Wondering how to carry bikes with you on an upcoming exciting trip? You definitely want an expedient tool that could bring your bikes without taking to pieces. Obviously, the bright nomination stands for the hitch bike rack.
There are various bike rack styles and some of them work better for particular bikes. Therefore, this Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks In 2019 is certainly something for you.
Let’s check it out!
Top 15 Best Hitch Bike Racks Reviews In 2020
Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack
Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack is one of the tops of the list recommended. Unsurprisingly, the first position on the list of the Editors Choice award for hitch racks champion belongs to Thule Pro XT 2 and stand #88 in Bike Racks & Bags
If you’re about to own a new hitch-mounted bike rack system, this Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack must be on your consideration because of the ease-of-use. The two functions that have an awesome impact on the ease of daily routine are the tilt mechanism and ease of loading bikes on and off of rack quickly and effortlessly.
Even though the design of the rack is not so appealing, every feature works functionally and nearly any bikes on the market could be handled by T2 Pro XT 2. The T2 Pro XT 2 is the up-to-date version with the visible changes in the larger distance of the tray and adjustment tool on the side that reduce the friction between bikes during movement.
Securing your bikes during traveling is a major concern for most riders. T2 Pro XT 2 attaches to your cable receiver with an extension wedge that is attached to the inside of the receiver, which prevents staggering and the rack from falling out of the receiver. Come along with cable locks to secure bikes from being taken away.
Don’t worry about the grazes because Thule just added a new black color for your selection which is nearly unaffected than silver.
Pros
- Multiple tire widths which can be accommodated multiple tire sizes with ratcheting wheel hook
- 2-bikes rack each tray can load 60 pounds or a total of 120 pounds
- tool-free installation included
Cons
- This model is only compatible with 2-inches receivers
- The T2 Pro XT 2 requires a bit of assembly process with included tools
- It is a costly rack because the price is from $600
Product Specs
Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack
Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack has been launched several years ago and is still on the hit of hitch racks on the market. NV 2.0 ranks #42 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon Best Sellers Rank and is update version of Kuat NV rack with class-leading and functional design.
When it comes to versatility, The NV 2.0 is one of the highest-scoring products. This is due to the fact that frame design variations or axle standards have been cut down.
The assembly process is best approached with some patience because of a huge amount of pieces need to pay attention to.
For protecting your vehicles, Kuat provides two huge cable locks for each bike. NV 2.0 sits up fairly tall so it does fold pretty flat up against the vehicle.
When it comes to durability, Kuat did a really great job.The powder-coated finish is long-lasting than the painted finish found in many other racks so no scratches are found. Black Metallic and Gray Metallic are the two options color for you to choose from.
Pros
- It locks firmly into place
- The fornt wheel sits down inside and has a lot of support in the back so the bike does not rock backwards due to integrated work stand
Cons
- It has quite heavy weight of nearly 63 pounds
- Expensive cost from $600
- Take more time to assemble details
Product Specs
Yakima Products Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack
Yakima Products Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack is definitely design for family.
Here are the reasons:
- It can fit almost the type of conventional framing bikes.
- It can carry up to 4 bikes in time with HoldUp+2 extension.
The Yakima HoldUp is a type of tray hitch mount rack. It comes up with low loading height, excellent ergonomics, and high weight capacity to handle bulky bikes.
StrongArm hook which is responsible for the security function can flat bike’s wheels to protect paint and carbon frames from being damaged. In addition, you can adjust the spacing between bikes by sliding the button which is found near the bike’s wheel to reduce friction.
With the aim of reducing shake in the receiver arm, the rack sticks to the hitch receiver using a threaded hitch pin with a lock is more complex and labor-intensive.
Another secure for the rack is the SKS lock which could lock excessively with bikes
When you are already being done with putting bikes on the rack, the rack is able to tilt down to access rear of the vehicle which is lower the damage to your car and for a straightforward drive.
This rack is still at a high price on the market, at about $500.
Product Specs
Saris Superclamp EX 2-Bike Rack
Saris Superclamp EX 2-Bike Rack has an eye-catching style and is designed to take various kinds of bikes on a single bar. If you own Subaru or hatchback-style SUV, this rack would catch your eyes. To be standing in #251 in Bicycle Car Racks in Amazon Best Sellers Rank, Superclamp EX 2 responds what a rack supposed to do.
