If you’re looking for a bike rack for your SUV, this topic would be for you. We share with you 4 types of bike rack helping you to choose. Buying a rack is such a challenge because there are a massive kind and styles of the rack, that’s why you need to read this topic, we make sure that you will find something in this top 16 bike racks.
Besides our reviews of 16 bike racks, we also provide a buying guide and FAQ sections. These parts will help you to choose the best rack to belong to your SUV and answer regular questions at the bottom of the article.
So let’s find out what is the best bike racks for SUV.
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16 Best Bike Racks For Suv Reviews In 2020
Hitch-Mounted Bike Racks
Allen Sports 4-Bike SUV Bike Racks
This Allen Sports 4-Bikes SUV Bike Rack stands #6 in Vehicle Sports Racks & Carriers by Amazon Best Sellers Rank. This rack is definitely an excellent solution for users who do not bring bikes on travel habitually because this is the hitch bike rack for best budget you can find on the market.
With the carrying ability up to four bikes, this Deluxe is just the need for family when it can handle both kid-size mountain bikes and adult bikes because they carry arm suits a variety size and design frames.
The tilt-away feature could help you with the lift-gate access while still remain bikes on the rack and completely folds out when not in use.
The object that would impress you is the nearly trouble-free when setting up and install, which means you would find no concern about time because the rack was fully set up before delivering to you. Such an ideal rack for saving time, isn’t it?
Even though it is quite weighty, durability is no matter with this steel rack when Allen Sports claimed that the rack could carry up to 140 lbs for four bikes.
Thanks to a no-wobble bolt feature equipped on the rack, any movement inside the hitch can be removed.
The 4 bike carrier is colored with a black powder-coated finish that would lengthen the life-span of the rack, as no damage caused by scratches.
Pros
- best hitch bike rack for the money
- easy to set up and install
- easy to access the lift-gate
Cons
- receive 2-inch trailer hitch of vehicle only
- steel material makes the rack pretty heavy.
Product specs:
Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike SUV Bike Racks
Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike SUV Bike Racks ranked #4 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon. Swagman’s products are always developed with the demand of the bike and automobile world.
Assembling racks and attaching a bicycle takes a bit of effort but it is not too complicated. The upright Ratchet arms are covered with a soft coating to avoid scratches while using, they are also able to adjust to fit frame size up to 23.2’’ which means this rack can handle most types of bike.
With the smart design of fold-up, the rack is such a solution for your little storage space when not in use. Anti-wobble feature is provided to keep bikes remain stable, although the rack could only load 2 bikes, both wheels of each bike is fully secured and then giving you a safe drive.
1-1/4″ and 2″ receiver hitch would fit the rack which is more compatible in many SUVs. Thanks for tilting, accessing the vehicle’s rear is just simple as folding down the rack without taking the rack off your SUV.
The locking hitch is 10 mm security cable, although fat bike tire trays do not come along with the rack but sure you can order separately.
Pros
- Catching design brings to a nice appearance
- Easy to reach vehicle’s trunk when rack is already loaded
- Compatible with many sizes of receiver hitch
- Spare parts are available to order separately
Cons
- Only transport 2 bikes
- Take a few times and efforts to assemble
Product specs:
Yakima – FullSwing 4-Bike SUV Bike Racks
Taking bikes with your amazing sport trip in the weekend always be a great experience. Yakima – FullSwing 4-Bike SUV Bike Racks placed #103 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon.
It offers a wide range of features making it convenient, easy to install and use, especially with the good-looking appearance, this rack would satisfy the most demanding customers.
With the capacity of carrying up to 4 bikes, the rack was built for family when it fits all traditional frame geometry bikes. Tube Top adapter is sold separately as some kid and women bikes required.
Different from many tilt features of other racks, FullSwing provides a swing-out feature which swings away when bikes loaded to access the back of SUV.
When it comes to security, Fully padded arms are equipped to protect your bikes and gear from friction, and they easily fold down when not in use. Moreover, Same Key System is included with the rack so that you can lock your bikes on the rack and put more protection to your bikes from theft.
Pros
- Can load up to 4 bikes in a time
- Lock is included
- Fancy lock with black and red mixed together
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Need Tube Top when loaded some modern bikes
Product specs:
Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike SUV Bike Racks
Thule T2 Pro XT was the champion Editors Choice award for hitch racks and remains as the best hitch rack on the market. Thule T2 Pro XT creates the standard for hitch mounted tray style racks.
With the carrying ability up to 4 bikes with the Add-on, this rack is an ideal tool for group of people. The rack fits 1.25’’ and 2’’ hitch receiver but one mention is that Add-on can only fit 2’’ receiver so if you want to transport 4 bikes in time, make sure the compatible suits your vehicle.
This is such a great rack for carbon frames, mountain bikes, downhill and fat bikes (not 27.5″ fat bikes) with load capacity maximum 60 lbs per bike.
You may take time and effort to assemble rack by using tool but don’t worry, the brochure is there and very detailed.
Security would catch your main attention as safe is a concern to most riders. An expanding wedge is set up to prevent wobbles and prevent the rack from falling out of the receiver.
One feature that might make you feel the ease of use is the knob that once knob is disabled, the wedge can not be released.
Pros
- Tools are included in box for assembling rack
- Fit most kinds of bikes
- Avoid scratches when using
Cons
- Take time to assemble all pieces together
- Pretty expensive
Product specs:
Yakima Ridgeback SUV Bike Racks
Yakima Ridgeback is a hitch-mounted rack which stands #20 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon. Family is the best for this rack as a large capacity up to 4 bikes for both long and short distance.
Ridgeback makes everything for you just set and go since full bikes are loaded without taking into pieces. This rack is also already assembled and only 42 lbs so that less effort is used to take it out of the box and install on SUV.
UpperHand lever is equipped to tilt the rack down for easily accessing to hatch and fold flat in storage when not in use.
Zero-hassle ZipStrips which secure bikes to the rack are fully removable. And Anti-sway cradle keep your bikes far from each other then reduce contact between bikes.
1-1/4” or 2” hitch receiver is required for the rack which suits any SUV you have.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Suit almost hitch receiver
- Versatile for both long and short trip
- Little space for storing rack when not in use
Cons
- Not enough space between bikes, easily damaged
- Lengthen process to install 2+ bikes
Product specs:
Thule Vertex XT SUV Bike Racks
With intelligent design, Thule Vertex XT makes transporting bikes easy as pie. Thule Vertex XT ranked #151 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon which is one of the best racks of Thule for bikes.
The number of bikes loaded on rack is up to 5 bikes and it can handle 35 lbs per bike. That means Vertex is definitely designed for family when most kinds of bikes would fit.
Heavy-duty integrated cable lock helps you to keep bikes and rack together while traveling. When not in use, a cable lock could store inside the rack.
To accessing to vehicle’s trunk, arms can be folded down and tilt the carrier away without loading bikes down or take the rack from receiver.
1.25’’ and 2’’ are the compatible for hitch receiver to fit the rack. Otherwise, integrated handle is included for the best experience of carrying.
Pros
- Able to carry many bike
- Cable lock is provided
- Tilt feature help to access vehicle’s hatch
Cons
- The space between bikes are small
Product specs:
Tyger TG-RK4B102B 4-Bike SUV Bike Racks
If you are finding a heavy-duty hitch rack, Deluxe should be on your consideration. Tyger TG-RK4B102B 4-Bike placed #78 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon which could load 4 bikes. It mounts on 1 ¼ and 2 inch hitches and is suitable for SUV and trucks.
If aesthetics is one of your majors deciding factor, TYGER’s beautiful design would catch your eyes. A dual-arm feature is foldable when not in use, comes along with a single supporting center mast.
Tilt down feature put more convenient vehicle trunk access which makes this rack becomes one of the best bike racks for the hatchback. Soft cradles and protection pad designed are created to protect both your bikes from friction and bike frames.
There a DIY instruction in box which is helpful for installation and only take a few minutes to set up everything. The price of the rack is really competitive providing selection in your choices.
Pros
- Pin lock ensures safety of rack
- Cable lock with no extra cost
- With the capacity up to 4 bikes, it is an ideal tool for many riders.
Cons
- Some swaying and shaking while transport.
Product specs:
Allen Sports 900B SUV Bike Racks
The only accessory on the list is Allen Sports 900B which ranked #1 in Bike Car Rack Accessories.
The main feature of this Allen Sports 900B is to secure the bike in a long way which is no need any effort to assemble, it is already set up.
