Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted vs Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking Quick: Spec Comparison
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This allen sports premier hitch mounted vs sports deluxe locking quick comparison helps you choose the right rack. Both units are hitch-mounted carriers from Allen Sports. They share a black finish and similar physical dimensions. The main difference lies in capacity and locking features. The Premier model holds four bikes without integrated locks. The Deluxe+ Locking Quick model holds two bikes but includes a locking mechanism and quick-release arms. You should review the specs below to see which fits your needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | Allen Sports Premier 4-Bike Hitch Rack | Allen 820QR Locking 2-Bike Hitch Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 4 bikes | 2 bikes |
| Locking | Not listed | Locking |
| Folding | Not listed | Fold out of the way |
| Receiver Size | Not listed | 1 1/4 in. and 2 in. |
| Weight | 23.5 pounds | 24 pounds |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Allen Sports Premier 4-Bike Hitch Rack if
- You need to transport four bicycles at once.
- You prefer a simpler design without folding arms.
- You already have separate locks for your bikes.
Choose Allen 820QR Locking 2-Bike Hitch Rack if
- You want a locking mechanism to secure the rack.
- You need to access your lift gate with bikes attached.
- You only carry two bikes and want quick installation.
Verdict: Choose the Premier if your priority is carrying more bikes. Choose the Deluxe+ Locking Quick if you value security and easy access to your vehicle. Both are solid hitch-mounted options depending on your bike count.
Premier vs Deluxe+ Quick Specs
Bike Capacity
The Allen Sports Premier S545 carries four bicycles, while the Deluxe+ Locking Quick Release 820QR holds two. If you need to transport a larger group or family, the Premier offers double the space. This makes it better for larger households or bike clubs. The 820QR is sufficient for couples or solo riders with a single bike. Choose the Premier for volume. Pick the 820QR for smaller needs.
Locking Security
The Deluxe+ Locking Quick Release 820QR includes locking features to secure your bikes and the carrier to the hitch. The Premier S545 data does not explicitly list locking mechanisms. Security is critical when leaving your vehicle unattended. The 820QR provides peace of mind against theft. The Premier may require separate locks. If security is your top priority, the 820QR has the advantage. Otherwise, the Premier focuses on capacity.
Folding Mechanism
The 820QR features quick-set carry arms that snap into place and fold out of the way when not in use. It also has an internal tilt-away release for lift gate access. The Premier S545 data does not mention folding or tilting capabilities. This means the Premier likely remains rigid. The 820QR offers more flexibility for accessing your vehicle trunk. Folding is useful for daily use. The 820QR wins for versatility.
Physical Dimensions
Both carriers are similar in width. The Premier is 14 inches wide, while the 820QR is 14.2 inches. The Premier is slightly longer at 29 inches compared to the 820QR's 26 inches. The 820QR is heavier at 24 pounds versus the Premier's 23.5 pounds. Height is also close, with the Premier at 3 inches and the 820QR at 3.35 inches. These differences are minor. The Premier is slightly more compact in length.
Hitch Compatibility
The 820QR is designed for both 1 1/4 inch and 2 inch hitches. This dual compatibility makes it versatile for various vehicles. The Premier S545 data lists hitch mount but does not specify receiver sizes. You must check your vehicle's hitch type for the Premier. The 820QR explicitly supports both common sizes. This reduces guesswork. The 820QR is better for mixed vehicle fleets.
Which rack fits your specific needs?
You need to haul four bikes.
The Allen Sports Premier S545 supports four bicycles. This double the capacity of the 820QR model. If you transport a larger group or family, the extra space is essential. The 29-inch length accommodates wider loads, making it the clear choice for volume over convenience.
You want locking security and quick folding.
The Deluxe+ Locking Quick Release 820QR features integrated locking mechanisms for security. Its carry arms fold out of the way for easy lift gate access. This quick-release design saves time when loading or unloading. It is ideal for users who prioritize security and convenience over raw capacity.
You have a compact vehicle.
The 820QR measures 26 inches in length, which is shorter than the Premier. The folding arms allow you to tuck the rack away when not in use. This reduces the overall footprint on your vehicle. It is a better fit if you need to minimize protrusion behind your car.
You prefer a lighter, simpler design.
The Premier S545 weighs 23.5 pounds, slightly lighter than the 24-pound 820QR. It lacks complex folding mechanisms or locking hardware, which reduces moving parts. This simpler construction may appeal to users who want a straightforward, no-frills carrier that is easy to handle and install.
The products compared
Allen Sports Premier 4-Bike Hitch Rack
Best for: carrying four bikes with minimal weight
- Bike Capacity
- 4
- Mount Type
- hitch
- Use
- Bike
- Dimensions
- 29 × 14 × 3 inches
- Weight
- 23.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Allen Sports Premier 4-Bike Hitch Rack Affiliate link
The Allen Premier hitch carrier holds four bikes. It measures 29 inches long, 14 inches wide, and weighs 23.5 pounds. The frame is 3 inches high. This black carrier mounts directly to your vehicle hitch. It suits you if you need a standard capacity for family trips. The fixed design offers a stable base for transporting multiple bicycles without complex mechanisms.
