack on a 3000-mile road trip was “impressed with the quality, construction and sturdiness,” confirming our own assessment of its long-haul reliability.
However, the feedback isn’t without its critiques, which are important for potential buyers. The most common drawback mentioned is the lack of a tilt-down feature. As one detailed review pointed out, “Once flat, it doesn’t tilt down to access the vehicle.” This is a crucial consideration for anyone with an SUV or hatchback who frequently needs to get into their trunk. Another recurring theme is the somewhat cumbersome securing system. One user noted, “My old 2 bike rack was loaded and unloaded in seconds this one to do 3 bikes takes a few minutes,” referencing the bolted wheel trays and strap design. These criticisms are valid and represent the primary compromises made to achieve the rack’s accessible price point. You can read more user reviews and see if these trade-offs work for you.
How Does the BELL Right Up 350 Compare to the Alternatives?
No product exists in a vacuum. The BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack competes in a crowded market, but its specific blend of features and price gives it a unique position. It stands as a gateway to the platform rack style for budget-conscious buyers, but how does it stack up against other popular options, including those with different designs?
1. Thule Apex XT Bike Hitch Rack
- Premium hanging hitch bike rack for 5 bikes
- Superior bike stability and fit with anti-sway cradles
The Thule Apex XT is a premium hanging-style rack. Instead of a platform, bikes hang by their top tubes from two support arms. Its biggest advantages over the BELL are its speed and features. The Apex XT installs in seconds with a tool-free locking knob, includes integrated cable locks for the bikes and a lock for the rack itself, and its arms fold down when not in use. However, it can struggle with bikes that have non-traditional frames (like step-throughs or some full-suspension designs) without an adapter bar. It also holds bikes closer together, increasing the chance of contact. Someone who prioritizes speed, top-tier security, and a premium brand name—and is willing to pay significantly more—would prefer the Thule.
2. Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack
- Quick set carry arms snap into place and fold out of the way when not in use
- Dual compound tie-down cradles And quick set straps individually secure and protect bicycles
The Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Rack is the BELL’s direct competitor in the budget-friendly hanging rack space. It is incredibly popular due to its simple, durable design and very low price. Like the Thule, it’s a hanging rack, sharing the same potential issues with frame compatibility. It’s even more basic than the BELL, lacking the frame protection offered by a platform design. Bikes are secured with simple straps and can be prone to more sway. A user looking for the absolute lowest-cost way to transport three bikes with a hitch, and who isn’t concerned about potential frame scuffs or the stability of a platform system, might opt for this Allen rack. It’s pure, no-frills utility.
3. Allen S102 2-Bike Trunk Rack
- Patented quick snap set up design allow for super quick set up right out of the box
- 12 inch long carry arms easily accommodate up to 2 bicycles (70 pounds max capacity)
This Allen S102 represents a completely different category: the trunk-mounted rack. Its key advantage is that it requires no hitch receiver, making it a viable option for sedans, hatchbacks, and other vehicles without one. It’s also typically the least expensive type of rack available and folds down compactly for storage. However, trunk racks are the least secure option, both in terms of theft and mounting stability. They can scratch vehicle paint if not installed carefully and have lower weight capacities. This alternative is best for the casual cyclist with a car that lacks a hitch, who only needs to carry one or two bikes for short, infrequent trips.
Our Final Verdict on the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack
After extensive testing and analysis, we can confidently say that the BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Hitch Rack is a standout product in its class. It successfully delivers the most important benefits of a premium platform rack—excellent stability, frame protection, and wide bike compatibility—at a price that is accessible to almost any rider. It’s the perfect solution for families, casual mountain bikers, and anyone tired of the compromises of hanging or trunk-mounted racks. Yes, it makes trade-offs. The lack of a tilt feature is a significant consideration for SUV owners, and the absence of integrated locks requires an extra security step. The bolted adjustments can also be a bit slow. But when weighed against its sturdy construction, its impressive versatility, and its incredible value, these feel like reasonable compromises rather than fatal flaws.
If you’re looking for a reliable, easy-to-use platform rack for up to three bikes and don’t want to spend a fortune, this is arguably the best value on the market. It gets the fundamentals right, providing a secure and safe way to get your bikes to the trail, the park, or your next vacation spot. For those ready to upgrade their bike transport game without emptying their wallet, we highly recommend it. You can check the latest price and get your adventure started here.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API