The Best Bike Back Rack For 2024
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Mount Bicycle Rack
This Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Mount Bicycle Rack folds up and collapses down into a trunk-sized carrying case when not in use. It fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs, with sturdy construction to support up to three bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 99lb each. The lower frame keeps your bike away from the vehicle and also includes an individual soft cradle to protect your bicycle frame. Read Review
2. Runner Up: Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack
The Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack is the perfect accessory for your travel trailer. It will transport 1 to 2 bicycles neatly onto the bumper of your RV or camper trailer. The rack has a wide, sturdy frame with a black paint finish and is powder-coated to resist corrosion. Secure the included steel U-bolts around your bumper and you're ready for your next adventure! Read Review
3. Best Energy Efficient: Saris Bike Racks, Bones Car Trunk Bicycle Rack Carrier, Mounts 3 Bikes
From the signature-look to the durability and convenience, Saris Bikes is a brand that delivers. From carrying 3 bikes on the back of your car trunk to providing a secure hold, this bike carrier is perfect for anyone who needs a place to park their garage. It's easy to carry, offers great style and has an arc-based design that separates your bikes for easy loading. Read Review
4. Best Economical: BELL Double Back Two-Bike Trunk Rack
The Bell Double Back Two-Bike Trunk Bike Rack is compact and easy to transport with its folding design. The rack holds one or two bikes of all frame types with cradles, and the red end caps increase visibility. The bike rack is an easy one-step folding with the new hub, so it will fit into most cars. The maximum weight is 70 lbs for both bikes total, and it fits most car styles. Read Review
Bike back racks are a great way to transport your bike safely and securely. They’re also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. There are a variety of different bike back racks available on the market, so it’s important to find the right one for your needs.
In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the different types of bike back racks and help you choose the best one for your needs. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the perfect bike back rack for your needs.
We think Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Mount Bicycle 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 Swagman 2-Bike RV Bumper Rack as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.
RELATED: We've found the top best 4 bike platform rack based on 9,140 customers’ feedback. Our top picks & buying guides help you to get budget-friendly products.
Our Top Picks
- 100% assembled. Fits most Sedans/Hatchbacks/Minivans and SUV's. This CAN'T FIT vehicles equipped with rear spoilers.
- Individual soft cradles made to protect your bike frame and secure your bikes. OE standard black E-Coating for rust resistance. Foldable carry arms when not in use.
- Easy installation in minutes. (DIY instruction included in package.) NOTE: Provided Safety Strap must be installed to stabilize bikes while driving. Otherwise, any resulting accident and damage will not be covered by warranty.
- Designed to fit 3 bikes (Max 99lb capacity) with sturdy and handy construction. Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from vehicle. (Safety strap included.)
- TYGER No-Hassle Limited Lifetime Warranty for US customers!
- Designed for 4" to 4.5" square RV bumpers, installs with a 6.5" and 8" long bolts around the RV bumper
- Heavy duty steel construction with a black paint finish and powder-coated to resist corrosion
- Secure the steel U-Bolts provided with the rack to your bumper. The upright bar in the center of the rack gives added support to your bikes while towing
- Simple to use and supports various bike sizes, frames and wheels
- Transports 1 to 2 bicycles on an RV or camper trailer bumper (max 30 lb. per bike)
Best Energy Efficient
Saris Bike Racks, Bones Car Trunk Bicycle Rack Carrier, Mounts 3 Bikes
- BONES TRUNK: The iconic Bones rack has been a cornerstone of bike racks for decades; it's a tested statement of style, design, convenience, and durability (11lbs)
- STRONG & RUST FREE: Strongest frame on the market; injection-molded arms and legs are the strongest on the market
- CAPACITY: Carries 3 bikes (35lb/bike), ratcheting anti-sway straps for a secure hold
- CLEAN, SLEEK LOOK: Arc–based design separates bikes on different levels; spring buckle straps with vinyl-coated hooks
- COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with most vehicles frame fits over most spoilers; rubberized feet protect car and coated straps protect bike
- Stable fit to most car styles
- Easiest, one step folding with new hub
- Stable fit to all car styles
