How can one effectively transport bicycles? It is definitely not by tossing your bike on the back of your truck but by using bike racks to secure your bicycle or even your surfboard.
Bike riding in a park is both an enjoyable experience and a healthy activity. Not to mention that a park is a place where the whole family can have fun.
For one, Dad’s can teach their children how to fish. Second, a park is a great place to have a cookout and savor some grilled pork or grilled salmon with the family.
Moreover, everyone can
Best Bike Racks to Bring on an Adventure with You
Not entirely convinced that a bike rack is essential? Keep in mind that placing your bike in the rear of your car, van, or truck can leave dirt and grease on your vehicle.
Aside from that, not securing your bike with a rack can also mean nicks and scratches not only for your bicycle but also for your vehicle as well. To help you choose the most fitting carrier, here are the best bike racks to bring with you:
1. Thule T2 Pro XT Bike Rack
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First in our list is renown brand Thule. The Thule T2 Pro XT Bike Rack is simple to set-up with its ‘tool-free’ Auto Attach mechanism. It has the weight capacity of up to 120 lbs. and can readily carry up to two bicycles.
2. Yakima FullBack Bike Carrier
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Next on our list is the Yakima FullBack
For instance, the Yakima FullBack Bike Carrier is a rack which can carry two to three bicycles. It showcases a locking package which effectively secures your bicycles and prevents theft.
3. Kuat 2.0 Bike Rack
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Now, if you own a bike with fat tires, the Kuat 2.0 Bike Rack is suitable for you. It can carry two bicycles each weighing 60 lbs. and with huge tires as sizable as 4.8″.
4. Thule Parkway Hitch Bike Rack
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A lot of regular bike riders use a hitch mount bike rack. If this is the type of rack you want to buy, it is best that you know the different classes of a hitch and which one will fit your vehicle.
Hitch class start from Class I to V. The Class I has a small receiving opening size and minimal weight capacity. Accordingly, Class V has the biggest opening size and optimal weight capacity. You can determine the class of your hitch based on the capacity indicated on it.
In any event, with the Thule Parkway Hitch Bike Rack you can choose between a two or four bicycle hitch racks. The carrier is built from sturdy steel and it inclines away from the rear of the vehicle to give you trunk access.
5. Allen Sports Hitch Mounted Bike Rack
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Meanwhile, in buying the Allen Sports Hitch Mounted Bike Rack you’ll get a ready to assemble bicycle carrier. With only 3 bolts to assemble, you’ll be out on the road in no time at all. This product also boasts of easy to fold carry arms, secure straps, and dual compound cradles.
6. Hollywood Rack 2-Bike Mount Rack
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Biker’s who own an off-road vehicle or an SUV with a spare tire at the back will definitely appreciate a spare tire mount rack. The Hollywood Rack 2-Bike Mount Rack comes completely assembled.
It can hold two bikes and can quickly adjust to suit any spare tire. Take note though, it does not include a lock system, which means your bike is susceptible to theft.
7. Topeak One Up Wall Mount Bike Hanger
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In the meantime, if you live in a home or an apartment with limited space, you must have the Topeak One Up Wall Mount Bike Hanger. It comes with molded wheel pads thus keeping your bicycle tires from dirtying your walls.
Aside from that, it also includes two additional hooks so you can conveniently hang your other biking
8. Bikehand Floor Parking Bicycle Rack
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There are several types of bicycle racks. While there are types you can attach on your car or hang in your home, there is also a simple bike parking stand. The Bikehand Floor Parking Bicycle Rack is a portable stand which you can fold to save space when you are not using it.
9. Bell Rightup Bike Hitch Rack
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What is great with the Bell Rightup Bike Hitch Rack is that it has a versatile fit. You can install this product in a 1-1/4″ or 2″ receiver and it will still conform to the size. In case you will not use the rack, you can quickly fold it up for storage.
10. Allen Sports Deluxe
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Not a fan of building things? That is not an issue when you purchase the Allen Sports Deluxe Bike Rack. It is delivered fully assembled and you only need a few seconds to set-up and install.
This bicycle rack suits minivans, sedans, and hatchbacks. It offers an arched bottom and top feet to shield your vehicle’s paint and finish.
11. Allen Sports Ultra Compact Mounted Bike Rack
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A handy rack that you can fold to a size of a shoe box? That amazing product is the Allen Sports Ultra Compact Mounted Bike Rack. It doesn’t only come with an ultra-compact design but it also includes a reliable system that can secure a variety of bicycles.
12. Simple Houseware 5 Bicycle Storage Stand
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It can be frustrating at times when kids or even adults leave their bikes on the floor, yard, or the garage. This scenario can result in dirt and grease marks left on your floor or worse inside your home.
If you are not keen on vertical hangers for bikes, you can choose this Simple Houseware 5 Bicycle Storage Stand which can solve your storage dilemma.
