Yakima FoldClick 2 Evo bike rack: Lightweight, compact and clever

Most bike carriers are quite heavy; it’s not uncommon for them to weigh 18 kilos or more. Handling, transport and the space they take up in the cellar are constant challenges for cyclists. We tested a total of four lightweight and compact bike carriers designed for the tow bar. The Yakima FoldClick 2 Evo is, as the name suggests, designed as a space-saving 2-bike carrier. Its greatest advantage is apparent from the very first glance: when folded away, it is relatively compact and easy to store – whether in the cellar, the boot or the garage.

Despite this focus on compactness, Yakima has not compromised on solid build quality. The rack looks robust and the mechanism is well-engineered. The rack comes pre-assembled and can be quickly made ready for use. The plastics used do not appear quite as high-quality. The mounting of the fold-away light bars is a bit wobbly. Furthermore, one of the two levers for the folding mechanism had already snapped off whilst unpacking it from the box – which slightly impairs its functionality.

Back-friendly installation

At Yakima, installation is carried out using a special folding system. The carrier is placed upright onto the towbar and then locked into place by pressing down on the loading platform. In practice, this works extremely intuitively and, combined with the handy carrying handle, is very convenient. On the plus side: once the FoldClick 2 Evo is in position, it sits securely on the towbar with no noticeable play. A small indicator gives the ‘green light’ as soon as the carrier is correctly secured. Now simply fold out the light bars and flip the wheel rails into place, and the Yakima is ready for use.

Suitable for e-bikes and designed with practicality in mind

The Yakima also scores highly when it comes to loading: the clamping arms can be removed in a jiffy for positioning and fitted onto the mounting bracket as required – even if its curved shape does limit the mounting options somewhat.

Although the classic clamps are fitted with rubber pads to protect the frame, they tend to reach their limits when used on bulky and angular tubes, unlike modern ratchet clamps such as those used by Atera, Thule or Uebler.

The wheel rails, fitted with high-quality metal ratchets, offer ample space for modern and long frames. The spacing between the rails is also well chosen, providing sufficient room even for wide frames or bulky suspension forks. This means that neither e-MTBs nor gravel or road bikes pose a problem for the FoldClick. One minor drawback: all four straps for securing the wheels face inwards. At the very least, when securing the outer bike, you have to reach awkwardly through the frame.

Folding mechanism and access to the boot

As you would expect from a modern bike rack, the FoldClick Evo 2 can also be folded down. This means that access to the boot is usually maintained – even with bikes mounted. It is operated via a central mechanism that is easily accessible with your foot. In practice, folding it down is straightforward.

The Yakima FoldClick 2 Evo at a glance

• ​Price: 700 euros >> available here
• Variants: Available for 2 or 3 bikes
• Assembly: Easy clamping thanks to the patented clamping mechanism
• Traffic jam wonder: Can be stored away to save space thanks to foldable rails and light strips
• Folding function: Convenient activation of the tilt function via a foot pedal
• Lightweight: Vertical mounting on the coupling with a handy carrying handle
• Weight: 16.3 kg
• Payload: max. 60 g / 30 kg per rail
• Dimensional tolerance: 67 x 74 x 28 cm
• Rail length / width / spacing: 128 / 6.8 / 22 cm
• Max. wheelbase / tyre width: 128.5 cm / 4 inches
• Max. pipe diameter: 22–80 mm
• Rack / Bikes can be locked: yes / yes
• Accessories: longer brake pads; guide rail; rim protectors

Conclusion & Review: Yakima FoldClick Evo 2

With the FoldClick Evo 2 Yakima offers a well-designed, pleasantly compact towbar rack for everyday use. Its simple assembly, space-saving folded dimensions and stable performance whilst riding are particularly impressive. In practice, it scores highly for its intuitive handling and good suitability for e-bikes. There are some drawbacks in terms of the quality of the materials, the finish of the details and the somewhat limited adjustability of the clamping arms. All in all, a solid all-rounder for anyone who values compactness and straightforward handling – with minor shortcomings in the details.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Yakima FoldClick Evo 2

Advantages

• Compact when stored and a handy carrying handle
• Ingenious clamping system for the coupling
• Plenty of space for wide frames
• Gripper arms that are very easy to position

Disadvantages

• Low-quality plastics
• Claw grippers are not ideal for bulky, angular pipes