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EZ Rec-Rack's Blog. Check Here For Industry News & Annoucements.

We specialize in loading your gear : Kayaks, Bikes, Cargo Carriers , Luggage, Paddle Boards and more.

Introducing the EZ Combo Carrier - the most versatile cargo carrier on the market.

3/29/2022

 

From an idea to reality in 4 weeks. 

EZ Combo Carrier, Colorado, Travel, Adventure
Testing the #EZComboCarrier prototype in the mountains of Colorado.
Did you ever have an epiphany or a great idea in the shower? This is exactly how the #EZComboCarrier came about. Ira called the design team with an idea he had during a Sunday morning shower. Couple of hours and napkin sketches later we came up with a basic 3D model and dimensions. It was now onto converting and refining the 3D renders into drawings for the metal shop so they can start on the prototype. About 4 weeks later we were presented with a very metallic vision of what's to come - and it only got better from there. 
EZ Combo Carrier prototype
Looks like something IronMan would enjoy.
The carrier is made from a thick aluminum with a steel hitch base. The prototype was already a tough machine, so we decided to strengthen the main moving parts and put it to the test. Once it came back from the powder-coater, sporting a great looking satin, slightly textured skin, we installed in on the EZ Utility Bumper and set off in our Airstream Basecamp 16 for a cross-country trek to put it through its paces. 
EZ Combo Carrier on an Airstream Basecamp 16.
Climbing the mountains of Colorado.
EZ Combo Carrier on a Lexus.
EZ Combo Carrier uses an universal 2 inch hitch receiver. Install it on your car, camper or overlanding rig.
This 1600 mile trip gave us some great info on the performance of our design.  We could observe how the carrier handles the stresses of highway speeds and the bumps of the mountain trails. We were also very satisfied with the height and clearance of the carrier (especially in the off-road scenarios). We took some switch-back bumpy mountain roads to ensure the carrier would keep it's cargo secured and not flex under stress. The hinge and strap points held wonderfully and we were ready to start an initial small order for presale, which you can find here. 

Why is the EZ Combo Carrier the most versatile carrier on the market?

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We wanted to make sure the EZCombo Carrier could handle the heavy the E-Bikes (seen in the photos) - hence why we made the rails 4.5 inches wide. But the carrier will handle regular bikes as well. While the carrier is in the closed position, it simply becomes a platform for any kind of cargo you can come up with (cargo totes, generators, fire wood, coolers etc). But one of main improvements that sets this carrier apart is what we call the "outdoor kitchen station". With the addition of 2 solid maple countertops (sold here), this carrier becomes every tailgater's dream. Park on a side of a mountain, pull up some chairs and a camping stove - and you're good to go! 
EZ Combo Carrier, ebikes, outdoor kitchen, cargo, travel, solotravel, overlanding, glamping
EZ Combo Carrier - 3 in 1.
The #EZComboCarrier is now on preorder and you can get it here. 
If you're looking for more info, here's a great quick video we made:
#EZCargoCarrier  #Overlanding #Glamping #Ebikecarrier #ezrecrack #adventure #outdoors #airstream

EZ Utility Bumper now available for Airstream Basecamp 20.

11/11/2021

 

Airstream Basecamp's bigger brother gets the EZ upgrade.

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The long awaited #EZUtilityBumper has now been released for the bigger version of the Airstream Basecamp : the 20.  Sporting the same stylish look and sturdy design, the bumper has now been modified to fit the bigger radius of the larger camper. Providing you with a hitch receiver and tie-down points the bumper allows you to attach most of hitch accessories (bike carriers and cargo carriers) available on the market today, freeing up desirable living space inside the camper.  

What to expect during installation.

