11 Best Bike Racks For Cars in 2021: Finding The Hitch Rack That Suits Your Demands

Bike racks for carsBike racks for cars

Like every product on the market, there are inquiries about bike racks for cars before taking a step towards buying it. Biking has grown more popular recently, and now a common question is being asked; “what is the best hitch racks for my car?

The objective of a car bike racks is to make moving your bikes around easier and more manageable.

Instead of cluttering up your car or dismantling your bike to make it fit into your trunk, a bike rack  makes use of the free space on the roof and sides of your vehicle. 

There are various types of bike carriers to pick from, but the kind of rack you choose depends on several factors.

We will hash out all of these factors in this article. There is also an FAQ section to answer all your pressing questions.

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Best choice

Overdrive Sport 2-Bike

  • Anti-sway and sturdy design
  • Secure tubing
  • Budget-friendly
premium pick

Thule T2 Pro XT

  • lot of space between the bikes
  • tool-free and easy installation
  • tilts to allow easy access
best value

Allen Sports 4-Bike

  • Easy to install
  • Budget-friendly
  • Padded arms to prevent scratching

Why do you need this product?

Riding your bike is fun and enjoyable until it’s time to pack it up and load it into your car. Taking the wheels off to stuff it in the trunk tends to lose its appeal after a while. The situation becomes worse if you don’t have a big enough car.

By having hitch racks, it takes away most of these issues by allowing you to make use of the unused space on the roof and sides of your car, no matter the size of your car. It is way easier to use, and it lessens the time it takes to pack up your bike.

Best Bike Racks 

(Table Of Comparison)

The table below shows the summarized of comparison of Bike Racks for Cars for your easy reference. However, the positions are in no particular order of importance on top rated unit.

Product Features Our Rating

1. Overdrive Sport 2-Bike 

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  • 2-bike hitch-mounted
  • Weight: 49.9 lbs
  • Patented anti-wobble system
  • Limited lifetime warranty

EDITOR CHOICE

4.6 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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2. Thule T2 Pro XT

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  • Dimensions: 54 x 15 x 43 in​​​​
  • Weighs 51 lbs
  • Auto-attach feature
  • Built-in lock feature

4.3 / 5.0

Price : $ $ $

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3. Allen Sports 4-Bike 

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  • Dimensions: 25 x 13 x 3.5 in
  • Weighs 23 lbs
  • Strong build with strong arms
  • Class 3-4 hitch-mounted

4.3 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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4. BV Bike 

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  • Foldable and adjustable rack
  • 3-point bike lock system
  • Anti-wobble design

4.4 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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5. Buzzrack Express Platform

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  • Low platform hitch
  • Adjustable wheel tray
  • Dimensions: 47 x 14 x 8
  • Weighs 31 lbs
  • Maximum load capacity: 132 lbs.

4.0 / 5.0

Price : $ $ $

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6. Capstone Hitch

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  • Dimensions: 31 x 19 x 40 in
  • Weighs: 48.8 pounds
  • Maximum weight capacity: 70 lbs
  • Easy to load

4.5 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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7. Thule Apex

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  • Can carry up to 4 bikes
  • Dimensions: 14 x 38 x 17 in
  • 5.5” between each bike
  • Weighs 35 lbs

4.1 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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8. Yakima Products Hold Up

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  • Dimensions: 44 x 14 x 15 in
  • Weighs 49 lbs
  • Compatible with nearly any tire

4.2 / 5.0

Price : $ $ $

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9. Thule Vertex Swing Away

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  • Uses 2” receiver
  • Makes loading easier
  • Dimensions: 48 x 18 x 11 in
  • Weighs 42 lbs

4.3 / 5.0

Price : $ $ $

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10. Saris Freedom Ex 2-Bicycle

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  • Dimensions: 48 x 12 x 9 in
  • Weighs 27 lbs
  • Works with 1.25” and 2” receivers
  • very light and portable

4.2 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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11. Swagman Bike

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  • Dimensions: 39 x 12 x 11 in
  • Weighs 58 lbs
  • High load capacity
  • Specially made for heavy bikes

4.2 / 5.0

Price : $ $

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Top 11 Best car Bike Racks

1. overdrive sports 2 – bike hitch mounted rack review

The Overdrive 2-bike hitch mounted brands is a sturdy rear-mounted rack that can hold two bikes of up to 60 lbs each. It is easy to install, with most of the parts already assembled.