- Reflective Red end caps increase visibility
- Easy, one-step folding with hub
- Transports 1, 2, 3, or 4 bicycles on an RV or camper trailer bumper (max 30 lb. per bike)
- Secure the steel U-Bolts provided with the rack to your bumper. The upright bar in the center of the rack gives added support to your bikes while towing
- Simple to use and supports various bike sizes, frames and wheels
- Heavy duty steel construction with a black paint finish and powder-coated to resist corrosion
- Designed for 4" to 4.5" square RV bumpers, installs with a 6.5" and 8" long bolts around the RV bumper
- The modern yet rugged design is fully padded, protects your paint and features an improved fit; A premium, high-gloss finish looks as cool as your ride
- Load, unload and secure bikes easily with SuperCrush ZipStrip cradles; A full SKS (Same Key System) locking package locks your bike to the rack and the rack to your vehicle to help prevent theft
- Stores away easily with its compact, folding design; Weighs just 23 lbs and measures 30” long, 25” wide and 22” tall
- Carry 2 or 3 bikes without the commitment of a more permanent rack; This trunk rack is easy to use, install and store; Add the TubeTop adapter (sold separately) for slanted top tube bikes
- Easy installation features an intuitive 4-strap attachment and an interlocking HUB that aligns key adjustment points; Comes fully assembled
- Single-arm design works with many bikes that have alternative frames and frames with large tubing
- Hitch-mounted rack carries up to 3 bikes on the back of your vehicle
- RV Approved: can be used with a hitch on the back of RVs , campers, motorhomes
- Sturdy cradles with kraton vinyl cushioning helps protect frames and offers additional gripping power
- Anti-rattle hitch bolt reduces movement of rack in hitch receiver
Best Smart
WEIZE Wobble Free Smart Tilting Folding Bike Car Racks for Standard 2-Bike 120 lbs Capacity
- WARRANTY: 1-Year free-return gurantee for any product quality problems. WEIZE tow hitch bike rack aims for quality followed up with quality customer service directly provided by manufacturer. A satisfied solution will be given for ANY of your problems. Our support team is on standby for
- 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.
- 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.
- CONVENIENT DESIGN: Our bicycle car rack is versatile, 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, the folding design also makes the rack to be folded up when not in use.
- 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.
- TOUGH: Made with steel sourced from America’s heartland, the Guardian is tough enough to stand-up to the elements, yet gentle on bikes (2 bikes, 35 lbs each)
- FEATURES: Folds for compact and convenient storage, coated hooks protect vehicle's finish, heavy-duty foam pads protect vehicle's finish
- NO ASSEMBLY: Completely assembled and ready to go, right out of the box
- RACKET STRAPS: Spring-loaded buckles that ensure a secure rack-to-vehicle fit
- COMPATIBILITY: Rack arms adjust to fit most sedans, hatchbacks and vans
- SECURE UP TO 2 BIKES: SuperCush ZipStrip cradles secure the bikes and make loading and unloading a breeze; ZipStrips secure bikes to the rack and are fully removable
- SMART AND SIMPLE: A grab-and-go rack that is easy to use, easy to store, secure and made for all cyclists and bikers
- ADJUSTS TO HATCHBACKS AND TRUNKS: Quick, simple installation with an interlocking HUB that aligns key adjustment points; 4-strap attachment is intuitive and easy
- DURABLE QUALITY: Bomber external frame holds tough, and cushy padding protects your paint; Premium high-gloss finish; Modern design delivers an improved fit and looks awesome
- WE’VE GOT YOUR BACK GUARANTEE: Covered by our Limited Lifetime Warranty
What to Look For in a best bike back rack?
When selecting a suitable best bike back rack, a variety of factors have been found. Information sources are available in a wide range of forms. As a basis, we are doing it to support, inform, and solve your demands.
Please keep these things in mind before selecting the best bike back rack:
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.
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.
Wheel Size And Tire Width Compatibility
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.
Bike Wheelbase Compatibility
Durability
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.
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 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 Capacity
Tilting Feature
FAQs
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
With new information arriving, our editor will usually update the best bike back rack frequently. Please constantly check our site for the most up-to-date material.
We will try our best to help you with more best bike back rack. You are supposed to be free to ask for assistance with your problems.
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