Your bike is a versatile vehicle that you can use to complete various tasks or even ride for fun. Whatever activity you use your bike for, you will inevitably need to carry your essentials from one place to another, and this is where a rear bike rack comes to play.
If you want to use your bike for commuting, touring, or running errands, you’ll need an excellent rear bike rack. Rear bike racks are mounted on the back of your bike and have rails for securing panniers, bags, baskets, and other items. Back racks for bicycles help you carry everything you need safely and efficiently and allow you to focus and enjoy your ride without having to worry about your belongings.
Best 8 Rear Bike Racks
A good bicycle rear rack will make your riding experience much more enjoyable. The great thing is that, in today’s market, you can find various bicycle front and rear racks that are durable, easy to install, and affordable.
In this guide, we have reviewed the top eight best bike rear racks to help you find the one that best fits your needs!
Topeak Explorer
The Topeak Explorer Rear Mount Rack comes with an integrated top plate for Topeak MTX and RX Quick Track trunk bags. The Topeak Explorer (which also comes in a version for disc brake bikes) does an excellent job of fitting a wide range of bikes. This is due to the rack’s flexible attachment arms and a large amount of wheel clearance, which allows it to accommodate the wide range of bike frames on the road. Furthermore, it is more durable than similar-priced racks. It has a carrying capacity of 55 pounds.
The Explorer should fit your bike if you have 26-inch or 700c wheels (as most people do) or the recently popular 2712-inch size. However, if your bike has disc brakes, you’ll need the extra clearance around the disc, so get the disc-specific version. Get the 29er model if you have a mountain bike with 29-inch wheels (also available in a disc-specific version).
Key features
- 625 g / 1.38 lbs (w/o spring)
- Braze-on type
- 6061 hollow aluminum
- MTX series bag compatibility
- Solid fender top
- RedLite mount
- Taillight mount
Pros
- Tough construction
- Easy installation
- Easy pannier mounting
- Lightweight
- Solid fender on top
Cons
- It may require an adaptor on some bike models.
Social proof
Topeak Explorer has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 3,027 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Topeak Explorers has a:
- 4.6 score for value for commuting
- 4.6 score for lightweight
- 4.6 score for sturdiness
- 4.4 score for mounting system
- 4.2 score for easy to install
- 4.2 score for easy to assemble.
Planet Bike Eco Rack
Planet Bike Eco Rack is one of the most popular bike rear racks. Using this bicycle rear rack, you can convert almost any bike into a cargo-hauling machine. This rack is an excellent choice for carrying more and going further because of its classic good looks and ease of installation.
The Planet Bike Eco Rack is constructed out of a solid oversized, 6061 tubular aluminum rod for maximum strength and stability. In addition, this rear bike rack is electric-bike ready, meaning that you can add it to your electric bicycle to help with additional cargo and pannier bags. To add to the list of advanced features, this luggage rack’s installation is hassle free. One size fits most frames with pre-installed rack hardware for quick and easy installation.
Key features
- Strong aluminum rack
- Electric-bike ready
- Hassle-free installation
- Carries up to 55 lbs
- Length 12. 5.”
- Width 5. 5.”
- Top panel 3″ across
- Spacing between lower attachments 5.”
Pros
- Features open side rails for adjustable pannier positioning and maximum heel clearance
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons
- Some users claim that the bottom attachment tends too narrow for their trail bike.
Social proof
Planet Bike Eco Rack has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 503 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Planet Bike Eco Rack has a:
- 4.8 score for lightweight
- 4.5 score for sturdiness
- 4.5 score for easy to install.
Ibera Bike Rack – Bicycle Touring Carrier Plus+ for Disc Brake Mount
This bike rear rack is made of anodized aluminum that has been heat-treated and TIG-welded. This material is typically used for bicycle frames and components, so it’s just as durable as your bike. Thanks to the high-quality material and manufacturing process, it is reinforced for extra strength. Furthermore, anodized aluminum is corrosion-resistant and dye-retentive. This rack weighs about 1.70 pounds in total (770 g).
In addition, the bottom rods of this rear bike rack is customizable, and the rack fits 26″ to 29″ bicycle frames. The Ibera Bike Rack – Bicycle Touring Carrier Plus+ for Disc Brake Mount is compatible with Ibera trunk bags, side pannier bags, and eco-friendly reusable bags.
Key features
- Frame-mounted
- Quick-release bag mounting system
- Fits most 26-inch and 700c frames
- Aluminum 760g
- Allows IBERA bags to be mounted with IBERA panniers
- Reflector or taillight is attachable
Pros
- Adjustable
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some users claim that it tends to slide off easily.
