If you're an avid cyclist who loves to explore new terrains, it's essential to have a reliable bike rack for your car. However, with so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to find the best bike rack for your needs. In this article, we'll guide you through the key points you should consider when looking for the best bike racks for cars.
Firstly, you need to consider the type of bike rack you need. There are three main types of bike racks; roof-mounted, hitch-mounted, and trunk-mounted. Each type has its own set of pros and cons, and you need to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Secondly, you need to consider the number of bikes you want to carry. Some bike racks can carry up to five bikes, while others can only carry one or two. You need to choose a bike rack that can accommodate the number of bikes you want to carry.
Thirdly, you need to consider the compatibility of the bike rack with your car. Not all bike racks are compatible with all cars, and you need to choose a bike rack that fits your car's make and model.
Fourthly, you need to consider the security features of the bike rack. A good bike rack should have a locking mechanism that keeps your bikes secure while you're driving.
Finally, you need to consider the price of the bike rack. Bike racks can range from $50 to $500, and you need to choose a bike rack that fits your budget.
In summary, when looking for the best bike racks for cars, you need to consider the type of bike rack, the number of bikes you want to carry, the compatibility with your car, the security features, and the price.
10 Best Bike Racks For Cars
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1. Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102dn-R , Black
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DN-R, Black is a patented bike rack that is designed to fit sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. With a capacity to hold up to 70 pounds, this trunk mount rack comes fully assembled and installs in seconds.
The rack features 12-inch long carry arms that can easily accommodate a wide range of bicycle styles, and 115-inch wide carry arms for greater bike compatibility. The single configuration design eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation, and the side straps provide increased lateral stability.
Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles, while the padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from the vehicle. This bike rack folds fully flat for easy storage when not in use.
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is shipped in certified frustration-free packaging, and the manufacturer's warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship. It is important to consult the manufacturer's website for specific vehicle fit information before purchasing this bike rack.
Overall, the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a convenient and reliable option for transporting bicycles on the go. Its sturdy construction and easy installation make it a favorite among cycling enthusiasts who need a versatile bike rack that can be used on a variety of vehicles.
2. Maxxhaul 2-Bike Hitch Mount Platform Rack With Tightener For Vehicles.
The MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a platform style bike rack that can carry up to two bikes on cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans with a standard 2" hitch receiver. With a maximum distributed weight capacity of 75 lbs. or up to 40 lbs. per bike, this bike rack is perfect for transporting your bikes on your next outdoor adventure.
The bike rack features foam-padded hooks that secure and stabilize the bikes to the rack without scratching their finish. The hooks and tire cradles can be adjusted to fit most bike frames with 20" to 26" wheel sizes. The vertical post can be quickly removed for compact storage when not in use.
The bike tire cradles can be adjusted along horizontal bars using quick knobs for convenience and includes rubber straps for added stability. The wheel cradle accommodates tires up to 2-1/4" wide, making it suitable for a wide range of bike types.
To ensure a secure and stable ride, the MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack comes with a hitch tightened/anti-rattle hitch stabilizer. This feature reduces rattling and hitch play, providing a quiet and stable ride for your bikes.
The MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is easy to install and fits Class III and IV standard 2" hitch receivers. The bike rack is also patent-pending, ensuring that you get a unique and innovative product that meets your biking needs.
In summary, the MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is an excellent choice for transporting your bikes on your next adventure. Its adjustable features and compatibility with various bike types make it a versatile option, while its anti-rattle hitch stabilizer ensures a safe and stable ride.
3. Weize Hitch Bike Rack, Wobble Free, Tilting, Folding, 2-Bike Capacity For Standard, Fat Tire, And Electric Bikes, 120 Lbs, 2-Inch Receiver.
The WEIZE Hitch Bike Rack is a wobble-free and smart tilting folding bicycle car rack that is designed to carry standard, fat tire, and electric bikes. With a weight capacity of 120 lbs, it can accommodate two bikes, each weighing up to 60 lbs. The rack is constructed with reinforced steel, making it durable and powerful enough to withstand the rigors of transportation.
One of the key benefits of this hitch bike rack is its fuel economy. Unlike roof racks, the hitch mount design reduces wind resistance, which can save up to 30% on fuel costs. Additionally, the rack is designed to be anti-scratch, with foam-padded clamps and hitch tighteners that prevent the bicycles from swaying and damaging the car's paintwork.
The WEIZE bike rack features a convenient design that is versatile and easy to use. The tilting function allows for access to the back of your vehicle even when loaded with bikes (not suitable for swing-out tailgate), while the removable platform can be adjusted for 1 or 2 bikes carrying. The folding design also makes it easy to store the rack when not in use.
This bike rack is highly compatible with a range of bikes, including those with 17-29 inch wheels, up to 63-1/3 inch wheelbase, and up to 5 inch tires. It is designed to fit a 2-inch receiver and comes equipped with safety straps, security hitch locks, hitch tighteners, and other necessary hardware. If anything is missing, the manufacturer offers to re-send it for free.
The WEIZE Hitch Bike Rack comes with a 1-year free-return guarantee for any product quality problems. The manufacturer aims to provide quality followed up with quality customer service, and a satisfied solution will be given for any problems. The support team is always on standby to assist customers with any questions or concerns they may have.
In summary, the WEIZE Hitch Bike Rack is a durable, versatile, and convenient solution for transporting bikes. With its wobble-free design, anti-scratch features, and fuel-saving benefits, it is a great choice for anyone looking to transport their bikes safely and efficiently.
4. Yakima Fulltilt Hitch Mount Bike Rack: 4 Bikes, Anti-Sway, Lockable, Fits 1-1/4" And 2" Hitch Receivers.
The YAKIMA FullTilt Tilting Hitch Mount Hanging Bike Rack is the ultimate solution for transporting up to four bikes safely and securely. This rack is designed to accommodate any type of bike with traditional frame geometry, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and hybrids. For bikes with slanted top tubes, a TubeTop adapter can be purchased separately.
The FullTilt 4 is a hanging rack that allows you to easily load and unload your bikes. The fully padded arms provide ultimate protection for your bikes, while the Zero-hassle ZipStrips make it easy to secure them to the rack. With a maximum weight of 40 lbs. per bike, the FullTilt 4 can carry a total of 150 lbs.
This bike rack is compatible with both 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers right out of the box, and it comes fully assembled for your convenience. The UpperHand lever tilts the rack down to access the back of your vehicle, and it folds flat for easy storage when not in use. The AutoPin feature automatically positions and secures the rack into the hitch receiver, ensuring a hassle-free installation process.
The FullTilt 4 is designed with your gear's safety in mind. The tool-free locking SpeedKnob makes it quick and easy to install the rack onto your vehicle. Additionally, the included SKS cable lock system secures the rack and the bike mounts, providing peace of mind while you're on the road.
Overall, the YAKIMA FullTilt Tilting Hitch Mount Hanging Bike Rack is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to transport their bikes safely and easily. With its smart design and user-friendly features, this rack is sure to become an essential accessory for any cycling enthusiast.
5. Bell Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Platform Hitch Rack
The Bell Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Platform Hitch Rack is a high-quality bicycle carrier that is designed to make transporting bikes easy and stress-free. With the ability to carry up to three bicycles at once, this rack is perfect for families, cycling enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to transport multiple bikes on their vehicle.
One of the key features of the Bell Right Up 350 is its ability to accommodate bikes of various sizes. The rack can easily carry bikes ranging from 12 inches to 29 inches in size, making it suitable for most standard bikes. Additionally, the new trays on this model can accommodate tires up to 3 inches wide, making it ideal for mountain bikes and other bikes with wider tires.
Another benefit of the Bell Right Up 350 is its compatibility with both 1 ΒΌ-inch and 2-inch receivers. This means that the rack can be used with a wide range of vehicles, making it a versatile choice for anyone who needs to transport bikes. The hoops on the rack also help to stabilize the bikes during transport, reducing the risk of damage or shifting during transit.
Despite its ability to carry multiple bikes, the Bell Right Up 350 is also designed to be easy to store when not in use. The rack can be easily folded down, making it compact and easy to store in a garage or other storage area. This feature is especially useful for people who have limited space for storing large items.
It's important to note that the Bell Right Up 350 has a maximum weight capacity of 35 pounds per bike, with a total weight limit of 105 pounds. This means that it's important to properly distribute the weight of the bikes when loading them onto the rack, to ensure that they are safely and securely transported.
Overall, the Bell Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Platform Hitch Rack is a top-quality bike carrier that offers a range of benefits for cyclists and bike enthusiasts. With its ability to carry multiple bikes, accommodate various sizes and types of bikes, and its easy storage when not in use, this is a versatile and reliable choice for anyone who needs to transport bikes on their vehicle.
6. Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier For 2 Inch Hitch, Model 542qr, Black
The Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier for 2 Inch Hitch, Model 542QR, Black is a highly versatile and secure way to transport up to four bicycles on your vehicle. It is designed to fit either 1 1/4 or 2 inch receiver hitches for the 2 and 3 bike models, or 2 inch receiver hitches for the 4 and 5 bike models. This makes it compatible with a wide range of vehicles, including cars, SUVs, and trucks.
One of the key features of this bike carrier is its quick install hitch, which allows you to easily secure and tighten the rack inside the receiver hitch. This means that you can quickly and easily install or remove the bike carrier as needed. The hitch also comes with two keys, so you can lock your bikes onto the carrier for added security.
When not in use, the arms of the bike carrier can be folded out of the way to reduce the overall size of the rack. This makes it easier to store the carrier in your vehicle or garage. Additionally, the rack can be tilted back when needed to provide access to the rear of your vehicle.
Individual tie downs are used to secure and protect each bicycle on the carrier. This ensures that they remain in place during transport and are not damaged in transit. The bike carrier is also designed to accommodate a wide range of bicycle frame designs, including women's bikes and bikes with non-traditional frames.
It is important to note that Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers. This means that if you purchase the Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier from a third-party seller, you may not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.
Overall, the Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier for 2 Inch Hitch, Model 542QR, Black is a high-quality and versatile bike carrier that is suitable for a wide range of vehicles and bicycles. Its quick install hitch, folding arms, and individual tie downs make it easy to use and secure, while its compatibility with a wide range of bicycle frame designs ensures that it can transport almost any bike.
7. Maxxhaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack For Cars, Trucks, Suv's, Minivans – 100 Lb. Capacity
The MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack is a reliable and durable solution for transporting bikes on cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans. The product features an improved hitch adapter that fits standard 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers, making it compatible with Class I, II, III, and IV hitches. The maximum capacity of the bike rack is 100 lbs, with a maximum weight limit of 50 lbs per bike.
The bike rack includes improved bike cradles and buckle type straps that securely hold the bikes in place during transport. The built-in locking knob keeps the main upright sturdy, reducing wobble during transport and ensuring the safety of the bikes. The bike rack is also designed with a pad color that may slightly differ from the image shown.
The MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack is easy to install, with no tools required. The product comes with clear and concise instructions that guide users through the installation process. The bike rack is designed with a compact and lightweight frame that can be easily stored when not in use.
This bike rack is an excellent option for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable solution for transporting bikes on their vehicle. The product is constructed with high-quality materials that ensure durability and longevity. The bike rack is also designed with safety in mind, ensuring that the bikes are securely held in place during transport.
In conclusion, the MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack is an excellent investment for anyone who frequently transports bikes on their vehicle. The product is easy to install, durable, and secure, making it an ideal solution for transporting bikes on cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans. The bike rack is also backed by a manufacturer's warranty, ensuring that customers can purchase with confidence.
8. Yakima Highroad Wheel-On Bike Mount For Rooftop Racks – Carries 1 Bike
The YAKIMA HighRoad Wheel-On Upright Bike Mount is a premium transport option for bikers who need a reliable and safe way to carry their bikes on the roof of their cars, SUVs, or other vehicles. With a capacity to carry almost any road or mountain bike with wheelbases up to 48 inches and 26 to 29-inch wheels and tires from 23mm to 4 inches, this bike mount is a versatile solution for bikers of all levels.
One of the standout features of this bike mount is its low profile tray, which minimizes hatch interference, making it easier to load and unload bikes. Additionally, the mount does not require any wheel removal, and there is no contact with the bike frame, making it an ideal option for carbon fiber bikes and custom paint jobs.
To use the YAKIMA HighRoad Wheel-On Upright Bike Mount, bikers need a roof rack with a crossbar spread between 18 and 35 inches. The tool-free, universal mounting hardware fits most roof racks, and the mount is T-Slot compatible with SmarT-Slot conversion kit (sold separately). This allows for easy installation and compatibility with a range of vehicles.
The mount also features a precise, integrated TorqueRight tightening knob, allowing bikers to quickly and easily adjust and secure their bikes. For added peace of mind, bikers can add 2 SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) to the included TailWhip cable to lock their bike and mount to their base rack (not included).
Overall, the YAKIMA HighRoad Wheel-On Upright Bike Mount is a premium, reliable, and safe option for bikers looking to transport their bikes on the roof of their vehicle. The low profile tray, tool-free installation, and precise tightening knob make it easy to use, while the compatibility with a range of vehicles and the option to add locks provide added security.
9. Saris Bones 805 2 Bike Trunk Mount Rack
The Saris Bones 805 2 Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a high-quality accessory for transporting bikes on the go. This product is built to last with injection-molded arms and legs that are the strongest on the market. Additionally, the rack is constructed with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials, making it an eco-friendly option for bike enthusiasts.
The ratcheting hold downs on this trunk mount rack are extremely easy to adjust, providing a secure fit for your bikes. The injection-molded arms and legs add to the stability of the rack, ensuring that your bikes will stay in place while in transit.
Another key feature of the Saris Bones 805 2 Bike Trunk Mount Rack is the ratcheting anti-sway straps. These straps are designed to secure and stabilize the bikes, preventing them from swaying or shifting during transport. This feature provides additional peace of mind for users, knowing that their bikes are secure and protected.
The arc-based design of this trunk mount rack is another impressive feature. It is designed to fit over most spoilers, making it a versatile option for different types of vehicles. Additionally, the arc-based design separates bikes on different levels, providing ample space for two bikes to be transported without interfering with each other.
