The Dakine DLX and Fox Racing pads don't feature any extra padding or bumpers other than the thin layer within the pad itself. All trademarks property of their respective owners The Thule GateMate Pro is a sleek-looking tailgate pad. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. This thing will work with any bike. After researching the best and most popular pads on the market, we chose a selection of six to test and compare for this review. They wear out over time. You've got the truck, the bike and the squad. Produced to make sure you know what you are getting and you get exactly what you need. And another thing I love is just it's super solid. They are also quite useful for everyday transport around town, to and from the trailhead, or even longer trips. I mean, everything's super, super secure. The size medium pad we tested has space for five bikes with molded downtube bumpers and padded straps that are fixed securely to the pad. This product is available for purchase in select store locations only. Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad for Compact and Mid-SizeTrucks - 5 Bikes - 53" Wide - Black part number Y58AR can be ordered online at etrailer.com or call 1-800-940-8924 for expert service. First thing I noticed right off the bat is I can see every single bike in my rear view mirror. Everything from the pad attachment straps, handle flap, padding, and bike securing straps were taken into consideration in our assessment of overall performance. There were, however, subtle differences that made a couple of the pads rise above the others regarding their features and user-friendliness. Every pad we tested shared one thing in common; they all had a soft lining material on the underside where they come into constant contact with the paint of your tailgate. So if you want my opinion, go with the Yakima GateKeeper.. Average Customer Rating:4.8 out of 5 stars(65 Customer Reviews), Review from a similar GateKeeper in Truck Bed Bike Racks, I love shopping at etrailer.com. Our experts researched the top models on the market before purchasing six for side by side testing and comparison. It's easy to put on and take off as needed and protects the tailgate and bikes we carry. This soft material is intended to prevent wear or abrasion to the exterior of your vehicle. The GateKeeper tailgate pad is a perfect companion to protect your truck and bike during pick-up bed bike transport. It honestly took me maybe two or three minutes. Please order online or call to confirm. It does come in black too. Very glad I utilized etailer!! That being said, we're a full service retailer who typically maintains stock on all items we sell in all of our stores. Our favorite pads, like the EVOC, have a coated finish that is water and weather-resistant, making it easy to blast off with a hose. It's not that hard. We bought it to use while pulling a pop-up camper & there's just enough room on our Tacoma. It's a lot easier than just a standard hitch bike rack. Please try another search. The handle opening is gigantic, and it should work for virtually every tailgate handle placement. Aside from the large carrying capacity, Dakine delivered a functional and rock-solid product. Meaning you're gonna get better at it over time. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. 'Cause I went with this black for a reason. We tested them all on a 2009 Toyota Tacoma with a tailgate that measured 56.5-inches wide, 19.5-inches tall, and 2-inches thick across the top. Expert staff, service, events, galleries, demos & more! I know it kind of looks like they're all kind of crushed together, but if you look first on our bike right here, even with the rotor and the caliper on the tailgate side, it's not making any contact. So this thing's gonna stay nice and put. My tailgate is not gonna get damaged. I like this a lot better just because the hook and loops over time do tend to kind of wear out and not work near as well. the first one was from cyclingdeals that I bought from [online vendor] and After doing lots of research I thought it would work with my back up camera. Note: Subject to approval by a Rack Attack staff member. If your order is placed before the UPS truck comes at the end of the day, Rack Attack ships same day for all in-stock orders. Beyond that, they are made from a variety of durable materials to withstand the tough treatment and the weather they are likely to go through when used regularly. If left open when not in use, the down tube straps could also be lost as they are not secured to the pad otherwise. So we can go ahead, put it in there, fold everything down. Inner downtube bumpers and outer stanchion bumper, Resilient against great amounts of moisture and mud, Smaller handle flap may not work well with all tailgates. So even if my rotors or my brake calipers rub up against it, it's not gonna rip over time. Find stock and reserve your Yakima GateKeeper Truck Gate Pad Medium Bike Rack for pickup from the stores below! This feature prevents the straps from coming loose or getting lost, even