Top Best 2 Inch Hitch Bike Rack: Best Choices For Shopping In 2024
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Allen Sports Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier for 2 Inch Hitch
The Allen Sports Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier for 2 Inch Hitches is the perfect bike rack for your truck or SUV. It fits standard 2 inch receivers and folds flat when not in use. Arms fold out of the way when not in use and rack tilts back when needed, so you can easily load or unload bikes. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack , Black, 2-Inch Receiver
Swagman's XC2 is the most versatile bike rack on the market, easily fitting a wide range of bikes from hybrid mountain bikes to BMXs and folding bikes. The durable steel construction makes it lightweight and easy to use. The ratchet arms adjust to fit different frame sizes, while the uniquely designed arms keep your bike securely in place with no-slip rubber pads on each arm. Read Review
3. Best Choice: IKURAM R 4 Bike Rack Bicycle Carrier Racks Hitch Mount
IKURAM R 4 Bike Carrier Rack is a bike carrier rack that offers the convenience of easy tilt-down access to the rear of your vehicle. The IKURAM R 4 Bike Carrier Rack is designed with dual-arms and optimized spacing to accommodate bikes of a wide range of frame sizes and designs, making it more stable and easily accommodating up to 4 bikes. Read Review
4. Best Convenient: KAC K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack 2-Bike Platform Style Carrier f
With tire and frame straps, locking adjustable padded frame hooks, and a locking anti-wobble hitch system, your bike is safe and secure from bumps, bangs, and theft on this powder-coated, heavy-duty hitch bike rack. KAC will replace defective parts or materials for as long as you own your rack. Read Review
Do you want to transport your bikes without worrying about them getting damaged? If yes, then you need a hitch bike rack. These racks attach to the back of your vehicle and help in carrying your bikes safely without any risk of damage. These are some of the best 2-inch hitch bike racks that can help you carry your bikes with ease.
With the rise in popularity of Bicycles as a mode of transportation, more and more people are opting for this as an alternate source of transportation. However, it becomes difficult to store these bicycles in one place or garage. Thus, we will discuss some of the best 2-inch hitch bike racks that can help you keep your bicycles conveniently while maintaining their protection at the same time.
Our experts have determined the models that would be the greatest fit for your requirements, specifically Allen Sports Locking Quick Release 4-Bike Carrier for 2 Inch Hitch, after doing extensive study and analysis over a considerable time. Consider Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack , Black, 2-Inch Receiver as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!
RELATED: The top best 4 bike rack of the 2024 on the market, but the only one you should be aware of. We analyze and evaluate all of the top-rated products for your specific needs.
Our Top Picks
- Arms fold out of the way when not in use and rack tilts back when needed
- Accommodates a wide range of bicycle frame designs
- Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles
- ACCESSORIES SOLD SEPARATELY: Fat tire wheel trays (64674), 1/2" Locking Hitch Pin (64029) or 1/2" Locking Hitch Pin and Security Cable (64031)
- EASY TO ASSEMBLE & USE: Only takes a few minutes to assemble and the upright ratchet arms easily adjusts to different bike frame sizes, will accommodate bike frames up to 59 cm (23.2")
- VERSATILE: Easily transports up to 2 bikes and is compatible with 1-1/4" and 2" receiver Hitch. Maximum weight capacity is 35Ibs per bike and fits 20" to 29" tire sizes
- 🎄Easy fold-down Arms: Be folded up quickly when bike racks not in use for compact transport and easy storage.
- 🎄Easy Tilt-Down Access £ºConvenient access to rear of vehicle with easy-to-use tilt-down feature
- LIMITED LIFETIME MANUFACTURER WARRANTY: KAC will replace defective parts or materials for as long as you own your rack. (Please note that use on RVs and 5th-wheel trailers is prohibited.)
- MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: This platform-style, hitch-mounted bike rack fits your 2-inch hitch receiver and supports the skinniest road bike to the fattest e-bike— and everything in between. Transport 1 or 2 bikes weighing a total of 120 lbs.
- 4 bike rack fits vehicles with a 2 inch trailer hitch only. Vehicle will require professionally installed Class III or IV 2 inches hitch to use this product
- Folding carry arms quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use. Minor assembly required.
- 22 inch long carry arms individually secure bicycles with Allen's patented tie down system
- 2 Bike capacity up to 60 lbs. each
- Adjustable front tire cradle system
- Fully integrated cable locks
- ANYTIME ACCESS: Reach for your gear without removing your bike rack. A quick-release tilt lever provides easy access to your vehicle’s rear cargo area, no bike unloading required. This rack creates a low profile and stores easily when not in use, thanks to its compact folding design.
