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 12 Best Hitch Bike Racks In 2019 is certainly something for you.
Let’s check it out!
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What Are The Best Hitch Bike Racks to Buy?
The top 12 Best Hitch Bike Racks listed below rounded up the top options in the market with the unique elements compared to the counterparts. The factors I refer to will include compatibility, capacity, and more.
My article is aimed at users who are looking for the best hitch bike racks in specific criteria. If you’ve already determined what you need, read on to find the best hitch bike racks available that you are looking for.
- Best Overall – Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0-2 Bike Rack
“aluminum Sherpa 2.0; folding tire cradles; foot-actuated pivot lever; lightweight rack; high-quality materials; easy to install; heavy duty; semi-integrated bike lock.”
- Best for Three Bikes – Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Racks
“quick set carry arms; dual compound tie down cradles; lightweight; fit 1¼-inch & 2-inch receiver hitches; easy lift gate access; no wobble bolt.”
- Best for Two Bikes – Swagman XC2 RV Hitch Mount Bike Rack
“compact; adjustable frame grips; fit many bike frame sizes; easy to assemble; convenient; sturdy; versatile; a 2″ Class 3 hitch receiver; RV Bumper Adapter; 2″ Bumper Adapter”
- Best for Four Bikes – YAKIMAHitch Bike Rack
“smart design; durable, stable, secure; easy install; simple to store; UpperHand lever; Zero-hassle ZipStrips; Anti-sway cradle design; Tool-free SpeedKnob; akima signature bottle opener.”
- Best Ultra-Light Hitch Rack – Thule Helium Pro Hitch Bike Rack
“super lightweight; aluminum hitch; carry up to 112 pounds; easy installation and removal; 7″ spacing; superior stability; anti-sway cradles; high security.”
- Best Rear Cargo Access – Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack
“no-tool install; up to 120 lbs; 48” wheelbases; integrated cable locks; adjustable cradle system; hand tight hitch cam system.”
- Best Value – Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks
“affordable-yet-reliable; solid steel; well built; easily folded down; Allen’s individual tie-down system; quickly tilted back, no-wobble hitch installation.”
- Best Tray Trailer Rack – Thule T2 Classic Hitch Mount Bike Carrier
“Built-in locking system; easily folds up; load bikes quickly; adjustable mounts; SnugTite Lock; tool-free attachment and removal; frame free ratcheting arm.”
- Best Under $250 – Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
“great price; easy to assemble; saves storage space; locking ratchet hooks; locking hitch pin; versatile; secure cradle system.”
- Best for SUVs – KAC Sports Hitch Mounted Rack
“sturdy and safe; patented Anti-Wobble System; Quick Release Tilt Design; easy to access rear cargo; durable; rear reflector; easy to install and adjust.”
“quick release tilt design; smart tilting construction; foldable and tilt back design; bike compatibility; anti-wobble system.”
“great security; 2 same key lock cylinders; adjustable wheel trays; versatility; easy to assemble; convenient.”
Hitch Bike Racks Comparison Chart 2021
The following comparison chart of the 12 best hitch bike racks will help you get a better overview and save your time on making a purchasing decision.
Top 12 Best Hitch Bike Racks To Buy 2021
Best Overall: Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0-2 Bike Rack
Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0-2 Bike Rack is an all-star hitch bike rack that has won many compliments and love from users worldwide. “This is the best hitch bike rack I have ever had” is what users commented on this model.
Bicycle enthusiasts are intrigued by the Aluminum Sherpa 2.0 frame that is lightweight, durable, and can handle heavy-duty. The super solid construction gives users the confidence to leave their bikes on the rack all the way without worrying.
Molded strap on the rear tire supports tire protection. The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 has a simple design that has received many compliments for its durability and stability. Thanks to its straightforward design, it is tool-free installation saves you time and effort spent on building.
The best experience is always the priority of Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0-2 Bike Rack. This unit excels by improvements such as a hands-free lever letting the user lower the rack conveniently. The lightweight frame allows users to install and disassemble after use easily.
All these unique features aim at one end goal: unforgettable experiences for user-friendly adventures.
Pros
- High-quality and durable materials for heavy-duty.
- Hand-tight hitch cam system for easy installation.
- Designed for user-friendly adventure.
- Lightweight rack helps users to take off easily.
- Folding tire cradles provide more clearance.
Cons
- Ground clearance is lower
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 32 lbs. |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- Aluminum Sherpa 2.0
- Folding tire cradles
- Foot-actuated pivot lever
- Semi-integrated bike lock
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best for Three Bikes: Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Racks
Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Racks is the top model mounted by Allen in the business. This hitch bike rack has enough room for three bikes and can be securely installed into a 1 1/4 in. and 2 in. hitch trailer.
