The Best Bike Car Rack For 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Best Bike Car Rack
Best Bike Car Rack

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 104DB-R , Black

Allen's 4 bike trunk mount rack is perfect for your vehicle. Organize your cargo space and keep your vehicle looking great with the easy-to-install and durable Allen Sports Rack. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver) , Black

The Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack provides easy and convenient bike carrier with a smooth way to cycle your bikes. The rack is easy to fold down, and features a no wobble bolt that secures the rack inside of receiver hitch with a movement free installation. Read Review

3. Best Performance: Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 1-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

Take your bike on a road trip and never worry about how to carry it again with Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 1-Bike Trunk Mount Rack. It has a weight capacity of up to 100 pounds, and each arm can be adjusted to fit your bikes unique height. Read Review

4. Best Capacity: MaxxHaul 70210 Hitch Mount Bike Rack 4-Bike Rack, Black For Cars

The MaxxHaul 70210 hitch mount bike rack is designed to securely attach to a vehicle's hitch receiver. It has a sturdy steel frame and hooks which can be used as convenient storage for smaller items. The bike cradle is adjustable so it can accommodate bikes up to 29 inches in width. Read Review

Car racks are a necessary evil for any car owner. You need your car to transport you and your family, but at the same time you don’t want it to take up too much space or get in the way. However, with all the various types of car racks available on the market, it can be somewhat daunting which one to pick.

Fortunately, we’ve done the research for you so that you don’t have to! Here we will break down everything you need to know about buying a bike rack before making your final decision.

We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 104DB-R , Black - our favorite one. We also provide you with Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver) , Black model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice.

You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the special features of products from famous brands including Allen sports, Maxxhaul, Ikuram r, Saris, Yakima, Vibrelli, Weize right here.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 104DB-R , Black
Our Score:
9.7
Allen Sports
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • Single configuration design eliminates headaches during set up and installation
  • Lifetime on workmanship and material
  • Fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans and SUV's
  • Patented tie down system individually secures bicycles
  • Fully assembled sets up and installs in seconds
  • Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit
  • 22 inch long carry arms individually secure bicycles with Allen's patented tie down system
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • 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
  • Rack sets up and installs in less than 5 minutes; Included no wobble bolt secures rack inside of receiver hitch with a movement free installation
  • Folding carry arms quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use. Minor assembly required.
TOP Choice #3 Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 1-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Our Score:
9.3
Allen Sports
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • Fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit.
  • Tie downs and padding keep bike secure and separate from vehicle
  • 3 padded legs rest against vehicle; 3 adjustable security straps
  • Folds up small and fits inside carrying bag or backpack
  • Ultra-compact 1 bike carrier for traveling and commuting
  • Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit
  • Fits 2 inch receivers
  • Swing down feature allows easy access to rear of vehicle
  • Not for use on RV's, campers and fifth wheels
  • Our 70210 Bike Rack is designed to handle bikes with frame that has horizontal top bar. Different style bike frame would require adding or installing horizontal cross bar (not included).
  • Powder coated to resist rust and corrosion. Rigid all steel construction. Includes reflector for added safety
  • PLEASE SCROLL DOWN AND BROWSE OUR A+ PAGES FOR MORE PRODUCT INFORMATION
  • Adjustable bike cradle with hook and loop straps. Comes with hitch pin
  • Securely transport 4 bikes
  • Towing Capacity (lb.):150
  • Fit Type: Universal Fit.Patent Pending.PLEASE SCROLL DOWN AND BROWSE OUR A+ PAGES FOR MORE PRODUCT INFORMATION..Unique hook design adjustments using quick hitch pins assist in accommodating different size bike frame for safe and reliable transport.
  • Fits Class III and IV standard 2" hitch receivers. 80 lbs Maximum Capacity or up to 40 lbs per bike
  • Vertical post can be quickly removed for compact storage
  • Bike tire cradles can be adjusted along horizontal bars using quick knobs for convenience and includes rubber straps for added stability.Material:Steel
  • Includes two foam-padded hooks to secure and stabilize bikes to the rack without scratching bike's finish. Hooks and tire cradles adjust to fit most bikes frames with 20" to 26" wheel sizes
  • 🎄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.
  • 🎄Rigid All Steel Constructed Bike Hitch Rack: Long-lasting and durable all steel construction with protective powder paint finish
  • 🎄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
  • 🎄Backed by IKURAM Lifetime Warranty: All IKURAM bike carrier racks are backed by professional consulting services and warranty. Please visit the IKURAM web site for full details.
  • Patent pending design fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans and SUV's consult manufacturer web site for specific vehicle fit information
  • Extra-large car pads help to distribute bicycles load and protect vehicle finish
  • Patented quick snap set up design allow for super quick set up right out of the box
  • Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers. Padded lower frame protects vehicle, and left and right side straps for lateral stability
  • Individual dual compound tie down cradles secure and protect bicycles; 2 patented sure strap lower straps keeps bottom hooks in place during use
  • 12 inch long carry arms easily accommodate up to 2 bicycles (70 pounds max capacity)
  • CAPACITY: Carries 2 bikes (35lb/bike), ratcheting anti-sway straps for a secure hold
  • 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
  • MADE IN USA: Hand built in Madison, Wisconsin with 100% recyclable materials
  • 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
  • Easy to install and load and designed to tilt out of the way when not in use; TriggerFinger technology lets you fold down the arms with one press of a button for a lower profile
  • The SwitchBlade anti-sway cradle eliminates bike-to-bike contact, preventing interference and scratches; Durable powder coat finish stands up to adventure
  • This hanging rack allows you to carry any type of bike with traditional frame geometry; Bikes with slanted top tubes require the TubeTop adapter (sold separately)
  • Compatible with both 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers (class I, II, and III) right out of the box
  • Protect your gear by adding a DeadLock (sold separately) to lock your bikes to your hitch mount and the hitch mount to your vehicle
  • Convenient Tilt Down & Fold Up - Quick release pedal tilts down the bike hitch rack for easy trunk access, and also folds up out of the way when not in use. Flexible Wheel Cradles - Snugly fits narrow/wide bike tires up to 5” wide. Ratchet straps hold wheels securely in place without scratching rims or damaging tires
  • Patented Anti-Wobble Hitch - Locks the rack to the hitch receiver to reduce movement. Enjoy a smooth rattle free journey. IMPORTANT: Not for use on vehicles with less than 12 Inches from the bottom of the hitch receiver to the ground.
  • Ironclad Warranty - Backed by a 10-year manufacturers warranty against manufacturing defects
  • Triple Lock Security - Three locking mechanisms to keep your bikes extra secure. Includes Safety Strap - Feel confident with your precious cargo. NOTE: Step-through / womens bikes must use a frame adaptor (not included).
  • Ebike Compatible - holds two bikes each weighing 65 lbs (130 lbs max load). V70 Hitch Rack is for road bikes, mountain bikes, MTB, fat tire bikes up to 5 Inches wide. Compatible with SUVs and cars with 2” tow hitch receiver. NOT FOR: Class B vehicles (RVs, Motorhomes), front of vehicle, vehicle being towed, 5th wheel or trailer