- LIMITED LIFETIME MANUFACTURER WARRANTY: KAC will replace defective parts or materials for as long as you own your rack. (Please note that use on RVs and 5th-wheel trailers is prohibited.)
- MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: This platform-style, hitch-mounted bike rack fits your 2-inch hitch receiver and supports the skinniest road bike to the fattest e-bike— and everything in between. Transport up to 4 bikes weighing a total of 240 lbs.
- [ FOLDABLE AND TILT BACK DESIGN ] - The tilt backward design enables users to open the rear gates without detaching the hitch rack. User can fold up the rack when not in use. Smart idea to save space!
- [ EXTRA GIFT FOR YOUR SAFETY ] - Extra safety reflector and tie down strap including. Safety reflector to ensuring the night driving safety. And highly recommended to use safety strap to secure bikes more safely.
- [ QUICK RELEASE TILT DESIGN ] - Quick release handle easy to operate. Smart Tilting construction used to fold up and down rack more easily than hitch pin when carrying bikes.
- TILTABLE RACK: Access your car trunk with ease! Simply remove the safety pin and allow the bike rack to gently tilt downward while bikes are mounted on the rack, giving you access to the rear trunk
- CARRYING HANDLE / INTEGRATED WALL MOUNT HOOKS: When the rack is fully removed from the vehicle, and the rack is in the storage position, simply grab the carrying handle to move the rack around or hang the bike rack on the wall with integrated wall mount hooks to save your valuable space
- DURABLE AND FUEL ECONOMY: WEIZE platform bike rack is constructed with reinforced steel which makes it durable and powerful enough to carry 2 bikes weighing 60 lbs each. Besides, compare with roof rack, the hitch mount bike rack can save your cost of fuel up to 30% by reducing wind resistance.
- ANTI-SCRATCH: The trailer hitch bike rack features foam-padded clamp and hitch tightener to prevent the bicycle from swaying and damaging your car's paintwork.
Things To Look For When Buying best 2 inch hitch bike rack
There are numerous factors to consider when looking for the best 2 inch hitch bike rack to purchase. The easiest way to figure out the right one is to read reviews from people who have already purchased it.
Throughout this article, we will go over certain most important factors to consider when purchasing best 2 inch hitch bike rack. Please take your time reading and studying the items listed below!
Wheel Size And Tire Width Compatibility
Bike Frame Compatibility
Hanging racks may not work well if your bike is a mountain bike or step-through, as well as a smaller child's bike.
Bike Weight
Maximum weight capacity for a bike
If you plan on transporting heavy downhill mountain bikes or e-bikes, fat, and/or cruiser bikes, make sure to check the rack's weight limit. Each design listing will indicate the bike's maximum weight. This amount may vary greatly. For comparison, standard road and mountain bikes weigh less than 35 pounds. E-bikes, however, can be up to 50 pounds. We recommend that you upgrade to a more robust model if your weight is close to or above the max. It's worth it to avoid breaking the rack or invalidating your warranty.
Tilting Feature
Bike Capacity
Security
It only takes seconds for someone to steal your bicycle from the rack, whether you are going to a shop or just to get you home at night.
Your entire rack can be taken if someone is equipped with the right tools. If you don’t own a garage, this can pose a problem.
Hitch Receiver Size
If you intend to transport several heavy ebikes, the 2-inch larger hitch will be able to hold heavier loads. You'll also find adapters for most racks to accommodate both sizes.
Durability
Mounting Systems
This is most commonly used in platform racks. It is an arm that extends from the platform to ratchet down on your bike's tires. They secure the bike to the platform. They are often reinforced with straps that run around the wheel's bottom to increase security.
The strap system is used in every hanging rack that we have seen. It's strong and reliable, but it can be damaged or broken by users. Many straps secure bikes with at least two straps at every attachment point. Your bike could fall off if the shepherd's hook is broken (which happens very rarely).
Bike Wheelbase Compatibility
Ease Of Use
Hanging racks are a great option for a common bicycle, the diamond-frame. You can lift the bike and slide it on the rack. Once it is secured, you can bungee it to the front wheel. It also gives you the opportunity to do some bicep curls before going on your ride.
A platform rack is a better choice for bikes with heavier frames or unique designs. It is easier to transport the bike because it has a lower frame. Once you get it on you won't need to move it around to make adjustments. It can be difficult to hang a bike on a rack.
The ramp is often the most cost-effective option, but it's also the most convenient. You can simply place your bike on the platform rack using this feature. This feature is great for riders with heavy bikes such as e-bikes and cruisers.
RELATED: We make a detailed review of best 5 bike hitch rack to help you stop confusing and save time and effort.
FAQs
Why Are Bike Racks So Expensive?
