Aside from putting my head on the handlebars, wrestling with the bike in the rack (and compulsively looking in the rearview mirror to make sure the bike isn’t riding the freeway) is probably my least favorite part of cycling.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options for getting your bike where you want it easily and safely, especially if you have a tow bar. With features like ratchet arms, integrated cable clips and swivel arms, it’s easy to find the perfect way to load and unload your bike, hold on tight, and tackle the road with confidence.

We searched for the best tow bar rack of 2022 and found some very strong competitors in different price ranges.

 

The best bike racks of 2022

1. Best Overall Hitch Bike Rack: Thule T2 Pro XTR

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Specs:

• Weight: 52 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 2 (4 with add-on)
• Carry capacity: 60 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: Integrated bike lock, included receiver lock
• Type: Platform

Every piece of equipment we test from Swedish company Thule always evokes the same thought: “Wow, they really thought about it!” It is clear that Thule equipment is designed by the people who use it, from the nice aesthetics to the small details that make it easier and more comfortable to use.

And the Thule T2 Pro XTR 2-Bike Hitch Rack ($ 900) is no exception. The large free space it allows and the width of the tire make this roof rack the best we have seen (for two wheels).

This bike carrier tilts away from the vehicle to allow the rear to open. The AutoAttach system is quick and easy to install without tools (the rack was assembled and fixed in minutes). The stand folds up even when not in use. When you’re ready to store the rack, the built-in wheels help with transportation.

The T2 Pro XTR fits wheels with a diameter of 20-29 inches and a tire width of 5 inches, which means it is also suitable for bicycles with thick tires. And it can hold up to 60lbs per bike, which is useful for tools or electric bikes.

Wide gaps and side-by-side adjustments ensure the wheels don’t collide with each other while driving. Also, the ratchet arm secures the bike without touching the frame, so it’s perfect for carbon fiber bikes.

Are you bringing friends? Thule has an optional luggage rack that allows you to carry two more bicycles. And the built-in cable lock keeps them safe when you need to stop en route for track food.

2. Runner-Up Best Hitch Bike Rack: 1UP USA Equip-D Single

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Specs:

• Weight: 27-28 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 1 (3 with add-ons)
• Carry capacity: 50 lbs. per bike (35 lbs. for the third bike)
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: None
• Type: Platform

Introduced in fall 2020, the 1Up-USA Equip-D Single ($ 525) is already proving to be one of our favorite racks on the market. One of our testers used a previous Equip-D model for over 10 years and over 100,000 miles without changing a single part.

After this great experience with the old model, we were excited to try the new version. And so far, it has fully met our high expectations.

Sustainability is the name of the game with this 1Up rack. It has all stainless steel hardware and hardly any plastic. There are few fragile parts and the entire rack is built to last forever. Literal.

Loading the bike into the carrier is easy and also adjustable. This rack fits both small children’s bikes and 5 inch bikes. Total load capacity is 50lbs per wheel (but with two accessories, the third wheel can go up to 35lbs). The bases fit 16-29 inch wheels and 5 inch wide tires.

When mounted on the tow bar receiver, this mount does not swing at all. Installation takes less than 30 seconds thanks to a simple one-bolt system. When access to the trunk is needed, the new Equip D is easier to get out of the way than the old model, even with a loaded bike.

In very cold climates, the release handle can freeze, but we’ve found this to be no big deal unless the temperature is below zero degrees F. We’d also be happy if this mount had a built-in lock. All in all though, this is a great bike rack that’s probably the only one you’ll ever need.

3. Best Swing-Away Hitch Bike Rack: RockyMounts BackStage Swing Away Platform

 

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Specs:

• Weight: 63 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 2
• Carry capacity: 60 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 2″
• Locks: Integrated hitch lock and bike cable lock
• Type: Platform

Many of the best racks tilt or rotate slightly to give you access to the rear of your vehicle. But almost everyone moves aside just enough to grab a few things. Rocky Mounts’ Backstage series is the only one we’ve found that can rotate 180 degrees to give you unlimited access to the back of the carousel.