if you leave them open when not in use. If you have a Tonneau cover whether it's a roll up, a fold up or even a canister style, you're still gonna be able to haul your bikes with that. But the main reason to buy from Rack Attack over Amazon: we provide complete customer service, starting from the moment you place your order: So why bother making you click this price match button at all? They seem to test their products and make sure they are compatible with my exact year of truck. Holding your bikes low in the ute tray also minimises wind resistance, so the ute wont consume any more fuel than it normally would. This is particularly nice if you remove the pad when not in use and don't leave it on your truck all the time. Holds 1 or 6 bikes with ease! If you need more assistance you can email a rack-install technician or call us at: 1-888-301-1527. Not only is it gonna protect the outside of your tailgate, but also the inside. While we loved the large flap for handle access, it does leave more of the tailgate exposed if you leave it open. It is a lot more comfy with all the pads here but now what we're gonna do is go over the things that I don't like about the pad. After all, they dont have wild sides; they have wild souls. Lowest Prices for the best truck bed bike racks from Yakima. Well figure out a way, Im sure, to do this solo. Its dependable attachment to your vehicle or trailer allows you to roam freely. So I think that's pretty cool. HindSight Tuck-Away Cover This is gonna protect it from scratches. Race Face put a unique adjustable handle opening on their new T2 Tailgate Pad that allows you to position it perfectly for your tailgate handle and backup camera. But basically if you have a full size truck, you can go with the 62 inch long one which can carry six bikes. **We offer free shipping on all orders over $200. We are continually impressed with EVOC's well-thought-out designs and quality products, and this pad continues that trend. It should be noted that the down tube straps aren't secured to the pad, and if you leave them open when not in use, they could fall off or get lost while driving on the highway. Hubby is happy! Ready to help! All-in-all, the Yakima GateKeeper is a no-fuss multi-bike solution that doesnt cost a fortune but will get the job done well. Thank you Yakima. New Velcro Cradle Closure System Videos are provided as a guide only. These bumpers or pads stand a little taller and create a groove in which the frames can rest, making the bikes less likely to move around. Does not come with a bike cable, but you can grab one separately here at etrailer. And in my opinion, it looks the best out of all them whether you go with the blue or the black. This is the second one I bought. The bikes are well supported and do not rub.1128355, Fits perfectly on my 2500HD. Now you just need a way to transform your truck bed into a bike-hauling machine thats going to get you to and from the trailhead with everything still intactand the Yakima GateKeeper tailgate pad does a good job of it. Race Face created an adjustable handle opening that allows you to position it where you need for handle access and use of the backup camera. It doesn't really matter what kind of a bike frame that you have if it's carbon fiber, or just a pretty bike, the straps and the pads on the tailgate pad is gonna prevent against any scratches. All of the pads we tested have straps to secure your bike in position. My bikes would be more secure just laying them down in the bed of the truck with a couple bungee cords.844135, The Gatekeeper has performed as expected in a 2017 Ram 2500. All you need to do is hang the pad over the tailgate, pull the three straps through the gap between the tray and the open tailgate, and secure them tightly in the bucklestheres no drilling or tools required to attach the pad which is always a bonus. The Camo colorway we tested was tasteful, and the logo is large but relatively subtle. Sandy feet, dirty paws, and muddy bikes. All the excess strap. And then we're gonna reach in here. Dakine also added metal grommets to each side of the pad should you choose to lock it to your truck with a cable lock. You can unsubscribe at anytime. The Dakine DLX is also offered in a Curve version that is intended to fit better on the thick, curved tailgates found on many modern trucks. And after the long ride, you can still use your tailgate to wind down a little bit. While it isn't flashy or feature-packed, it is quite effective and works well. Yakima GateKeeper Truck Gate Pad Large Bike Rack, Rugged nylon outer material resists abrasion and weather damage, Extra soft felt backing protects your trucks paint job, Tailgate pad for your truck that securely carries your bikes to the trailhead, NEW Velcro cradle closure system is easy on carbon bike frames and painted surfaces, Integrated strap management system keeps the pad tight and secure on the way up the mountain, Medium size has a 5 bike capacity and fits mid-size & some older full-size trucks (with a tailgate of 54"). Go through once, go