Assemble process takes only less than half an hour when it was out of the box with additional tools and simple instructions included.
Because Superclamp EX 2 has many adjustment available on the tilting bike rack, any kind of bikes could be accommodated involving off road bikes.
Pros
- Superclamp EX 2 is guaranteed for life
- Easy to store due to the flexibility that it can folds down nice and compact
- Many type to choose from depends on quantity of your belongings
Cons
- Only one color option
Product Specs
Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0-2 Bike Rack
With the new update version, Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0-2 Bike Rack has been improved to be lighter, more responsive and put the security on top for user. Sherpa 2.0 has #35 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon Best Sellers Rank.
An excellent tray-style hitch mount bike rack with uncomplicated design and lightweight made it become a favorite product.
Adjusting the spacing between bikes is not an ability because the trays are fixed in position, but Sherpa still keeps the distance between trays at a reasonable space at 14.5’’ to ensure your bikes will not affect by friction each other
It is possible to access the back of the vehicle even with the bike loaded by activating the lever and bring it down to an angled position.
To secure the rack to your vehicle,The Sherpa use a non-integrated cable lock that can be tied together the frames of the bikes on the rack which is more trouble-free to use than integrated locks.
Pros
- Light weight which is nearly 47 pounds
- Foot pedal tilt mechanism which don’t requires two hands to do tasks
Cons
- The remote handle system on Sherpa design is harder to use than some of same rack style.
- Tire size is also limited to 3″
- Expensive cost at nearly $500
Product Specs
RockyMounts Backstage Swing Away Platform Hitch Rack
RockyMounts Backstage Swing Away Platform Hitch Rack is the first 180-degree swing away in the industry’s flatform hitch rack. This is one of the prime racks for those who love camping, own pets and overloaded vehicles (a Sprinter, Transit, or Promaster). This design allows using the rack easily with the handle when the rack is in a stowed or folded position.
Move to some features of this rack, the tray can be modified to 2’’ side to side which allows keeping bikes separated to each other avoiding friction. Moreover, folds flat tilts down to 30 degrees which helps you to take in and of any cargo in hatch’s vehicle.
Unfortunately, this rack only fits for 2’’ hitches of vehicles and not compatible with Add-On. In return, anti-wobble bolt is provided including locking hitch pin and cable lock for security.
Pros
- Pivot is exist as an aftermarket accessory that can adapt any hitch mount rack to function to enhance vehicle access
- A durable rack because a majority of rack made of metal
Cons
- Really heavy ( more than 60 pounds)
- Limited tray clearance
Product Specs
Critical Cycles Lenox 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack with 2-Inch Receiver
Critical Cycles Lenox 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack with 2-Inch Receiver is constructed for the need of your cycling trips. Steel is the material used to create this rack which gives you unrivalled power to preserve maximum 4 bikes up to 140 lbs. This rack is recommended for those who has any bike’s tire bigger than 2.6 inch.
Throughout the trip, your beloved bikes will be ensured because features individual tie-down straps and cradles keep your two-wheeled companion stable also protect them from damage
You certainly can use your vehicle without dismount the rack from hitch mount as the Lenox’s carry arms can be folded and also present the tilt function which provides convenient access to the liftgate.
If you enjoy assembling details, this rack required attaching separate minor tools. One caution should be put into attention is that the rack won’t ensure safety when used on RV’s or Trailers.
Pros
- Minor assembly required
- Conveniently access to the rear of your vehicle with fordable center arm folds
Cons
- Only suit for 2-Inch Receiver
Product Specs
Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack
It’s time to get those bikes out of the garage and into the great outdoor. Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack has 3 diverse versions is able to carry 2, 4 or 5 bikes at the same time.
This hitch rack is wonderful expedient since all of the details are fully assembled which means no pieces need to attach by hand. It is ready for a 2-inch hitch receiver but soonly can be adapted to suit a 1 – ¼ inch.
Tilting mast is a useful feature that you completely access to your rear hatch or trunk by pulling the lever without bikes loaded and releasing the mast into tilting position.When you start loading bikes, heaviest bike is always attached first and install all three zip-strips per bike.
