Towing Bike Carrier Types and Brands Compared

Choosing the right bike carrier can be overwhelming, especially with the numerous options available. There are several types of bike carriers to consider, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Platform-style bike carriers are popular among cyclists due to their ease of use and versatility. They can accommodate a wide range of bike sizes and styles.

Hitch-mounted bike carriers are another common option, often preferred by those who already have a hitch on their vehicle. They are known for their stability and security.

The Thule Evo and Saris Freedom 2 are two top-rated hitch-mounted bike carriers on the market.

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Tow Bar Mounted Bike Carriers can be a god-send when travelling, but which one?

There are a few types of towing bike carriers to consider.

Throwing the bikes into the back of the car is a method that's been tried, but it's not always the most practical.

Using a roof rack is another option, but it can be a nightmare to navigate, especially when it comes to height barriers.

Tow-bar mounted carriers that hold the bikes under the top tube are a popular choice, but they can be a bit finicky, especially when it comes to small frames.

Some tow-bar mounted carriers come with extendable arms that turn into work-stands, which is a pretty handy feature for last-minute pre-race adjustments.

Other types of towing bike carriers include those with loading ramps, which can be a big help when dealing with ebikes.

Thule is the king of the racks, a Swedish brand that's been around since 1942 and now offers a range of products globally. They have three models in their tow bar mounted bike carrier range, including the EasyFold XT, VeloSpace XT, and VeloCompact.

The EasyFold XT folds down into its own storage bag, making it a great option for those with limited storage space. Peruzzo, an Italian brand, also offers a range of carriers and bike storage products, including the Zephyr, Pure Instinct, Parma, and Sienna models.

Halfords, a large UK-based chain, also sells a range of cycle carriers, including the Advanced model, which comes in two, three, or four bike options and has a tipping feature.

The Halfords Advanced 4 bike tow bar rack is a heavy duty item, weighing in at almost 20kgs. It's certainly robust, but it does mean that it's not the easiest to fit, requiring a two-person job.

The rack holds four bikes, with a maximum weight of 15kg per bike, which is somewhat limiting if you're hoping to carry an e-bike. The maximum wheelbase length of 109cm also rules out many contemporary mountain bikes.

Removal is pretty straightforward, although you still have the weight factor involved here. Once removed, it folds up nicely and can be stored away in the garage or hallway without taking up too much space.

Here are some key specs for the Halfords Advanced 4 bike tow bar rack:

It comes with a cable lock, although we were left unconvinced that it would be sufficiently strong to do the job if you were planning on leaving the bikes unattended.

The Yakima StageTwo tow bar bike rack is a solid choice for bike enthusiasts. It's a bike rack that can be mounted on a tow bar, making it easy to transport multiple bikes.

Yakima is a well-known brand in the bike rack industry, and the StageTwo is one of their top models. The StageTwo is a 1-bike carrier, but I couldn't find information on its weight or installation instructions.

The Pro Series Q-Slot 2 4-Bike Hitch Mounted Carrier is another option to consider, but it's a 4-bike carrier, so it's not the best choice if you only have one bike.

The XTC 4: Hitch Mount 4-Bike Rack is a reliable option for carrying your bikes. It's designed for Class III and IV vehicles, and weighs in at 55 pounds.

If you're planning to use the XTC 4 on your RV, make sure it has enough ground clearance to avoid dragging the bike rack when driving through dips in the road. This is especially important if you don't have a tow car.

The XTC 4 is a bit heavier than some other options, but it's still a great choice for those who need a sturdy bike rack. Its weight is comparable to other 4-bike racks on the market.

If you're interested in learning more about the XTC 4, you can check out its installation instructions by clicking here. You can also view the rack's dimensions to ensure it will fit your vehicle.

Here are some key specs for the XTC 4:

Thule Epos 2 with Lights is a top-of-the-line bike rack that stands out for its attention to detail. It works with a wide range of bicycle types and sizes, including those with fenders, which is a rare feature for hitch mounted racks.

One of its best features is its compact footprint when folded up for storage. This makes it perfect for those with limited space.

The rack also tips down with bikes installed for trunk access via an easily accessed tilt pedal. This is a thoughtful touch that adds to its overall convenience.

The price is high, but you get a lot of value for your money. The rack comes with locks and lights, as well as a license plate holder, which is a nice bonus.

Thule Epos 2 with Lights also has a wide range of accessories available to customize it to your needs. For example, you can get a ramp for loading heavy bikes.

Its only significant shortcoming is that it doesn't pivot out of the way vertically while mounted on a vehicle. This might make it slightly more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.

The Saris Freedom 2-Bike tow bar bike rack is an entry-level rack that works reasonably well for its intended purpose.