through again, and then cinch it down, cinch it down. It also comes in black and is available in a Large size with a 6-bike capacity for full-sized trucks. Race Face's T2 is an updated version of their popular Tailgate Pad and has several notable improvements over the original. But notice that we're not gonna be damaging any of our bikes, just because of the way they sit. If youre loading a few different bikes with down tubes at varying angles, pay some extra attention to making sure you properly align the bike cradles with the downtube on each bike to prevent any rubbing or scratches. I put 4 bikes on it the day I got it and it works great. It also features an innovative adjustable tailgate window that allows the user to optimize the opening for their handle position and backup camera while providing maximum tailgate coverage. To make sure products work and fit the way they are supposed to. Literally the only thing touching is the fork to the wheel. It has two storage pockets on the inside of the pad facing the truck bed, which are perfect for a multi-tool, rag, or some chain lube, and they could also well for stinky and soggy shoes or empty beer cans. The cool thing is we have this. each. We have this little elastic band right there to clean it up. Easy tailgate access to the Tundra through the handle access flap. So it's kind of curved a little bit. Even for our carbon fiber frame bikes, there is a little bit of frame contact, but it's so soft and cushiony. While there are a few bike RuggedLine Launches in New Zealand by NZ 4WD Magazine. Its so easy to use and doesnt scratch youre truck bed. You should be able to view your question/comment here within a few days. 556832, Works great. Tailgate Pads are exactly what their name suggests; they are large rectangular pads that fold over, cover, and attach to the tailgate of your truck. The thickness is gonna protect it from dings and dents and then the outside is super, super durable. So you notice this little extra added piece here. The EVOC, Thule, and the Race Face T2 pads feature these separation blocks. 2017 F250853075, The Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad works great. I like how the pad sites on the truck gate & the accessibility to the gate latch & lock. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. It's one of the most expensive pads in our review, but we still feel it's an economical way to transport multiple bikes, and it's a good value considering its quality construction and user-friendly features. Aenean massa. We also have a pad on the strap which is unique to the GateKeeper. So what they did with the redesign is they added a little bit more rigidity to the end of the strap. Please contact, Yakima products can only be shipped within the United States, 2001-2022 evo - All rights reserved, all wrongs reversed |. Each model we tested has a flap to provide that access, but not all tailgate handle flaps are created equal. The loading process is straightforward, and it delivers a secure hold of the bicycle. Keeps the pad tight and secure on the way up the mountain. Refer to manufacturer installation instructions and specs for complete information. EVOC impressed us with a unique attachment system that employs small metal ladder locks that have a hook end. Integrated Strap Management System And they're not really gonna be bobbing around and damaging each other. Please try again momentarily. It's also going to protect your truck from any scratches, dents or dings. So you're not just stuck with this blue but I think it looks pretty neat. The nice thing about that is if you have a locking tailgate and you have this wrapped all the way around it's gonna take a lot for someone to take all your bikes off. Perhaps our favorite feature is the hook on the handle flap to easily secure it in the open position, making it easier to use your backup camera. The new version is made with a burly PVC tarpaulin material that is weatherproof and withstands the effects of mud, grime, and won't fade from the sun. While they are a relatively simple part of the equation, they vary in size, location, and ease of use. No sponsored content. All of the pads we tested came with loop straps to secure the bikes in place on the pad. There are lots of options for carrying bikes on your vehicle these days, but if you own a pickup truck, you have the additional option of using a tailgate pad to transport them safely and securely. To make sure you get the right one for your truck, just measure your tailgate. Simply awesome.1136409, Great bike carrier! We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Now that it compresses in, this thing's extremely sturdy compared to some of the other competitors. So I like that. This item is Out of Stock in our Stores but more is on its way. What really helps protect your pickup truck from scratches is gonna be the felt right here. This pad takes a very business-like approach with no extra fancy frills. Also, etrailer was so fast with my order. So it's definitely a one man job. We tested 15 of the best the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews. This is something you can just quickly disconnect. etrailer was very good at wanting to replace it, but ,I didn't feel like sending it back( one thing the box it came in was huge), which is on me. Sometimes we just need to rotate this strap a little pad a little bit, now it's nice and tight. Love this.920949, Super fast deliver of tailgate pad. Tailgate pad converts your tailgate into an easy-to-use 5-bike rack. Assisting our neighbors and customers, face to face at the counter. How do I get a mini number plate for my bike rack so it's legal in Australia. 