Best Bicycle Cargo Rack In 2024: Top Picks And FAQs
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: IKURAM R 4 Bike Rack Bicycle Carrier Racks Hitch Mount Double Foldable Rack
With this bike carrier rack, you can transport your bikes with ease. This dual-arm bike carrier rack is designed to support bicycles of a wide range of frame sizes and designs. It will provide an optimal stable and easy to accommodate up to 4 bikes. The fold-down arms make it simple to store when not in use for compact transport and easy storage. Read Review
2. Runner Up: KAC K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack 2-Bike Platform Style Carrier for Bicycles
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. With its durable powder-coated steel construction, this bike carrier is designed to last for the long haul. Made for your bike, it boasts adjustable padded frame hooks and tire straps that keep your bike safe and secure on every ride. Read Review
3. Best Easy To Use: IKURAM R 2 Bike Rack Bicycle Carrier Racks Hitch Mount Double Foldable Rack
You don't have to worry about your cargo moving around in the back of your vehicle. The IKURAM R 2 is a bike rack that is designed with a rigid all steel construction, protective powder paint finish and backed by IKURAM's Lifetime Warranty. With its secure locking design, the IKURAM R 2 bike carrier rack fits into any standard hitch receiver. Read Review
4. Best Easy To Install: BELL Right Up 350 3-Bicycle Platform Hitch Rack
BELL Right Up 350 is the perfect hitch rack for cross-country travel. It fits most bikes with 11/4" and 2" receiver tubes, plus it's easy to store when not in use. The bike stabilizing hoops keep your bikes safe and secure during transport. Read Review
If you’re looking for a way to transport your bike more easily, you should consider getting a bicycle cargo rack. A cargo rack is a device that attaches to your bike and allows you to carry cargo. There are a variety of different types of cargo racks, and they come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
Which one is right for you depends on the type of bike you have and the type of cargo you’re planning to carry. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the different types of cargo racks and how they work. We’ll also give you a list of the best bicycle cargo racks for different types of bikes.
We think IKURAM R 4 Bike Rack Bicycle Carrier Racks Hitch Mount Double Foldable Rack is the best of the best among the top models. If you were dissatisfied with the preceding item, you have the option of selecting KAC K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack 2-Bike Platform Style Carrier for Bicycles as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.
Our Top Picks
- 🎄Rigid All Steel Constructed Bike Hitch Rack: Long-lasting and durable all steel construction with protective powder paint finish
- 🎄Dual-Arm Mounting Design: Optimized dual-arm bike carrier rack which spacing accommodates bicycles of a wide range of frame sizes and designs, more stable and easily accommodates up to 4 bikes.
- 🎄Easy fold-down Arms: Be folded up quickly when bike racks not in use for compact transport and easy storage.
- 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.)
- SAFE AND SECURE, EVERY TRIP: 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.
- 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.
- 🎄Easy fold-down Arms: Be folded up quickly when bike racks not in use for compact transport and easy storage.
- 🎄Backed by IKURAM's Lifetime Warranty: All IKURAM bike carrier racks are backed by professional consulting services and warranty. Please visit the IKURAM web site for full details.
- 🎄Dual-Arm Mounting Design: Optimized dual-arm bike carrier rack which spacing accommodates bicycles of a wide range of frame sizes and designs, more stable and easily accommodates up to 2 bikes.
- Easily carries three bikes from 12" To 29"
- Fits 11/4" And 2" Receivers with hoops stabilize bikes
- Maximum 35 lbs. per bike (105 lbs. Total)
Best Easy To Assemble
Leader Accessories 2-Bike Platform Bike Rack, Tray Style Bicycle Carrier Racks
- [ 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.
- [ ANTI-WOBBLE SYSTEM ] - No-wobble bolt is designed to eliminate movement of rack inside of hitch.And the rack also suit for 5/8" normal pin or locking hitch pin,if you don’t want to use No-wobble bolt.
- [ 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.
- MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: This platform-style, hitch-mount bike rack supports most road and mountain bikes. Transport 1 or 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs total using your car, truck, or SUV with a 1.25 inch hitch receiver (2 inch hitch receiver adapter included).
- SECURES YOUR BIKE: Keep your bike safe driving around town or across the country. This rack features a heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frame, adjustable wheelbase trays, padded frame hooks, and a safety strap included for added peace of mind during transport.
- NO-SWEAT SETUP: Assemble and install this double bike rack quickly and easily for more time on the trail (check out our assembly video). Step-by-step assembly instructions and all installation hardware included.
- EXTRA HEAVY DUTY: Safety is the 1st priority. The rack passed the most strict tests which include driving, pulling, vibration and swinging tests. TUV Test Standard PASSED: With 1.5 times of max load weight, no bending or cracks after testing. ( NOT for RV )
- Lifetime warranty: We are so confident with our product quality, so we can offer lifetime warranty. If you are not happy with the products, replacement or refund could be given. Peace of mind: Our product liability insurance covers up to 2 million for each claim.
- FOLDABLE: The arms could be folded for you to access the car rear boot or easy storage when not in use. 2 BIKE RACK , 2" HITCH Weight: 16Kg = 35.274lbs, Max Load: 20kg or 45lbs per bike.
- HIGH COMPATIBILITY: Fit 17-29 inch wheels, up to 63-1/3 inch wheelbase, up to 5 inch tires, 2 inch receiver, it is also equipped with safety strap, security hitch lock, hitch tightener and other necessary hardwares, please contact us if there are something missing, we will re-send it to you for free.
- CONVENIENT: Our bicycle car rack is unfoldable, but the tilting function allows for access to the back of your vehicle even when loaded with bikes(NOT suitable for swing-out tailgate), the removable platform can be adjusted for 1 or 2 bikes carrying.
- 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.
- NOTE:Does NOT fit Suspension bike,Fat tire bike, Women's cruiser bike,Bike seat,ect.The included nuts are locking nuts.When you installed the nut,The rubber inside the nut will prevent you from tightening. Just use a tool to tighten nut.
- STURDY:This bike carrier rack is made of durable aluminum alloy,strong and well built bike rack for carrying lots of weight.
- 🚲【EASY TO ASSEMBLE & STORAGE】: Quickly assemble the bicycle carrier in just a few minutes on your car; it folds up easily for compact storage when not in use. Ideal for truck, trailer, suv or other style vehicles.
- 🚲【UNIVERSAL BICYCLE COMPATIBILITY】: Heavy-duty 132 lbs maximum weight capacity or up to 66 lbs per bicycle. Fits 16-29” wheels of road, mountain or other style bikes, secure fat tires up to 5” wide. ⚠️ATTENTION! Back tire base movable for bicycle wheelbase from 35.4'' to 49.2'' ⚠️fitting various type of bikes including children's one! Versatile bike rack compatible with 2" trailer hitch receivers.
- 🚲【SMART TILT FOR CARGO ACCESS】: Quick Release and Tilt design allows hitch mounted rack carrier to be swung down from the vehicle for rear cargo access while loaded, or folded up for storage when not in use.
What to Look For in a best bicycle cargo rack?
It may take a long longer to make the best shopping decision. As a result, we are accessible to assist you with your best bicycle cargo rack issue at any time of day or night!
There are some highlighted features of best bicycle cargo rack you should be aware of before make decision:
Bike Capacity
Tilting Feature
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.
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.
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).
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.
Wheel Size And Tire Width Compatibility
Bike Wheelbase Compatibility
Durability
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.
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.
FAQs
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.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 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.
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.
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.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. ).
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.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.
We will keep the list of best bicycle cargo rack up-to-date once there are new technology and information available. Please check our website frequently to see the most up-to-date information by our editor.
Do you have any questions or comments regarding best bicycle cargo rack that you'd like to share with us? We will try to attain even greater comedy as a result of your efforts.
About Scott Nelson