What to Look For in a best bike car rack?

A range of elements, including those listed below, influence the best bike car rack. The study process varies depending on the material. We'll be able to assist you and provide solutions since we're here to help you.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best bike car rack:

Tilting Feature

A tilt-feature hitch rack is a good choice if you are like many cyclists and plan on keeping your rack attached to your car for extended time periods or want access to your rear cargo space. With the exception of a few very inexpensive options, almost all bike racks with a hitch mount have this feature. Tilting racks are able to be tilted over using a lever. This allows you to lift the rear hatch of the vehicle or open its tailgate. Tilting is possible on platform and hanging racks. However, platform racks can be tilted with bikes loaded. Hanging racks must first unload bikes. It's another reason why we like the platform rack design.

Ease Of Use

You've likely had to lift a mountain bike with full suspension onto a hanger rack. Or, if you have tried to Tetris on four bikes from a rack that was poorly made, then you understand the importance of 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.

Bike Frame Compatibility

The shape of your top tube is important when hanging bicycle racks. To hang your bike, you'll need to have a triangular-shaped bike frame. This is the case for both traditional mountain bikes and hardtails.
Hanging racks may not work well if your bike is a mountain bike or step-through, as well as a smaller child's bike.

Wheel Size And Tire Width Compatibility

While tire size and wheel width don't matter when selecting a hang rack, those who choose the platform design will need to ensure that their bikes fit into the provided trays. The good news? Most road or mountain bikers will not have any problems. Every platform rack in our collection can accommodate 26-to-29-inch wheels, and 3 to 4 inches under tires. Problems can arise when you go to extremes with fat bikes and kids bikes that are 12- to 24 inches in diameter or have 4- to 5-inch tires.

Bike Capacity

Generally speaking, platform racks are capable of holding anywhere between one and four bikes (if an extension is purchased), while hanging racks hold up to five bikes. The 1UP Recon Rack 6 can hold six bikes vertically and is a notable exception. Most riders prefer the 2-bike model, however families and those who plan to take their bikes on group rides may want to consider a hanging model with a larger capacity or one of these platform add-ons.

Security

Two main vulnerabilities of bike racks are theft. The bikes can be taken off the rack and the rack can be taken down. It doesn't matter if the bikes are there; racks can also be valuable items to potential thieves.
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.

Bike Wheelbase Compatibility

The wheelbases of mountain bikes are getting longer, with longer design trends. There may be compatibility problems with certain platforms racks. This won't affect most people, but it will be of concern to larger downhill riders who use large, uphill-oriented mountain bikes. You can check your bike online by searching for a diagram. Bike manufacturers almost always include the wheelbase. You can also measure the distance between the rear and front axles to check your bike's wheelbase. This number can be used to compare your bike's wheelbase with the maximum spec of the rack that you are interested in buying.

Mounting Systems

Two ways can you lock your bike on a mounting system are available. First and foremost is the strap system. The strap system is usually composed of an elastic or ratcheting strap that covers a portion of your bicycle. It's usually the frame in hanging racks, but it can also be used for platform racks to hold the wheels.
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).

Durability

Hitching racks are very durable. As they transport loads on rough roads, the single attachment point places a great deal of stress on racks. They are usually made of sturdy materials like steel so breaks rarely happen at their attachment point.

Hitch Receiver Size

Most hitches come in a 1.25-inch or 2-inch size. Before purchasing a bicycle rack, it is important to verify the size of your vehicle.
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 bike capacity
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

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.

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.

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. ).

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.

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.

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.

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.

When updated data are available, our system and editor will update a list of best bike car rack. Please periodically review our website for the newest data.

We can help you with more than just finding best bike car rack.  Please do not hesitate to contact us when you need assistance.


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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