We always try to make our gear as simple to install and operate as possible. The idea is to make it EZier for all parties involved.
The bumper consists of only 3 parts that are easy to assemble. Although when it comes to installing it on your Basecamp 20 there are some extra steps needed to be taken into account making this installation slightly more involved than that of the Basecamp 16.  Here's the main difference:
Airstream Basecamp 20 with removed belly pan.
Removed belly pan gives you access to the frame on the Airstream Basecamp 20.
The main difference of the Basecamp 20 design is the addition of the belly pan covering access to the frame in the back. 
This belly pan will have to be removed by drilling out several rivets holding it in place. The jacks will also have to be removed (three bolts on each side). The rest of the installation follows the same steps as that for the Basecamp 16. It's important to note that the belly pan cover will have to be reinstalled (riveted) after bumper installation is completed. The jacks bolt back on as well. 
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Reinstalled belly pan and jacks.
These extra steps make this installation more involved than that of the Basecamp 16, but offer the same benefits. If you're still on the fence about upgrading your Basecamp 20 we will provide you with all the information we can. We will soon be releasing the install video for this camper (you can watch the Basecamp 16 installation video here). This one will require a couple of extra tools and time - but it's nothing you can't handle. We can also help you install your bumper if you happen to be driving through Indianapolis, Indiana.  Send us a message of give us a call anytime. 
Airstream Basecamp 20 with the EZ Utility Bumper and bike carrier.
Basecamp 20 with the EZ Utility Bumper and bike carrier.
The reviews, photos and satisfied customers speak for themselves. Join the #EZRackFamily today. 

​#EZRackFamily   #AirstreamBasecamp  #BasecampBikeCarrier  #AirstreamBikeCarrier  #travel  #explore  #glamping

Airstream Basecamp EZ Utility Bumper mod - with Cass from Tails of Wanderlust

9/20/2021

 

Business+Casual : EZ Utility Bumper mod improves your Basecamp 

Installing the EZ Utility Bumper mod on Airstream Basecamp with Cass from Tails of Wanderlust
Get the most out of your Airstream Basecamp with the EZ Utility Bumper mod.
During our latest trip to Colorado we had the pleasure of meeting one of the most famous faces of #solotravel and Airstream Basecamp adventures, Cass from "Tails of Wanderlust" :

"Cass has always had a strong sense of wanderlust and spent years dreaming of all the amazing destinations there are to visit.  With her love for animals, she adopted two amazing rescues, ten years apart.  When a remote work position presented the opportunity to travel, she never thought twice about bringing Jasper & Napoleon with her.  With these amazing furry friends by her side, she finally took the leap and set out on the adventure of a lifetime.  She loves the outdoors, bacon, enjoying a good laugh, and touring this beautiful country – windows down and Jim Croce blaring on the radio! "
                                                           You can follow her adventures at tailsofwanderlust.com 

We knew that our bumper mod could easily improve the Basecamp experience for any traveler as it grants you a hitch location which allows for additional accessories, mods and storage solutions (bike and cargo carriers) to be installed, maximizing the interior storage room which is always a priority for anyone who plans on long-term solo travel in a camper / RV.​
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Installed EZ Utility Bumper mod looks like it came this way from the factory.
We met with Cass close to Colorado Springs, CO. After problem-free excursion from Indianapolis with our own bumper and EBike carrier in tow, we knew that it's as tough as it looks - and Cass would agree. We also recorded the entire endeavor to show you just how straight forward the process is: 
                                                       *** watch till the end for a sneak peak of our next product ***

Meeting Cass was a blast and we hope that the #EZUtilityBumper mod will serve her well for many adventures to come.  We also have an attachment mod coming soon that will expand the utility of the bumper even more. Stay tuned for updates. 

               #EZRackFamily #AirstreamBikeCarrier #Airstream #solotravel #overlanding #Basecamp #adventure #travel
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Expending our horizons - adding a bike carrier to your Airstream Basecamp using an EZ Utility Bumper mod.

3/8/2021

 

Airstream Basecamp gets the 'EZ' bump.