This unit’s highlight feature is its quick patented tie-down system. Your bike will be firmly in place thanks to the durable, sturdy rubber cradle straps, especially UV protection.
This remarkable cradle strap fits various tube sizes and, together with durable tie-downs, will ultimately protect your bike in transit.
Another bright point of this model is that it is effortless to assemble. The assembly of this rack only takes you 5 minutes, helping you make good use of your time.
Allen Sports 3-Bike Hitch Racks featuring quick folding arms allow the carry arm to be dropped out when not in use simply by squeezing the two red buttons.
The internal tilt gives users easy access to the inside of your vehicle when needed. This feature has an internal mechanism that ensures the rack is secure during use while allowing you to tilt away single-handedly.
The spine shield includes a soft-landing pad that helps protect the inside of the bike from scratches caused by pedaling during transport.
Pros
- The individual tie-down system ensures the safety and protection of your bike.
- Internal tilt provides convenient lift gate access.
- Quick carry arm for quick set-up.
- No rack movement inside the hitch.
- Spine shield keeps the bike’s finish from scratching.
Cons
- Not recommended for child’s bikes.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 3 bikes |
| Weight | 28 lbs. |
| Lock | No |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- Hitch insert fits either 1 1/4 inch or 2-inch receiver hitches
- Quick set carry arms
- Rapid tilt-away mast
- Dual compound spine shield
- Quick Secure straps and dual compound cradles
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best for Two Bikes: Swagman XC2 RV Hitch Mount Bike Rack
The Swagman Bicycle Carrier TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Mount Bike Rack, Black is a model designed to take multiple bikes and still stress-free.
This awesome hitch bike rack is compact and lightweight yet can carry two bikes with a total weight of up to a weight capacity of 70 pounds. You have to assemble this rack yourself when you buy it. However, don’t worry, the Swagman RV setup was straightforward and easy to operate.
The unbelievable high-end RV-approved bike rack is designed to fit many different bike frame sizes. The frame grips are adjustable to provide a wide range of bike sizes, along with soft coating to protect your bike from scratches during the ride.
What users absolutely love about this product is that it is easy to use and very reliable. Your vehicle will be secured in the back of the RV thanks to the ratchet arms. You can safely put your car on the rack and go.
You don’t have to worry about extra stress when carrying your bike behind RV. The Swagman TRAVELER XC2 RV Approved Hitch Rack has been pressure tested through rigorous testing to offer the best model at an affordable price.
When you finish using it, you can easily fold this unit neatly for storage, and it won’t take up much of your storage space.
Pros
- It can be used for many bike frame sizes.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Easy to access to the truck.
- Only takes a few minutes to assemble.
- Resist to corrosion and rust.
Cons
- You need to assemble it when you receive it.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 28 lbs. |
| Lock | Yes, sold separately |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- RV approved
- 2″ Class 3 hitch receiver
- RV Bumper Adapter
- 2″ Bumper Adapter
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best for Four Bikes: YAKIMA Hitch Bike Rack
YAKIMA, RidgeBack Tilt-Away Hitch Bike Rack is an ideal choice to carry all 4 of your family’s bikes to family outings. The YAKIMA bike rack has the power to withstand a weight capacity limit of up to 160 pounds with a design that can accommodate up to 4 bikes.
The features that bring enjoyment to cyclists lie in durability, stability, safety, reliability, and ease of assembly. UpperHand lever provides convenient access to the back of your vehicle. After use, it can be folded flat to save more storage space.
A favorite safety feature of this model is the anti-sway cradle to minimize the contact between bikes when transporting.
You are free from worrying about your bike getting bumped while en route due to zero-hassle ZipStrips for perfect blocking.
Tool-free SpeedKnob is a highlight feature that helps bikers attach bikes to their vehicle effortlessly. To remove, simply untwist the knob to fold it flat.
Pros
- Outstanding endurance can safely carry four bicycles.
- Clever design that can be easily folded for storage.
- Durable, stable, and safe.
- Comes with a handy bottle opener.
- Tool-free design for quick installation.
Cons
- It is expensive.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 4 bikes |
| Weight | 32 lbs. |
| Lock | No |
| Wheel sizes | Any |
Key features:
- UpperHand lever
- Zero-hassle ZipStrips
- Anti-sway cradle design
- Tool-free SpeedKnob
- Akima signature bottle opener
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best Ultra-Light Hitch Rack: Thule Helium Pro Hitch Bike Rack
Thule Helium Pro Hitch Bike Rack is said to be the best ultra-light bike hitch rack not only because of its 20-pound weight but also because of its superior features.
Let’s talk about its powerful strength first. Although it weighs only 20 pounds, the quality-tested steel makes this unit withstand bike weight up to 112 pounds.
