The 10 Best Bike Racks For Hitch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Best Bike Racks For Hitch
Best Bike Racks For Hitch

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

The Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack secures four bicycles with its patented tie down system. It folds up for storage and features folding carry arms that quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

MaxxHaul's Hitch Mount Bike Rack is perfect for the bike enthusiast who is looking for a way to transport their bike with ease. This rack can be used on any car and will work with most bikes. Read Review

3. Best Compact: KAC K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack

Keep your bike safe and secure with this KAC K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack 2-Bike. Designed for the 2-inch hitch receiver, this platform-style hitch-mounted bike rack fits the skinniest road bikes to the fattest e-bikes and everything in between. Read Review

4. Best Design: Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

If you want to take your bike off the road, this Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a great option. With locking ratchet hooks and a locking hitch pin, you can rest easy knowing that your bikes are secured for the long haul. Read Review

5. Best Performance: Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack

Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack is the perfect hitch bike rack. It features a sleek and aerodynamic design that's easy to install and foldable, making it perfect for your hitch. Read Review

When you get your hitch, you’ll want to start using it. The only problem is getting your bike rack so that it posts securely onto your car. Many of us own a bike, and for many of us, our bikes are part of the family. Make it easy to get out on the town with everything from classic cruisers to modern sporty roadsters available from Hitch and Bike.

That’s why we have put together this guide to help you figure out what will work best for you and your vehicle. We’ve broken down all the important details and recommendations regarding hitch racks and bike racks in general in order to make things easier for new users and old hands alike!

We think the best bike racks for hitch of 2024 is Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack because its hitch insert is simple to use and offers a high level of protection for your bikes. However, to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding the MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack; it is equipped with fast knobs that allow for easy adjustment along horizontal bars and rubber straps that provide additional support and stability.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack
Our Score:
9.9
Allen Sports

With the Allen four-bike carrier hitch, you can transport up to four bicycles on outdoor adventures such as camping or road trips. The hitch insert is simple to use and offers a high level of protection for your bikes. It is designed to suit receiver hitches that are 2 inches wide. 

Because the carry arm is designed to fit a diverse range of frame sizes and designs, you can confidently transport both a child's mountain bike and an adult's road cycle with similar ease. In addition, you won't need to take your bicycles out of the rack to access the cargo area of your pickup truck or sport utility vehicle (SUV) since the rack can be tilted back to provide convenient access to the liftgate and can be folded away entirely when it is not in use. In addition, the rack comes with a no-wobble bolt that prevents it from moving around inside the hitch. Although this product may cause a little wobble and noise when driving, you don't need to be concerned about it too much because your bike is still transported safely and securely.

TOP Choice #2 MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.8
MAXXHAUL

The newly redesigned MaxxHaul Bike Rack is the perfect accessory for your sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, or sedans with a hitch receiver measuring 2 inches. Hooks and tire cradles are adjustable to fit most bike frames and accommodate wheel diameters ranging from 20 to 26 inches.

The vertical post can be easily removed by using the quick hitch pins that are included to facilitate simple construction and disassembly to save space during storage. Handling bike frames of varying sizes are made more accessible by a hook design that features adjustments that utilize fast hitch pins. Tire cradles for bicycles feature quick knobs that allow for easy adjustment along horizontal bars and rubber straps that provide additional support and stability. Although there is a possibility that the main arm will shake a little while carrying the bike, this won't have a significant impact on the bicycle.

TOP Choice #3 KAC K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack
Our Score:
9.7
KAC

This hitch-mounted bike rack has a platform style that fits into a 2-inch hitch receiver. Furthermore, it can handle bicycles of varying sizes, from the leanest road bike to the heaviest e-bike. You will have the highest possible level of safety and protection with the locking hitch pin. This product prevents theft by anchoring the rack to your hitch and eliminates play between the receiver and the rack, making the trip more comfortable and free of rattles for you and your two-wheeled adventure mobiles.

