sportworks Apex 2 Manual

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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1
Apex 2™2-Position Bicycle Rack
Operation and Maintenance Instructions
CONTENTS
1. SCOPE OF THIS DOCUMENT....................................................................................2
2. INSTALLATION............................................................................................................2
a) Mounting the Rack.................................................................................................5
3. OPERATING THE BIKE RACK....................................................................................6
a) Bicycle Loading......................................................................................................6
b) Bicycle Unloading ..................................................................................................7
4. USE OF THE BUS WASH............................................................................................9
5. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE..........................................................................10
a) Visual Inspection Checklist ..................................................................................10
b) 30 Day General Maintenance Inspection & Service.............................................12
6. SUPPORT ARM AND LATCH MECHANISM.............................................................13
a) Servicing the Support Arm...................................................................................14
b) Servicing the Apex 2 Latch Mechanism...............................................................15
7. WEAR LIMITS............................................................................................................16
8. CONTACT INFORMATION........................................................................................17

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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1. SCOPE OF THIS DOCUMENT
This document applies to all Apex 2 bicycle racks. The Apex 2 product line includes 2-position bike
racks with stainless steel frames, wheel trays, and support arms. There are two primary versions of the
Apex 2 –one with standard trays and support arms, the other with fat tire compatible trays and support
arms.
Figure 1, Apex 2 with standard trays and
support arms
Figure 2, Apex 2 with fat tire compatible trays and
support arms
Part Numbers:
101082(-XXX) Apex 2 with standard trays and arms
101082-FAT(-XXX) Apex 2 with fat tire compatible trays and arms for both tray positions.
101082-FATF(-XXX) Apex 2 with a fat tire compatible tray and arm on the front position
(farthest from the vehicle front), and a standard tray and arm on the rear
position.
101082-FATR (-XXX) Apex 2 with a fat tire compatible tray and arm on the rear position
(closest to the vehicle front), and a standard tray and arm on the front
position.
2. INSTALLATION
The installation is crucial to the safety and performance of the Sportworks bike rack system. There are
several factors to consider when mounting the rack, including:
•Load height
•Approach angle
•Protrusion and Turning radius
•Bicycle/wiper clearance
•Front mask clearance
•Footprint/headlight clearance
Carefully review the following information regarding the positioning of the rack on the bus before
beginning the installation process.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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Figure 3, Factors to Consider During
Installation
Figure 4, Front Mask Clearance
Load Height
The load height is the vertical distance a bicycle must be lifted for placement in a deployed bike rack. If
the rack is mounted too high, some riders may have difficulty loading the rack.
Approach Angle
The approach angle is the angle created by a line from where the front tire contacts the pavement to
the first obstruction ahead of the front tire. This obstruction would first touch the pavement when
transitioning from flat to a very steep hill. APTA standards require a minimum approach angle of 8°,
although some agencies in hilly areas may prefer a 9° approach angle. The bike rack will limit the
approach angle if it is installed on the bumper in a position that is too low. The bike rack installer should
be aware of this possibility and investigate approach angle requirements before mounting the rack.
Protrusion
Protrusion measures the distance from the front of the bumper to the front edge of the bike rack in the
deployed position. Once the bike rack is mounted to the coach, the protrusion distance is fixed.
Protrusion is a measurement that requires attention due to the overall length, approach angle and
turning radius. Protrusion is not typically an issue with 2-position racks, however if you have any
questions or concerns, please contact us.
Bicycle/Wiper Clearance
It is important to ensure that the handlebars of a loaded bicycle do not interfere with windshield
wipers. A minimum of sixteen inches of horizontal distance is recommended between the center of
the wheel tray and the wiper arms.
Front Mask Clearance
Front mask clearance is the clearance between the stowed rack and the wiper mechanism or front-
most part of the bus mask. A minimum of 2 inches clearance is recommended, although some vehicles
may have unique requirements.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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Stowed Position / Headlight Clearance
Figure 5 shows an outline of the Apex 2 against a bus front when the rack is in the stowed position.
Obstruction of headlights and turn signal indicators should be avoided. The position of the rack can be
adjusted. Remove the bike rack from the pivot plate. Remove the pivot plate from the C-brackets or
other bracket pieces and position the pivot plate up or down as required. Remount the pivot plate to the
bracket pieces and the rack to the pivot plate.
Some bracket assemblies may not have multiple height adjustment holes. If this is the case, the
bracket assembly is designed for an optimum position in terms of minimal headlight interference and
proper loading height and adjustment is not required.
Figure 5, Front View of Bus
Figure 6, Height Adjustment

