Jeep Bicycle Carrier Reviews and Buying Guide

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A night-time off-road camping scene with a jeep and rooftop tent under the moon.
Credit: pexels.com, A night-time off-road camping scene with a jeep and rooftop tent under the moon.

If you're an avid cyclist and Jeep owner, you're likely on the hunt for a reliable and convenient way to transport your bike. This is where a Jeep bicycle carrier comes in - a must-have accessory for any cycling enthusiast who wants to explore new trails without the hassle of lugging their bike around.

There are several types of Jeep bicycle carriers available, ranging from hitch-mounted carriers to roof racks. One popular option is the cargo carrier-style carrier, which can carry up to three bikes and features a sturdy steel frame.

When choosing a Jeep bicycle carrier, consider the size and weight capacity of your bike as well as the type of carrier you need. For example, if you have a large or heavy bike, you'll want to opt for a carrier with a higher weight capacity.

A good Jeep bicycle carrier should be easy to install and use, with clear instructions and a secure locking system to prevent theft. Some carriers also come with additional features like tie-down straps and a wheel chock to keep your bike stable during transport.

Product Options

A rugged Jeep navigates through thick mud, showcasing its off-road capabilities.
Credit: pexels.com, A rugged Jeep navigates through thick mud, showcasing its off-road capabilities.

If you're in the market for a jeep bicycle carrier, you've got several options to consider.

A platform or equivalent style rack is a great choice, especially if you want tailgate access and can fit two 29'er sized bikes.

You'll want to look for a rack with a 2" receiver, as this is a standard size for many jeep bike racks.

The 1up 2" Heavy Duty Double Bike Rack and 1up 2" Super Duty Double Bike Rack are both great options, offering heavy-duty construction and a capacity for two bikes.

Other options include the KUAT NV 2, which is a popular choice among jeep owners, and the RockyMounts Monorail Platform Bike Rack, which offers a sleek and durable design.

If you're looking for a more modular system, the iSi Extreme Duty 4x4x2 Modular Two-Bicycle Carrier is worth considering.

Here are some of the top jeep bicycle carrier options:

  1. 1up 2" Heavy Duty Double Bike Rack
  2. 1up 2" Super Duty Double Bike Rack
  3. KUAT NV 2
  4. RockyMounts Monorail Platform Bike Rack
  5. iSi Extreme Duty 4x4x2 Modular Two-Bicycle Carrier

Potential Issues

You might think finding a bike rack for your Jeep will be a breeze, but trust me, it's not as easy as it seems. Many folks instantly look to spare tire mounts, but this is a poor choice for a couple reasons.

A rugged Jeep SUV navigating a muddy off-road track, showcasing durability and adventure.
Credit: pexels.com, A rugged Jeep SUV navigating a muddy off-road track, showcasing durability and adventure.

Most spare tire mount racks support the bike by the top tube or a special bar, allowing bikes to bounce all over the place, which is definitely not ideal on a Jeep.

The factory spare tire mount is designed to support the weight of the factory spare tire and that's it, so you'll need a different kind of mount if you plan to carry more than just a spare tire.

Spare tire clearance is another issue, as you need to allow more distance due to the depth of the tire, which can be up to 12 inches more than usual.

Jeep Issues

Jeep owners often face unique challenges when it comes to installing bike racks. One major issue is the spare tire mount, which can be a poor choice due to the weight capacity limitations and the tendency for bikes to bounce around.

Many bike racks require a hitch extension or drop hitch to clear the spare tire, especially on Jeeps. This is because the spare tire is mounted on the tailgate, requiring more clearance than typical vehicles.

Take a look at this: One Bike Carrier

A dog sitting in the back of a Jeep parked in a green, sunlit forest area, ready for adventure.
Credit: pexels.com, A dog sitting in the back of a Jeep parked in a green, sunlit forest area, ready for adventure.

The factory hitch on Jeeps is also a problem, as it's located a few inches under the vehicle, compounding the depth issue. Using an aftermarket hitch like a Draw Tite can help gain a few extra inches of clearance.