Pros
- No tools are required to assemble this hitch rack
- Compatible with 1-1/4” and 2” hitch receivers
- The rack could be tilted up and down for hatch access.
Cons
- It’s heavy because made of steel
- One color only
Product Specs
Swagman XTC2 Hitch Bike Rack
Swagman is the company creating reliable products that reach the demand of the bike and automobile world including Swagman XTC2 Hitch Bike Rack.
This bike rack is extremely easy to install following the instruction. XTC2 can carry up to 2 bikes without taking off bike’s wheels as the function of wheel-mount which also assist you in lifting bikes up onto the rackless effort as possible. 2 bikes is the maximum amount to be carried by XTC2 hitch rack and you feel free to load bikes without taking off bike’s wheel.
With the including of art locking ratching hooks and locking hitch pin, your bikes are ensured to be protected in the best state along with the flexibility that the centre arm can be folded up and down to access trunk in the rear of your vehicle.
Pros
- Light weight for easy carry and fold
- New frame grip arms with improved soft frame help to protect bikes
Cons
- Only carry 2 bikes in a time
Product Specs
Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack
If you are finding a good hitch rack with a lower budget, Delux rack is one of the best selection. With the reasonable price from $64 to $380, you absolutely could own high-quality Delux rack for your bicycle trips.
This hitch rack transport up to 4 bikes and fit 2’’ receiver hitches. Carry arms are designed to suit various frame sizes from kid-size to adult-size in the same condition. As well as some kind of hitch rack, Delux has a rack tilt that can tilt back for access to the vehicle’s back gate and easily folds in and out following your requirements.
Your bicycles are in fully protection as the Allen’s individual tie-down system. The flexibility of the tie-downs helps fitting with where the carry arm placed. To ensure the rack attached tightly to the receiver, they include No-Wobble Bolt hardware to reduce the risk abitily in accident.
Pros
- Inexpensive, around $150 per rack
- Having a low loading height to decline ease of use while increasing the contact points to reduce the damage while moving
Cons
- Security features isn’t available for this hitch rack, no lock for bikes and unsecure the rack to vehicle
Product Specs
Kuat Trio Rack
Kuat Trio Rack by Kuat is different from any racks upward because this Trio Rack could only be installed on the roof of your transport and only carry one bike each rack and when the bike is loaded, the bike’s front wheel has to be taken out. So why Trio Rack is on the list?
First of all, each of the racks has a minimal price of about $198.
The second reason is Trio Rack would be a selection for those who live alone and enjoy private traveling because each rack can only carry one bike. This rack could transport various size of tire bike, including fat bikes, mountain bikes, and road bikes
In addition, most companies make you buy locks, these guys don’t because the lock comes with the rack and you have a locking system that is already built in the rack which is located at the end of the rack. There is an extended tool come along with the rack which could adapt any size of bikes you have.
Pros
- Able to carrying various bikes
- Almost complete when out of the box
Cons
- Carry one bike per rack
- Take off one wheel when load bike
Product Specs
Thule T2 Classic hitch mount bike carrier
Another hitch rack comes from Thule in this list. Thule T2 Classic hitch mount bike carrier is considered as one of the first and simple hitch rack and place in #207 bestsellers rank in Bicycle Car Racks.
Your vehicle can only suit this hitch rack if the receiver is 1.25’’ or 2’’ and carry 2 bikes in time. You can buy the separate tools to carry up to 4 bikes ( only for 2’’ receiver).
Similarly to almost the hitch rack of this list, T2 Classic owns the rack tilts which is really easy to access the rear of the vehicle even when bikes are loaded. This rack is an ideal model for carbon frames, downhill, mountain, and even fat bikes as long as wheels fit 20-29’’ and up to 5’’ tires. Fram-free ratcheting arm does the security fastly without frame contact. Furthermore, the rack can be adjusted side to side to reduce the damage between bikes while traveling.
There are some notices should be in your attention. Firstly, extensive fenders bikes are not intended to use this product. Secondly, bike has tire fenders are not allowed to be loaded on this rack. Finally, do not install T2 Classic on towed and trailer vehicle.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Can carry high weight bikes
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Carry nearly any bike except fat bikes
Product Specs
Yakima HoldUp Tray Style Add On 2 Bike Rack
This Yakima HoldUp Tray Style Add On 2 Bike Rack is an another version of Yakima HoldUp Tray. This rack is added 2 more places for 2 more bikes which the HoldUp rack is sold sepsrately. HoldUp sit in #178 of Amazon best sellers rank in Bicycle Car Racks.