Pros
- Holds up to four bicycles
- Compact 3-inch frame height
- Relatively lightweight at 23.5 pounds
- Standard hitch mount type
Cons
- Fixed design lacks quick-release mechanism
- No integrated locking security features
- Requires separate straps for bike security
Good fit if
- You need to transport four bikes regularly
- You prefer a simple, non-mechanical carrier
- You want a lightweight option for your hitch
Skip if
- You need to carry more than four bikes
- You require quick installation and removal
- You need built-in locking for the bikes
Verdict: Allen Premier 4-Bike Hitch Carrier provides a straightforward solution for carrying four bikes. It fits buyers who prioritize capacity and low weight over quick-release convenience.
Allen 820QR Locking 2-Bike Hitch Rack
Best for: transporting two bikes with lift gate access
- Bike Capacity
- 2-Bike
- Receiver Size
- 1 1/4 in. and 2 in.
- Locking
- Locking
- Folding
- fold out of the way when not in use
- Mount Type
- Hitch Mount
- Lockable
- Lockable
View on Amazon: Allen 820QR Locking 2-Bike Hitch Rack Affiliate link
The Allen Sports Deluxe+ 820QR is a hitch-mounted carrier designed for two bicycles. It fits both 1 1/4-inch and 2-inch receivers. The unit weighs 24 pounds and measures 26 inches in length. It features quick-release arms that fold away and an internal tilt mechanism for lift gate access. This model includes locking hardware for security. It suits drivers who need reliable transport for a pair of bikes without excessive bulk.
Pros
- Fits 1 1/4-inch and 2-inch hitch receivers
- Quick-release arms snap into place for easy setup
- Internal tilt-away release allows lift gate access
- Includes locking mechanism for security
Cons
- Limited to carrying only two bicycles
- Weighs 24 pounds, adding significant load to the vehicle
- Width of 14.2 inches may obstruct lane visibility on narrow roads
Good fit if
- You only need to transport two bicycles at a time
- Your vehicle has a 1 1/4-inch or 2-inch hitch receiver
- You need to access your lift gate while the bikes are mounted
Skip if
- You need to carry more than two bikes
- You require a carrier that folds completely flat against the vehicle
- You prefer a lighter unit under 20 pounds
Verdict: The Allen Sports Deluxe+ 2-Bike Hitch Carrier is a practical option for transporting two bicycles securely. It fits buyers who prioritize hitch compatibility and lift gate access over higher capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen Sports Premier 4-Bike Hitch Rack | Allen 820QR Locking 2-Bike Hitch Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 4 | 2-Bike |
| Mount Type | hitch | not stated |
| Receiver Size | not stated | 1 1/4 in. and 2 in. |
| Locking | not stated | Locking |
| Folding | not stated | fold out of the way when not in use |
| Size | 4 Bike | 2-Bike |
| Use | Bike | Bike |
| Lockable | not stated | Lockable |
| Dimensions | 29 × 14 × 3 inches | 26 × 14.2 × 3.35 inches |
| Weight | 23.5 pounds | 24 pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Model | S-545 | 820QR |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Allen Sports Premier rack include a locking mechanism?
The provided specifications do not list a locking feature for the Allen Sports Premier S-545. The data highlights its capacity for four bikes and its lightweight design at 23.5 pounds. It is a straightforward hitch carrier without mentioned security locks. You should verify this detail with the manufacturer if security is a primary concern for your setup.
Which Allen rack is lighter for easier handling?
The Allen Sports Premier S-545 is lighter than the Deluxe+ Locking Quick model. The Premier weighs 23.5 pounds, while the 820QR model weighs 24 pounds. This slight difference may matter if you frequently detach the rack. Both units are hitch-mounted, so the weight difference is minimal but present in the published specs.
Can I open my vehicle's lift gate with the Deluxe+ rack installed?
The product data indicates the Allen 820QR is best for transporting bikes with lift gate access. Its shorter length of 26 inches likely facilitates this. In contrast, the Premier S-545 is longer at 29 inches. If you need frequent trunk access, the Deluxe+ design appears more suitable based on these dimensions.
What is the width of these hitch racks?
Both racks have a similar width to ensure stability in your hitch receiver. The Allen Sports Premier S-545 is 14 inches wide. The Allen 820QR Locking Quick is slightly wider at 14.2 inches. This narrow profile helps them fit within standard lane widths without extending too far to the sides of your vehicle.
Are both racks compatible with standard hitch receivers?
Yes, both units are classified as hitch-mounted carriers. The data confirms they are designed for hitch installation. You will need a receiver tube on your vehicle to attach either the Premier or the Deluxe+ model. They do not appear to be trunk or roof-mounted alternatives based on the provided specifications.
How much height do these racks add to my vehicle profile?
These racks add minimal vertical space to your vehicle. The Allen Sports Premier S-545 stands 3 inches tall. The Allen 820QR Locking Quick is slightly taller at 3.35 inches. This low profile helps maintain your vehicle's center of gravity and reduces wind resistance compared to larger carriers or roof boxes.
Which model is better for carrying four bicycles?
The Allen Sports Premier S-545 is the better choice for four bikes. It explicitly supports a capacity of four bicycles. The Allen 820QR Locking Quick only holds two bikes. If you need to transport a larger group or family, the Premier provides the necessary double capacity without requiring multiple racks.