A high-quality bike rack is essential if you are to keep your bicycle safe. Racks made of durable materials will last for years, protecting your investment. A cheap rack will cause damage to your bike or vehicle.
Can You Put A Bike Rack On Any Car?
You should find the right bike rack for your vehicle amongst many options. For some styles, you will need to attach a hitch or crossbars/tracks to the roof. Before you make a purchase, be sure to check the specifications on the rack.
Are Hitch Bike Racks Better?
Hitch racks can be a good option if your car has that capability. Mounts that attach to the hitch receiver are better than trunk racks and roof racks. They also protect your vehicle's finish.
These racks are also easier to set up than any other option. This is great news for those who don't need a rack in their car all day. It's attached with a steel pin so it takes only one step to attach it to a trailer hitch and then one to take it off when it's time to go.
Do All Bike Racks Fill All Cars?
Although most bikes racks can be adjusted, they are not universally compatible. There are simply too many shapes and sizes of bikes to make this possible.
You need to know the dimensions of your rear bumper if you are thinking of buying one. There are different rear racks that work well with various cars, such as saloons and hatchbacks. You can find the manufacturer's website to check which racks will fit your vehicle.
A roof rack that is not compatible with the current roof bars may also be incompatible. There are two types: the traditional square-profile or more modern, oval aero bars. Oval bars cut through air and reduce drag. They also produce less wind noise. Make sure your roof rack will fit with any shape of roof bar you choose.
What Is The Easiest Bike Rack To Use?
Each type of rack has its advantages. Hanging racks can be used if you don't have to lift your bike. You can secure your bike by placing it on the arms. Then tie the straps and bungee your front wheel.
The platform racks are easier to use than the cradles, but they require less muscle. They do require a little more effort to secure the bike. Swing-away racks make it easy to reach the rear of your bike. If you have a lot to carry (for example, camping trips), one of these racks might be a good choice. ).
What Is The Best Bike Rack For Four Bikes?
There are versions of both platform and hanging racks that can accommodate four bikes. The hanging racks are more difficult to protect your bikes as they attach from the top. The bikes can swing or hit each other while traveling thanks to this.
It is possible to space out fewer bikes, which reduces risk. Space is constrained with only four bikes. Make sure that your cradles are sufficiently spaced so the bikes don't collide, even with minimal swings.
Platform racks make this less problematic as bikes can be locked in place by both wheels. This adds stability and strength. Because the platform racks are lower, it's easier to place the bikes onto them.
Do Bike Racks Damage Your Car?
A hitch-mounted rack has a greater chance of being preferred to a trunk-mounted one. This is because the hitch does not have contact with the vehicle's body. It reduces rubbing on the paint. This keeps the rack from contacting any parts of the body where it could damage or dent.
No matter how careful a company takes when creating a rack system, human error is always possible. If the rack is not on the car, opening the hatchback can cause the rack to be lifted off the vehicle.
It can damage the rack and cause scratching. When you reach the back of your car, make sure that the rack is not in the way.
If you aren't careful, bikes can contact your car. Sometimes platform racks are used to transport the bike near a car's rear window. If the road is particularly bumpy, this can make it more likely that the handlebar will pass through the window.
This can be solved by moving the cradles closer to the windows. The front tire can hang unsupported, which could lead to it bumping into your car.
Although it's not as serious as breaking windows, the damage to the finish can be severe over time. This is a simple fix. To solve the problem, secure the wheel using a strap and bungee rope.
Which Car Bike Rack Is Best?
Each person will have their own opinion on the best bike rack for them. It's almost impossible to pick the right bike rack for each situation because there are so many factors.
It is best to determine your requirements and then choose the rack that best suits you. A good hang rack will allow you to easily transport your bicycle around the house.
A platform rack can be a great choice if you are concerned about keeping your bike clean and safe. People who have difficulty lifting their bikes from the platform rack are also able to use it.
You get more features the higher your price. Racks with high-end features include security levers and buttons, which makes them more user-friendly. You can also access the trunk with these racks without having to remove your bikes.
Consider the things you can live without, and what you really need. You'll be able to find the right rack by balancing your needs and spending budget.
How Do You Transport A Bike Without A Rack?
Some bikes can be put in the trunk, back or under the vehicle. However, it may not work if the front wheel is removed. You may not be able to accommodate some bikes in your vehicle. A friend who has a van can help you to transport your bicycle.
Conclusion
The best 2 inch hitch bike rack would be those who suit your needs and demands at the lowest possible cost. With more and more options available, it could be simple to find a design that satisfies all of these criteria. If you're not sure which one is best for you, take into account the Swagman XTC2 TILT Hitch Mount Bike Rack for another option.
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