It only uses 2-inch receivers, not the 1.25 to 2-inch models. This is one of the bike carrier rack to consider compare to other model. 

Your bikes are held up with sturdy, coated steel tubes that keep them secure while your vehicle is in motion. It also has anti-wobble straps that keep the bike from moving about and potentially getting scratched.

It has a lever that folds up the rack when not in use and also tilts it to give you access to your trunk.

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Specification​​​​

  • 2-bike hitch-mounted rack for car.
  • Patented anti-wobble system.
  • Padded fasteners used to secure bikes to the rack.
  • Adjustable 5-inch heavy duty wheel holders, which can be adjusted to fit many bikes.
  • Pre-assembled parts for easy installation.
  • Quick release tilt design.
  • Coated steel tubes that can hold up 2 60 lbs. bikes.
  • Hitch pin lock and knob to secure bikes.
  • Rear reflector for better visibility.
  • Limited lifetime warranty for bike car carriers.
  • Weight- 49.9 lbs.

Pros

  • Anti-sway and sturdy design.
  • It can carry up to 2 heavy bikes.
  • Secure tubing to secure your vehicle.
  • Rear reflector for improved rear visibility.
  • Quick release tilt design.
  • Budget-friendly. (Cheap bicycle racks for cars)
  • Easy to assemble and install.
  • Secure, padded lock for your bikes.

Con​​​​s

  • Not compatible with trailers and RVs
  • Can only carry two bicycle rack car.
  • Can’t lock two bikes of different sizes at the same time.

2. thule T2 Pro XT 2 

The Thule T2 pro is a class 2-4 hitch-mounted that uses a 2-inch receiver. It carries two bikes at a time, but it can be modified to carry up to 4 bikes with the addition of the Thule XT Pro bike add-on (sold separately).

This product has an entirely tool-free assembly, with an auto-attach feature that lets you attach it to your vehicle in minutes. The built-in lock secures your bike to the rack. It retracts into the ratcheting arm when not in use.

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Specification​​​​

  • Carries two bikes by default and four bikes with the Thule XT Pro bike add-on.
  • Suitable for mountain bikes, fat bikes, and carbon frames.
  • Maximum load capacity: 120 lbs. (max 60 lbs. per bike).
  • Dimensions: 54 x 15 x 43 in.
  • Weighs 51 lbs.
  • Auto-attach feature and tool-free assembly.
  • Built-in lock feature.
  • HitchSwitch lever; tilts it up and down to allow access to the rear trunk.
  • Ratcheting arm: secures the bike without touching the frame. Can fit 20-29 inch wheels and up to 5-inch tires.

Pros

  • It secures the bike car racks.
  • It folds up when not in use.
  • It has a lot of space between the bikes to avoid interference.
  • It has a tool-free and easy installation.
  • It tilts to allow easy access of the rear trunk.

Con​​​​s

  • It is heavy and can hold only two bikes as car bicycle rack.
  • Doesn’t have an anti-sway feature.

3. allen sports 4 – bike hitch racks

Ever since Allen sports started in 1967, they have been producing some of the best bike carrier for car and other bike-related products. The Allen sports 4-bike hitch racks isn’t any different.

It carries four bikes at a time. It has a set of 22” long carry arms that make it possible to carry a wide range of bikes.

It weighs just 23 lbs. and it can carry a load of up to 140 lbs. at a time. Allen’s tie-down system ensures that each bike is well secured against falling and swaying. It also has arms that fold when they aren’t in use.

The tilt-away feature allows you access to the rear of your vehicle without unloading your bikes.

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Specification​​​​

  • Class 3-4 hitch-mounted auto.
  • Carries four bikes.
  • 22-inch long arms to carry a wide variety of bikes. Bikes are individually secured with the patented Allen’s tie-down system to avoid swaying.
  • Foldable arms
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Strong build with strong arms
  • Tilt-away feature for easy rear access
  • Contains a no-wobble bolt that prevents the rack from moving in the hitch
  • Dimensions: 25 x 13 x 3.5 in.
  • Weighs 23 lbs.
  • Maximum load capacity is 140 lbs. at a time.
  • Not compatible with trailers

Pros

  • It is very budget-friendly hitch racks.
  • It is light and portable.
  • It can contain different-sized of bikes at a time.
  • Can carry up till 4 bike.