13. Omni Bike Wall Hanger Mount
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Then again, not everyone has the free space in their home for a floor bicycle stand. That is why a wall mounted carrier like the Omni Bike Wall Hanger Mount is an ideal choice for those with restricted space at home.
This particular product is built from solid steel which can carry up to 200 lbs. of equipment. Most importantly, it can hold a variety of bicycles from Hybrid, Beach, or Mountain bikes.
14. Fiamma Folding Tow Bar Bike Rack
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Strangely, there are still people who are not sold out on using a Tow Bar Bike Rack. Some fear that the rack will just slip from the ball. Of course, when choosing this kind of carrier you have to find one that is reliable.
For example, the Fiamma Folding Tow Bar Bike Rack is made from rugged aluminum and can carry a maximum weight of 50 kg. With your bicycles safely secured in the tow bar carrier, it will give you more room to carry other cargos.
15. Super Buy Upright Heavy Duty 2 Bike Carrier Platform Rack
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Traveling with a truck? Transport your bike with the Super buy Upright Heavy Duty 2 Bike Carrier Platform Rack. It is lightweight at 19 lbs., which will make it easy for you to carry to your truck.
16. MaxxHaul 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Bike Rack
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Ease of access to your trunk is essential when traveling. This is crucial especially for families with kids who need a constant change of diapers or a bottle of milk.
With a bike carrier like the
17. Apex Rage Powersports Trailer Bumper Bike Rack
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Trailer owners,
18. Allen Sports Wall Mounted 2-Bike Storage Rack
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Another brand to consider when it comes to wall mount carriers is the Allen Sports Wall Mounted Storage Rack. It boasts of a zinc-plated finish so you don’t have to worry about corrosion. Aside from a bike rack, you can likewise use it as your repair stand.
19. BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack for SUV Truck
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Driving at night with your bicycle rack?
The BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack makes sure you are protected at night with its safety reflector. Besides that, it also offers an anti-wobble design which gets rid of shaking between its hitch and rack.
20. Tyger Auto Deluxe 3 Bicycle Rack
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Owner’s of minivans, hatchbacks, and sedans can greatly benefit from the Tyger Auto Deluxe 3 Bicycle Rack. It can hold up to 3 bicycles and include soft cradles to keep your frames protected.
Keep in mind though that this carrier is not suitable for vehicles with rear spoilers.
21. BV Center Mount Bike Kickstand
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In like manner, a kickstand is a convenient way you can prop your bicycle when you are not riding it. If you are looking for an adjustable one, a must-have product is the BV Center Mount Bike Kickstand. It is built from sturdy materials and compatible with Mountain, Road, and Trekking bicycles.
22. Swagman RV Approved Traveler XC2
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Are you an RV owner? Incidentally, if you are looking for a hitch rack that is suitable for your vehicle then you must check the Swagman RV Approved Traveler XC2. It is an RV approved bicycle rack and comes with an adjustable push-button arm to safely fasten your bike.
23. Monkey Bars Bike Storage Rack
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Alternatively, the Monkey Bars Bike Storage Rack solves your bike storage problems in just 15 minutes. It is simple to install and comes with hooks that you can casually slide so you can choose where to position your bicycle.
24. Reliancer 2 Pack Foldable Vertical Bike Rack
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Otherwise, you can opt for the Reliancer 2 Pack Foldable Vertical Bike Rack. This product includes both a rear and front wheel wall protectors to keep your walls from getting tire marks. it is likewise compatible with Road, Folding, BMX, and children’s bicycles.
25. Homee Heavy Duty Bicycle Wall Mount Holder for Garage
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Again, a limited space should not keep you from owning a bicycle. Hanging your bike vertically is one way you can conserve space. With the Homee Heavy Duty Bicycle Wall Mount Holder, you get a durable carrier that is capable of holding up all kinds of bike.
One of its drawback though is that the installation manual lacks detailed information.
26. Delta Michelangelo Canaletto Four Bike Indoor Storage Stand
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If you are searching for an indoor bike stand, you can opt for the Delta Michelangelo Canaletto Four Bike Indoor Storage Stand.
his indoor stand will allow you to store four bicycles which is compatible
27. Inno Racks Truck Bed Bike Rack
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For truck owners, a good option for a carrier is the Inno Racks Truck Bed Bike Rack. It is adjustable and can handle any bicycle size or shape. Moreover, it is quick to install and doesn’t require you to drill a hole on your truck.