Overall, the Saris Bones 805 2 Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a reliable and durable accessory for bike enthusiasts who want to transport their bikes safely and securely. Its injection-molded arms and legs, ratcheting hold downs, and anti-sway straps provide the necessary features for a hassle-free and worry-free bike transport experience. Additionally, its eco-friendly construction and arc-based design make it a versatile and sustainable option for bike enthusiasts who want to minimize their environmental impact.
Best Bike Racks For Cars FAQs
Are there any bike racks for cars that won't damage the vehicle's paint or finish?
Yes, there are bike racks for cars that won't damage the vehicle's paint or finish. One such option is a trunk-mounted bike rack, which uses straps and padding to secure the rack to the car's trunk without scratching or damaging the paint. Another option is a hitch-mounted bike rack, which attaches to the car's hitch receiver and does not touch the vehicle's body at all. Roof-mounted bike racks can also be a good option since they do not touch the car's body, but they do require a roof rack to be installed on the vehicle. It is important to choose a bike rack that is specifically designed for your make and model of car to ensure a secure and safe fit. Additionally, regularly cleaning and maintaining the bike rack can help prevent any damage to the vehicle's paint or finish.
How do you choose the right type of bike rack for your specific car model and bike size?
Choosing the right type of bike rack for your car model and bike size requires some research and consideration. Firstly, determine what type of rack will work best for your car- roof-mounted, trunk-mounted, or hitch-mounted. Roof-mounted racks are ideal for larger cars with roof rails, while trunk-mounted racks are suitable for smaller cars without roof rails. Hitch-mounted racks are the most versatile and can fit most car models.
Next, consider the size and weight of your bike. Ensure that the rack you choose can accommodate the weight and size of your bike. Some racks may require additional attachments or adapters to fit certain bike sizes or styles.
Lastly, read reviews and check compatibility charts to ensure that the rack you choose is compatible with your car model and bike size. It is also recommended to consult with a bike rack specialist or your local bike shop for expert advice on the best rack for your specific needs.
What are the best bike racks for cars with limited trunk space?
When it comes to choosing the best bike rack for cars with limited trunk space, there are a few options to consider. One option is a roof-mounted bike rack, which can be a great choice for smaller cars as they don't take up any additional space. However, it's important to note that roof-mounted bike racks can be more difficult to load and unload, and can also affect the car's fuel efficiency.
Another option is a hitch-mounted bike rack, which attaches to the car's hitch receiver. These racks can be more convenient to load and unload, and can accommodate multiple bikes. However, they can also be bulky and heavy, which can be a concern for smaller cars.
Finally, trunk-mounted bike racks are another option to consider. These racks attach to the car's trunk or hatchback and are typically lightweight and easy to install. However, they can also limit access to the trunk and may require additional straps for added security.
Ultimately, the best bike rack for a car with limited trunk space will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What are the highest-rated bike racks for cars with hitch receivers?
As per expert reviews and customer feedback, the following are some of the highest-rated bike racks for cars with hitch receivers:
1. Thule T2 Pro XT: This rack is known for its sturdy construction, easy installation, and ability to carry bikes of various sizes and styles.
2. Yakima HoldUp EVO: This rack features a tool-free installation process, adjustable wheel cradles, and a tilting feature for easy access to the rear of the vehicle.
3. Kuat NV 2.0: This rack is praised for its sleek design, durable build, and user-friendly features such as a foot-activated pivot system and adjustable cradles.
4. Saris Superclamp EX: This rack is known for its lightweight yet robust build, easy installation, and ability to securely hold bikes without frame contact.
5. RockyMounts BackStage: This rack is popular for its unique swing-away design, which allows users to access the rear of the vehicle without having to remove the bikes.
Overall, these bike racks are highly rated for their quality, durability, and ease of use, making them excellent choices for anyone in need of a reliable bike carrier for their car.
Which bike racks are most secure for transporting expensive bikes on cars?
When it comes to transporting expensive bikes on cars, it is essential to choose a secure bike rack to prevent any damage or theft. The most secure bike racks are those that use locking mechanisms to secure the bikes to the rack and the rack to the car.
One of the most secure bike racks is the hitch-mounted rack, which attaches to the car's hitch receiver and is locked in place. These racks can hold multiple bikes and have individual locks for each bike to prevent theft. Another secure option is the roof-mounted rack, which requires the bike to be lifted onto the car's roof and secured with a locking mechanism.
Trunk-mounted racks are also an option, but they are generally less secure than hitch or roof-mounted racks. However, some trunk-mounted racks have locking mechanisms to secure the bikes to the rack and the rack to the car.
Overall, the most secure bike racks for transporting expensive bikes on cars are those that use locking mechanisms and are attached directly to the car, such as hitch or roof-mounted racks.