Con​​​​s

  • The bikes are mounted very close using this automotive bicycle racks for cars.
  • It doesn’t have an anti-sway feature.

4. BV bicycle hitch mount rack carrier (best bike rack for SUV)

The BV bicycle rack is a tow bar style hitch-mounted vehicle bicycle racks that uses 1.25”–2” receivers and can carry two bikes at a time. It is specific for SUV, and it is attached to the tow bar of the vehicles and one of the best bike racks for SUV.

This bicycle rack allows you access to the trunk of your SUV whenever you want, even with your bikes loaded on it. It can also be hooked up with single bicycle rack for car.

It doesn’t have a bike lock like a standard rack. Rather, it holds your bikes up using a special 3-point system in which the wheels are held in tray-like designs at the bottom, and the frame is held in place by a padded vertical bar. This also acts as the anti-sway feature.

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Specification​​​​

  • Tow bar style hitch-mounted 2-bike carrier for SUV. 1.25” and 2” hitch receiver.
  • Foldable and adjustable rack.
  • Safety reflector to improve visibility in bicycle rack for SUV.
  • 3-point bike lock system.
  • Anti-wobble design.
  • Padded arms to prevent scratching of your bike.
  • Tilt back feature.
  • Maximum weight capacity: 70 lbs.

Pros

  • It is easy to install.
  • It has padded arms to prevent scratching of the frames and your bikes.
  • It is budget-friendly.
  • It can be folded for easier and proper storage.

Con​​​​s

  • The tilt back feature doesn’t tilt enough if you use the rack with a truck.

5. BUZZRACK express platform hitch rack

The Buzzrack express hitch rack is one of the most natural bicycle racks to load because of its low platform. It only uses a 2″ receiver, and it can carry four bikes easily.

It has a proper construction with secure locks that keep your bikes safe and prevents wobbling.

It can be adjusted to fit different styles and sizes of bikes, and it can also be folded flat against the vehicle for easy storage and when it’s not in use. It is easy to install, but also very durable and reliable.

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Specification​​​​

  • Low platform hitch rack.
  • Carries four bikes and uses a 2″ receiver.
  • Adjustable wheel tray.
  • Ratchet wheel straps and frame cradles to secure your bike to the hitch rack.
  • Foldable platform rack.
  • Comes with a hitch lock.
  • It is made of heavy-duty steel and has a powder-coated finish.
  • Dimensions: 47 x 14 x 8.
  • Weighs 31 lbs.
  • Maximum load capacity: 132 lbs.

Pros

  • It is effortless to load due to the low platform.
  • It has locks to secure both the bike and the rack.
  • It can be adjusted to fit different shapes of bikes.
  • Budget-friendly.

Con​​​​s

  • Not compatible with RVs and other towed vehicles.
  • It is not recommended for cars with centrally positioned exhaust pipes.
  • It only has a max load capacity of 132 lbs.

6. Capstone hitch mount 2 bike carrier

This is a budget-friendly bike carrier that gives you enough value for your money. It carries two bikes, and it has a max load capacity of 70 lbs. This bike rack works with 2” receivers, but it can be adapted to fit in a 1.25 receiver.

Consider your bikes safe from theft and falls with the built-in security lock and anti-wobble system. This product is built for durability and longevity. It is equipped to handle a variety of bikes and tire sizes.

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Specification​​​​

  • Hitch-mounted rack.
  • Carries two bikes.
  • Uses 2” hitch receivers and can use 1.25” with the correct adaptor.
  • Suitable for a wide variety of tire and wheel sizes.
  • Foldable and adjustable trays.
  • Made of high-quality steel, and it is coated with powder to ensure durability.
  • Anti-wobble device.
  • Swing away feature for easy access to the trunk.
  • Dimensions: 31 x 19 x 40 in.
  • Weighs 48.8 pounds.
  • Maximum weight capacity: 70 lbs.
  • Built-in lock for your bikes.

Pros

  • It has an easy, quick installation.
  • It is suitable for a wide range of bikes and tire sizes.
  • It has a firm anti-wobble device that keeps your bikes secure.
  • It has a built-in, anti-theft security lock.
  • Tilt back feature for easy access.
  • It is easy to load.
  • It is budget-friendly.