Different Types of Bike Rack
Below is a table with the different types of bike racks available on the market. Alongside each is a small description to help you decide which is best for you.
| Type of Rack | Description |
|---|---|
| Hitch Mount Rack | A Hitch Mount Rack is suitable for regular bike riders that always need to transport their bikes. One of the benefits of this kind of rack is that it can carry 2 to 5 bikes. This type of rack is available in two styles: Hanging Cradle and Platform. In detail, Hanging Cradle is a type of rack where your bicycles hang freely from it. Meanwhile, the Platform-style is a kind of rack where your bicycles remain on a platform. |
| Trunk Mount Rack | Ordinarily, a Trunk Mount Rack is positioned at the rear of a car trunk with straps ensuring it stays in place. The rack comes with an arm and cradle to guarantee the security of the bicycle. |
| Roof Mount Rack | Among the rack types, the Roof Mount Rack is the most versatile of all the bike carriers. Besides bicycles, it can also transport skis, moderately sized boats, surfboards, kayaks, and cargo boxes. |
| Spare Tire Mount Rack | The Spare Tire Mount Rack is compatible with any Off-Road or Sport-Utility Vehicle with a spare tire attached at its back. Since the rack is positioned on the spare tire or the tire mount, it is fast and simple to install, plus it is not permanently fixed on your vehicle. |
Best Bike Rack for Car – Checklist
Essentially, the best bike rack is the one that will suit your needs. In choosing your bike rack,
Compatibility
In selecting your bike rack, ensure that the one you choose is compatible with your vehicle. To illustrate, spare tire mount rack is suitable for a sport- utility or off-road vehicles with a tire mount. You must likewise weigh in if your bike frame is compatible with the rack you are eyeing.
Safety
In this case, see to it that your chosen bike rack doesn’t conceal your vehicles’ license plate or block your rear view mirror.
Stability
Reading customer feedback on a certain product will help you get background information on the merchandise you are planning to purchase. Some racks can work perfectly on lightweight bicycles, but when mounted with a larger bike the carrier can break.
Efficiency
When determining the right bike carrier, you must also consider if you can conveniently load and unload your bicycles from the rack.
For instance, if you are relatively short it will be difficult for you to position your bike on a roof mount rack. In this case, a hitch mount rack is more compatible since you can readily access it.
Security
As previously mentioned, a rack will
Bike Repairs and Maintenance
Before riding your bike, always see to it that your brakes are in good condition. Here is a quick video on how to properly adjust your bike brakes.
DIY Bike Rack
A good bike rack is not always one you can purchase from the store. If you are in need of a rack but tight on the budget, you can likewise build your own bicycle stand.
Bike Rack FAQs
Now that you are up to speed with the various products available in the market, here are frequently asked questions about bike racks:
A bike rack cost roughly around $20 to $700. There are affordable brands available online or at your local store. Of course, if you are searching for a bike rack with superior quality then you must be willing to shell out a considerable amount of dollars.
A bike rack cost roughly around $20 to $700. There are affordable brands available online or at your local store. Of course, if you are searching for a bike rack with superior quality then you must be willing to shell out a considerable amount of dollars.
In a word, a bike rack is an accessory you use to transport, store, or display your bicycle. There are several kinds of bike racks you can choose from.
For bike racks for cars, you can pick from hitch mount, truck mount, roof mount, and spare tire mount racks. Listed below are the differences between the various styles:
The law varies from state to state, thus it is wiser to verify with your local road laws. Additionally, there are states that deem it illegal if a bike rack obscures a vehicle’s license plate.
Hence, others regard it necessary to attach a rack number plate in case this will happen.
You can choose from a variety of bike racks. There are racks that can hold one, two, or even five to six bikes.
A vehicle can typically carry four bikes on its roof. In choosing a roof rack, it’s a wise option to save space when you need to transport bikes, cargoes, or other equipment.
Aside from that, it ensures that your trunk stay spotless, dry, and nothing will obscure your license plate.
The answer to this question will highly depend on the type of your vehicle’s roof.
There are vehicle’s that are already fitted with a roof rack with crossbars so the owner doesn’t need to purchase an after-market roof carrier system.
On the other hand, if your vehicle has a naked roof which means no rails and tracks, then you will need to buy a complete roof carrier system which includes crossbars.
Some bike racks will not allow you to open your trunk while it is still attached to your vehicle.
At the same time, there are other bike carriers designed to give you access to your trunk while it is still fastened to your vehicle.
Final Tips on Choosing the Best Bike Rack
Here are more tips to guide you in choosing the right bike rack for you:
- Weigh in your budget when selecting your carrier. As shown above, there are available high-quality affordable products while there is also premium yet pricey options.
- If you are eyeing a roof rack, verify on your vehicle’s manual the weight limit which your roof can handle. On one hand, if you are planning to use a hitch mount, clarify your vehicle’s towing capability
. When purchasing from a store, see to it that you test-fit your bicycle with the rack you are planning to buy. Know that not all bikes are completely compatible with every rack. In case you are purchasing online, make sure to communicate clearly with the online store.
At this point, you have already determined which bike carrier suits your need. Having said that, I hope this bike rack buying guide has helped you. Needless to say, we have given you a variety of carriers from highly dependable manufacturers.
Now it is up to you to decide which rack will satisfy your needs.
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