It's designed with a simple layout and a lightweight frame, making it easy to load and unload on a vehicle, as well as store when not in use.

The dual wheel hold down straps with a central fixture point keep the bike securely in place, and the design works well with bikes that have fenders attached.

The Saris Freedom 2-Bike rack is manufactured in the USA and is relatively inexpensive compared to other bike racks on the market.

If you're in the market for a basic bike rack, the Saris Freedom 2-Bike rack is definitely worth considering.

The RV-approved Dispatch model is a great choice for carrying two standard bikes on your RV. It's designed specifically for RV use and is a cost-effective option compared to racks made for e-bikes.

This model is strong and can withstand the stresses of RV motion on the road. The RV's motion causes the bike rack to move up and down and sway back and forth, which can put additional stress on the rack.

I've learned from experience that a bike rack on the back of the RV doesn't just support static weight, it also needs to handle the dynamic movement of the RV. This is why it's essential to choose a high-quality, RV-approved bike rack like the Dispatch model.

Trailer bumpers are not strong enough to support a bike rack, so don't even think about attaching one to a trailer bumper - it will fail quickly.

Thule is a well-known brand for bike racks, with a range of tow bar mounted carriers that offer access to the rear of the car and come in two or three bike options.

Their EasyFold XT model folds down into its own storage bag, making it a convenient option for storage.

Peruzzo is another brand that offers a range of carriers and bike storage products, including four models that can tip and come in two, three, or four bike options.

The Pure Instinct model from Peruzzo can also fold down for storage, providing a compact option.

Halfords, a large UK-based chain, also offers a range of cycle carriers, including the Advanced model that comes in two, three, or four bike models and has a tipping feature.

Their four bike carrier is a non-tipping option, which may be more suitable for some users.

Thule's range of products includes customisation options, such as loading ramps and storage boxes, which can enhance the functionality of their bike racks.

Peruzzo also offers a storage box that can be fitted to some of their carriers, providing additional storage space.

All of Thule's bike racks have built-in lights and number plates, eliminating the need to buy separate boards.

RV-approved bike racks are designed to withstand the stresses of RV travel, but it's essential to choose a strong one. A bike rack on the back of an RV does not support just a static weight, it moves up and down and sways back and forth slightly while driving.

The weight of the bikes and the bike rack can cause stress on the rack, which can lead to damage. I've seen a damaged dual hitch on a trip to Alaska, where the bent part was solid 2-inch steel.

Trailer bumpers are not strong enough to support a bike rack, so don't attach one to the bumper, it will fail quickly. A bike rack on the back of an RV needs to be specifically designed for RV travel.

The Swagman RV-approved bike rack "Dispatch" model is a good choice for two standard bikes, but if you have e-bikes or plan to get them in the future, get an RV-approved rack that's rated for e-bikes. E-bikes weigh more than standard bikes, so you'll need a stronger rack.

To use a bike rack on your car, you'll need a two-inch hitch receiver. This is because bike racks are designed to attach to a two-inch hitch, making it easy to move them from one vehicle to another.

Installing a two-inch hitch receiver, like the E-trailer Trailer Hitch Receiver 2″ for a Subaru Forester, is a necessary step. You'll need to choose a hitch that matches your car's make and model to ensure compatibility.

Having a hitch receiver that's strong enough to support your bikes is crucial.

The Hitch Mount 4-Bike Rack with Tilt Function is a great option for those who need to carry multiple bikes.

This rack is classified as a Class III-IV hitch mount, which means it's suitable for a wide range of vehicles.

It fits 2-inch receivers, making it a versatile choice for many car owners.

The rack can hold up to 4 bikes, perfect for families or groups of friends who need to transport multiple bikes at once.

With a weight of 30 pounds, it's a relatively lightweight option that's easy to install and maneuver.

For installation instructions, simply click here.

The Trailhead Hitch Mount Two Arm 4-Bike Rack is a great option for transporting multiple bikes. It can hold up to 4 bikes at a time.

This rack is suitable for use on trails with moderate to rugged terrain, classified as Class II, III, and even some Class IV trails. The weight of the rack itself is a manageable 35 pounds.

If you're interested in learning more about the rack's dimensions, you can view them by clicking the link provided. Similarly, if you need help with installation, you can find the instructions by clicking the other link.

Here are the key features of the Trailhead Hitch Mount Two Arm 4-Bike Rack at a glance:

The XP: Fold Down rack is a great option for those who need to transport multiple bikes. It's compatible with 1-1/4 inch and 2 inch receiver hitches.