Con​​​​s

  • It has a low max weight capacity.
  • It can only carry two bikes.

7. thule apex bike hitch rack (best for hatchback cars)

Thule makes some of the best bicycle car racks, and the Thule apex carrier isn’t an exception. It uses a 1.25” or 2” receiver, and it attaches to the rear of your vehicle.

It is perfect for SUVs because of the position and the tilt away feature that allows you access to the rear cargo area of the SUV.

This rack acts as a shock absorber and also has an anti-sway cage that keeps your bikes safe from contact with each other.

It can be installed without the help of tools, and it has a built-in handle for easy transportation. This bicycle rack for hatchback cars is most suitable unit to be mounted to each user automotive.

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Specification​​​​

  • 1.25″ or 2″ hatchback style hitch mount bike carrier.
  • It can carry up to 4 bikes.
  • Incorporated locks secure bikes to bike carrier with a cable lock, and bike carrier to the vehicle with hitch a lock.
  • Auto-pin function. Locks into place with a distinct click.
  • Holdfast cradles.
  • No-sway cages.
  • It has foldable arc style arms.
  • Dimensions: 14 x 38 x 17 in.
  • 5.5” between each bike.
  • Weighs 35 lbs.
  • Max weight capacity: 140 lbs.
  • Completely tool-free assembly and installation.
  • Higher clearance and arc design keep bikes a good distance from the ground.

Pros

  • It comes with a handle for easy transportation and consider best bike carrier for hatchback.
  • It tilts back to allow you to access the rear of your vehicle.
  • It lifts your bikes high off the ground for easier loading and to avoid damage.

Con​​​​s

  • It decreases the rear visibility of the driver.
  • It isn’t suitable for bigger and sturdier bikes.

8. yakima products hold up tray style

The Yakima Hold Up is a tray style hitch bike rack that is attached to the tow bar of your vehicle. It carries two bikes and can be modified into carrying 4 with the addition of the Hold up+2. Your bikes are held up with the strong-arm device which clamps it at the wheel, thereby avoiding contact with the bike frame.

It has secure cable locks for the rack and bikes, and the space between the bikes can be adjusted to your satisfaction.

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Specification​​​​

  • Tray style hitch-mounted bike carrier.
  • It carries two bikes and can manage four bikes with the addition of Hold up+2 add-on.
  • Strong arm wheel hook: Helps you load quickly.
  • Compatible with carbon frames.
  • It has a secure SKS cable lock system for the rack and the bikes.
  • Compatible with nearly any tire.
  • Dimensions: 44 x 14 x 15 in.
  • Weighs 49 lbs.
  • Maximum weight limit: 120 lbs.
  • Hitch pin locks in place with a screw.
  • Comes with battery-operated blinkers.

Pros

  • There is no contact with the bike frame, so it causes little or no damage.
  • It has an adjustable space between the bikes to prevent contact.
  • It folds to a compact shape for easier storage.
  • It is compatible with fat bikes and mountain bikes.

Con​​​​s

  • It doesn’t tilt back enough for a rear door that opens from the side.

9. thule vertex swing away rack – 4 bike

The Thule Vertex bike carrier is another amazing bike carrier from Thule. This product can carry four bikes of 35 lbs each at once.

It has a clever arc design that gives it a lot of ground clearance, making it easier to load your bike while also protecting your bikes from damage.

It comes with a cable lock system that secures your bikes to your rack and your rack to your car. The arms can be folded whenever they’re not being used to prevent damage. This is also suitable use for hatchback car.

The wide distance between the bikes protects them from scratches from other bikes.

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Specification​​​​

  • Carries 4.
  • Uses 2” receiver
  • Arc design that lifts bikes higher off the ground.
  • Makes loading easier.
  • Swing away design allows access to the rear vehicle area.
  • Wide distance between bikes.
  • Integrated cable locks for the bike and racks.
  • Foldable arms.
  • Holdfast cradles: prevent swaying and wobbling
  • Receiver lock: Holds bike rack in place (sold separately)
  • Dimensions: 48 x 18 x 11 in.
  • Weighs 42 lbs.
  • Maximum load capacity: 35 lbs. per bike

Pros

  • It can carry four bikes.
  • Swing away feature makes it easy to access the rear of your vehicle even when the rack is loaded.
  • Foldable arms make it easier to store.
  • Foldable arms make it easier to store.Anti-sway cradles help prevent damage caused by contact.

