Bicycle Hitch Rack
Rockymounts GuideRail - Bicycle Hitch Rack
The Rockymounts Guiderail is a premium hitch rack that I led from concept to mass production. Our development emphasized key features such as one-handed operation for easy bike loading, a 10mm locking chain for enhanced security, wide range of bicycle compatibility, and a sleek aesthetic that complements modern vehicles. Throughout the engineering process, we iterated on designs and rigorously tested prototypes until we achieved a rack that meets all cost and performance standards. The end result is a premium, highly dependable bicycle hitch rack that users can count on.
Swing Away Bicycle Hitch Rack
Rockymounts Backstage - Swing Out Bicycle Hitch Rack
The Rockymounts Backstage is the first swing-out platform bicycle rack to hit the market. I led its development along with the Monorail Hitch Rack Line, taking the project from concept to mass production. Inspired by the need for easy access to vehicle trunks, the design allows users to swiftly swing the fully loaded rack out of the way. We overcame significant engineering challenges related to dynamic loading and stability, creating a robust locking mechanism that secures the rack in both loaded and swung-out positions. Upon its debut, the Backstage received the "One Outdoor Gear of the Show" award at Interbike 2016 and continues to be one of Rockymounts' top sellers.
Bicycle Fork Mount
Rockymounts Droptop - Bike Fork Mount
The Rockymounts Droptop is a locking bicycle fork mount designed to secure bikes in the bed of a truck, developed to replace and improve upon an outdated product. Our improvement goals included making it compatible with all thru axle sizes without adapters, switching from a steel to an aluminum body to prevent corrosion and adding extra mounting points for both vertical and horizontal installation. We partnered with the local university's engineering department to sponsor one of their senior design projects. I managed and mentored a small team of students throughout the development process over two semesters. The project was a success; after the students handed it off, we were able to polish up the design and take it the rest of the way to market.
Bicycle U Lock
Rockymounts Pivot - Bicycle U-Lock
The Pivot is a bicycle U-lock developed by Rockymounts, and I led its journey from concept to production. Its defining feature is a locking shackle that pivots and never fully detaches from the lock body, simplifying the unlocking process by eliminating the need to align two separate parts. Our focus was on enhancing the security of the internal mechanism as we identified that existing pivoting locks were often too easily compromised. Once I finalized the internal design I built a smooth, ergonomic outer housing with a silicone over molded grip for added comfort. The result is a secure and user-friendly lock that meets the needs of cyclists everywhere.
Bicycle Trailer Hitch
Burley Quick Hitch - Bicycle Trailer Hitch
The Quick Hitch is the innovative coupling mechanism that connects the Burley Travoy bicycle trailer to a bike. As the lead on this project, I guided it from initial concept to production. Our design criteria required the Quick Hitch to accommodate seat posts ranging from 25mm to 38mm, facilitate tool-free installation, integrate seamlessly with the Travoy Flex Connector, and meet all cost and testing requirements. I engineered an adjustable mechanism that allows for effortless installation and a secure fit on various seat post diameters, ensuring stability during use. The Quick Hitch features a streamlined profile, enhancing the aesthetic of the Travoy while delivering robust functionality. The design process resulted in a reliable and convenient attachment system that significantly improves the experience for the trailer users.