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
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a) Mounting the Rack
1. Install pivot plate using supplied hardware Item #1 and 14" or 18" hole pattern.
2. Install pivot tab bushings Item #2 in rack with flanges inside.
3. Place rack on pivot plate in stowed (up) position. The pivot plate will support the rack while
you insert the fasteners.
4. Insert the supplied fasteners Items 3, 4 and 5. Insert the supplied fasteners and torsion
spring Items 6, 7, and 8. The bent end of the torsion spring hooks into the pivot plate and
the large end of the torsion spring mount Item #7 should be toward the nut.
5. Torque 1/2"-13 bolts to torque values listed in General Torque Specs section.
Note: Standoffs can shift during service because of impacts. When installing the Apex pivot
plate on pre-installed standoffs, it may be necessary to loosen the standoffs from the back
bumper structure to align them to the 14" and 18" hole pattern. Bolt the pivot plate to standoffs,
and tighten standoff bolts.
Figure 7, Apex 2 Rack and Standoffs

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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General Torque Specs
Most brackets attach to the bus bumper using Grade 8 ½-13 HHCS. Standard pivot plates are attached
to the brackets using Grade 8 3/8-16 HHCS.
Recommended torque values:
•½-13 Grade 8 –80-90 FT-LB
•3/8-16 Grade 8 –30-40 FT-LB
If you are using quick-release hardware to attach the bike rack to the pivot plate or are using a Ten
Second Bracket (TSB), tighten the knobs by hand as tightly as possible and do not tighten with tools.
3. OPERATING THE BIKE RACK
All loading and unloading of bikes can be accomplished by the rider. Loading of children's bikes shall
be supervised by an accompanying adult.
b) Bicycle Loading
1. Prepare the bicycle by removing water bottles, pumps, panniers, bags, and other loose
items that could fall while the vehicle is in motion.
2. Indicate to the operator that you will be loading your bike. Bikes should be loaded from
the curbside or from in front of the vehicle. Do not step beyond the vehicle into passing
traffic to load your bike
3. If the rack is in the stowed (vertical) position, squeeze the latch handle to release the
latch, then pull the bike rack down to the loading position. Only one hand is required to
unlatch and pull the bike rack down. This enables users the ability to support the bike (it
is not necessary to lean the bike against the transit vehicle.)
4. Lift the bike onto the bike rack, fitting the front wheel into a wheel slot labeled for the
front wheel. The purpose of the directional placement is to make adjacent bikes easy to
load and unload.
5. Raise the support arm hook over the front tire. The support arm will keep the bike
secure while the vehicle is in motion.
NOTE: The support arm hook must be between the highest point of the tire and the
head tube. Incorrect placement may result in the bike falling from the rack, which could
result in injury and/or damage to the bike, the vehicle in operation, and other vehicles.
If the bicycle has fenders, place the support arm hook over or under the fender as required to
achieve the correct hook position.
Some accessories such as front racks and baskets with vertical support stays may preclude
correct hook placement. Bikes with accessories that conflict with correct support arm
placement must NOT be loaded onto the rack.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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Figure 8, Proper Placement of Support Arm
c) Bicycle Unloading
1. Indicate to the operator that you will be unloading your bike as you approach your stop. Bikes
should be unloaded from the curbside or from in front of the vehicle. Do not step beyond the
vehicle into passing traffic to unload your bike.
2. Raise the support arm hook off the tire and return it to its stowed position.
3. Lift the bike out of the bike rack.
4. Step away from the transit vehicle with your bike onto the curb.
NOTE: LOADING OR UNLOADING A BIKE FROM THE STREET SIDE OF THE TRANSIT
VEHICLE MAY CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH.
Sportworks label (part no. 3575) shown in Figure 9 is available for use on the transit vehicle front
fascia. The label measures 9.5 inches by 6.0 inches. It contains the same graphic in a larger
format as the label affixed to each support arm of the rack.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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Figure 9, Instructional Label with Support Arm Placement Instructions
Supported Bike Dimensions and Weight Limits
To ensure safe bicycle fit in the Apex 2 rack, each bicycle must comply with the following:
Apex 2 with standard trays and
support arms:
•Wheelbase (max): 48.0in
•Tire width (max): 3.2in
•Tire size (min-max): 16-29in (incl. 700c)
•Weight (max): 75lbs per bike
Apex 2 with fat tire compatible trays and
support arms:
•Wheelbase (max): 48.0in
•Tire width (max): 5.5in
•Tire size (min-max): 24-29in (incl. 700c)
•Weight (max): 75lbs per bike
Figure 10, Reference for Supported Bicycle Specifications