This rack can hold 4 bikes, which is perfect for families or groups of friends who want to bring their bikes along on a trip. The weight of this rack is 40 lbs, which is relatively lightweight considering its functionality.

If you're planning to install the XP: Fold Down rack, you can find the installation instructions by clicking on the link provided in the article. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure a safe and secure installation.

The rack is available in multiple classes, including II, III, and IV, making it suitable for various types of vehicles.

When using a double hitch receiver, the bikes ride on the upper part of it.

The distance between the lower receiver and the upper receiver was insufficient to use both the Swagman RV-Approved Bike Rack and the Roadmaster tow arms.

A two-inch receiver is a must-have for using a bike rack on your car.

We had to install one to use the bike rack on our RV, and it made it easy to move the rack to the car without having to move the RV.

You'll need to choose a hitch that matches your car's specifications.

The E-trailer Trailer Hitch Receiver 2″ for a Subaru Forester is a strong and suitable option.

This type of hitch is essential for supporting the weight of bikes on your car.

To ensure carriage, consider the height of your bike rack. Make sure it's carried high enough so the bike rack doesn't drag when you drive through a dip in the road.

Ground clearance is crucial to avoid any issues. Get enough clearance to prevent the bike rack from dragging, especially on uneven terrain.

Mud and height are also important factors to consider. Avoid getting your bike dirty by keeping it outside, or choose a bike carrier that can handle mud and grime.

If you're on the short side, a tow-bar option might be more suitable. This way, you can easily load and unload your bike without straining your back.

A sit-on carrier is a great option if you want to keep your bike secure and away from your car's paintwork. Some models come with a handy tipping feature that makes loading and unloading a breeze.

When choosing a towing bike carrier, consider the type of vehicle you have. If you have a small car, look for a compact carrier that can fit on your roof or hitch.

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The weight capacity of your vehicle is crucial when selecting a towing bike carrier. A carrier that is too heavy for your vehicle can cause damage or even lead to an accident. Make sure to check your vehicle's manufacturer recommendations.

A good quality towing bike carrier can last for many years with proper maintenance. Regularly check the straps and cables for wear and tear, and replace them as needed. This will ensure your bikes are secure and safe during transport.

To prevent interference with your tow car, consider the height of your bike rack. A high bike rack on your RV is necessary if you tow your car behind it, as seen in Example 1.

If you have a large people-carrier with removable seats, you can bring bikes and other gear without worrying about height barriers. This is especially useful if you're traveling with family or friends.

Make sure to check the fit of the bike rack arms on your car, as they may not fit small frames properly. This can make loading and unloading bikes a hassle, as experienced by the author of Example 2.

To avoid damaging your bike frames, consider adding padding to prevent scratching. This can be as simple as using a soft rag or pipe lagging.

Installing a bike rack on a motorized RV is usually easier than on a towable RV. Attaching the receiver to a motorized RV is usually easier than attaching a receiver to a trailer.

Towable RVs often lack shock absorbers and only rely on springs for suspension. This can cause bike racks to fail due to repeated dynamic stress.

Installing a bike rack on a towable RV requires careful consideration of the frame's attachment points. The frame on a towable RV often ends before the attachment points that would be accessible for a receiver.

More than one RVer has found their bikes dragging on the road behind their RV due to a failed bike rack. Very few towable RVs have shock absorbers to help maintain the bike rack's stability.

If you're looking to add some accessories or security to your Swagman rack, you've come to the right place. The replacement vinyl krayton is a great option, priced at just $3.00 and available in stock.

You can also consider the 5/8" hitch pin and clip, which is priced at $6.00 and also in stock. This is a useful addition to your rack, especially if you're looking to secure your bike.

The XP/ORIGINAL non-locking knob is another great option, priced at $9.00 and available in stock. This is a simple yet effective way to customize your rack.

If you're looking for a locking knob, the XP/ORIGINAL locking knob is a good choice, priced at $11.00 and available in stock. This provides an additional layer of security for your bike.

For more advanced security, the replacement security cable is a great option, priced at $20.00 and available in stock. This is designed for use with the locking hitch pin.

However, if you're looking for a top plate, you may need to wait a bit. The ORIGINAL 4 top plate is currently backordered, with prices starting at $20.00 for the 1999-2008 model and $36.00 for the 2009-current model.

When choosing a towing bike carrier, consider the weight capacity of your vehicle and the carrier. Make sure it's compatible with your vehicle's make and model.

Some bike carriers come with additional features like built-in locks, which can provide an extra layer of security for your bikes. These locks can be especially useful if you plan to travel to areas with high bike theft rates.

The size of the carrier is also important to consider. A larger carrier can accommodate more bikes, but it may also affect your vehicle's stability and maneuverability on the road.