Bikes are many peoples’ first choice when it comes to means of transportation, favorite sports, or ways to spend their leisure time. However, there will be times when you can’t ride your bike wherever you go, and you will need a special way to transport it to the destination.
When transporting your bike to different locations using your car, it is essential to have a bike rack that will enable you to safely and efficiently take your bike with you. A car bike rack will assist you in this without struggling and trying to fit the bike in your car.
Best 11 Bike Racks
In today’s market, you will encounter different types of bike carriers, all with the same purpose – making it easy for you to transport your bike from one place to another. In this guide, we have reviewed the top eleven best bike racks. Stay with us to find out which car mount for a bike is the best for you!
Küat Sherpa 2.0, Hitch Bike Rack
The Küat Sherpa 2.0 Hitch Bike Rack is easy to use, durable, and very stylish. The Sherpa, available in three colors and 1.25-inch and 2-inch hitch sizes, transitions up and down with ease via a vast lever and fits two bikes (max: 40 pounds each, 47-inch wheelbase, three-inch tires) on its lightweight aluminum platform. Assembly is straightforward (must follow the instructions when removing parts, as the packaging serves as an assembly fixture), and a hitch cam allows you to hand-tighten the rack to the receiver for a secure connection.
Loading bikes onto the trays of this rack is simple. The rear wheel is secured in place by a ratcheting strap, and the front is supported by an adjustable, hooked arm batten. In addition, the whole system is hitch-locked, and a semi-integrated cable allows you to lock your bikes to the rack.
Key features
- Two bike capacity up to 40 lbs.
- Holds wheelbases up to 47.”
- Holds 3″ tires
- Increased spacing between bikes to 14-inch
Pros
- You can tighten the hitch cam by hand for a secure fit in the receiver
- Integrated cable lock
Cons
- Trays aren’t staggered.
Social proof
Küat Sherpa 2.0, Hitch Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.8 out of 5 with over 1,062 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Küat Sherpa 2.0 Hitch Bike Rack has a:
- 4.8 score for sturdiness
- 4.8 score for lock features
- 4.8 score for easy to install
- 4.5 score for easy to assemble.
Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR, Hitch Bike Rack
The Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR, Hitch Bike Rack fits nearly all types of bikes up to 60 pounds, making it an excellent choice for carbon frames, mountain bikes, e-bikes, fat bikes, children’s bikes, and much more. The integrated wheels on the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR, Hitch Bike Rack make it easy to maneuver the rack when it’s off your vehicle. The HitchSwitch lever allows you to easily access the back of your vehicle by tilting the rack down for access or up when not in use. Bike transport is made safer and more secure with integrated locking systems.
The rack is secured to the hitch receiver by integrated cable locks, and the locking knob connects it to the hitch receiver. Furthermore, this rack provides a generous 12.5″ spacing between bikes and the ability to adjust side to side to avoid bike interference. Finally, the AutoAttach system simplifies and eliminates the need for tools during installation and removal.
Key features
- The HitchSwitch lever
- It fits 20 – 29″ wheels
- It fits up to 5″ tires
- Generous 12.5″ spacing between bikes
- AutoAttach system
Pros
- Super easy installation
- Zero frame contact
- Robust and e-bike ready
Cons
- On the expensive side compared to other hitch racks
Social proof
Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR, Hitch Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 1,063 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR Hitch Bike Rack has a:
- 4.7 score for sturdiness
- 4.1 score for lock features
- 4.5 score for easy to install
- 4.2 score for easy to assemble.
Saris Bones 2-4 Bikes, Trunk or Hitch
The Saris Bones 2-4 Bike trunk or hitch rack is a lightweight, easily adjustable trunk rack that installs quickly and securely. The center spline design allows you to quickly and easily adjust the position of your arms and legs, and the mounts can accommodate both narrow and wide top tubes.
This trunk rack fits 90% of the top vehicles on the market, even those with spoilers, and it has the most vehicle suitability of any trunk rack in the industry (2 bikes, 35 lbs each). The Saris Bones 2-4 Bike Trunk Rack is made entirely of recyclable materials, and the incorporated strap management prevents straps from flapping.
Key features
- 100% recyclable materials
- Injection-molded arms and legs
- Best-in-class ratchet straps
- Fits 90% of the top vehicles sold
Pros
- Easy to install and adjust with no tools
- Adapts to a great range of trunk shapes
Cons
- Unsuitable for bikes with unusual frame shapes
Social proof
Saris Bones 2-4 Bikes, Trunk or Hitch, has an Amazon score of 4.4 out of 5 with over 3,401 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Saris Bones 2-4 Bikes, Trunk or Hitch has a:
- 4.1 score for sturdiness
- 4.5 score for lightweight
- 4.1 score for easy to install
- 4.4 score for easy to assemble
- 4.0 score for value for money
- 3.7 score for security features.