It’s perfect for unpacking bigger gear, tailgating after a long drive or spending the night in the Outback before a long drive home the next morning.

In addition to this revolutionary feature, the BackStage Swing Away Platform 2 Bike Rack ($770) offers everything you’d expect from a high-end roof rack. It has a bike-mounted security system to keep your frame intact, strap arms that accommodate a variety of bikes from road bikes to fat bikes, a tow bar lock and cable lock to keep your bike secure.

It carries bicycles weighing up to 60 pounds per chassis, with wheels 20 to 29 inches in diameter, up to 5 inches wide, and wheelbases up to 49 inches. Folds flat against vehicle when not in use (only extends 12 inches). And if you don’t need full access to the back of your car, it also has a handy tilt function – 30 degrees – so you can grab your pack and helmet before pedaling.

4. Best E-Bike Rack: Yakima OnRamp

 

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Specs:

• Weight: 42 lbs. 9.6 oz.
• Number of bikes: 2
• Carry capacity: 66 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: Integrated bike lock and hitch receiver lock
• Type: Platform

E-bikes are great for carrying some of the load when the going gets tough, covering more ground in less time, or when you just want to get out and about but don’t necessarily want to exercise that day. Unfortunately, the extra weight makes for a mini weightlifting session by putting it on the hitch. As one of the most respected rack companies on the market, Yakima had this in mind when they designed the OnRamp ($729).

In addition to one of the heaviest payloads at 66 pounds per wheel, it also has a handy roll-on feature. The rack tilts toward the floor so you can roll the bike up and into place. As anyone who has ever had to put a heavy bike on a roof rack can attest, this is one of those features that will make you wonder how you ever lived without.

Onramp isn’t just for e-bikes either. Large cots can handle any bicycle tire, including a 50-inch wheelbase. And with expandable, height-adjustable frame mounts, you can carry everything from mudguard bikes to e-bikes, BMX bikes and kids’ bikes just as safely. Speaking of safety, it has a tow bar lock and an integrated cable lock to protect your wheels.

You will need a Fat Strap kit (sold separately) to fit a 29er wheel with 3.25″ tires or a 27.5 rim with 4.5″ tires.

5. Best 4-Bike Hitch Rack: Yakima RidgeBack

 

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Specs:

• Weight: 35 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 4
• Carry capacity: 40 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: None (bike lock sold separate)
• Type: Hanging

We often think the best features go unnoticed, and Yakima’s RidgeBack 4 ($429) is a prime example of this. It is mounted right out of the box and thanks to the locking, tool-less SpeedKnob it can be installed in minutes.

The two arms have eight padded, non-swaying holders to prevent the bikes from bumping into each other during transport. Zippered ratchet straps are quick, easy to use and detachable.

The rack tilts away from your car with the easy-to-use UpperHand lever and the entire rack folds flat for storage when not in use. All head joint adjustments are done with a knob or lever, making it easy to adjust.

We also appreciate extra parts that give the rack a bit of versatility and security. You can add a bike frame adapter, the TubeTop ($49), that fits kids’ bikes, BMX bikes, and other unusual bikes (like scooters).

Then there’s the Handcuff Lock ($49), a proprietary cable lock specifically designed to work with the RidgeBack (as well as Yakima’s SwingDaddy mount).

Bonus: Yakima’s unique bottle opener at the end of the swing arm is always handy for post-run parties

6. Best Budget Hitch Bike Rack: Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Bike Rack

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Specs:

• Weight: 23 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 4
• Carry capacity: 35 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: None
• Type: Hanging

For those who ride in groups, Allen Sports’ Deluxe Hitch Bike Rack ($160) is the best bike rack you can get without breaking the bank. Four bolts make up the assembly and its light weight (23 lbs) makes it easy to lift and hook, so you’re ready to roll in minutes.