Con​​​​s

  • It has a low load capacity. Cannot carry heavy-duty bikes.

10. saris freedom EX 2-bicycle universal hitch rack

The Saris Freedom hitch rack is possibly the most lightweight 2-bike carrier available, but this does not make it any less effective at carrying two bikes of 60 lbs each.

It is capable of carrying a lot of different bikes of different sizes, and it can also accommodate large wheels.

This bicycle carriers for cars comes with built-in locks for the bikes and a hitch pin for the rack itself. It has safety reflectors on the wheel trays to increase visibility in low light, especially at night.

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Specification​​​​

  • Hitch-mounted.
  • Works with 1.25” and 2” receivers.
  • Carries two bikes.
  • Tilt back feature.
  • Comes with built-in locks for the bikes and hitch pin for the rack.
  • Comes with safety reflector on outer wheel trays.
  • Dimensions: 48 x 12 x 9 in.
  • Weighs 27 lbs.
  • Maximum weight capacity: 60 lbs. per bike.
  • Wheel trays with straps can fit wheels of up to 48” and up to 4” tires. For bigger wheels, try adding the long wheelbase bar and fat tire wheel holders, respectively.
  • Fits nearly every type of bike. Good fit for women’s bikes and bikes with fenders and low crossbars.

Pros

  • It is very light and portable.
  • It carries a wide variety of bikes.
  • It has a high load capacity.
  • Tilt back feature allows you access the rear trunk even when loaded.
  • Comes with security locks and safety reflectors.

Con​​​​s

  • It doesn’t come with the anti-sway feature.
  • It requires tools to install this vehicle bicycle rack.

11. swagman bike rack

The Swagman bicycle rack for cars was specifically made to handle the strain and heavy loads. It is best for those that have large bikes, especially mountain bikes and e-bikes. It has a very sturdy build, and it can take the weight of two 70 lbs bikes.

It is so strong that it can even be attached to towed vehicles, unlike most other bicycle racks. It has anti-theft locks, and it secures your bikes even in rough terrain.

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Specification​​​​

  • Hitch-mounted E-bike rack. Uses 2” receiver only.
  • Fits bikes of up to 29″ and 3″ tires. Fat tire trays are available for wider tires, but they’re sold separately.
  • Maximum weight capacity: 70 lbs per bike
  • This universal bike rack fits most frames and sizes and bike styles.
  • It is specifically made to handle heavy loads and tension.
  • One can fold this rack into a compact size against the vehicle when not in use.
  • Comes with built-in locking hooks for securing the bike to the rack and also a hitch pin for securing the rack to the vehicle. Wheels are secured with a ratchet strap.
  • It can be used with trailers, RVs, and other towed vehicles.
  • Dimensions: 39 x 12 x 11 in.
  • Weighs 58 lbs.

Pros

  • It has a high load capacity.
  • It is specially made for heavy bikes.
  • Comes with built-in hooks with a rubber coating to prevent scratches.
  • It is easy to assemble and install.

Con​​​​s

  • It doesn’t come with the anti-sway feature.

 Best Bicycle Rack 

Buying Guide

Loading and unloading your bike from your car can be the most stressful and time-consuming part of your cycling experience. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Getting a bike rack on your car can be the best decision you make concerning your bike yet.

Buying racks make the work easier for you, but if you get a wrong one, it can lead to scratched bikes and can also impact your car’s performance and fuel efficiency negatively.

A good bike holder for car should fit your car properly, transport the bikes without mishap and should be within your budget.

There are many different options to choose from when buying the best bicycle rack for car, so it’s understandably hard to make the best choice.

This buying guide will lead you through important steps to ensure you’re getting the best fit for your car and bike.

Type of Bike carrier

There are several types of bike carriers available for purchase. They are made for different purposes, and each has its advantages and disadvantages, and they are not all available for every car.

a) Strap-on or hatch rack

The strap-on bike rack car is attached to the trunk of the car, rear bumper or the hatchback with straps that are attached to the bike carrier. The bike’s crossbar is held up on arm-like supports and good to go as bike rack for sedans.

