If you can comfortably perform these types of movements, there's a good chance you'll be able to manage the major physical steps involved in using the Hitch-Rack Pro system.
Here are six physical activities you can expect to perform when handling a hitch rack and loading your eTrike.
Step 1 - Roll it
The first physical step is being able to roll the Rack Lift with attached rack up to the back of your vehicle. This takes about 10 pounds of push/pull force.
At-Home Test - Roll something on wheels.
Can you comfortably push and steer a loaded suitcase, trash can or similar wheeled object across a smooth surface?
Step 2 - Raise it
The Rack Lift does the heavy lifting. Turn the hand crank to raise the rack to receiver height. A cordless drill with a 3/4" socket can also be used.
At-Home Test - Turn a hand crank.
Can you comfortably make repeated turns with one hand?
Step 3 - Connect it
Once the rack stem is aligned with the vehicles receiver hitch, you will need to be able to push it forward inserting the stem.
Less than 10 lbs. of pushing force when properly aligned.
At-home Test - Work around your vehicle's hitch.
Can you comfortably stand behind the vehicle, reach the receiver area and install or remove a hitch pin?
Step 4 - Align hitch pin hole
No guessing when the holes line up.
Use the Hitch Hole Finder Tool to help determine when the rack and receiver holes are aligned. Once aligned, insert the hitch pin.
Step 5 - Lower the rack
You will need to control about 40 lbs.
Lowering the rack into the loading position requires you to control approximately 40 lbs. of weight. Raising it back into the upright position requires similar effort.
At-Home Test - Control moderate resistance with both hands.
Can you safely control approximately 35–40 pounds of resistance without feeling unstable?
Step 6 - Loading your eTrike
You'll need to push your eTrike up the ramps.
The amount of effort depends on your eTrike's weight and the ramp angle. The EasyRatch Method stabilizes the handlebars so you can focus more on pushing instead of trying to push and steer at the same time.
At-Home Test - Push your eTrike.
With the motor off, can you comfortably push your actual eTrike across level pavement?
Try a slight incline.
Can you safely push and control your eTrike up a gentle incline?
