Norauto E-FIT 200-2 – Our group test of 7 rear-mounted bike racks

The manufacturers claim that the Norauto E-FIT 200-2 is the ultimate rear-mounted bicycle rack. At just under € 400, it’s the most affordable rear-mounted bike carrier in the test field. But can the Norauto E-FIT 200-2 achieve a spectacular Jean-Claude Van Damme balancing act between performance and affordability?

The Norauto E-FIT 200-2 is one of the brand’s two top-end models and is designed for two bikes. We were instantly captivated by the Norauto E-FIT 200-2 when it arrived at our HQ. Due to the unique design of the centrally placed U-frame, we were curious to see how it performs in practice. In direct comparison to the Thule Epos 3 and Spinder TX2 Plus, the workmanship makes a less high-quality impression, though it also costs just half as much. So, what is the most affordable carrier in the test field capable of?

You can find an overview of this group test here: The best rear-mounted bike rack – 7 models head to head

Can the affordable Norauto E-FIT 200-2 rear-mounted rack hold its own against the competition in this group test?

“They see me rollin’” – like the Thule Epos 3, you can simply roll the Norauto to your tow hitch thanks to the integrated wheels, and it’s easy to secure on the tow hitch using the lever. Everyone – really everyone – can figure it out on the first go. The bike’s fastening system is the only one on test that has rubberised claws, providing the most secure grip in the entire test field. Due to the centrally placed U-frame, however, the bike must be carefully manoeuvred between the U-frame and the car – annoying! That said, the system is compatible with a wide range of bikes thanks to the easily adjustable gripper arms. According to the manufacturer, it’s also suitable for carbon frames. Considering the wide rails – the widest on test – you’ll even be able to transport bikes with fat tires measuring up to 3.9 inches wide. The grippers that secure your bikes can be locked with a key. During a brief stop at the motorway service area, your bikes are thus protected from opportunistic thieves.

Admittedly, the E-FIT 200-2 cannot match the fastening system of the Thule Epos 3 or Spinder TX2 Plus. Compared to these, it takes too long for the bikes to be secured on the rear rack. The workmanship isn’t on par with that of the Spinder either. The paint is very thinly coated on the carrier, for example. Once scratched, it will start to rust. Ultimately, our Best Buy was a close call between the Norauto E-FIT 200-2 and the Spinder TX2 Plus. However, the Norauto lost by a small margin due to the few minor weaknesses mentioned above.

Should you buy the Norauto E-FIT 200-2? Who is and isn’t it for?

We recommend the Norauto E-FIT-200-2 to those on a tight budget who want to get their bikes from A to B easily and without fuss. Due to its compatibility, everyone in our HQ got along well with the rear rack, whether it was to transport urban commuters, mountain bikes, eMTBs, or drop bar bikes. We can only recommend the Norauto to older folks with a certain caveat because lifting the bikes between the car and the U-frame can be rather strenuous. However, you can buy an optional ramp for € 60, which takes some of the strain out of mounting your bikes on the carrier.

Our conclusion on the Norauto E-FIT 200-2

It turns out the E-FIT 200-2 can’t do the Jean-Claude Van Damme balancing act between performance and affordability! However, the Norauto E-FIT 200-2 offers unbeatable value for money, nonetheless. For little money, you get a rear-mounted rack that’s easy to mount and secures your bikes with a super firm grip. Unfortunately, however, it just fell short of our Best Buy, because it’s too compromised in terms of the workmanship.

Tops

• most affordable rear rack in the test field
• easy to mount on the tow hitch
• most secure frame grippers

Flops

• not the highest quality finish

For more information, visit atu.de

The test field

You can find an overview of this group test here: The best rear-mounted bike rack – 7 models head to head

Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Antonia Feder