There is no need to unload your bicycles to gain access to the rear cargo area of your vehicle, thanks to a quick-release tilt lever. Because it folds up into such a small footprint, this rack maintains a stealthy appearance and is simple to stow away when it's not in use. Additionally, the adjustable and heavy-duty cradles accommodate your bike tires, ranging from 5-inch fatties to the thinnest road tires, which enables your bikes to stand together on this platform-style rack. However, after a long usage time, the pivot joint may become loose, which causes a bit of side-to-side rocking when transporting. As a result, you should tighten it again before using it.

The wheel mount was created so that you do not have to remove your wheels to lift your bike onto the rack, and it also reduces the amount of effort required to do so. Bike hooks have a gentle coating that grabs onto the bike's frame and securely holds it in place. This coating also protects the finish of your bike.

A push button allows the ratcheting hooks to go up and down the mast in a smooth and controlled manner. Wheel hoops can be adjusted at both ends to be the perfect length for the bikes. For convenience in storage, both the wheel loops and the upright arm can be folded up and stored away. To prevent corrosion, the rack has been powder-coated with a high finish. The slight downside is the instructions don't have illustrated diagrams, which may confuse you when assembling, especially for beginners.

5 Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.4
Thule

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 is a hitch-mounted bike rack that can carry any bicycle, is entirely collapsible, and takes up very little space when not in use. Ample spacing between the wheel holders allows for transporting bikes that are both strong and have large wheel bases. 

This bike rack features easily removable bike arms and is equipped with Thule AcuTight torque limiting knobs to ensure a safe and snug fit for your bike. The wheels and carry handle built together make transportation simple and convenient. And the intelligent foot pedal tilt makes it possible to enter the trunk while the bikes are mounted. In addition, it is ergonomically designed for easy mounting, carrying, and storage, and it comes with a carry handle. Although the curved bar to which the grips are attached looks a bit low, this product is still excellent for everyone.

6 Vibrelli Electric Bike Hitch Rack
Our Score:
9.3
Vibrelli

All bikes, including e-bikes, fit well on the heavy-dutSportbiket bike hitch rack. It supports a maximum weight of 130 lbs for two bicycles which is 65 lbs per bike. All bicycle tires up to 5" wide can fit in the wheel cradles thanks to their unique design. Thin road bike tires and fat tires up to 5 inches wide can be securely kept in place with the help of the innovative wheel cradle design, which also appropriately distributes pressure to prevent damage.

When two bikes are entirely loaded, the rack can be quickly tilted down to provide access to the car's trunk. The wheels are fastened using a simple ratchet strap technique, which minimizes wheel movement when driving. The bike rack can conveniently fold up out of the way while still attached to the vehicle hitch, making it simple to park in the garage or safely store while riding. In the beginning, you may find it a little difficult to load the inside holder, but you will eventually get used to it after a long usage time.

The handle has a quick release that is simple to operate. When carrying bicycles, the rack's Smart Tilting design allows it to be folded up and down faster than a hitch pin. In addition, its knobs also use effectively, allowing for speedy adjustments to the bike cradle to ensure correct bike positioning. This rack is excellent, but the arms may not slide up or down quickly after a long time. However, it does not affect you because you only need to add grease to it can work typically.

This product is protected against rust by an abrasion-resistant technology toner coating, which protects it from chipping, scratching, fading, and wear. This bike carrier makes transporting your bicycles easier and less stressful and secures each bicycle at its wheels and frame, making for a more secure and risk-free journey. Cushioned hooks are adjustable to accommodate bikes of varying sizes and ratchet up and down to ensure a secure attachment at any position. The platform location is flexible within the frame, and there is a secure strap to accommodate bikes of varying sizes.

More To Consider

8 Hollywood Racks Sport Rider 2" Hitch Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.9
Hollywood Racks

Which Criteria Do Our Experts Advice To Consider When Purchasing Of best bike racks for hitch?

According to our experts, you should understand some sides of the product to get the finest one. Like others, best bike racks for hitch of 2024 might include many factors for you to take into account. For that, each among best bike racks for hitch will have unique features and challenges as well to consist of.

The focus on the following features of best bike racks for hitch is highly recommended, given they have come together with tech-evaluated certification:

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).

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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. ).


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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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