The Best Non Hitch Bike Rack For 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Best Non Hitch Bike Rack
Best Non Hitch Bike Rack

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

Featuring side straps for increased lateral stability, a single configuration design that eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation, and a padded lower frame that keeps bicycles away from the vehicle, this trunk mount rack is perfect for any biking adventure. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Saris Bike Racks

This rack is compatible with most vehicles and frame fits over most spoilers. It also has rubberized feet to protect your car and coated straps to protect your bike. Plus, it boasts the strongest frame on the market with injection-molded arms and legs that are guaranteed to be strong and reliable. Read Review

3. Best Compatible: Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Rack

This bike rack is made with sturdy and handy construction, featuring padded lower frame to keep bicycles away from vehicle, individual soft cradles to protect your bike frame and secure your bikes, OE standard black E-Coating for rust resistance and foldable carry arms when not in use. Read Review

4. Best Performance: Allen Sports Trunk Bike Rack

This simple, sturdy carrying system holds up to three bikes and is designed to fit most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. With its 12 inch long carry arms and 11.5 inch wide carry arms, you'll be able to accommodate a wide range of bicycle styles. Read Review

5. Best Style: Saris Trunk Bike Rack

This sturdy rack is made of injection-molded arms and legs to keep it solid for years to come. Rubber feet articulate to protect paint, while best-in-class ratchet straps speedily fasten your bike to the rack. The integrated strap management caps hideaway strap excess. Read Review

Are you looking for the best non-hitch bike rack to transport your bikes? Whether you're an avid cyclist or just getting started, having the right bike rack is essential. With so many options out there, it can be hard to know which one is best for you. Don't worry, we're here to help.

We've done the research and put together a list of the top non-hitch bike racks to make your search easier. From trunk-mounted racks to roof-mounted racks, we've got you covered. So, let's take a look at the best non-hitch bike racks available and find the one that's right for you.

We think the best non hitch bike rack that is available now is Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack. This rack features side straps for increased lateral stability and a single configuration design that eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation. We also provide you with Saris Bike Racks model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice. And bellow are the helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Our Score:
9.7
Allen

Comes fully assembled set up and installs in seconds 12 inch long carry arms easily accommodate a wide range of bicycle styles and 115 inch wide carry arms for greater bike compatibility

Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit

Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers

Folds fully flat for easy storage.

Ships in certified frustration free packaging 70 pounds max capacity

Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles

Patented design fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUV's consult manufacturer web site for specific vehicle fit information

Side straps for increased lateral stability. Single configuration design eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation

Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from vehicle

TOP Choice #2 Saris Bike Racks
Our Score:
9.6
Saris

CAPACITY: Carries 2 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

STRONG & RUST FREE: Strongest frame on the market; injection-molded arms and legs are the strongest on the market

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)

MADE IN USA: Hand built in Madison, Wisconsin with 100% recyclable materials

COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with most vehicles frame fits over most spoilers; rubberized feet protect car and coated straps protect bike

TOP Choice #3 Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Rack
Our Score:
9.4
Tyger Auto

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.

100% assembled. Fits most Sedans/Hatchbacks/Minivans and SUV's. This CAN'T FIT vehicles equipped with rear spoilers.

Designed to fit 3 bikes (Max 99lb capacity) with sturdy and handy construction. Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from vehicle. (Safety strap included.)

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.

TYGER No-Hassle Limited Lifetime Warranty for US customers!

4 Allen Sports Trunk Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.3
Allen Sports

12 inch long carry arms accommodate a wide range of bicycle styles

Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit

Single configuration design eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation

Fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs

Simple, sturdy bike carrying system.Fully assembled, installs in seconds. Folds fully flat for easy storage.Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fitAllen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers

Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers

11.5 inch wide carry arms for greater bike compatibility

Patented individual tie down system secures and protects ships in certified frustration free packaging

Fully assembled, installs in seconds. Folds fully flat for easy storage.

5 Saris Trunk Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.2
Saris

CLEAN, SLEEK LOOK: Best-in-class ratchet straps speedily fasten bike to the rack, integrated strap management caps hideaway strap excess

CAPACITY: Carries 3 bikes (35lb/bike) premium bike hold downs that are easy to use and quick to load

BONES EX: Lightweight at 11 lbs; strongest frame on the market, arc–based design separates bikes on different levels

STRONG & RUST FREE: Injection-molded arms and legs keep the rack solid for years to come; rubber feet articulate to protect paint

COMPATIBILITY: Fits 90% of the top vehicles sold, including those with spoilers; has the largest vehicle compatibility of any trunk rack on the market, Unique dog leg fits over most spoilers, including those on popular sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs

MADE IN USA: Hand built in Madison, Wisconsin with 100% recyclable materials

6 Hollywood Over-the-Top Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.1
Hollywood Racks

Rubber anti-sway bike cradles and EPDM rubber straps hold up to 3 bikes firmly in place; Comes fully pre-assembled; Folds flat for easy storage in your trunk or garage

Check vehicle Fitguide to ensure the rack will work for your vehicle

Features high rise adjustable frame designed for SUV's, Hatchbacks and cars with spoilers. Includes 3 different types of attachment straps to ensure the right fit for your vehicle

Max Capacity: 35lbs per bike

Kids bikes, ladies frame bikes and some mountain bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit on the rack

7 Bell Trunk Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.0
Bell

Reflective red end caps increase visibility

Holds up to three bikes of all types with cradles

No tool assembly, fit guarantee

Easiest, one step folding with hub

Stable fit to all car styles with six straps

8 Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.8
Thule

Compact cradle design accommodates a wide variety of bikes and frames

Strong and secure hanging-style trunk bike rack for 1-3 bikes

Quick and easy, tool-free installation. Please note some frame styles may requrie a Thule Frame Adapter to securely attach to hanging bike racks.

Bike rack arms adjust and fold down when not in use

Integrated anti-sway cradles and 7" of spacing between bikes prevents contact

Load capacity: 105 lbs

Folds up flat for convenient storage

Lock bikes to the bike rack with integrated cable lock

Dimensions: 23.5" L x 18" W x 33" H; Weight: 14.7 lbs

Secure fit to vehicle with 6-strap tightening system

9 Hollywood Racks
Our Score:
8.4
Hollywood Racks

Rubber bike cradles and EPDM rubber straps hold up to 2 bikes firmly in place;

Comes fully pre-assembled; Folds flat for easy storage in your trunk or garage

Max Capacity: 35lbs per bike

Kids bikes, ladies frame bikes and some mountain bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit on the rack

Check vehicle Fitguide to ensure the rack will work for your vehicle

10 Saris Trunk Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.5
Saris

Ratcheting anti-sway straps secure and stabilize bikes.

Built with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials

Injection -molded arms and legs are the strongest on the market

Ratcheting hold downs are easy to adjust

Arc-based design fits over most spoilers, and separates bikes on different levels

Built with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials

Injection -molded arms and legs are the strongest on the market

What to Look For in a best non hitch bike rack?

The best non hitch bike rack is a product type that many customers feel hesitant to select because of the challenges in evaluating its features. It comes to trust! When studying a significant purchase, many factors must be considered. Our best non hitch bike rack knowledge will help you make an ideal decision.

Our article here will highlight some outstanding items and provide solutions to FAQs and guides to buying. You should keep in mind some main criteria of best non hitch bike rack below:

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.

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.

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.

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

What is a non-hitch bike rack?

non-hitch bike rack is a type of bike rack that does not require a hitch receiver to be mounted to your vehicle. Non-hitch bike racks are typically attached to the trunk, hatchback or roof of your vehicle and can carry between 1-4 bikes.

What are the advantages of a non-hitch bike rack?

Non-hitch bike racks are easy to install and remove, require no additional tools, and are a great option for those who don’t have access to a hitch receiver. They also offer great flexibility in where you can mount your bike rack and allow you to quickly access the trunk or hatch of your vehicle.

How do I install a non-hitch bike rack?

Most non-hitch bike racks come with instructions and a set of straps and clamps to secure them to your vehicle. Generally, you will need to place the straps around the trunk or hatch of your vehicle and then tighten the clamps to secure the bike rack.

Are non-hitch bike racks secure?

Yes, non-hitch bike racks are designed to be secure. However, you should always check the straps and other locking mechanisms to make sure they are correctly tightened before driving. Additionally, it is recommended that you lock the bikes to the rack for extra security.


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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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