The two arms have four sets of padded racks, while Allen’s unique mounting system locks the wheels in place. And you can position or rotate the racks to fit a wide variety of bikes, from a carbon tourer to your own mountain bike.

The pin-lock tilt function folds the rack down so you can access the rear without removing the entire system, as long as you remove the bike first. (Having four wheels falling to the ground is a horrible thought.) And the foldable support arms give the rack a low profile when not in use.

There are no safety devices or locks and the front tires are not attached. A few rubber bands or cords and a good safety cord are therefore ideal additions. But add the cost of the rack, straps, and cable lock, and this setup still costs less than half the most expensive four-wheeled racks on the market. Overall, this is a great hitch for the price, even with the recommended additional purchases.

Remember the best

7. Kuat Sherpa 2.0

 

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Specs:

• Weight: 32 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 2 (4 with add-on)
• Carry capacity: 40 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: Bike lock (no hitch lock)
• Type: Platform

A runner-up for best two-wheeled rack is the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 ($ 629). It has a tool-free installation (just plug in the clutch cam by hand and you’re good to go) and a foot-activated folding function so you can grab your gear in the back even when it’s loaded with wheels. Another activity that can be completed hands-free? We will take it.

It has wheelbases up to 47 inches and can handle tires up to 3 inches wide with a payload of up to 40 pounds per wheel. Its lighter weight makes it easy to install or remove, but the low-profile foldable design won’t allow you to take it off. You hardly know it’s there until you need it.

The folding arms lock onto the front tires without touching the frame and the rear tire holder has a molded strap to keep the bike safe while riding. The foldable front bracket increases the space between the wheels and the gear, so you don’t have to worry about scratching or damaging your investment.

As always, it’s the little things that make a kit great and we love the little things about this rack. The integrated cable lock, light weight and cam system for easy installation put this roof rack at the top of our list of best bike racks.

8. Swagman XC2

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Specs:

• Weight: 28 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 2
• Carry capacity: 35 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: None
• Type: Cradle system (Similar to platform style)

Of all the bike racks under $ 200, Swagman’s XC2 ($ 195) is easily the best. Instead of the suspension bracket you usually see on racks in this price range, the XC2 combines a rack system with arms that attach to the frame. This not only keeps cycling safer, but also prevents the front tires from wobbling and hitting your car or other bike while riding.

The edges of the bed are adjustable for several steps and 20-29 inch wheels. The cranks are easily adjustable and the vertical bar can be folded down to allow you to change gears in the rear of the car (but only when the wheels are not in the rack).

It can accommodate bikes up to 35kg, so e-bikes and some cruisers may not work. But most mountain bikes and road bikes last well.

The light and compact XC2 weighs just 28 kilograms. You can take it off if you don’t intend to drive for a while and it folds flat for storage when not in use. This is perfect for casual or weekend bikers.

9. INNO Tire Hold Bike Hitch 4

 

 

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Specs:

• Weight: 85 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 4
• Carry capacity: 60 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 2″
• Locks: included for hitch and bikes
• Type: Platform

INNO Tire Hold Bike Hitch 4’s low-profile bike hanger ($ 1,000) can carry up to four 60-pound bikes, but this monster looks like you can attach an ATV to it (you can’t). Also known as IH142, the aluminum frame is sturdy but keeps the weight of the stand itself low. And thanks to the tow handle at the end of the roof rack, it’s easy to fold the roof rack against the vehicle when not in use.

Besides its intimidating presence, the Ring Grip’s most striking feature is its completely frameless mounting system. By attaching the full-length trolley hood to the locking arm mounts on both straps, the rack locks the wheels in place and prevents them from bumping into each other during transport. Prevents any contact with frames or forks, ideal for those who own carbon frames, bikes with large forks or for those who want to treat their bike like polished porcelain.

