The 10 Best Hitch Rack For Mountain Bikes, Tested And Researched

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best Hitch Rack For Mountain Bikes
Best Hitch Rack For Mountain Bikes

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Allen Sports Bike Rack

Get the most out of your bike rides with the Allen Sports Bike Rack. This lightweight and durable rack features arms that fold out of the way when not in use and can tilt back when needed to provide easy access to your vehicle's trunk. Read Review

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

Make your outdoor adventures more accessible with the MaxxHaul Bike Rack. The one-of-a-kind hook design makes it capable of transporting frames of varied sizes reliably and securely, so you can trust that your bikes will stay put. Read Review

3. Best Design: Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack

Take your bikes with you with the Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack. This rack is designed to fit tires up to 3 inches wide and wheels with a diameter ranging from 20 to 29 inches, making it compatible with most frame sizes. Read Review

4. Best Durable: WEIZE Hitch Bike Rack

Get your bike ride ready with the WEIZE Hitch Bike Rack. This rack securely holds up to 4 bikes, and its hitch tightener prevents the bike from swinging and scratching your vehicle's paintwork. Read Review

5. Best Performance: Vibrelli Electric Bike Hitch Rack

Make transporting your bike easier with the Vibrelli Electric Bike Hitch Rack. This quick-release rack tilts down for easy trunk access and folds out of the way when not used. Read Review

Are you in the market for a hitch rack designed specifically for mountain bikes? If so, you've come to the right place. A hitch rack for mountain bikes is essential for any outdoor enthusiast. A hitch rack will provide safe and secure transport for your mountain bikes and make your life easier by freeing up space in your vehicle.

There are a variety of hitch racks on the market, ranging from basic models to more advanced and feature-rich options. We've researched and compiled a list of the best hitch racks for mountain bikes so you can find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you're looking for a simple, cost-effective solution or a more advanced model with extra features, you'll find the perfect fit here.

Our team spent about 16 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. As an outcome, We think the best hitch rack for mountain bikes is Allen Sports Bike Rack. Because this product has a locking knob that enables the rack to be tightened into the receiver hitch for a wobble-free installation. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which equally deserve your consideration, we have compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Allen Sports Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.7
Allen Sports

The Allen Sports rack is the most convenient way to carry your bicycles from place to place while traveling by car or camping. You won't need any tools to put the rack securely into your receiver hitch because it comes with a quick-fit locking hitch insert. This makes the installation completely stable. Therefore, your bicycles will be safe and secure within their separate tie-down cradles.  

This product has a locking knob that lets the rack tighten into the receiver hitch for a wobble-free installation. The rack may then be locked in place for additional protection. This product's tie-downs are mounted in a stationary position on the carry arm; nevertheless, they swivel to accommodate a wide variety of bicycle frames, both in size and appearance. When not used, the carry arms on your rack may be quickly folded and stored out of the way. Because of this, you will have more options when utilizing your car after the rack has been placed. Despite being a bit heavy, this rack fixes your bike well. 

TOP Choice #2 MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.6
MAXXHAUL

This MaxxHaul 2-Bike Platform Style Hitch Mount Bike Rack is the best SUV, truck, or car option. It comes with a one-of-a-kind hook design, which makes it capable of transporting frames of varied sizes in a manner that is both reliable and secure. In addition, you can prevent the bicycles from moving around excessively while they are being carried by securing them using straps on this rack.  

The hooks and tire cradles on this rack allow it to be adjustable to hold the frames of most bicycles, with wheel diameters ranging from 20 inches to 26 inches. It has fast hitch pins, which may be used to remove vertical supports quickly. In addition, these pins help make assembly, disassembly, and the most effective use of available space as easy as possible. The hitch tightener built into the bicycle's construction will ensure the bike does not wobble or make any noise. However, after continuous usage, the anti-rattle plate may become loose, which must be tightened before using them.

TOP Choice #3 Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.5
Swagman

This Swagman bike rack can transport up to 45 pounds per bicycle. It can fit tires up to 3 inches wide and wheels with a diameter ranging from 20 to 29 inches, and it is compatible with most frame sizes, shapes, and designs, including fat bikes. In addition, this rack can be folded up out of the way when not in use and may be leaned back to allow access to the trunk without removing the bikes from the frame.  

This product has ratchet hooks that may be adjusted to fasten your bicycle safely. The two lock cylinders with the rack secure your bike to the frame and deter thieves. Locking threaded hitch pins and ratchet hooks keeps your bicycle steady while transporting. Also, the CHINOOK wheel ratchet straps secure bicycles and hold their wheels firmly in place. Even though some grey paint on this rack might eventually peel off, you may rest confident that no rack functionality is affected.