Fox Racing Tailgate Cover
The Fox Tailgate Cover is made from high-quality padding to provide the best protection for your bike, truck, and gear. The Fox Tailgate Cover is available in two sizes (small and large) and two colors (black and camo).
The simple pad accommodates five bikes and fits midsize trucks, while the large pad accommodates six bikes and fits full-size vehicles. Small fits and mid-sized trucks can hold on to five bikes: 54 in. x 33.5 in. x 16 inches. Most full-size trucks can fit a large tailgate cover that can hold up to six bikes: 62 in. x 34 in. x 19 inches.
Attaching and removing the pad takes three minutes, thanks to three webbing straps that loop around the tailgate. The Tailgate Cover’s plastic outer layer is easy to wipe down.
Key features
- Made with premium padding
- Fox Head logo
- Easy access to the truck
- Easy access to the tailgate handle
Pros
- Available in two sizes
Cons
- No separation pads
Social proof
Fox Racing Tailgate Cover has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 1,109 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Fox Racing Tailgate Cover has a:
- 4.2 score for sturdiness
- 4.8 score for durability
- 4.2 score for easy to install
- 4.3 score for easy to use
- 4.0 score for value for money
- 4.9 score for quality of the material.
Allen Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Carrier
Sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs can all use the Allen Sports Two Bike Trunk Carrier. Its patented design is simple to set up and transports your bicycles safely around town or across the country. On your vehicle, two side straps provide exceptional lateral stability. Your bikes are individually secured and protected by a patented tie-down system.
This bike rack features the narrow set carry arms for easy bike loading. The narrow set carry arms on this bike rack make loading bikes a breeze. The carry arms can be used with a variety of bicycle frame styles and sizes. Most adult-sized bicycles and most women’s and children’s frames can be easily mounted on the rack.
Key features
- Alloy steel material
- Foldable
- Fully assembled
- Patented tie-down system
Pros
- Rugged design
- Highly durable
- Sets up in seconds
Cons
- Some users claim that it tends to hide the rear license plate.
Social proof
Allen Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Carrier has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 32,395 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Allen Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Carrier has a:
- 3.9 score for sturdiness
- 4.3 score for easy to assemble
- 4.2 score for easy to install
- 4.1 score for easy to use
- 3.9 score for lock feature
- 3.9 score for security features.
Yakima HighRoad, Roof Rack
The Yakima HighRoad Roof Rack is Yakima’s newest premium upright bike mount. This contemporary rack features a secure, sleek, easy to install, and easy-to-use design.
The TorqueRight tightening knob on the adjustment-free hoop allows almost every bike, road, or mountain, with tires up to 4.00 inches, to be loaded quickly and easily for safe, secure travel. In addition, two SKS Locks (sold separately) can be used to secure the bike to the base rack and lock it in place. The HighRoad is crafted with a forward shift and low profile and provides excellent hatch clearance. This rack can be converted to a T-slot crossbar attachment.
Key features
- Streamlined protection
- New integrated TorqueRight tightening knob
- Roof rack mounting
- Wheels mounting
Pros
- Secure
- Durable
- Simple to install and use
Cons
- Some users claim that it doesn’t fit wheel sizes smaller than 26.”
Social proof
Yakima HighRoad Roof Rack has an Amazon score of 4.8 out of 5 with over 308 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Yakima HighRoad Roof Rack has a:
- 4.8 score for easy to install
- 4.8 score for easy to use
- 4.4 score for value for money.
Allen Sports Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike
The Allen Sports Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike combines all of the advantages of a full-featured bicycle carrier with Allen’s patented folding design for ease of use and comfort. This racks’ rugged steel frame allows for easy transport and storage when not in use. In addition, the dual compound tie-down cradles secure and protect your bicycle.
The main spine of the Allen Ultra-Compact Rack has a big soft TPR landing pad to help shield your bicycles during transport and keep them away from your car. The AL and MT racks have a patented design that fits most sedans, SUVs, hatchbacks, and minivans and can be folded down to the size of a shoebox.
Key features
- Alloy steel material
- Made in the USA or imported
- Ultra-compact one bike carrier
- Fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs
- Three padded legs rest against the vehicle
- Tie-downs and padding
- Three adjustable security straps
- Fully assembled for easy installation
Pros
- Folds up small
- Fits inside carrying bag or backpack
Cons
- Some reviewers claim that it doesn’t work with some of the listed vehicle models.
Social proof
Allen Sports Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.2 out of 5 with over 5,666 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Allen Sports Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack has a:
- 3.8 score for sturdiness
- 4.2 score for easy to assemble
- 4.0 score for easy to install
- 3.4 score for security features.