The stems hold 20 to 29 inch tires and tires up to 3 inches wide.

One feature we absolutely love is the ability to tilt down for full load access, thanks to the handle at the end, which makes it easy to lift the rack even with four wheels on it. Four different angles are available for tilting. And the included locks for the towbar and bicycles are a big plus.

Overall, its weight capacity makes it a great choice for e-bikers and road trippers who may need to access the rear without disassembling all four wheels first.

10. Yakima HangOver 6

 

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Specs:

• Weight: 70 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 6
• Carry capacity: 37.5 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 2″
• Locks: Yes, a hitch lock and integrated bike lock system
• Type: Unique rear wheel and rear fork cradle system

If you’re rolling deep, the Yakima HangOver 6 ($949) is the best way to carry your crew’s bikes. Perfect for large families, group travel or tour guides, the Yakima Monstrous Bike Rack loads up to six bikes weighing up to 37.5 pounds each in a fantastic vertical carrier system. It is a great SUV bike carrier for transporting bicycles and equipment.

The wheels are mounted with the rear wheel and the bottom of the fork with the front wheel facing the sky. The HangOver can carry half a dozen bicycles in a minimal space.

The vertical tower has two adjustable tilt angles, which are controlled by the foot pedal on the bottom. This allows you to adjust the distance of the wheels from your car (the tires can hit the rear windows of upright Sprinter vans) and get into the back of your car without removing the wheels from the roof rack.

The soft padding of the cups protects the surface of the forks, keeping them clean until you and your friends hit them on the trails, and they’re adjustable enough for fat bike suspension forks. The tow bar is included in the price, the integrated locking ring allows you to protect your bike and of course the integrated bottle openers are a plus.

11. Saris SuperClamp EX

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Specs:

• Weight: 63 lbs.
• Number of bikes: 2
• Carry capacity: 60 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 1.25″, 2″
• Locks: Locking hitch pin, integrated bike lock cables
• Type: Platform

Combining power with a small footprint, Saris’ SuperClamp EX ($580) is a sturdy chassis-mounted rack that weighs 35 pounds at the bottom of the shell.

Dual bike hooks lock bikes into racks without contact with the frame, support bikes up to 60 pounds each, wheelbases up to 50 inches, and tires up to 4 inches wide (fat tire wheel adapters are available as accessories). Several wheels are compatible with a 20-29 inch diameter rack.

The hooks and rack are adjustable to fit almost any type of bike, from road bikes and mountain bikes to bikes with mudguards and light e-bikes. The two-wheel-on-one-bar construction means the platform footprint is remarkably small and the tilt function allows the fully loaded roof rack to be tilted away from the vehicle.

However, this stand is not only based on its slim profile and innovative design. Thoughtful design extends into the details. Little things like reflective logo stickers, an integrated bike lock system and integrated bottle openers show that Saris has both big lines and small combinations.

12. Saris MHS DUO 1-Bike Tray & Base

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Specs:

• Weight: 105 lbs. (2 33-lb. trays, 39-lb. base hitch)
• Number of bikes: 2 (3 bikes with add-on)
• Carry capacity: 60 lbs. per bike
• Hitch receiver options: 2″
• Locks: Locking hitch pin, integrated bike lock cables
• Type: Platform

If you’re looking for a more customizable approach, opt for the modular bike rack from Saris. The stand has three mounting options that can be combined with a stylish and sturdy tray system that is simple and easy to use.

We recently paired a 2-inch MHS 2+1 base mount ($200) with two MHS DUO 1 bike racks ($350) for a total of $900. There is also an options menu. The MHS 3+1 rack is also compatible with a 2-inch rack and can accommodate up to four bicycles. The MHS 1+1 Universal Tripod Mount fits receivers with 2-inch and 1.25-inch mounts, but is limited to a maximum of two wheels.