You might have to get a crossbar adapter if your bike doesn’t fit the rack. They are the least expensive models generally, though some of them can cost upwards of $200.

Pros

  • They are very cost effective.
  • They are not specific to one vehicle.
  • They are very light and portable.
  • They are perfect for short trips.

Cons

  • They are not very secure.
  • They do not allow you to lock your bike.
  • They usually hinder you from accessing your trunk.

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b) Hitch mounted

Bike racks for cars

As one of the bike hitch for cars,these bike trunk rack are attached to a hitch receiver that needs to be installed at the rear of your car. They are regarded as the safest way to carry your bike because they are very sturdy and there is a low chance of them causing damage to your bikes. You slide your bike onto the hitch and hold it in place. 

The catch is, you’d need to attach a hitch receiver to your car if it doesn’t already have one. Receiver sizes come in different sizes, according to the class of the hitch.

Class 1 hitch uses a receiver size of 1.25 inch and can fit 1-2 bikes. The class 2 hitch uses the same receiver size but can fit up to 5 bikes. Class 3 and four hitch both use a 2-inch receiver hitch and can both carry up to 5 bikes.

Pros

  • It makes loading of the bikes easier for vehicle.
  • One rack can fit multiple bikes at a time.
  • It is very cost effective.

Cons

  • You might need to install a hitch receiver if you don’t already have one attached.
  • Not all vehicles can have a hitch that can carry up to 5 bikes.
  • The bikes can cover the number plate, and you have to be very careful when reversing.

c) Tow bar mounted

These automobile bike racks are a type of hitch-mounted rack, only that they are mounted on the tow bar of your car. They are usually attached with straps and are generally very solid. They are ideal for big cars or short owners.

Pros

  • They are attached directly to the tow bar, so they are very secure and easy to access.
  • They leave room on the roof to carry any other load.
  • The rack can be locked to the car, and the bikes can, in turn, be locked to the rack.
  • It can carry up to 4 bikes.

Cons

  • Unless it has a special tilt feature, it can hinder access to the trunk of the car.
  • It can block the driver’s rear view.
  • Bikes can be damaged if the car backs into a wall or obstruction.
  • When carrying more than one bike, you might need to add padding to avoid them scratching each other.

d) Roof racks

Roof racks can fit onto just about any vehicle. They are capable of carrying up to 4 bikes at a time, and they can also be used to carry other luggage such as kayaks, ski gear, and other bulky luggage.

Racks on top of cars are attached to the pre-existing roof racks and crossbars, or they are attached to the upper door frame or car gutters that don’t have racks, with bars and mounting clips.

For roof rack, it hold bikes securely and are usually lockable. They aren’t generally so expensive but be prepared to spend a little extra if you want to get the bars and crossbars you attach to a car without a rack. Roof bicycle carriers can be consider one of the best bike rack for car usage.

Pros

  • They are very versatile; they can carry a variety of luggage.
  • They do not interfere with the driver’s rear view visibility.
  • They can carry a lot more weight than any other bike trunk rack.
  • It leaves your trunk free and unhindered.

Cons

  • It can be hard to load your bikes onto the roof.
  • It can be more expensive than others and complicated to install.
  • It makes it difficult to use underground parking.
  • It increases wind resistance, causing a reduction in gas mileage.

e) Spare wheel mounted

These are only compatible with 4×4 vehicles that have an external spare wheel attached to the back of the car. These bicycle carriers are connected to the spare wheel instead of the tow bar of the vehicle.

Pros

  • The roof is free for you to carry any extra load.
  • You don’t need to fit a roof bar or tow bar.

Cons

  • You have to remove the tire cover before use.
  • It is not as secure as other options.

Security cables

Most bike trunk rack come with loading cables that lock your bike to the rack or the car. This is a very important feature to secure your bikes from falling or theft in rear bike rack car. 

The securing cables have to be strong enough to hold your bikes in place, and at the same time, they have to be padded so as not to scratch or damage the framework of the bikes.

Always ensure that the cables are secure before any drive and also keep in mind, the effects of the wind. You don’t want your precious bikes flying off your car while you’re zooming off on the freeway. 