Getting access to the tailgate with bikes on the rack can be tricky, especially with the spare tire in the way. Some bike racks will interfere with the tire, making it difficult to actuate the tilting or locking mechanism.

No Damage

One potential issue to consider when choosing a bike rack for your Jeep is damage to your vehicle. The open pin position system protects your Jeep from the bikes or rack swinging too far and hitting the side.

This is a key feature to look for, especially if you plan to store your bikes on the rack for extended periods. The open pin position system is a safety feature that helps prevent damage to your Jeep's body.

Urban street scene in Vienna featuring a bicycle rack and people walking.
Credit: pexels.com, Urban street scene in Vienna featuring a bicycle rack and people walking.

If you're in the market for a new bike rack, be sure to research different options carefully. The author of this article, who recently upgraded their Thule T2 bike rack, found that buying a new rack was not as easy as they thought it would be.

The good news is that there are many great bike rack options available for Jeep Wranglers. Here are a few popular options to consider:

  • 1up 2″ Heavy Duty Double Bike Rack
  • 1up 2″ Super Duty Double Bike Rack
  • KUAT NV 2
  • RockyMounts Monorail Platform Bike Rack
  • iSi Extreme Duty 4x4x2 Modular Two-Bicycle Carrier

Reviews and Comparisons

The Jeep bicycle carrier is a versatile and convenient solution for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the top-rated models is the Thule T2 Pro, which can carry up to 2 bikes and has a maximum weight capacity of 60 lbs.

For those who need to carry more bikes, the Saris Bones 3 is a great option, holding up to 3 bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 120 lbs.

If you're looking for a more compact option, consider the Kuat NV 2.0, which can carry 2 bikes and has a maximum weight capacity of 60 lbs, making it perfect for smaller vehicles.

The Yakima HoldUp 2 is another popular choice, able to carry 2 bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 70 lbs and features a sleek, aerodynamic design.

Ultimately, the best Jeep bicycle carrier for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Decision Making

Red Jeep Suv Beside Road
Credit: pexels.com, Red Jeep Suv Beside Road

When deciding on a Jeep bicycle carrier, consider the weight capacity of your Jeep, which can range from 500 to 2,000 pounds, depending on the model. This will help you choose a carrier that can safely hold your bikes.

For example, if you have a Jeep Wrangler, you'll want a carrier that can handle at least 500 pounds, considering the average weight of two adult bikes is around 40 pounds each.

Great Value

When evaluating the value of a product, it's essential to consider its price and performance. The bike rack in the article was praised for being a great value, especially considering its price.

This bike rack was easy to set up and install, which is a significant advantage. It was also one of the only bike racks that would fit the user's Jeep Wrangler.

A product's price can be a major factor in its value. The bike rack in question was more affordable than a Thule rack, which is a well-known brand in the industry.

SUV with Roof Tent on Hill
Credit: pexels.com, SUV with Roof Tent on Hill

The user was happy with the bike rack's performance, but had some reservations about its durability. The straps looked like they might break over time, which is a concern.

Ultimately, the value of a product depends on its ability to meet your needs and provide good performance. In this case, the bike rack seemed to do just that, despite some minor drawbacks.

Opinions Wanted

When considering multiple options, it's normal to feel uncertain about the best choice. Opinions Wanted, a blog post, highlights the importance of seeking advice from others when making a decision.

The post asks readers to share their experiences with hitch bike racks for a Jeep Wrangler, specifically mentioning the 1up and Kuat offerings.

The author is leaning towards these two options but wants to hear from others to make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to carry bikes on a Jeep?

Hitch-mounted bike racks are the recommended option for carrying bikes on a Jeep Wrangler, as they are heavy-duty and don't put extra weight on the tailgate

What is the best hitch bike rack to buy?

The best hitch bike rack to buy depends on your specific needs, but top recommendations include the Küat Piston Pro X, Hollywood Racks HR200Z, and Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 for their exceptional performance and features.

What is the best way to carry bikes on a SUV?

To safely transport bikes on an SUV, fold the bike and secure it tightly with a strap or belt, then lift it onto the bumper with your legs. This method keeps the bike stable and prevents damage to the vehicle.

Gretchen Gerhold

Writer

Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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