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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4. USE OF THE BUS WASH
Sportworks racks have been designed to safely pass-through bus wash facilities. Before taking a newly
mounted bike rack through a wash facility, the operator should check to ensure that the wash facility is
properly set up for washing the bus with a rack on it.
Most wash systems use either a "top fixed" or "top and bottom fixed" spinning brush system. The
Sportworks rack has been designed with round tubing and round edges so that the wash brushes
contact surfaces that will not catch or tear them.
Some conditions may cause excessive wear or harm to the bike rack or the wash system. This is
typically due to brush entanglement with the rack. These best practices should be followed to avoid
damage:
1. Ensure brushes are spinning at an adequate RPM. If the brushes are rotating too slowly, it may
cause the brushes to hook on protruding objects. If the axle of the brush assembly pushes
against the rack or any part of the bus that has a crevice, it may allow bristles to become
entangled.
2. Ensure the vehicle enters the wash system slowly to minimize impact between the rack and the
brushes.
3. Replace and maintain brushes at recommended intervals. Low brush density can also cause
entanglement.
4. Ensure proper brush rotation. Refer to Figure 1. The illustration shows the recommended rotation
for the brush assemblies. If the brush assembly is fixed to the driver’s side, the brush should
rotate counterclockwise, as viewed from the top. If the brush assembly is mounted on the
curbside, the brush assembly should rotate clockwise.
When operating as recommended, no unusual deterioration should occur. If damage occurs, take time to
examine the rack installation as well as the vehicle and setup of the wash facility. Please contact
Sportworks at 425-483-7000 for assistance.
Figure 11, Bus Wash Brush Orientation

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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5. INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE
a) Visual Inspection Checklist
The following is recommended to ensure an operable bike rack prior to use. These
instructions are intended for use as an inspection sheet for operators.
Examine the items below before operating the vehicle. If the bike rack does not function as
described, service is recommended before continuing operation. Refer to Figure 11, Location
of Rack Components for the location of each item (as numbered below)
1. ________PIVOT BOLTS ARE TIGHT
Tighten if required.
2. ________ENDPLUGS ARE PRESENT (2 PLACES)
Replace plugs if missing or damaged.
3. ________CLEVIS PINS AND SPLIT RINGS ARE PRESENT
SECURE ARMS TO FRAME (2 PLACES)
Replace missing parts.
4. ________SUPPORT ARM MAGNETS ARE PRESENT (2 PLACES)
Replace if missing. These magnets stow the support arms.
5. ________IF OPTIONAL BIKE COUNTERS ARE INSTALLED:
SENSOR MAGNETS ARE PRESENT (2 PLACES)
Replace if missing. These magnets engage with the bike counters.
6. ________SUPPORT ARMS SLIDE IN/ OUT (2 PLACES)
Hooks move smoothly in/out and self-stow on magnet.
DO NOT LUBRICATE.
7. ________SUPPORT ARM SIDE PLAY NOT EXCESSIVE
Verify that the support arm side to side play is less than 1.5” (measured
at the hook with the support arm retracted, but not resting on the
magnet). If play is excessive, there are several possible causes including:
Broken or bent support arm bracket; Missing, bent, worn or broken hinge
clevis pin - ensure clevis pin is held in place with hairpin clip; Bent or
broken support arm spar; Worn or missing bushings in the support arm
housing. Missing or damaged components should be replaced.
8. ________LATCH HANDLE OPERATES PROPERLY
Latch is easy to release and does not get stuck.
9. ________BIKE RACK SWINGS FREELY AND LOCKS IN TWO POSITIONS
Rack pivots and locks in both the deployed and stowed positions.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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Figure 12, Location of Rack Components
Figure 13, Side View of Rack Components