However, this feature doesn’t come with many products, and these products usually come with a premium price. whereas, some products give an option of buying it separately.

Anti-sway feature

Many bicycle carriers, especially the ones that hold your bike up, employ the use of anti-sway cages. Rear-mounted trunk rack that lock the wheels of the bike to the car also make use of the anti-sway feature. 

It just keeps your bike stable in the rack and stops it from swaying and scratching the car and other bikes; it could be packed with.

This feature is essential, especially when you’re carrying more than one bike at a time. It prevents the bikes from scratching each other up and also from affecting the movement of the car. It also lessens the noise associated with the bikes bumping into each other while using the hitch racks.

Ease of installation 

Many bike racks, such as strap-on racks, are not specific to any vehicle, making them very easy to install. Conversely, other types of automobile bicycle rack are specifically suited to certain types of cars.

If you’re lucky, the hitch trunk rack might come with adjustments to fit your vehicle. If not, you have to look for one that is made precisely for your car model.

Most bike racks don’t require any professional knowledge to be installed. As long as you have your basic tools and manufacturer’s instructions, you’ll have no problem. Bike racks with a fewer number of straps are generally easier to install.

Adjustable and foldable arms

Bike carriers for cars that come with adjustable arms allow to you position the supports to hold the bikes to a level position. They assist in holding the bike up and also in keeping it steady for you to load it easily. The foldable option allows to you keep the arms out of the way to avoid damage when they are not in use and while using the bike stands for cars to keep safe.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

How can I know what rack will fit my car?

Different bike trunk racks are specific to different cars. You can either buy a hitch racks that fits all types of cars or buy one that is vehicle-specific.

The manufacturer usually states the dimensions, size, and shape of the cars that are compatible with the bike rack.

How many bikes can I carry in my car rack?

The manufacturer usually states the number of bikes you can transport on your bike rack. Some trunk racks can only support a maximum of 2 bikes, while some can carry up to 5 bikes at a time. You should also put into consideration the weights of the bikes and choose the right hitch racks.

Can I transport my boat and other gear with my car rack?

Yes, if you have a roof rack. Other types of bike trunk racks are usually not fit to carry boats and other bulky gear. Roof racks are the most versatile, and they have enough room for carrying a variety of gear.

However, it is advised that before loading your extra gear on your car rack, you should confirm that it is not exceeding the maximum load capacity stated by the manufacturer.

Which bike rack is the best option for my SUV?

The best bike rack for SUV are hitch mounts and of course, roof racks. A hitch mount is easy to install and makes loading your bike at the back of your SUV a walk in the park. 

If it is well installed, you don’t have to worry about scratching your car or losing your bike.

Roof racks fit almost any car, and it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view. You don’t have to be too careful when reversing, but you most definitely should avoid underground parking. 

The only challenge you’ll face using a roof rack is lifting your bikes up and down the roof rack. As for SUV bike rack it depend on each user experience and option to be choose in which type of bicycle carriers.

Do I need tools to install my bike rack?

No. Most bike trunk racks don’t require any tools to install. Though, if you have to install bars for a roof rack, you might need some basic tools.

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Can I remove my bike rack when I’m not using it?

Absolutely. Bike trunk racks are generally detachable, and it is advised that you remove them and store them safely when they are not in use. This helps them avoid damage and keeps them longer for your use.

How do I prevent my bike rack from scratching my car?

To avoid those annoying scratches on your car, you should look for a car bike carrier that is padded for this very purpose. Also, install and use it gently to avoid scratches.

Conclusion 

For every bike owner, the inconvenience of carrying a heavy bike everywhere takes away from the joy of riding it.

Bike racks are the most stress-free and expedient methods of transporting them. There are so many different types and brands and models to choose from. Do look into some of our bike rack reviews for more details on each specific product.

Hitch racks are some of the best bike racks for cars available. They are easy to install and load, and they usually don’t interfere with you getting a cold drink or your riding gear from the trunk, thanks to their tilt back and swing away features.

They are also reasonably priced. You can decide what features you want and how much you’re willing to pay for them.

The products in this article were thoroughly analyzed and researched to help you make a better-informed choice. Overdrive 2-bike hitch mounted is our top-pick from the ones listed above as best rack or best trunk bike rack. We rate this product 4.6 stars out of possible 5.