7″ spacing design keeps the bikes from being bumped during transport. Anti-sway cradles eliminate the vibration and limit the impact to the maximum to protect your bike most comprehensively.
With the support of a cable lock, you will be completely assured of your bike throughout the journey. All make up the superior stability for your cycles.
Ratcheting strap is excellent support for quick installation and removal, saving you a lot of time between set up and hitting the road.
Although the price is a bit higher, the quality will never disappoint you. The above outstanding features have made Thule Helium Pro Hitch Bike Rack the winner for the best ultra-light hitch rack.
Pros
- It weighs only 20 pounds but can carry up to 112 pounds.
- It can be assembled and removed easily.
- The distance between the bikes is 7 in. for anti-collision.
- Anti-sway cradles prevent catching from bike-to-bike contact.
- Integrated cable lock is included.
Cons
- Hard-to-use straps.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 32 lbs. |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- Super lightweight aluminum hitch
- Fit 1.25″ or 2″ hitch receivers.
- Industry-leading 7″ spacing between bikes
- Integrated anti-sway cradles.
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best Rear Cargo Access: Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack
It is no coincidence that cyclists call Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack the best rear cargo access rack. This model has an intelligent design that makes it easy to access the rear of your vehicle.
Stout pivot allows the user to flip this rack up when you want to use it and tilt it 45 degrees to get into the back of your car.
You will feel very secure when you look in the rearview mirror and see that your precious bikes are still stable. This platform rack features an expanding-wedge design that keeps the bike frames safe from each other to prevent colliding.
Integrated cable lock helps secure the bikes and prevents them from wobbling during transport.
When you purchase the product, it comes with a repair stand to check and repair immediately for your convenience. You will be more confident knowing you can take care of a problem instantly, even if you’re on the road.
Another notable feature is the adjustable cradle system. This helpful system gives you more clearance when loading your bikes.
Pros
- It requires no tools for installation.
- Clever rack design for super-easy access.
- It is sturdy and stable.
Cons
- It is heavy.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 62.13 lbs |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- Integrated cable locks
- Adjustable cradle system
- Hand tight hitch cam system
- Expanding-wedge design
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best Value: Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks
Referring to hitch bike racks for four bikes on the market, cyclists think that most of them will be pricey. Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks for 2 in. Hitch is a product that has an affordable price tag but still delivers high-end quality.
This model has a simple yet solid design so you can safely carry your family’s four bikes on a family trip. 22-inch carry arms allow users to fold down and secure your bike conveniently.
Allen’s patented tie-down system helps to protect the integrity of your bike with greater flexibility.
Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks for 2 in. Hitch comes with an allow fully tightening the rack with no-wobble feature while moving.
The main mast can tilt back effortlessly for quick access to the back of the car and fold up on top of the van as a roof track when the bike is not present.
Pros
- Affordable price with stable quality.
- Solid steel material for durability and bearing capacity.
- Effortless installation.
Cons
- Straps are easy to lose.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 4 bikes |
| Weight | 26 lbs |
| Lock | No |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- 22 inches long folding arms
- Individual Tie-Down System
- Tilt-away main mast
- No-wobble hitch installation.
Best Tray Trailer Rack: Thule T2 Classic Hitch Mount Bike Carrier
Thule T2 Classic Hitch Mount Bike Carrier is the premium model that is ideal for bikes with extra-wide tires. The ability to fit tires up to 5 inches wide makes mountain bikes and fat bike users extremely popular.
The generous style hitch rack has sufficient space between mounts so that bikes will not contact and scratch each other while en route.
The highlight HitchSwitch lever allows the user to easily fold the carrier vertically to save storage space when finished. Not only that but this intelligent lever design can also be conveniently tilted away when you need to access the rear of the car.
Thule’s tool-free AutoAttach system is the unique feature of this unit. It supports assembly and disassembly in less than 5 minutes with the effortless operation but still sure.
This most versatile and ergonomic platform rack uses a frame-free ratcheting arm to keep your bike in place without shaking, even on trails.
Pros
- It fits wheels up to 5 inches
- Robust locking system
- No tool is required for attachment and removal.
Cons
- It weighs 51 pounds.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 52 lbs |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- HitchSwitch lever folds
- Frame free ratcheting arm
- Adjustable Mounts
- SnugTite Lock
- Thule’s tool-free AutoAttach system
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best Under $250: Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Cyclists often doubt the quality of cheap bike racks because they are afraid the rack will not guarantee quality. Among the hitch bike racks with a price tag under $250, the Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack receives a lot of trust from bikers for its quality.
Instead of using the usual hanging rack design, the Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a combination of a cradle system and clamp-down arms. This design provides high protection as it prevents the bicycle’s front wheel from wobbling and hitting the back of the vehicle or other vehicle.