Airstream Basecamp with the EZ Utility Bumper, carrying an 80 lbs eBike.
Airstream Basecamp with the EZ Utility Bumper carrying an 80 lbs eBike.
Here at EZ RecRacks we are always looking for new opportunities to expand and diversify. After recently acquiring an Airstream Basecamp trailer we quickly realized that it could use some "EZ" touch to further increase the practicality of independent outdoor exploration.  The lack of hitch at the rear of the trailer made it impossible to carry any additional cargo in a convenient way.  We decided to change that.  Now, there is an easy way to add a bike carrier to your Airstream Basecamp. 
EZ Utility Bumper design process.
Design and mockup process of the EZ Utility Bumper.
EZ Utility Bumper prototype installed on the Airstream Basecamp.
EZ Utility Bumper prototype installed on the 16' Airstream Basecamp.
After designing the initial model in 3D space, we proceeded straight to a quick mockup using simple materials and PVC tubing to figure out the spacing and placement for the finished metal construction. We made sure we left enough room to allow access for the spare-tire lowering mechanism opening, and allow enough space for the rear hatch to open freely.
​The only piece of DIY is cutting out slots in the rear plastic cowl for the metal arms to slip through. The metal arms attach straight to the frame with several bolts. This idea turned out great and provided us with a strong, rigid base. Finishing the prototype with a nice black texture finish powder-coat, we could now move on to field testing. 
EZ Utility Bumper's maiden voyage to the YellowWood National State Park.
16' Airstream Basecamp and EZ Utility Bumper's maiden voyage to the YellowWood National State Park.
With its tough steel construction, EZ Utility Bumper is an attachment designed specifically for Airstream Basecamp trailer which provides a universal receiver for all kinds of aftermarket cargo/bike carriers. You can now gain extra storage space for your bikes, firewood, generators and more.  We decided to test our prototype with a converted motorcycle carrier and an 80 lbs eBike. With the bumper itself weighing in at around 33 pounds, the total weight we carried on the back of this trailer was in the ball park of 140 lbs. 
Airstream Basecamp with the EZ Utility Bumper carrying a cargo basket attachment.
Airstream Basecamp with the EZ Utility Bumper carrying a cargo basket attachment.
Because the bumper contains a universal hitch receiver it will accommodate most of the attachments available on the market.
There are also number of reducer sleeves you can purchase to adapt the receiver for differently sized options.  With this multifaceted approach the EZ Utility Bumper should be able to handle most of your outdoor cargo needs. 
From our initial road trip we can tell that the trailer tows true and smooth, and the bumper doesn't affect it in any way.  You still have to be conscious of your load distribution, but we are happy to report no major issues with our 140 lbs experiment, even at 70 mph. The height of our hitch is also at a comfortable level providing a lot of clearance for those off-road scenarios. 
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We hope that this invention will help out Airstream Basecamp owners as we plan to develop many more attachments that will fit our design and provide even more convenience for the Outdoor enthusiasts. Hopefully we'll get to come up with many more interesting solutions for 'overlanding' purposes and get to expend our customer base and catalogue of EZ accessories, making your journeys that much more convenient.
* To see the EZ Utility Bumper in action, check out our video *
Happy travels.

#EZUtilityBumper
#Airstream
#AirstreamBasecamp
#EZRackFamily

The Family is growing!

2/1/2021

 

The EZ Rack Family has grown exponentially and the people have spoken. 

The EZ Rec Rack has been on the market for about 3 years now and the company (and the product) has reached a comfortable leveled ground. We have gone through the awkward stage of growing pains and after receiving priceless feedback from our growing base of customers (we lovingly call the #EZRackFamily) we have listened, and updated the features of our design to meet even the toughest expectations. 
Like with any new piece of gear that will be put to the test in the wildest forms of outdoor applications there is a learning curve to properly utilize the EZ Rec Rack, but once you find your groove the rack simply becomes an extension of the user.  EZ Rack users have described to us their many types of setups and applications, which sometimes may take some DIY tinkering and customizing on their part, but in general once the rack is in place it simply does what it was designed to do - make you work less.  Even with the slow downs due to pandemic we have experienced a steady growth in demand, sales and an amazing outpouring of support and kind words.
EZ Rec Rack comment from Alan Roth.
EZ Rec Rack comment from Alan Roth.