This rack is available in only one color and one size which is uniquely compatible with 2’’ hitch receiver only. Besides, wheels that have 20’’ to 29’’ are safely loaded and kept intact. Disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension bikes would be all options that match with the rack. Surprisingly, the hitch rack can carry a maximum of 200 lbs for 4 bikes in total while a range amount of racks can not do this.
Eventhough the rack become more bulky when putting HoldUp 2+, tilt system is still ensure for you to get into the vehicle’s hatch. Also, two smart desgin of this rack are the StrongArm and the unrivaled spacing, they protects painted and carbon frames from being harmed and lower frictions between bikes.
Pros
- This rack is very versatile that can carry most of kind of bikes
- Durable when travel long road
Cons
- It’s still labour intensive when its weight is more than 50 pounds
Product Specs
Saris Freedom SuperClamp 2 Bike Rack
With the mission of producing the most secure holder while reject frame contact, Saris completely creates the Super Clamp 2 in just a half weight comparing to similar type of racks on the market. The Super Clamp 2 is at #437 in Bicycle Car Racks given by Amazon Best Sellers Rank.
This hitch rack can carry any kind of two-wheel vehicles and carry up to 2 bikes. For security, integrated locks are available for both bikes and hitch. 1 ¼ inch and 2 inch are the figures for receivers work with this hitch and 2.25 inch width tire is the max for standard scoop. Additionally, ratcheting arms are built for superior strength ensure almost bikes would fit.
Pros
- Reasonable price
- Front and rear wheel hooks totally reject frame contact while providing a very secure hold and stable
Cons
- No tilt function when bikes loaded to access to trunk to some kind of vehicle (ex: Subaru)
Product Specs
Yakima Dr. Tray 2 Bike Rack – 2″
The last recommended rack belongs to Yakima Dr.Tray standing at #154 in Bike Car Rack Accessories by Amazon Best Sellers rank.
Dr.Tray carries multiple bikes including fits road, mountain and fat-tire bike up to 5’’ tires. The space between the bike is up to 18’’ pooper the rate of bike rubs each other. A tool-free which is tray spacing is contained to change the distance of bikes when they are already loaded.
An advantage of this rack is that tool-free locking and SKS cable lock systems are constructed to secure your bikes all the way to the destination.
If you need to bring one more bike, EZ+1 Extension is available on the web for sold separately.
Pros
- Extremely light with the weight of nearly 40 pounds
- Third bike tray could be carried by 1.25- and 2-inch receiver versions
Cons
- Release lever on the ratcheting arm may be unreliable
- Less durability
Product Specs
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Hitch Bike Racks in 2020
Bike racks for storage
Floor-standing
this is a simple model for your available open-spaced garage, easy to find on the market and a reasonable price option. A variety of designs is found on the market which is suitable for single or multiple bikes. This floor-standing storage is the most simple way to use – let the bike in, pull the bike out.
Wall-mounted
This kind of storage stand allows putting bikes up off the floor to minimize the space in your garage by using a wall-mounted frame or wheel hook
Bike racks for transport
The most popular for bike racks and transport systems are roof-mounted, towbar-mounted and rear boot racks divided into many states of the budget. Trying to find the rack that fits your vehicle, easy to use and fit your economical status.
5 element should be put in your consideration:
Stability: a strong rack will keep your bikes stand in one place. Roof and towbar racks have great stability than boot-mounted. Especially, if you want to carry three to five bikes, you have to make sure the material of the rack is solid.
Price: the cheapest racks commonly belongs to boot-mounted while others cost you more
Security: it isn’t advisable to put more bikes on a rack, trying to separate them in other racks to keep secure
Safety: bikes that are loaded on rack in high places such as roof should be careful to check the all the locks. Some boot-mounted when installed would cover the rear-view mirror of your vehicle.
Legality: number plate and lights are compulsory clear for observing so make sure when you put the racks, they won’t take your eyesight. Of course, high boot-mounted racks are designed to deal with this problem because they are installed on the roof