Yakima GateKeeper

86/100
BikeRide Score
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Summary of Reviews

We have read all expert and user reviews on the Yakima GateKeeper. In summary, this is what cyclists think.

7 reasons to buy

  • Installing the GateKeeper is simple, according to reviewers and owners.
  • Owners and testers say loading and securing bikes is quick and easy.
  • Reviewers appreciate the durable and secure metal G-hooks for the down tube straps.
  • Testers say bikes remain secure during transport.
  • Reviewers praise the spacing between bike cradles.
  • Multiple testers praise the large opening of the rear flap, noting it doesn’t block backup cameras like some competitors’ pads do.
  • The GateKeeper has a built-in lock grommet for passage of cable locks, though this would only offer minimal security.

6 reasons not to buy

  • Several owners report dented tailgates in under a year, saying the thin foam that wears down quickly.
  • One expert says that loading a bike in the middle position with the flap open may result in a scratched tailgate or bike fork.
  • Some owners find the straps too short for their e-bikes. An expert who successfully loads their e-bikes suggests extra-wide, square-shaped tubes may not fit.
  • Yakima doesn’t offer the GateKeeper for curved tailgates.
  • Two owners report that the loops for securing the excess length of the tailgate strap fall off.
  • The rear flap doesn't have a strap to keep it open.

Bottom line

The Yakima GateKeeper is a tailgate pad available in two sizes: Medium for five bikes and Large for six. There's no option for curved tailgates. Reviews appreciate the simple installation, ease of loading bikes, and large tailgate hatch flap. Bikes remain secure in transit thanks to sturdy straps and metal G-hooks, but they may be too short for some e-bikes. Owners report dented tailgates due to the "thin" foam wearing down. While testers generally recommend the GateKeeper, owners find multiple flaws that should be considered.
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Facts

Brand
Maximum Load Capacity
Vehicle Type
Weight
6.43, 8.15 lb
Material
Tarpaulin-coated Polyester, Nylon

Expert Reviews

88/100 based on 3 rated expert reviews
87
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here
The Loam Wolf

Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad Review

… it’s a pretty solid pad all around.

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89
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here

Tested: Yakima GateKeeper Evo

It provides a more secure strapping mechanism than its predecessor without sacrificing any of the easy functionality that we grew to love.

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91
?
This review has been given a score. Read more here
Chenzo's World

Yakima GateKeeper MTB Tailgate Pad // 2023 Version // 6-Month Full User Review

So far, so good. In the six months since I’ve been using this pad, I haven’t had any issues with these S-hooks disengaging or coming loose.

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Ebike Dadbod

Best E-Bike MTB Bike Pad! – 2022 Yakima Gatekeeper Review

Overall, amazing quality, beautiful aesthetics, [it] works great, [and has] great functionality…

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Mirkojax USA

Yakima GateKeeper Full-Size Truck Bed Bike Rack on Ford Maverick

Overall, [it’s] a solid choice for bike transportation on a midsize pickup.

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Yakima Tailgate Pad for My Taco!

This material is really durable. I’ve had it on here for a few months, and [there’s been] no fading, [it’s] super weather resistant; really nice.

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User Ratings

80/100 based on 47 ratings
  • 5 star
    51%
  • 4 star
    21%
  • 3 star
    15%
  • 2 star
    4%
  • 1 star
    9%

Rankings

Compared to other bike racks

Bike Rack Comparison

Yakima GateKeeper in comparison to averages