EZ Rec Rack brings you independence. 

The whole idea behind the EZ Rec Rack is to give a lending hand to a determined user.  As avid outdoor enthusiast we understand that once you're out in the wild you may only have yourself to depend on. The feeling we want to provide with this product is one of 'security' and 'reliability' - two most important aspects of any outdoor expedition.  A companion can come in handy in a tight spot, but once you are left alone (or you are simply a solo-traveler) we want you to rest assured that the rack will perform and make quick work of whatever you can throw at it! 
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The feedback we've been receiving is very enlightening and we always appreciate your honest opinions and uplifting words. We are glad the rack had met many peoples expectations and in most cases exceeded them. As always, we continue to expand on this information and try to make sure that our product meets the quality of strength that will ensure longevity and ease of use. Please, feel free to share your stories, photos and videos with us! Use the hashtags #EZRecRacks and #EZRackFamily and tag us in your Instagram and Facebook posts. We love to be a part of your experience and we look forward to seeing your adventures. 

"Life's tough enough. Getting your gear down the road shouldn't be."

EZ Rec Rack - Best Kayak Loader on the Market
Julie's review of the EZ Rec Rack system.
Become a part of the E Rack family today.

EZ Rec Rack meets the #VanLife

7/9/2020

 

Reaching new heights!
We didn't choose the #VanLife - the Van Life chose us! 

EZ Rec Rack meets #VanLife
As of yesterday, #EZRecRack has reached new heights. Over 9 feet, to be exact. Sandra, the lovely van-owner from Montana, drove all the way down to Indy to have us install the rack on her Nissan NV Van. It took some elbow grease, but the unique design of the rack and the rear kickstand actually made it possible, proving that the #EZRecRackHD is one of the most versatile  roof top loaders on the market. 
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The video explains more about the way we loaded the kayak. We will make more detailed videos to help explain the way our rack can be used with taller applications, like a van, lifted truck or an RV. We are very excited about this new avenue of Solo Travel and Exploration. 
We didn't choose the #VanLife - the Van Life chose us! 

Thank you, Sandra. We hope that the rack serves you well. 

Welcome to the #EZRackFamily ! 

#KayakLife
#RightGear
​#Adventure
​#SoloTravel

Kayaking Indiana

3/24/2020

 

There is a secret kayaking spot hiding in Southern Indiana.

Spring is officially here and with the cabin-fever of the recent events everyone is about ready to get out! 
This down time is a perfect opportunity for some Outdoor adventure venue research, and if you happen to live in Indiana there is a perfect little spot hiding in plain sight. 
kayaking, canoe, indiana, cave, cave country canoes, state, outdoors, adventure, ez rack
Original post can be found here : https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/indiana/kayak-park-hiding-in-indiana/

"Located along the idyllic Blue River in southern Indiana, Cave County offers kayaking adventures that span anywhere from one hour to two full days. Paddle around the Upper Section of the Blue River for an hour on the Millpond Adventure that gives you a fun dose of kayaking without any commitment."
location, cave country canoes, canoe, fishing, travel, outdoors, kayaks, fun, indiana
They are also kid/ pet friendly and offer camping locations for a full blown outdoor experience. "This unforgettable kayak park opens for the season on April 7th, so start planning out your perfect kayak adventure now. You can bring kids as young as 3 out on the water, as well as your favorite furry friend."
river, kayaking, paddling, canoe, indiana, bridge, adventure
For more information, makes sure to check out their website.