To load, simply raise and lower your vehicle, then close both arms and give a light jolt to make sure it clicks as firmly as possible. If you have multiple trays, reverse the direction of the bike handles and make sure the seats are facing down to avoid bumping into parts of the other bike.

The design also accommodates e-bikes, fat tire bikes (up to 5 inches wide) and 20-29 inch tires and 52 inch stands. Bicycles with mudguards are also welcome here.

One thing: with this rack, you don’t have to worry about forcing the release handles if they get a little stuck. The same goes for closing both arms around the rear and front wheels: push on them.

Why you should trust us

Bicycles play an important role in our lives, from the daily commute to driving on the track. Like most cyclists, we often use our vehicles to transport bicycles. We connect tow bar carriers to sedans, SUVs and everything in between. Although it is always nice to start pedaling at the door, we often have to drive before Fr.

After years of regular use and testing, we have identified the best trailer hitch bike racks on the market. We thoroughly check every rack we test down to the last screw. The towbar bike carrier must be easy to use, durable, safe and versatile. We’ve weighed dozens of racks against these standards, and the models on this list are top notch.

Many of the racks described here have been in use for many years. After regular exposure to natural conditions and many kilometers of bad roads, they are still going strong. As new racks come to market in the future, we will update our list to reflect the current market situation.

Buying guide: How to choose a bike carrier for tow bar

Types of towbar bike carriers

Explanation of the basic style and suspension style

There are two main types of bicycle carriers with a towbar. The former are frame-style racks, which usually use a frame to mount the wheels through the tires. Others are suspension racks that hang from the bicycle frame.

The advantage of the luggage racks is that they do not touch the bike frame at all; it only touches the tires. This makes them ideal for people who don’t want to damage the bicycle frame.

In addition, the platforms can be adjusted so that there is more space between the bikes, minimizing contact between the bikes. This allows the frame racks to fit all types of bikes regardless of overall size, suspension style or bike size.

This combination of versatility and ease of installation makes rack platforms very popular with serious cyclists. The only downside is that they tend to be more expensive than hanging shelves.

Hanging racks support the wheels from the frames and allow the wheels to be hung. The benefit of this is that many of these racks can hold up to five bikes without additional equipment. The main disadvantage is that contact with the body can cause wear and in some cases damage. This is a big consideration when transporting a bike with a carbon frame.

Suspension racks may also not be suitable for bicycles with unusual frames (such as entry-level bicycles) or full suspension mountain bikes. And you may also want to attach the front tires to the frame with a bungee cord or strap. This helps prevent the wheels from spinning and colliding with other wheels.

The advantage is that the hanging shelves are easier to assemble and disassemble. And they’re usually cheaper than rack chassis.

Chassis and suspension: which is the best?

If keeping your bike clean is a major benefit and cost isn’t an issue, roof racks are ideal. Most frame mounts secure the wheel through the tires, completely avoiding contact with the frame.

They are also easy to use, especially racks with a wrap function. This is ideal for people carrying heavier bikes such as cruisers or e-bikes.

Roof racks also win when transporting bikes with exclusive frames (such as an entry-level bike) or full-suspension mountain bikes. There is no need to find a way to thread the hanging arms through the frames.

Overall, however, platform racks have larger price tags than hanging racks. The biggest concern for most riders with a suspension rack is that it can potentially damage carbon frames. However, the crack is more likely to be caused by hitting a tree or accidentally stepping on a chain bar.

Realistically, the biggest problem with frame contact is that it can damage the finish of the bike over time. We’ve heard horror stories about hanging shelves carrying paint to metal on long car journeys.

While this is an extreme case, slower wear after years of use is not. For this reason, hanging racks usually have padded clips to minimize damage to the frame, but the best way to secure the frame is to avoid contact with the frame.

If price isn’t an issue and keeping your bike looking like new is a priority, choose a roof rack. If you want to save money and not worry about wear and tear, a coat rack is a good choice.

Number of bicycles

One of the first things to consider when choosing the type of bike carrier is how many bikes you usually carry with you. Racks usually have two to six wheels, so you have a few options.

Remember that you can always carry fewer bicycles than the luggage carrier’s capacity, but never more than the luggage carrier’s capacity. And you never know when you’ll get another friend to ride with.

Note: Some chassis carriers have optional accessories that increase the bicycle capacity of the carrier.

Tilt vs. Swivel Away

The “tilt” and “sway” functions refer to how the rack is adjusted to allow access to the vehicle. Tilt tilts the roof rack so you can open the sedan or lower the tailgate. This makes it possible to reach out and grab the backpack or walk the dog.

One thing to consider is whether you can tilt the rack with the bike still on it. Getting the bike off can be tricky if you have to get into the car. Also consider how far it tilts. This makes a huge difference when you pull out something bulky like a radiator.

Usually a feature of suspension racks, rocking tends to move the rack further away from the rack. This provides better access to the rear of the vehicle. It also moves the rack out of the way, making it easier to remove heavy and bulky items.

Our favorite swing stand is the BackStage 2 from RockyMounts. It pivots 180 degrees away from the vehicle, giving you unobstructed access to everything behind it.

Installation systems

Mounting systems usually have two different ways to lock the bike to the rack. The first and most common is the harness. It usually consists of a ratchet or flexible strap that wraps around part of your bike. For hanging shelves, it’s the frame, while for flat shelves, it’s the wheels.

The second is the shepherd’s hook, which is usually used on flat boards. This means that the arm swings up from the base and attaches to the tires of your bike. These block it on the platform. They are often reinforced with straps that wrap around the underside of the wheels for added security.

Every coat hanger we’ve seen uses a strap system. Although it is a robust and secure system (user error is the most common problem), the tapes can become damaged and break. For this reason, many strapping systems secure the bike with two straps at each attachment point. However, if the shepherd’s hook breaks (which rarely happens), your bike is at great risk of falling off.

Tire size and width compatibility

A bike rack is useless if it can’t carry your bike, so make sure your bike fits. Hanging shelves won in this category. Since your bike is attached to the frame, tire width, wheel size and wheelbase are no problem.

The main concern with suspension racks are unique frame types such as BMX bikes, thru-frames and full-suspension mountain bikes. These can prove tricky (or impossible) to hang from a hanger.

Because chassis carriers secure the bicycle through the tires, it is important to ensure that the bicycle’s tire width, wheel size and wheelbase are within the parameters of the rack. When purchasing a platform rack, check the specifications on the rack brand’s website. Most companies list a variety of wheelbases, tire widths and wheel sizes to fit the requirements of that particular rack.

For most bikes this is not a problem, but some deviations can cause problems. Fat bike tires, extra wide wheelbases and 29 inch wheels do not fit on some roof racks.

Fortunately, many of the racks we mentioned work with fat tires and wide wheelbases. Check out our catalog and make sure what you’re considering will work with your bike.

Compatibility with bicycle frames

To hang bike racks, you need to consider the shape of the top tube. You need a bike with a classic triangle frame so that you can easily hang your bike. Most traditional road bikes and hardtail mountain bikes fit into this picture.

But if you’re planning on carrying a full-suspension mountain bike, stepper, or smaller kid’s bike, a roof rack may not be the best option.

Trailer Hitch Receiver Dimensions

Tow hooks are usually available in 1.25 ” and 2 ” sizes. It is important to check the dimensions of your vehicle before purchasing a bicycle rack.

The larger 2-inch hitch can handle heavier loads which is great if you plan on towing several heavy e-bikes. It is also worth noting that some racks have an adapter that fits both sizes.

Safety

Bicycle racks have two main vulnerabilities when it comes to theft: bicycles can be stolen from the roof rack and the roof rack itself can be detached. This isn’t just a problem if you have bikes; the shelves themselves can be desirable items for would-be thieves.

Remember, if you have to go to the store or spend the night away from home, it only takes a few seconds for a thief to lift your bike from the rack and throw it away.

If they’re ready for use (or not, for hand assembly), someone can take the entire rack. This can be a big problem if you don’t have a garage to park in, especially if you don’t want to put the rear rack in or out every time you drive.

Fortunately, many racks have a locking latch that makes it impossible to unscrew once secured. If your rack doesn’t come with it, many companies sell the mounting blocks separately. There are also many aftermarket clutch locks for sale.

As for your bikes, you can attach them to the rear rack with a standard safety cable. Make sure your rack has several pre-drilled holes for the cable lock to pass through. But a much more affordable option is a built-in lock. This feature is found in more expensive racks; Companies like Thule and Yakima usually offer this.

The lock is integrated into the holder itself and slides back into the holder when not in use. When you need it, just pull it out and slide it through the wheels. It then locks into another part of the rack, allowing you to lock and unlock the bike in seconds.

Easy to use

If you’ve ever had trouble with a full suspension mountain bike on a hanging rack, or found a way to fit four Tetris bikes into a poorly designed roof rack, you know that ease of use is an important factor in choosing the right bike rack.

For a diamond frame bike (the most common bike), suspension racks are an easy option. Lift the bike, insert it into the rack, attach it, elastic the front wheel and that’s it. (Plus, it gives you the option to get some bicep curls before your run).

However, if you have a heavier bike or a bike with a unique frame design, a roof rack may be a better option for securing the wheels. Since it has a lower frame, there is no need to lift the bike all the way up. And when you wear it, you don’t have to lift it much to adjust it. Suspension racks may take some fiddling to get the bike into bed.

But the simplest (and often more expensive) option is a driveway. This feature, present on some basic rack models, allows the bike to roll easily on the rack. This is a great option for riders with heavier bikes like e-bikes or cruisers.

Resistance

Durability is a big consideration when it comes to tow hooks. A single attachment point puts a lot of strain on the racks as they carry loads on uneven roads. Since they are usually made of a strong material such as steel, fractures rarely occur at the hitch attachment point.

Problems usually arise at the attachment point of the bicycle – the shepherd’s hook or straps. Fortunately, the most common breakdown is the least destructive and easiest to repair: the tires. Rubber bands tend to dry out, especially when exposed to the sun, causing tears and eventually breakage.

However, most hooks (which usually have rubber bands) have two straps at each attachment point. Not only does it act as an anti-sway measure, it also acts as a support when the belt breaks. And they are usually inexpensive and easy to replace. Because they are small and unnoticeable, the spare parts are easy to keep in the car.

The same applies to the hard plastic straps of the ratchet systems. While they tend to withstand the sun better than flexible straps, hard plastic straps can also dry out and break. Again, this is usually not a big deal as they are cheap and easy to replace.

Breaking the shepherd’s hook, on the other hand, is much less common. These systems use one hook per wheel, so if it breaks, you’re pulling your bike to its destination. Replaceable shepherd’s hooks are much more expensive and complicated to replace. They’re also much bigger than a belt, so your car probably doesn’t have a spare seat.

Do your research when shopping for a bike rack. Check out user reviews or talk to a local shopping professional to see what other people’s experiences are.

Where the

Bike racks range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, depending on the model and features. We’ve seen a trend that the more expensive the roof rack, the more securely it will hold your bike.

More expensive racks also usually have features that make them easier to use. In general, hanging shelves are cheaper than flat shelves.

Cheap racks often offer little protection and functionality. High-end racks typically offer more cushioning and protection. They also offer more features that make your bikes safe and easy to use.

How much you spend will depend on your needs (as well as your bank account). If you just want a way to get your bike on the trail without disassembling it and packing it in the trunk, a good $100 roof rack is the way to go.