Allen Sports Three-Bike Hitch Rack Deluxe
With the Allen Sports Three-Bike Hitch Rack Deluxe, you can transport up to three bicycles on long drives or camping trips. The hitch insert, which fits 1-1/4- and 2-inch receiver hitches, is simple to use and keeps your bikes safe. All you have to do is connect it to your hitch, then use the tie-down cradle system to protect and secure each bike individually. The carry arm can accommodate a wide range of frame sizes and designs, so you can confidently carry your child’s mountain bike or adult’s road bike.
In addition, the rack can tilt back for easy lift-gate access and folds entirely out of the way when not in use, so you don’t have to remove your bikes to get to the back of your SUV or truck. The Allen Sports Three-Bike Hitch Rack Deluxe has a black powder-coated finish and includes a no-wobble bolt to retain the rack from moving within the hitch.
Key features
- Sturdy steel construction
- Black powder coat finish
- Three bike rack fits vehicles with a 1.25 or 2-inch trailer hitch
- 16-inch long carry arms
- Easy assembly
- No-wobble hitch installation
- Folding carry arms
- Individual tie-down
Pros
- When you’re not using the rack, the folding carry arms quickly fold out of the way.
- The rack is set up and installed in less than five minutes.
Cons
- Some reviewers claim that the straps break off easily.
Social proof
Allen Sports Three-Bike Hitch Rack Deluxe has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 3,936 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Allen Sports Three-Bike Hitch Rack Deluxe has a:
- 4.4 score for easy to lock
- 4.6 score for easy to assemble
- 4.5 score for easy to install
- 4.3 score for lock feature.
BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier
BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier is innovative and modern, designed exclusively to assist commuting, recreational, and touring bikers. Thanks to the latest designed features on the product, it gives users convenience, comfort, and extra style while riding.
The BV Bike Carrier Hitch Rack is the easiest way of transporting your bicycles. Users can have full access and even open the rear gates without detaching the hitch rack thanks to the backward tilt design.
The three-point connection system, which consists of two tray-style arms on the bottom and one vertical arm on top, secures each bike. Such a system prevents the bike from wobbling while riding.
Key features
- Bike compatibility – bikes under 35 lbs each, and 3″ maximum tire width
- Tilt back design
- Fold up design
- Safety reflector
- Tray-styled loops
- Padded arms
- Anti-wobble design
Pros
- Features a rear safety reflector to improve visibility and ensure night driving safety.
- Users can access the rear gates without disconnecting the hitch rack thanks to the tilt backward design.
Cons
- Some users claim that bolts tend to fail early.
Social proof
BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier has an Amazon score of 4.5 out of 5 with over 1,296 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier has a:
- 4.3 score for easy to lock
- 4.5 score for easy to assemble
- 4.6 score for easy to install
- 4.6 score for sturdiness.
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Bike Rack
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Bike Rack is designed to accommodate most rear-mounted spare tires. Its one-of-a-kind design sets up in seconds and transports your bicycles safely around town or across the country.
Additionally, a metal frame and two lower ‘Sure Straps’ provide outstanding vehicle stability. Allen’s individual tie-down system keeps your bikes safe and protected. The tie-downs on the carry arm are fixed in place, but they rotate to satisfy a variety of bike frame types and shapes.
The comprehensive profile lower foot supports the weight of the rack and bike on the tire rather than the rim of the rear-mounted spare tire. The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Bike Rack’s unique design will accommodate most overly large spare tires.
Key features
- 15 inches long carry arms
- Patented individual tie-down cradles
- Extra-wide bottom foot
- Minor assembly required
- Rugged powder-coated finish
Pros
- Fits almost all externally mounted spare tires, including those with third brake lights that extend over the tire.
- Installs in seconds.
Cons
- This rack is not compatible with the 2018 Wrangler JL model.
Social proof
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Bike Rack has an Amazon score of 4.6 out of 5 with over 2,091 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Bike Rack has a:
- 4.5 score for easy to use
- 4.6 score for durability
- 4.6 score for lightweight
- 4.4 score for easy to assemble
- 4.4 score for easy to install
- 3.9 score for sturdiness.
Delta Cycle & Home Bike Hitch Pro Truck Bed Bike Mount
With the Delta Cycle & Home Bike Hitch Pro Truck Bed Bike Mount, you can secure your bicycle in the back of your SUV, in your pickup, or even on top of your car. The Bike Hitch Pro 2 works with the Delta StableLoader, Wheel Hitch, or Wheel Holder to keep your bike from wobbling around while you’re out on the trails or in the country.
The mount comes with a 9mm skewer and Delta’s patented locking lever for added security. Fork installation is made more accessible with the mount’s pre-aligned placement. In addition, thanks to a specific anti-rust treatment and a rugged powder-coat finish, the Bike Hitch Pro 2 can withstand all the elements.
Key features
- Lockable bike fork rack
- Versatile bike fork mount
- Quick assembly
Pros
- High-quality construction
- Rugged and modern design
Cons
- Some reviewers claim that the bolt and nut are not stainless steel.
Social proof
Delta Cycle & Home Bike Hitch Pro Truck Bed Bike Mount has an Amazon score of 4.7 out of 5 with over 575 global reviews.
Based on customer reviews, the Delta Cycle & Home Bike Hitch Pro Truck Bed Bike Mount has a:
- 4.5 score for easy to lock
- 4.4 score for easy to install
- 4.3 score for lock feature.
What to Look For When Buying a Bike Rack
Before purchasing your bike rack, it is crucial to figure out what your needs are. When in the market for a bike rack, you should consider what type of bike rack you need, how secure they are, and how many bikes you will need to carry on your rack.
Type of rack
The type of rack you choose depends on what you want to carry. If you intend to carry bikes only and you won’t use your rack for anything else, we suggest you purchase a trunk or hitch rack.
Another factor determining the type of rack you choose is the type of bike you want to transport. Bike weight, wheel size, and frame component can all influence which type of bike rack is best suited to your needs. For instance, electronic bike lovers will want a car rack that can bear a load of an e-bike (most of which weigh more than 50 pounds), whereas fat bike owners will want wheel scoops that can accommodate larger-sized treads.
Roof rack
As the name implies, a roof mount rack attaches to the top of your car and can be either a fork or upright mount, giving you the most adaptability in loading your bike while leaving your trunk free for other important items.
Some roof racks are created to lock both wheels, while others need the front wheel to be removed before loading. Whatever model you choose, both will come with locks to keep your bikes secure. Models were removing the front wheel is required are often easier to load, whereas those that allow you to keep both wheels require some effort. They are more expensive and, unfortunately, less stable, but using them eliminates the need to remove and reinstall wheels constantly.
Hitch rack
Hitch racks, which come in tray and mast mounts and are designed to attach to a car’s tow hitch, are ideal for bikers who need a quick and easy way to load bike racks. Hitch carriers are undoubtedly the most versatile bike racks on the market, thanks to premium features such as lightweight construction, built-in locks, and repair stands.
Hitch racks have a secure locking mechanism that connects the rack to the vehicle and the bike to the rack, making either piece of equipment extremely difficult to steal. They also have depended on load sections that allow users to access the trunk of a car without unloading the bike.
Trunk rack
Trunk bike racks are designed to be attached to the back of a car using straps that grip the lip of the trunk. They are the best option to consider if you are on a tight budget because they are frequently the lowest-priced options. They’re so simple to adjust that they’ll fit the back of almost any vehicle. They are portable and convenient for on-the-go use.
When it comes to attaching, trunk mounts can be difficult to attach, so you may need to enlist the assistance of another person or spend some time getting the entire system in place correctly.
Also, if you don’t pay more attention when mounting, they can be ruthless on your car’s paint and may even leave scratch marks. Cleaning the areas where the pads sit of dirt/sand before attaching the rack can help prevent scratches.
Tailgate pads
Tailgate pads are essentially what their name implies: long rectangular pads that bend over, cover, and attach to your truck’s tailgate. This acts as a barrier between your bikes and your truck, preventing direct contact between the two and causing harm to both. Furthermore, the pad helps secure the bikes in place, preventing them from moving and coming into contact with one another. This is particularly important if you’re worried about your truck or bike’s paint, visual appeal, or resale value.
Security
Security is the number one factor you should consider before buying your bike rack. The best bike racks have anti-theft features inserted. A bike rack that features the locking system will give you extra confidence since it hinders thieves from stealing, and your items will always be safe.
In addition, how safe your bike rack turns out to be will depend on the installation process. Make sure that you read the guide carefully and install your rack correctly since it will have a big saying on your bike’s overall safety.
Number of bikes
Every bike rack, despite the model, has a different number of cradles, and each is designed to carry just one bike at a time. So, once you’ve determined how many bicycles you’d like to transport, look for a rack that’s up to the task.
The weight limit of the rack, as well as the number of bikes it can carry, are both important considerations. You don’t want to overlook this factor when deciding how many bikes to transport.
Knowing how many pounds a rack can support is a no-brainer. Keep an eye on the manufacturer’s recommended weight if the rack only holds one bike. Manufacturers will frequently indicate weight per bike if it carries more than one bike.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that every detail has been thought out when it comes to bike racks and their possibilities. If you are the kind of person who likes to take your bike on an adventure, there will for sure be a rack that suits your needs. It will help if you start by assessing your vehicle and your type of bike, and then take it from there. Hopefully, this article provides you with the key information necessary to make the best decision. Remember, when driving, safety is of the utmost, so a rack that allows for rear visibility will always be a safe bet.