4 WEIZE Hitch Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.3
WEIZE

The WEIZE bike rack is constructed out of strengthened steel, which makes it durable and gives it the strength to hold two bicycles that weigh up to 60 pounds together. This product's hitch tightener prevents the bike from swinging and scratching your vehicle's paintwork. This bicycle car rack has a folding mechanism that allows you to access the back of your truck even when it is full of bicycles.  

Also, it has an anti-theft locking hitch pin, and a no-wobble hitch tightened, reducing any slack between the receiver hitch and the rack. This product has a no-wobble hitch to help your bikes from theft. You can fold the rack by tilting the vertical post using this product's red tilting pin when the rack is not in use. Even though it appears that the Velcro straps used to secure the tires aren't very thick, you shouldn't be concerned because they will still ensure your bike throughout the trip. 

5 Vibrelli Electric Bike Hitch Rack
Our Score:
9.2
Vibrelli

The bike hitch rack is a heavy-duty rack ideal for all types of bikes, including e-bikes. Therefore, it can transport two bicycles with a combined maximum weight of 330 pounds (65 lbs per bike). It may be tilted down with little effort, even carrying two fully laden bicycles, providing access to the trunk. Thanks to the quick-release foot pedal on the frame, the stand can be tilted or folded up without needing any tools. In addition, the wheels are held in place by a simple and rapid ratchet strap mechanism, which minimizes movement while the vehicle is being driven. 

Because of the wheel cradle's innovative design, this product can secure thin road cycle tires and fat tires with a width of up to 5 inches while uniformly dispersing pressure to prevent damage. When not in use, the bike rack can be folded up easily and stored out of the way when it is still linked to the vehicle's hitch. This makes it simple to park in the garage or store safely when out on a ride. The inside holder may be a bit difficult to use initially; you don't need to worry about it because you will get used to it after several usages. 

This product has ample space to mount bicycles with various frame sizes and designs. Also, this design makes the rack more stable and will enable it to accommodate up to two bikes more efficiently. Its sturdy rubber straps secure your bicycle in place and can be adjusted to match various sizes of your bike handles and stably grab them. They are not easily broken under startling and do not damage your bikes unless there is extreme friction. 

With this product, you don't need to take your bicycles off the rack to access your pickup truck's cargo area or sport utility vehicle (SUV) because the rack can be tilted back to provide convenient access to the lift gate. When not used, the carry arms on your rack may be quickly folded and stored out of the way. Because of this, you will have more options when utilizing your car after the rack has been placed. Although this rack may be a bit wobble when transporting many heavy bikes, you don't need to be too concerned because your bikes are still secured well.

7 Hollywood Racks Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.8
Hollywood Racks

This rack can accommodate four bicycles and can be installed on automobiles, sport utility vehicles, trucks, and crossovers. Transporting bikes safely and securely is ensured by a locking threaded hitch pin and ratchet straps. This product can be folded down flush against the car when not used. Moreover, the separate wheel trays on this rack facilitate the speedy and straightforward loading and unloading of cargo.   

This product can transport the frames of most kid's, hybrid, road, and mountain bikes because its frame holders may swivel 360 degrees to fit bikes of varying shapes and sizes. The ratcheting hooks on the center mast provide an additional anchoring point to safeguard your bike from wobble and rattles. However, it would be best if this rack had a lock for bicycles to help you feel assured when putting bikes everywhere.

More To Consider

8 Saris Freedom Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.7
Saris
9 EGO BIKE Rack
Our Score:
8.3
EGO BIKE

What to Look For in a best hitch rack for mountain bikes?

You may know that best hitch rack for mountain bikes is a kind of product many customers are hesitant to pay for. It is not due to its quality but the fact that there are many factors you must consider. Nevertheless, all your worry is not a problem for us. Our knowledgeable staff will help you with the right decision.

Tech-evaluated and high-rated products are available in our list of eligible items. Here are some indispensable things you shouldn’t ignore:

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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

How do I secure my bike to a hitch rack?

Most hitch racks have adjustable straps or cradles to secure your bike to the rack. Make sure the straps are tight enough to keep your bike stable while you drive, but not so tight that they cause any damage to the frame of your bike. Additionally, consider using a bike lock to further secure your bike to the rack in case of theft.

What type of hitch rack is best for mountain bikes?

A platform-style hitch rack is generally the best choice for mountain bikes. Platform racks provide more stability and easier loading, and they allow you to carry more than one bike at a time.

What is the maximum weight capacity for a hitch rack?

Most hitch racks have a maximum weight capacity of 35-45 lbs. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications to make sure your rack can accommodate the weight of your bikes.

Are hitch racks easy to install?

Most hitch racks are designed to be easy to install and require no tools. However, depending on your vehicle, you may need a special adapter to fit your hitch. Be sure to read the instructions carefully before attempting to install the rack.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio