Bicycle Carrier Racks Buying Guide and Reviews

If you're in the market for a bicycle carrier rack, you've come to the right place. There are many types of racks to choose from, including hitch-mounted, trunk-mounted, and roof-mounted options.

Hitch-mounted racks are a popular choice because they can hold multiple bikes and are often more stable than other types of racks. They can be attached to a vehicle's hitch, which is usually found on the rear of the vehicle.

When selecting a hitch-mounted rack, consider the weight capacity and the type of hitch you have. Some racks are designed for specific types of hitches, so make sure to choose one that's compatible.

A good hitch-mounted rack can hold up to 5 bikes, depending on the model and brand. For example, the Thule T2 Pro is a highly-rated hitch-mounted rack that can hold up to 4 bikes.

There are several types of bike carriers to choose from, each with its own set of features and requirements.

A hitch-mount carrier is a popular option, requiring a 2-inch hitch receiver on your vehicle. It can hold up to four bikes, making it ideal for families or groups of friends.

The frame-hanging carrier is another type, which can be mounted to a 1.25- or 2-inch hitch receiver. It's best suited for vehicles with a 2-inch hitch receiver and can hold up to five bikes.

The trunk carrier is a more compact option, requiring a trunk lid or hatchback to mount. It can hold up to three bikes, but access to the rear of the vehicle may be limited when the rack is in place.

Here's a summary of the different types of carriers:

The roof carrier is another option, requiring crossbars on the roof of your vehicle. It's best suited for vehicles with a roof rack and can hold one bike per rack, with two to four bikes per car.

The truck bed carrier is a more versatile option, which can be mounted to a pickup bed with rails or bed tracks, or the tailgate. It can hold one to seven bikes, making it ideal for large families or groups.

The price of these carriers varies widely, ranging from $50 to $1,400, depending on the type and features.

If this caught your attention, see: One Bike Carrier

Carrier Features are what make a bicycle carrier rack truly stand out. Some racks, like the Saris SuperClamp EX 4-Bike, offer a nice balance of features, ease of use, and price.

The Saris SuperClamp EX 4-Bike, for example, provides a secure fit for a wide variety of bikes, with clamps on the front and rear tires. It can accommodate bikes up to 60 pounds each in the two positions nearest to the car, and 35 pounds each in the two positions farthest from the car.

The Saris Bones EX 3-Bike, on the other hand, is one of the lightest, easiest-to-use, and most solidly built racks available. It's made of injection-molded plastic, which makes it lighter than some of its competitors.

Here are some key specifications to consider:

The Saris SuperClamp EX 4-Bike also has integrated cables for locking bikes to the rack, and it comes with a hitch lock for securing the rack to the vehicle.

Tray-style hitch racks are the easiest to use and most versatile, but they require a 2-inch hitch receiver, which may not be suitable for smaller cars.

Hitch-mount racks can hold bikes by their frames, but some cyclists are wary of this design because it can scratch a bike's paint or damage a fragile carbon-fiber frame.

Vertical-style hanging hitch racks hold bikes by the front wheel, front fork, or handlebars, but they can be difficult to use, especially with bikes that have simple handlebar reflectors or brake and shifter cables.

Trunk racks strap to the back of almost any vehicle and support bikes by their frames, but they're the most vulnerable to theft because they attach to the vehicle only with straps.

Roof racks attach to crossbars on the top of a vehicle and hold bikes by the front wheel, front fork, or frame, and they don't block a vehicle's rear hatch or trunk, but they can cut highway fuel efficiency.

Here's a comparison of the different types of bike racks:

Most hanging-style hitch racks tilt down or swing to the side to let you open your rear hatch or trunk, but you may have to remove the bikes first.

Not all hitch racks are rated for the extra weight of e-bikes, so it's essential to check if your rack can handle the added weight.

Some hitch racks are clearly noted as not being suited for heavier bikes like e-bikes.

Some carriers are compatible with copilot seats, making it easier to transport multiple passengers and bikes.

If you have a copilot seat, look for carriers that specifically mention this feature. There are currently 2 carriers that are compatible with copilot seats.

Carriers can also be disc brake compatible, which is a great feature if you have bikes with disc brakes.

There are 7 carriers that are specifically designed to be disc brake compatible.

The roof is a great place to carry your bike, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Some roof racks are harder to load bikes onto than others.

The Küat Trio, for example, is not as easy to mount as other options, especially if you have a fork skewer instead of a thru-axle bike. This can be a real hassle when you're trying to get on the road quickly.

The SeaSucker Talon is a fork-mount rack that attaches directly to a vehicle's roof with large suction cups, but these cups can be tricky to fit on some vehicles, especially those with raised ribs.

It's worth noting that some roof racks, like the SeaSucker Talon, can cause the car's roof to flex if the bike sways from side to side while it's being carried. This is a concern that's been echoed in some Amazon reviews.

The RockyMounts SwitchHitter, on the other hand, is a great option for roof racks, as it's easy to install and allows for easy access to your car.

Blackburn has been the leader in bicycle touring racks since 1975, with their first product hitting the market that year. They've been helping cyclists explore the world ever since.

Their front and rear racks are designed to take your bike to new places. You can carry more gear and enjoy longer trips with the right equipment.

Blackburn's experience in the industry has taught them that the right question to ask is "Where do you want your bike to take you?"

Carrying four bikes can be a challenge, but with the right gear, it's totally doable.

For a four-bike rack, you'll need a 2-inch hitch receiver. This is a standard requirement for most tray-style racks, including the Küat Sherpa 2.0 and the Saris SuperClamp EX 4-Bike.

One of the lightest four-bike tray racks available is the Saris SuperClamp EX 4-Bike, which weighs in at 63 pounds. This makes it easier to get on and off your vehicle.

The SuperClamp EX 4-Bike has a nice balance of features, ease of use, and price, making it a top recommendation for carrying four bikes. It can accommodate bikes up to 60 pounds each in the two positions nearest to the car, and 35 pounds each in the two positions farthest from the car.

If you need to carry four bikes with a 1.25-inch hitch, you'll have to use a hanging-hitch rack, such as the Yakima RidgeBack.

On a similar theme: United European Car Carriers

So you're trying to decide between different types of bicycle carrier racks? Well, let's break it down.

We talked to experts at top bike shops across the country, including REI's headquarters, and surveyed over 20 bike clubs to get a better understanding of what works best.

If you're looking for a hitch rack, make sure it's easy to install and can tilt or swing out of the way without having to unload your bikes. This is a must-have, especially if you can't park close to where you store your rack.

For a hitch rack, you should be able to fold it up when not in use, and ideally, the arms should fold out of the way without having to remove the bikes.

Here are some key features to look for in a carrier rack:

A good rack should be able to hold your bikes tightly and mount securely to your vehicle. We also look for racks that can be locked, so you can leave your bikes for a few minutes when you stop.

This two-bike rack is great for carrying bikes weighing up to 75 pounds.

The Küat Transfer is easy to use and load bikes onto, making it a great option for those who want a hassle-free experience.

Some carrier options, like the 1UP USA Quik Rack Single, require no assembly out of the box, but may be more difficult to use due to their design.

However, the Küat Transfer stands out for its ease of use, making it a top pick for many cyclists.

The Thule Apex XT 4 doesn't fold flat for storage, which may be a drawback for those with limited space.

It's worth considering the weight capacity of your carrier, as some may not be suitable for heavier bikes.

If you're looking for a tray-style hitch rack, be aware that most options are designed for 2-inch hitch receivers, so make sure you have the right size before making a purchase.

The Saris SuperClamp EX 4-Bike is a great option for carrying four bikes, weighing in at 63 pounds, making it one of the lightest four-bike tray racks available.

Some tray-style racks can be a bit tricky to use, like the 1UP USA Quik Rack Single, which requires two hands to operate the wheel hoops, making it difficult to hold the bike while loading or unloading.

The RockyMounts MonoRail Solo has a release handle that can snap back and pinch your fingers against the rack's frame, so be careful when using it.

The Thule Apex XT 4 doesn't fold flat for storage, which might be a consideration if you plan to store your rack when not in use.

The Ultra Compact 2-Bike from Allen Sports seems cheap and not durable, and it shakes quite a bit while driving, so it's not the best option if you want a smooth ride.

When choosing a carrier option, consider the weight capacity of the rack. Some carriers can hold bikes weighing up to 75 pounds, making them suitable for heavier bikes.

Our top pick is a great value for the price, but if you're looking for a more affordable option, consider the alternatives.

If you're looking for a more compact and lower-cost carrier option, there are some great choices out there.

This hanging-style, two-bike hitch rack is a good option, costing less than our top pick. It's light and easy to install, and it folds flat for storage.

One thing to keep in mind is that it's not as easy to use overall, so you may need to spend a bit more time figuring it out.

The 1Up USA Equip'd Double Hitch Rack is a great option for those who want a simple and reliable way to carry their bikes. It features two ratcheting arms that clamp down on your wheels, eliminating the need for hooks or straps.

One of the standout features of this rack is its smooth pivot mechanism, which works reliably even after years of use. A little WD-40 White Lithium Grease Spray can go a long way in keeping it running smoothly.

The Equip'd has a T-handle release positioned at the end of the hitch bar, making it easy to fold up without having to reach through the rack. This is a nice touch, especially for those who value convenience.

This rack is designed to accommodate a variety of bike sizes, including 16-inch wheels. However, if you have a bike with small wheels, you'll need to manually adjust the crossbar on the folding arms to get a secure fit.

Here are the key specs for the 1Up USA Equip'd Double Hitch Rack:

The Equip'd is a great choice for those who want a high-quality rack that can handle a variety of bike sizes and types.

The Küat Sherpa 2.0 is the best overall hitch rack for transporting one or two bikes. It's lightweight, easy to mount, and holds bikes securely by the front wheel.

This rack is a breeze to install, weighing less than 32 pounds, making it the lightest two-bike tray rack tested. It's also easy to use, with a quick and simple tightening process that's a big improvement over most other hitch-mount racks.

The Sherpa 2.0 has a beautiful finish, with a metallic powder-coated aluminum frame, and comes with locking systems for securing the rack to the vehicle and bikes to the rack.

The Küat Sherpa 2.0 is our top pick for a hitch rack, and for good reason. It's the best overall for transporting one or two bikes, making it a must-have for any cyclist.

Weighing in at under 32 pounds, the Sherpa 2.0 is the lightest two-bike tray rack we tested. This makes it especially easy to install in the hitch receiver or to remove for storage.

The Sherpa 2.0 also has one of the lowest lift heights—only 26.5 inches, compared with 29 inches or more for most other tray racks. This makes it perfect for vehicles with lower clearance.

With a beautiful finish, the Sherpa 2.0 has a metallic powder-coated aluminum frame that's both durable and stylish. It's also relatively easy to assemble.

The Sherpa 2.0 provides ample space between bikes, with 12 inches of clearance compared to 8 to 10 inches for most other tray racks. This minimizes the chances of bikes damaging each other.

As long as your vehicle has a trailer hitch, the Sherpa 2.0 is one of the easiest to mount on your vehicle and load bikes onto. It holds bikes securely by the front wheel, with minimal side-to-side movement and without frame contact.

The Sherpa 2.0 has some limitations that might not be ideal for everyone. It can't expand to hold more than two bikes, which might be a problem for those who need to carry more than two bikes at a time.

Most people only carry two bikes, so this might not be a major issue for many users. However, it's worth noting that the rack can only hold bikes up to 40 pounds each.

This is similar to what most hanging-style hitch racks support, but it's less than what many other two-bike tray racks can handle. Some specialty and electric bikes might exceed this weight limit, so it's essential to check the bike's weight before using the Sherpa 2.0.

The rack's design also has a limitation with the front wheel hook, which might not work if a bike has fenders. This could be a bit of a hassle for those who need to transport bikes with fenders.

Carrier models come in a range of options to suit different needs. The RockyMounts MonoRail 2-Bike Platform Hitch Rack is an excellent choice for transporting fat bikes, thanks to its wheel cradles that support tires up to 5 inches wide.

This rack also accommodates wheel sizes as small as 20 inches and has adjustable trays that can shift 2 inches side to side to prevent handlebar or pedal interference. With a weight capacity of 60 pounds per bike, it's suitable for many e-bikes as well.

Here are some key features of the carrier models mentioned:

The Küat Sherpa 2.0 is the lightest two-bike tray rack we tested, weighing less than 32 pounds.

The Thule T2 Pro XTR is a top-notch bike rack that's been serving riders well for over a decade. It's a tray-style rack that can hold two bikes, with a weight limit of 60 pounds per bike.

The T2 Pro XTR has a handle with a wide trigger that makes it easy to raise and lower the rack with one hand. This is a great feature, especially when you need to access your rear hatch. Integrated cable locks keep your bikes secure, and the rack's arms have wide, comfortable grips that make it easy to slide your front wheel into place.

Here are some key specs for the Thule T2 Pro XTR:

This rack is a bit heavier than some of the other options out there, weighing in at 52 pounds. But trust me, it's worth it for the extra security and ease of use. The T2 Pro XTR is a dependable product that's been tested by Senior Reviews Editor Bobby Lea for over 6 years.

If you're looking for a carrier that's specifically designed for pickup beds, consider the one that's best for carrying one bike in the bed of a pickup. It's a well-priced carrier with a simple design and is very portable.

This carrier is a great choice because it's easy to move around and set up, making it perfect for those who need to transport their bikes frequently.

It's also a great option for those who have limited storage space, as it's compact and won't take up much room in the bed of the pickup.

Carrier Details are crucial when choosing a bicycle carrier rack. The bike capacity is a key factor, and this particular rack can hold up to 2 bikes.

The weight limit is also an important consideration, and this rack can safely carry 67 pounds per bike.

Here's a breakdown of the key specs:

We put these bike racks through rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand the demands of frequent use. Our editors drove hundreds of miles with their bikes on the racks, testing them in various environments, from the salty winters of Pennsylvania to the arid Arizona desert.

We tested at least a dozen more racks than we ended up featuring, and these are the ones that made the cut. We looked for ease of installation and use, lack of play in key areas, manageable weight and weight capacities, and prices that aren't too eye-watering.

We also considered storage and organization, as poorly lined-up trays can make loading a rack to capacity nearly impossible. We disqualified racks with dubious straps or trays, cruddy materials, poor customer service, and other issues that raised concerns about safety and reliability.

We drove hundreds of miles with our bikes on these racks, testing them in various environments and conditions. We subjected them to salt-filled winters in Pennsylvania and arid deserts in Arizona.

We tested a dozen or more racks before narrowing down the list to the top picks. These racks stood out for their ease of installation and use.

We looked for racks with minimal play in key areas, manageable weight, and weight capacities that made sense. Prices that were reasonable were also a consideration.

We even put one rack to the "kid" test, giving an 11-year-old the responsibility of loading and unloading the bikes without adult supervision. He had no problem with it.

We disqualified racks with dubious straps or trays, cruddy materials, or poor customer service. We took our time and did our research to ensure we were recommending the best options.

We began our research by examining the different types of bike racks available, each with its own unique features and benefits. We tested several models to see which ones stood out.

The Küat Sherpa 2.0, for example, is our top pick for hitch racks, but what makes it so great? We'll get to that in a minute.

We also looked at the Küat Beta, a great option for city or apartment dwellers who need to carry two bikes. Its compact design makes it perfect for urban settings.

Another key consideration was durability, and we found that the Thule Epos is the best rack for carrying heavy electric bikes. Its sturdy construction can handle even the heaviest e-bikes.

In addition to hitch racks, we also tested trunk racks, including the Saris Bones EX 3-Bike, which is a great option for those who need to carry multiple bikes.

We also looked at roof racks, like the Yakima HighRoad, which is a great choice for those who want a versatile and easy-to-use option.

Finally, we considered pickup-truck bed racks, like the Inno Velo Gripper, which is a great option for those who need to carry bikes in a truck bed.

Here are the types of bike racks we tested:

Carrier Installation is a crucial step in setting up your bicycle carrier rack. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a secure and stable installation.

Most bicycle carrier racks come with a specific type of attachment, such as bolts or clips, that need to be screwed or clipped onto the vehicle's roof or trunk.

The weight capacity of your vehicle is a critical factor in choosing a carrier rack. A carrier that's too heavy for your vehicle can compromise its stability and safety.

A well-installed carrier rack should be level and even, with the rack's feet firmly planted on the vehicle's roof or trunk. This ensures a stable base for your bicycles.

The type of vehicle you have also affects the installation process. For example, some carrier racks are designed specifically for sedans, while others are better suited for SUVs or trucks.

Before installing your carrier rack, make sure to check your vehicle's owner's manual for any specific requirements or recommendations.

Some bicycle carrier racks are designed to be highly portable, weighing in at just 10 pounds or less, making them easy to take on the go.

These lightweight racks often feature a compact folding design that allows them to be easily stored in a closet or trunk when not in use.

If you plan on transporting your bike on a roof rack, you'll want to choose a rack that's specifically designed for that purpose, such as the Thule Evo 7501, which can support up to 4 bikes.

These types of racks usually have a sturdy frame and are designed to distribute the weight of the bikes evenly across the roof of the vehicle.

The Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0 is another great option for transporting multiple bikes, with a maximum capacity of 2 bikes and a weight capacity of 70 pounds per bike.

This rack is known for its ease of use and features a clever "tilt" mechanism that allows for easy access to the bikes without having to remove them from the rack.