538719, Outstanding product and works with back up camera! Medium | 5 Bike Capacity Large grommets on the inside also allow you to lock the pad to your truck. This is a great tailgate cover. Integrated bike cradles and closure straps keep your bikes stable and secure. Looks nice and works great. The nylon outer is easy to clean and robust enough to resist abrasion and withstand the full spectrum of weather conditions, while thick padding and a super-soft felt backing makes sure your ute will be completely protected from any scratches and dents. Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad for Compact and Mid-SizeTrucks - 5 Bikes - 53" Wide - Black, Video of Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad for Compact and Mid-SizeTrucks - 5 Bikes - 53" Wide - Black. Smaller trucks, like the Toyota Tacoma we used for testing, use the small or medium-sized pads, while full-sized trucks will use the large. Whether you're an avid rider or an aspiring home mechanic Searching for a new mountain bike helmet? And this way, when you go underneath here it'll come up on its own almost. The pads reviewed here are all reasonably priced at retail and can carry between five and seven bikes. I received it 3days early. We're gonna take this little piece right here, make sure it's nice and straight. The straps were so long that the velcro patches barely made contact after being passed around the frame, even when looped over the top tube. While it doesnt include a locking system, its an easy work-aroundyou can just use a standard cable lock to connect the bikes together to make it hard for any would-be thieves. It's a lot stronger. Got feedback? The Dakine DLX Pickup Pad is a serviceable pad that is a great option for riders with big trucks who need to carry a lot of bikes. These days, however, the tailgate-specific pad options on the market will do the job much more effectively. That is the process with any tailgate pad but the updated straps. The Yakima GateKeeper's straps are fixed in position and padded. Just because they veered away from the hook and loop design. We take the quality of our information seriously so that you can get the right part the first time. Opens up the view for your back-up camera, leaving you with a worry-free shuttle to the top. However, we don't see this being an issue if your tailgate is slightly taller or thicker as many modern trucks are. Add extra stability and protection for your bikes. The Fox Racing pad is simple and effective, but we feel there is room for improvement. If you have a full-size truck like a Dodge Ram, Ford F-150, Nissan Titan, or Toyota Tundra, you will definitely be looking at the larger size. The Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad easily slides over your truck's gate and comes with handy features like cradles and a tuck-away cover for trucks with back-up cameras. We found these hooks to be especially easy to attach and detach, although they could be a little more cumbersome to deal with when feeding the straps under the tailgate. Integrated bike cradles and closure straps keep your bikes stable and secure. For example, our favorite flap was on the Dakine DLX Pickup Pad. Pat has been riding and breaking mountain bikes for close to two decades. This is especially important if you're concerned in any way about the paint, appearance, or resale value of either your truck or your bike(s). Some of the models we tested feature molded foam bumpers or separation pads. Benson is a proud truck owner of more than two decades who spends the vast majority of his days testing new mountain bikes. Wherever youre headed, having a quick and easy way to take your bike along with you is an absolute must, but if youre pulling a trailer or need clear access to your boot or hatch, carrying your bike up-top is the way to go. Holds the bikes securely on the tailgate and I love it!529474, Great quality, easy install, holds everything steady1099264, Took a couple of tries to get the hang of getting the pads to sit correctly on the top of the tailgate of my Tacoma, but other than that it works fine. It's gonna work with pretty much any bike that you have. Users also have the option of using the velcro patch to roll the tailgate handle flap up and out of the way for easy access. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Tailgate pads secure your bikes over the tailgate of your truck while protecting both from damage.