The lightweight and compact rack can be easily assembled and disassembled after use. You fold the upright bar down and store it in the back of your car. It is simple but efficient. This model weighs only 25 pounds and can be folded flat, so it’s very convenient to carry for weekend trips.
The ratcheting hooks are adjustable at both ends to fit perfectly to your wheel sizes. Bike hooks with secured rubber straps keep your bikes stable in the back while the soft coating protects the bike’s finish from scratching.
Pros
- Cradle system for securing the bike in place.
- The soft coating protects the bike paint.
- Great price with excellent quality.
- Easy installation and storage
Cons
- You can not access the back of the car after installing it.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 25 lbs. |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- Locking ratchet hooks
- Locking hitch pin
- Powder-coated with a premium finish rack
- Adjustable wheel hoops
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Best for SUVs: KAC Sports Hitch Mounted Rack
KAC Overdrive Sports K2 2” Hitch Mounted Rack is the top choice when it comes to the rack for an SUV. The cyclists think that this model is the best in the market for the price and the wonderful features it offers.
SUV drivers require a reliable rack that can suit their truck perfectly. KAC Overdrive Sports Rack is the hitch bike rack that can satisfy their requirements. This SUV-favorite bike hitch rack is suitable for various models, from road bikes, mountain bikes to fat bikes or electric bikes.
The durable steel can withstand a weight capacity of up to 120 pounds without stretching. The fast-locking fit battery ensures your precious cars stay on the rack.
The tilt-away design makes it possible for SUV drivers to tilt the bike down to put the bike on or uninstall with a push of a button.
Your valuable bike will be safely protected, and the coating is also preserved. All thanks to the perfect combination of the wide wheel straps and adjustable padded hooks.
Pros
- Heavy-duty rack.
- The wheelbases fit perfectly on the rack.
- The lockable hook secured the bike solidly.
- Easy loading.
Cons
- Extra wheel straps are a bit short.
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 44.8 lbs. |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- KAC Overdrive Bike Frame Adapter
- Quick Release Tilt Design
- Anti-Wobble System
- Durable powder coated steel tubing.
- Adjustable Universal Narrow and Fat Tire Trays
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
Leader Accessories Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Leader Accessories 2-Bike Platform Style Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a heavy-duty bike hitch rack that can perform well under heavy weight capacity.
This impressive hitch bike rack can bear up to 80 pounds per bike (a total of two cycles). This feature is a tremendous advantage for bikers looking for a bike hitch rack that withstands a big load like full-suspension mountain bikes and racing bikes.
The solid steel is tested under rigorous procedures that make this model able to withstand extra bike weight during transportation. In particular, this durable track has an excellent finish to prevent rust, fading, and chipping.
Multiple bike hitch receiver makes this unit quickly mounted to any 2 inches hitch receiver. The supporting design helps to fix the wheel at both ends for a stable and safe ride.
No-wobble bolts design is a highlight feature that makes the construction firmer and secures when en route.
Pros
- The adjustable hooks with cushion for perfect bike sizes fit.
- The durable rack with anti-rust and anti-fade coating.
- Quick-fold design for more storage space and save time.
Cons
- Quick-rust bolts
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 41.3 lbs. |
| Lock | No |
| Wheel sizes | 20-29 in. |
Key features:
- Strong and Durable Material
- Multiple Hitch Receiver
- Fold Up Design
- Tray Style Hitch Bike Design
- Enhanced Supporting System Design
Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a premium carrier that fits perfectly for 2-inch hitch receivers. This model can carry a maximum weight capacity of 45 pounds for each bike (2 bikes max).
A notable feature of the CHINOOK hitch bike rack is the two integrated same lock cylinders. This is a convenient and efficient way to lock your bicycle securely into the rack.
The adjustable hook ratchets add more stability to the bike when moving on the roads and give drivers worry-free moments when driving.
The impressive rack can effortlessly tilt down to have quick access to the car’s rear and save your time and energy for the ride. This model can be suitable for most frame sizes and shapes.
You can assemble this unit quickly, thanks to the easy-to-follow instructions. Once installed, your bike is ready to be loaded, and it takes less than 2 minutes for you to load and unload the rack to the car.
The included locking hitch pin is a big plus for the product.
Pros
- Loading and unloading in under 2 minutes.
- Quick access to the car’s back.
- Adjustable locking hooks to secure the bike to the rack.
Cons
- Plastic ratcheting portion clamp
Product Specs
| Capacity | 2 bikes |
| Weight | 5 lbs. |
| Lock | Yes |
| Wheel sizes | 12-29 in. |
Key features:
- 2 key lock cylinders
- Adjustable locking ratchet hooks
- Locking Hitch Pin
To learn more about this hitch bike racks, please watch this review video:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Hitch Bike Racks In 2021
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