Setup

Setup for getting the Yakima HighSpeed rack attached to the vehicle crossbars was the fastest in the test at five minutes. While instructions in the manual were very clear and precise, it seemed pretty clear on how to install it by just looking at the carrier itself. The only time the instructions were utilized was when the tension in the straps that hug the crossbar to secure the carrier in place needed to be adjusted. The instructions were also used to double-check the installation.

Stability

Yakima’s lever-strap system on the HighSpeed makes for solid stability on crossbars of any shape or size. Once the lever is pulled up through the frame and the tabs are snapped into place, the rack stays put provided the right tension has been set with the thumbwheel. It’s immediately apparent if the tension is too loose, as the rack moves about when grabbed and wiggled. Bikes loaded onto the HighSpeed were very steady and secure even when driving over rough roads.

Ease of Use

Like most for-mount racks, the HighSpeed is simple and straightforward to load. It can also accommodates both thru-axle and skewer style bikes, the latter via an included 9 mm skewer adapter with a sleeve. Skewer bikes require the extra step of putting the 9 mm adapter in place before the whole bike is placed on the rack. Yakima’s new TorqueRight knob is nearly foolproof with a distinct clicking sound to indicate that it is tight and secure.

Versatility

The strap and lever system on the HighSpeed is definitely a win in the versatility category. The flexible, yet sturdy straps that conform to whatever shape crossbars the rack is loaded onto makes installation quick and easy. The mount will carry anything from a road bike to a fat bike tire up to 5 inches wide, although a fat bike adapter kit will need to be purchased if carrying a 9×135 mm quick-release model. It’s completely tool-free when it comes to adjustments, and a longer wheel strap is included with the rack to accommodate larger tires.

Features

The TorqueRight knob is new for Yakima, and it makes for easy, precise attachment of the front of the bike. The fact that it clicks is a nice indicator, alerting users when it’s fully tightened. There was a concern for the security of a skewer bike as would-be thieves could easily unscrew one side of the skewer and pull the fork off. The low-profile tray minimizes interference if the car has a hatch back. The HighSpeed converts to integrate with T-slot crossbars with a SmarT-Slot Kit that is not included. SKS Locks are sold separately.