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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b) 30 Day General Maintenance Inspection & Service
The bike rack system requires minimal service. The following maintenance inspection and
service is recommended every 30 days.
NOTE: DO NOT LUBRICATE any part of the bike rack. Lubricants may trap dirt/dust
and inhibit the function of the rack.
1. The rack swings freely and smoothly between the deployed and stowed positions.
2. The release latch easily unlatches, and the latch pin does not stick in the released position. If
sticky, see section on servicing the latch handle.
3. The release latch automatically locks the rack in place when moved to the deployed or
stowed positions. If problems are encountered, see section on servicing the latch handle.
4. Each support arm hinge allows the support arm to raise and lower without undue constraint.
Inspect support arm clevis pin located at the lower end of the support arm. Inspect for wear in
the area that the pin contacts the square support arm housing and also near the split ring. If
wear is evident replace pin, washers, and the split ring. See section on servicing the support
arm for further detail.
5. Each support arm magnet properly mates with and holds the support arm.
6. Each support arm hook pulls out smoothly, easily slides back into the stowed position, and
properly self-stows on the magnet when it is released. If resistance is encountered, see
section on servicing the support arm for further detail.
7. Verify that the Support Arm side to side play is less than 1.5” (measured at the hook with the
arm retracted, but not resting on the magnet) and that side-to-side play does not allow the
sensor magnet to contact the bike counter sensor. Possible Causes: Broken or bent support
arm bracket. Missing, bent, worn or broken hinge clevis pin, ensure clevis pin is held in place
with hair pin clip. Bent or broken support arm spar. Worn or missing bushings in the support
arm housing.
8. Both pivot bolt assemblies are tight. If there is excessive wear or cracks in the pivot bushings,
replace them immediately.
9. All fasteners are tight on the bike rack and mounting bracket, including hardware for the trays,
quadrant, pivot plate to bracket pieces, and bracket pieces to bumper or coach body.
10. There are two black plastic end plugs inserted into the main frame of the rack located at either
end of the lowering tube (the tube one grabs to engage the release latch). Replace if missing.
11. The instruction labels on the rack are intact. Replace if shredded, partially removed, non-
readable, or not adhering properly. Clean the rack surface thoroughly (isopropyl alcohol)
before replacing. Pay particular attention to the chain guard sticker.
12. If surface rust develops on stainless steel use naval jelly for removal.
13. If optional bike counter kit is installed, counter magnets are in place and aligned with
magnetic switch. There is a 1/8”-3/8” gap between the magnet and the switch.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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6. SUPPORT ARM AND LATCH MECHANISM
NOTE: The standard support arm is shown, fat tire tray compatible support arms have some
different components. See Apex 2 Parts and Options Breakdown for more information. Contact
Sportworks for replacement parts.
Figure 14, Location of Support Arm Components
ITEM NO.
QTY
PART DESCRIPTION
1
1
Weldment, Apex Support Arm Housing, Shot Peened
2
1
Support Arm Grip, Apex
3
1
Support Arm Spar, Apex
4
2
Support Arm Spring
5
2
Apex Upper Bushing
6
2
Apex Lower Bushing
7
2
Shank Support, Apex Support Arm Hook
8
1
Pin, Roll, 5/32 x 0.75, SS
9
2
Nut, ¼-20 Deformed Thread, Self-Locking, SS
10
2
SHCS, .250-20 X 1.75
11
1
Pin, Clevis, 0.25 x 1.75
12
2
Washer, Flat, ¼ SAE, SS
13
1
Ring, Split, 0.670 O.D. x 0.051 Wire Dia, SS

