Even on a classic vehicle like the Grizzly Woody, the Yakima OnRamp LX provides a clean and modern solution for transporting electric bikes. | Photo Rich Goodwin Mountain Weekly News
The original Yakima OnRamp quickly became one of our favorite ways to transport heavy e-bikes thanks to one simple feature: a built-in loading ramp. Instead of deadlifting a 70-pound e-bike chest high onto a rack, you simply roll it into place.
The new Yakima OnRamp LX builds on that formula with a stronger chassis, higher weight capacity, longer wheelbase compatibility and more adjustment than the original. TETON Tested in Jackson Hole with everything from commuter e-bikes to fat tire rigs, the OnRamp LX remains one of the easiest bike racks we’ve used for transporting heavy electric bikes.
Designed for electric bikes, cargo bikes and bikes with fenders, the Yakima OnRamp LX combines an integrated loading ramp, adjustable trays and an impressive 80-pound-per-bike capacity. For riders comparing the best e-bike hitch racks, this rack deserves serious consideration.
For riders looking to save their backs while protecting expensive bikes, Yakima has another winner.
First Impressions
Right out of the box the OnRamp LX feels substantially more robust than the original OnRamp.
The rack arrives mostly assembled, although the box is heavy enough that we recommend moving it with two people. Once assembled, however, the rack is manageable enough for one person to move around the garage or install on a vehicle.
The 2-inch receiver version is what most e-bike riders should be considering. It slides easily into modern truck and SUV hitch receivers and offers the highest weight capacity.
One issue we encountered during assembly was a rivet that had been pressed slightly too far from the factory, requiring us to carefully pry a section apart before continuing assembly. Beyond that minor hiccup, setup was straightforward.
Integrated Ramp Loading
This remains the star of the show.
Heavy e-bikes continue getting heavier. Many of the bikes we test now weigh between 65 and 85 pounds before adding racks, bags or accessories.
Rather than forcing riders to deadlift expensive bikes onto trays, the OnRamp LX uses an integrated loading ramp that stores directly on the rack. Roll the bike up, secure it and you’re ready to drive.
After testing countless racks over the years, ramps remain one of the most underrated features in the category.
🔥 Click here to compare 2026 prices & availability at the bottom of this review.
The OnRamp LX continues to be one of the best systems we’ve used.
Bike Compatibility
One area where the OnRamp LX really shines is versatility.
The adjustable trays accommodate wheelbases from 33 to 54 inches and support:
- E-bikes
- Cargo bikes
- Mountain bikes
- Gravel bikes
- Road bikes
- Bikes with fenders
- Kids bikes
- Step-through bikes
The adjustable center mast allows you to secure bikes at different frame heights and positions, making it easier to transport everything from commuter bikes to larger utility e-bikes.
We especially liked how easy it was to work around fenders, something many wheel-hook style racks struggle with.
Installation & Hitch Setup
Installation took roughly an hour.
Like most Yakima racks, the supplied tools technically work, but you’ll save yourself time and frustration by grabbing a proper ratchet and socket set.
The hitch connection tightens securely and feels very solid once installed.
During testing we mounted the Yakima OnRamp LX to the Grizzly Woody, our restored 1988 Jeep Grand Wagoneer originally sold at Teton Motors in Jackson Hole. The combination highlighted one of the rack’s biggest strengths: compatibility. While designed for modern electric bikes, the OnRamp LX works just as well with classic vehicles equipped with a standard 2-inch receiver. Whether heading to a trailhead, transporting bikes for a photo shoot, or exploring Grand Teton National Park, the rack looked right at home on one of Jackson Hole’s most recognizable vintage vehicles.
The OnRamp LX weighs approximately 53.5 pounds, placing it squarely in the middle of the heavy-duty e-bike rack category.
It’s heavier than lightweight commuter racks but significantly easier to manage than some premium off-road focused systems.
Weight Capacity
The 2-inch version is rated for:
- 80 pounds per bike on-road
- 48 pounds per bike off-road
- RV approved
- Two-bike capacity
The OnRamp LX is rated for 80 pounds per bike on-road, 48 pounds per bike off-road and is even RV approved, making it one of the more capable ramp-equipped e-bike racks we’ve tested. Riders hauling heavier commuter bikes, cargo bikes and fat tire e-bikes will appreciate the extra capacity.
Those numbers make the OnRamp LX one of the more capable ramp-equipped e-bike racks currently available.
For riders transporting heavier commuter, cargo and fat tire e-bikes, that extra capacity matters.
Trunk Access
The three-position tilt system works well.
With bikes loaded, the rack tilts away from the vehicle to provide rear hatch access. When unloaded, it folds flat against the vehicle for a cleaner look and easier parking.
Compared to swing-away designs like the Yakima StepUp Swing, rear access isn’t quite as unrestricted, but for most riders the tilt system provides more than enough clearance. Yakima StepUp Swing Bike Rack Review.
OnRamp LX vs Original OnRamp
Having tested both racks, the differences become obvious quickly.
The original OnRamp E-Bike Rack remains an excellent rack and continues to be one of our favorite ramp-loading systems.
The OnRamp LX adds:
- Higher weight capacity
- Longer wheelbase compatibility
- Better tray adjustment
- Improved bike fit options
- RV compatibility
- More refined design
If you’re carrying newer, heavier e-bikes, the LX is the better choice.
Yakima OnRamp LX Pros & Cons
Pros
- Integrated loading ramp
- 80 lb per-bike capacity
- Works with bikes that have fenders
- Adjustable trays fit long wheelbase bikes
- Strong security features
- RV approved
- Easy trunk access
Cons
- Heavy shipping box
- Assembly takes time
- Included tools are mediocre
- Expensive
Overall Impression
The Yakima OnRamp LX ($999) takes everything we liked about the original OnRamp and improves it for today’s heavier e-bikes.
The integrated ramp remains one of the easiest ways to load expensive electric bikes, while the increased weight capacity and expanded bike compatibility make the rack far more versatile than many competing designs.
For riders transporting commuter e-bikes, cargo bikes, fat tire bikes or step-through models, the OnRamp LX earns a spot among the best e-bike racks we’ve tested in Jackson Hole.
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