If you’ve spent a few bucks on a great road bike and want to keep it in top condition for as long as possible, go for a premium chassis (assuming you can afford it after spending all that Cheddar rocket carbon fiber).

In general, we’ve found that the sweet spot for racks is around $400-$600. For that money you can find a carrier that is easy to use and keeps your bike safe. Plus, you’ll save money for a decent pit stop on the way to the track.

FAQ

Which bike carrier for the car is the best?

The best bike carrier for a car differs from person to person. Because there are so many variables between every cyclist, it is almost impossible to choose a bike carrier for every situation.

The best option is to decide on your needs and choose the rack that best suits your needs. If your primary goal is to find a good, inexpensive roof rack and you can move and move your bike around with ease, you can get a good roof rack for $100-$200.

If keeping your bike safe and scratch-free is your primary concern, a chassis rack is a good choice. The platforms are also placed lower to the ground, making them suitable for people who have difficulty picking up bicycles.

The higher you go in the price range, the more features you get. High-quality racks have safety features, handles and knobs that make them easier to use. They also usually offer ways to get you in the trunk without removing the bikes.

When choosing a rack, consider the features you’re willing to give up and the features you’ll need. Balance these needs with how much you’re willing to pay, and you’ll find the perfect rack for you.

What is the best bike carrier for four bikes?

There are versions of both hanging and platform racks that can accommodate four bikes. Suspension racks need a little more fine tuning to keep your bikes safe as they protect your bikes from above. This can cause the wheels to swing and hit each other while driving.

Fewer bicycles can be spaced, minimizing the risk. But space is limited with four wheels, so make sure the cribs are far enough apart that the wheels don’t bump into each other, even if they sway a little.

With chassis carriers, this is less of an issue as the wheels on both wheels are locked in place, providing good stability. It is also easier to put the bicycles on the roof carriers of the platform because the carriers are placed much lower.

Are bicycle racks damaging your car?

One of the reasons why so many people prefer a tow bar roof rack over a trunk roof rack is that the hook does not touch the body of the car. This reduces friction with the paint. It also generally keeps the holder away from body parts that could dent or break.

Whatever precautions a company takes when designing a booth, the problem is always user error. Opening the sedan with the rack on and upright allows the hatch to be pushed directly into the rack.

This can cause dents and scratches to the holder or car. Make sure the roof rack is out of the way when you get into the back of the car.

Bikes can even touch your vehicle if you’re not careful. Roof racks sometimes carry the bicycle close to the vehicle’s rear window. This can increase the chances of the steering wheel passing through the window on a particularly bumpy road.

You can solve this problem by adjusting the guides so that the wheel is further away from the window. The suspension mounts allow the front tire to hang freely, which can lead to collisions and rubbing against the car.

It’s not as big of a deal as breaking a window, but it can damage the surface over time. However, it is an easy fix. Secure the bike with a strap or bungee cord to solve the problem.

What is the easiest bicycle carrier to use?

Both types of racks have their advantages. If bike pickup isn’t a problem for you, the roof racks are easy to use. Put the bike on your arms, fasten the straps, elastic the front wheel and your bike is safe.

Platform racks don’t require as much muscle mass because the racks are lower. However, they still take a few steps to lock the wheel. Folding shelves facilitate access to the rear of the run. Consider one of these if you are carrying a lot of gear (tent trips, etc.).

Overall, we found that brands like Thule, Yakima, and 1UP tend to have small tweaks like the adjustable tilt lever and integrated locks. These details make the stand more user-friendly.

Are Hitch bike racks better?

If your car has the capacity, tow hooks are a good option. By attaching the bracket to the tow bar in place of roof racks or roof racks, you not only protect the finish of your car from damage, but it is also very safe because the mounts are made of sturdy steel.

They are also much easier to install than other options, which is a huge plus for people who don’t want a roof rack in their car every day. Since it’s secured with a steel pin, it only takes one step to attach it to the towbar when you go for a ride and one step to remove it when you’re done.