Social proof
Ibera Bike Rack – Bicycle Touring Carrier Plus+ for Disc Brake Mount has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 4,037 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Ibera Bike Rack – Bicycle Touring Carrier Plus+ for Disc Brake Mount has a:
- 4.6 score for commuting
- 4.5 score for sturdiness
- 4.1 score for easy to install.
DIRZA Rear Bike Rack
The Dirza Rear Bike Rack is made of a solid and well-built aluminum alloy that can carry a lot of weight. It has a quick-release mount at the seat post that makes installation simple, as well as tools and installation instructions.
This bike carrier rack is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, making it light but strong enough to carry a heavy load. This rear rack can support up to 115 pounds. In addition, it has W-shaped bars to keep your pannier from colliding with the tires and to keep it safe. The adjustable shelf and bottom rods fit mountain bikes and road bikes with wheel sizes ranging from 18″ to 27.5″.
Key features
- Aluminum alloy material
- Quick-release mount
- Carries up to 115 lbs
- Design with W-shaped bars
Pros
- Sturdy
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some users claim that the three clamp connections to the bike do not fit.
Social proof
Dirza Rear Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 2,942 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Dirza Rear Bike Rack has a:
- 4.3 score for stability
- 4.5 score for lightweight
- 4.3 score for sturdiness
- 4.1 score for durability
- 4.0 score for easy to install
- 4.2 score for easy to assemble.
Ibera IB-RA15 Bike Rack
Frame-mounted for bulkier top and side loads, the Ibera PakRak Touring Bicycle Carrier can carry up to 25 kg (55 lbs). It has a top plate that doubles as a rear fender and splashguard, as well as length-adjustable seat stay tubes. For bicycles with higher or lower seat stay holes, the rods can bend for a custom fit.
This carrier rack is made of anodized aluminum that has been heat-treated and TIG-welded. This material is typically used for bicycle frames and other components, making this rear rack just as durable as your bike. Thanks to the high-quality material and monitored manufacturing process, this rack is known for extra strength. To add to the list of advantages, the anodized aluminum is corrosion-resistant and dye-retentive. This rack weighs about 1.65 pounds in total (750 g).
Key features
- Frame-mounted for heavier top and side loads
- 55 pounds carrying capacity
- Ibera parka quick-release bag mounting system
- Adjustable height – fits most 26″-29″ frames
- 1.65 pounds aluminum
- It can be mounted with Ibera trunk bags
- Quick clip-on bag mount
- Built-in splash guard
- For non-disk brake bicycle
- Reflector or taillight is attachable
Pros
- Top fender board splashguard for wet conditions
- Durable
- Lightweight
Cons
- Some reviewers claim that the product was missing holes on one side of the rack for the bottom mounting rods.
Social proof
Ibera IB-RA15 Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 4,750 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Ibera IB-RA15 Bike Rack has a:
- 4.5 score for commuting
- 4.4 score for sturdiness
- 4.1 score for easy to install.
West Biking Bike Carrier Rack
The West Biking Bike Carrier Rack is a long-distance touring bike carrier rack made of solid aluminum alloy with a top plate that serves as a rear fender and splash guard. This rear rack is great for biking enthusiasts, and long-distance traveling. It can attach most panniers/trunk bags and comes with a rear reflector, which makes you more visible at night and keeps you safer.
The shelf is effectively prevented from shaking due to vibration by an anti-vibration nut layer installed on the inner ring. This item is a high-quality bike cargo rack rear seat with a 310-pound load capacity, tender appearance design, seamless lines, and matte black finish, providing a beautiful and straightforward riding experience.
Key features
- Aluminum Alloy
- Solid steel load bearing
- Universal shelf (fits 20 to 736 cm)
- Adjustable shelf – height adjustable (front stent: 20 – 31 cm, rear stent: 35 – 52 cm), front and rear adjustable
- Three-point bearing design
- Tail circular design with reflective tail
Pros
- Easy to wipe
- Anti-rust and corrosion
- Scratch-resistant
Cons
- Some users claim that the nuts and bolts do not fit together.
Social proof
West Biking Bike Carrier Rack has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 1,148 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the West Biking Bike Carrier Rack has a:
- 4.0 score for value for money
- 4.3 score for sturdiness
- 4.0 score for durability
- 3.4 score for easy to install
- 3.4 score for easy to assemble.
Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack
The Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack adds trunk space to your bike. This bike rear rack is designed to last for a very long time, and it is designed for optimum load control (with a three-strut design) and crafted with aircraft-grade aluminum tubes with a 9 millimeters gauge. With a load capacity of 40 pounds, you can carry anything you want with this rack. Better yet, you can carry your pet and take them with you wherever your bike takes you.
In addition, the Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack works with CoPilot child seats and has a great utility-weight ratio at only 535 grams. It also fits both wide and narrow tires on 26″ and 700c frames.
Key features
- Weight – 1.6 pounds
- Grid racks designed for 29er or 700c wheels
- It is constructed of t6061 aluminum
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
Cons
- Some users claim that it doesn’t fit most bikes without additional hardware.
Social proof
Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.7 out of 5 with over 225 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack has a:
- 4.5 score for lightweight
- 4.9 score for sturdiness
- 4.7 score for easy to install.
Ibera Bicycle Seatpost-Mounted Commuter Carrier
The Ibera Bicycle Seatpost-Mounted Commuter Carrier works with most bikes without extra hardware, thanks to its seat post mount. The Ibera Bicycle Seatpost-Mounted Commuter Carrier is distinguished by its attractive design. Instead of relying on eyelets on the frame, this model is simply bolted to your seat post and fixed in place with rubber shims.
As a result, it’s ideal for bikes with disc brakes, which can make installing most cargo racks difficult. Your rack will also appear to float in mid-air, thanks to the seat-post mount. Because it’s mounted in this manner, the weight limit is only 22 pounds. The rack is made of heat-treated anodized aluminum that has been extruded, die-cast, and heat-treated.
Key features
- Seatpost-mounted: for light, top loads
- Quick-release bag mounting system
- 700g aluminum material
- Compatible with most bikes
- Adjustable length
Pros
- Contemporary design
- Seat post-mount
- Easy to install
- Compatible with most bikes
Cons
- It only carries up to 22 pounds
Social proof
Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.7 out of 5 with over 225 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Blackburn 2027629 Rear Bike Rack has a:
- 4.3 score for lightweight
- 4.4 score for sturdiness
- 4.5 score for easy to install
- 4.5 score for commuting.
What to Look For When Buying a Bike Rear Rack
When you’re in the market for a bike rear rack, there are a few things you have to consider. Make sure that you take a closer look at the materials, the measurements, its carrying capacity, and finally, the mounting system.
Materials
There are different material options that rear racks are typically composed of, including aluminum, steel, and titanium. All these different materials give your bike rack different properties. Aluminum racks are durable; however, they can’t be fixed once they break. Steel racks are heavier and more durable, but they can be fixed. Titanium racks, on the other hand, are lightweight and don’t corrode but tend to be more expensive. Make sure to pick the type of material that best fits your bike type and the environment you will operate in.
Compatibility with the bicycle (correct measurements)
Having a rear rack that fits your bicycle perfectly is a must. In cases when the rack is smaller or wider than your bike, it will be impossible to install it properly.
So, before purchasing a bicycle rear rack, make sure that your bike’s measurements fit precisely with the rack. Test-fit your rack on your bike since not every rack is a perfect fit on every bike. It’s rare, but on occasion, some bikes, especially women’s or kids’ models, are not compatible with rear racks, or they may require an additional top-tube adapter.
Carrying capacity
Before purchasing your bike rear rack, you must take a closer look at its carrying capacity and what it is that you need to carry. If your belongings are heavier, you need to pick a rear rack that has a much bigger capacity.
Rear racks are typically designed to carry loads anywhere between 20 and 50 pounds, which is sufficient for most bike users. Some heavy-duty rear bike racks touring models are capable of carrying up to 80 pounds.
Mounting system
An ideal bike rack is one that is easy to install. Just like in the case of measurement compatibility, when shopping for a rear bike rack, you should keep in mind that not every rear bike rack’s mounting system is compatible with all bikes.
If your bike has disc brakes, for instance, you have to make sure you get a model that is created to operate with disc brakes. Most rear bike racks feature stays that attach to braze-on mounts or eyelets near the bottom rear of your frame. This isn’t always the case, though. If your bike doesn’t feature eyelets, which are common on commuting and adventure bikes, look for alternatives that work without them. Seat post-mounted racks, for example, are a good option for most bike types.
Conclusion
Ultimately, having a rear bike rack attached to your bike is a great advantage. A heavy-duty rear bike rack will enable you to carry your belongings safely while enjoying your ride. Choosing an option that is durable, lightweight, and easy to install will make your entire experience much more manageable. Using the reviews provided above, hopefully, you will be able to choose a rear bike rack that fulfills all your needs!