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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14
a) Servicing the Support Arm
1. Replace the spar tube if it is bent. The arm may bind if bent. DO NOT LUBRICATE.
a. Remove the split ring from the clevis pin in the support arm pivot.
b. Remove the split ring (13) from the clevis pin (11) at the bottom of the support arm
housing. Remove the clevis pin.
c. Remove the fasteners (10) from the support arm grip and remove the grip from the
top of the spar. Carefully slide the stainless-steel spar out the bottom of the support
arm housing. Make note of how the two sets of nylon bushings (5) and (6) fit in the
assembly.
d. Pull the shank support (7) out the top of the spar to free the support arm spring. Clean
the spring and examine it for wear, overstress, and cyclical fatigue. Pay special
attention to the end hooks of the spring. Replace the spring as necessary.
e. Clean the inside of the stainless steel support arm housing (1) using a stainless steel
brush. Do not use a non-stainless wire brush.
f. Examine the two nylon bushings (6) that are inserted in the base of the spar. Replace
them if they are excessively worn or marred.
g. Re-assemble the support arm in the reverse order of steps a-d. Use needle nose vise-
grips similar tool to pull the spring into position when re-inserting the clevis pin (11)
through the base of the support arm housing and the end hook of the spring.
h. Check the operation of the support arm once again. Each support arm hook should
pull out smoothly, easily slide back into the stowed position, and properly self-stow on
the magnet when it is released.
2. Replace the spar tube if it is bent. The arm may bind if bent. DO NOT LUBRICATE.
3. Examine the support arm pivot. Check clevis pin for wear. Replace if damaged or worn.
4. Examine the rubber grip. Replace it if ripped, gouged, or bent.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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15
b) Servicing the Apex 2 Latch Mechanism
Figure 15, Location of Support Arm Components
1. Check that the release handle operates smoothly.
2. Examine the wear of the plastic insert in the tip of the latch pin (Latch Pin Rivet). If the latch
quadrant is being marred by the latch pin, replace the Latch Pin Sub-Assembly (PN 3604).
3. Examine the components inside of the latch housing.
a. Remove the roll pin attaching the latch stem to the latch pin.
b. Pull on the release handle to separate the latch stem from the latch pin.
c. Check the wear on the spring. Clean the spring and replace it if it is distorted or not
functioning properly.
d. Remove any dirt and debris from inside the latch housing.
e. Re-assemble the latch mechanism in the reverse order of steps a-c.
NOTE: DO NOT LUBRICATE.

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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16
7. WEAR LIMITS
Item/Description
Image
Design
Dimension
Wear Limit
Maintenance
Action
5240 –Flange
Bearing
Outer Diameter:
Ø0.735+/-0.001”
Ø0.730”
Replace
bushings
Pivot Tab Bore
Inner Diameter:
Ø0.760+/-0.005”
Ø0.775”
Replace Bike
Rack
3598-BLK -
Quadrant
Mating surface:
Flat
Worn groove
exceeding
.03” deep
Replace
quadrant
3604 –Latch Pin
Mating surface:
Flat
Visible
damage or
worn groove
exceeding
.03” deep
Replace latch
pin
2558 –Clevis pin
Outer Diameter:
Ø0.243- Ø0.248
Ø0.242”
Replace pin

All dimensions and specifications nominal. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Copyright © 2023 Sportworks Global LLC. All rights reserved.
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17
Item/ Description
Image
Design
Dimension
Wear Limit
Maintenance
Action
2559 –Clevis pin
Outer Diameter:
Ø0.245- Ø0.248
Ø0.242”
Replace pin
DOCUMENT REVISION HISTORY
12/29/2020 –Initial release
1/25/2021 –Added wear limits table and additional do not lubricate statement
3/11/2022 –Increased maximum weight limit to 75 lbs per position
8/29/2023 –General updates to copy and drawings
8. CONTACT INFORMATION
Additional information can be found on Sportworks website: www.sportworks.com.
For assistance, contact Sportworks by phone: [phone] or email:
[e-mail].