Looks like a winner to us. If you know of any other cool spots, please feel free to share with us on our Facebook, or Instagram.
@EZ_Rec_Racks

       As always, if you need help getting your gear to the water - click below.
BEST GEAR

​#EZRackFamily
​#EZRecRackHD

#IndianaBound
#KayakLife
#RightGear 

Kayak, Men and the Sea

3/21/2020

 

This Guy Hooked a 500-Pound Marlin out of a Kayak

Marlin, fish, fishing, kayak, men, los buzos, resort, adventure, ocean, sea, kayaking, badass, ezrack, roof rack, cargo
Original post can be found at ​https://www.theinertia.com/surf/this-guy-hooked-a-500-pound-marlin-out-of-a-kayak/
Just when we needed an inspirational story the most. 
Watching this amazing battle of men vs. beast is a great reminder of how having the right gear (and some perseverance) can  ensure a story of a lifetime!  For over 6 hours the fish hauled the crew almost 12 miles out to sea. With the chase boat running out of gas and the crew out of steam, this incredible video shows just how resilient humans (and fish) truly are. 
​With warm weather on the way let's stay focused on the future ahead. We all could use an adventure like this! 
"You can skip through the vid to see the hook, which happens up front, then the release, which happens after the six hour fight. Oh, and then they run out of gas after chasing the beast all day. It takes a team effort to land these monsters. Wouldn’t you like to be chasing fish like these right about now? Or maybe surfing Panama’s Santa Catalina?" 
​
Yes, Bro. Yes, we would.

#KayakLife
#TheInertia
​#RightGear

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

12/15/2019

 
ez rec rack, santa, christmas, ez rack family, loader, roof rack, holidays
It's that special time of the Year again! Santa's been very busy and the shop is going at full speed. 
Speaking of a shop - we have now moved in into a brick-and-mortar location and the renovations are on the way. We found an ideal location close to home where we can store the parts and assemble the #EZRecRacksHD. We will also have a display area in the front where potential Customers can come in and inquire about the products (we will have Racks on display).
We are very excited about the coming year and we will post updates about our location in Indianapolis, Indiana as as soon as the shop is presentable. 
​
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We would like to sincerely thank all of our amazing Customers for their continual support of the EZ Rec Racks! We are glad our product is helping people throughout the World with loading and transportation of their favorite gear. 
We would like to wish you a very merry Christmas and a blessed Holiday Season! 

Stay tuned for shop updates! 

Sincerely,
​The EZ Rec Rack Crew

#EZRackFamily
​#KayakLife

EZ Rec Rack HD - now available for preorder!

8/1/2019

 
Greetings! The EZRecRack Team is proud to announce that brand new #EZRecRackHD is now available for preorder on our website! Shipping will start at the end of August. 
EZ Rec Rack, heavy duty, ez rec rack hd, kayaking, paddling, rooftop, loader, roof rack
The EZ RecRack HQs are filling up with parts! Assembly will start soon and the all new Heavy Duty version of our patented System will be available to the public!  
Building upon our dependable concept, we wanted to strengthen the overall design to allow even heavier loads to be lifted (especially fishing kayaks). To ensure the life of our product, we have designed heavily stressed parts of the rack to be easily replaceable; should any damage occur, we simply replace the worn part instead of replacing the entire rack.

Other major updates include:
  • New and improved track wheels
  • Heavier gauge Aluminum walls
  • Heavy-Duty rear axle support bar (for heavier loads like fishing and sea kayaks)
  • All New (replaceable) stainless steel pivoting hardware 
  • All New 316 stainless steel wheel axles  

​Order yours TODAY! 

#EZRackFamily
#Kayaklife

EZRecRack HD, kayaking, rooftop, loader, roof rack, preorder, heavy duty
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    Hey! It's Ira Mercurio the creator of the EZ Rec-Rack. I'm making this blog to keep you all updated on everything going on with us, Enjoy!

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