Internal springs maintain constant tension to keep your bike remain stable, suitable for bicycles with a distance of 16 inches to 27 inches between seat pillars and the trunk.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Firm as it is made of steel
Cons
- Handle only 1 bike
Product specs:
Strap-on Trunk Racks
Allen Sports SUV Bike Racks
The Allen Sports brand is quite famous in world-wide which started in 1967. Allen bikes rack placed #7 in Bicycle Car Racks by Amazon. This rack is a really popular bike rack for riders.
The arm is compatible with a variety of frames and sizes, so you can carry anything, from adult to child bikes. The capacity of the rack is 2 bikes up to 70 lbs in total.
In addition, individual dual compound forcing down the safety cot and bicycle protection; 2 patents make sure the lower strap holds the rope at the bottom while in use.
In short, this is one of the best rack for SUV no hitch.
Pros
- Competitive price
- Already assemble
- Compatible with a variety of bike sizes and styles
Cons
- No secure lock the frame to the car or the bikes to the frame
- When it is not set up correctly, scratches can be found at your SUVs and bikes
Product specs:
Tyger Auto TG-RK1B204B SUV Bike Racks
Tyger Auto TG-RK1B204B stands #68,316 in Automotive by Amazon which fits most Sedans/Hatchbacks/Minivans and SUVs (Not recommended for vehicles has rear spoilers).
The rack is assembled fully, all you have to do is take it out of the box then hanging on your SUV.
This is a rack bike with sturdy and ergonomic structure because Lower Frame Cushion can keep the bike out of the car.
Individual soft cradles are made to protect your bike frame and protect your bike with clogs. Standard OE black coating for rusting resistance and Arms can be folded when not in use.
The DIY included in the package and it only take you a few minutes to install.
Pros
- Easy to install on your SUV
- Remain bikes being stable
Cons
- Carry only 1 bike
Product specs:
Saris Bones 2-Bike SUV Bike Racks
Saris Bones 2-Bike stands #27 in Cargo Racks by Amazon. The Bones rack has been the platform of bike racks for decades. It is a great design of style, design, convenience and durability.
Good news for environment lovers, this rack is built with 100% recyclable which is non-rusting materials, therefore it can lengthen the life-span of the rack.
With the weight of nearly 10 lbs, Bones is on top of the list because of easy use and install, able to carry with less effort.
Ratcheting hold down feature is used really simple to adjust till suitable. The rack can handle 2 bikes in a time with 35 lbs per bike.
Pros
- Easy to adjust
- Fit most bikes
- Small space when folds down
Cons
- No lock included
Product specs:
Spare Tire Bike Racks
Yakima SpareRide 2 Bike SUV Bike Racks
Yakima SpareRide 2 Bike Rack ranked #14 in Vehicle Sports Rack Parts & Accessories which turning almost all spare tires into bicycle tractors.
Turn to security of the rack, SuperCush ZipStrip cradles are equipped to protect the bikes and make loading and unloading process faster. Friction between bikes while traveling is solved by the anti-sway cradle design.
Along with the TireTread pads, they remain stable for the rack and bikes, the rack is made of steel so that strength and durability are ensured.
This design allows installing nearly any stock size spare. Plusing to security, locking knob will keep the rack and spare tire to keep vehicle safe, together with SKS locking package to prevent bikes from being stolen.
Pros
- Easy install and load bikes
- All the rack is firm which can suit any terrain
- Many secure tools included
Cons
- Capacity is limited, only carry up to 2 bikes
- Unusual frame size may not suit the rack.
Product specs:
Allen Deluxe 3-Bike SUV Bike Racks
Allen Deluxe 3-Bike placed #356 in Bicycle Car Racks.
Deluxe can hold up 3 bikes at once plus a spare tire which is designed especially to handle almost sizes of spare tires.
Higher position bikes when loaded will lift your bikes far from the ground. The product is already set up and install in the package, all you need to do is take it out and spend a few minutes to attach the rack to your vehicle.
The carry arm is 15’’ in length which is an ideal rack for 3 bikes and carries 100 lbs in total. Deluxe 3-Bikes is made with the powder-coated black finish so that no scratches would be found during your trip because of friction.
For security, individual tie downs are involved so that your bikes can be protected from vibration while driving.
Pros
- Require less effort to install as it was nearly assembled in the package
- Smart design make doesn’t ask wide space to store as it can be folded down
- Various sizes and styles can use this rack
Cons
- No locking system involved with the package
- Must be careful when install because of the rick of scratches
Product specs:
Thule 963Pro SUV Bike Racks
Thule 963 Pro ranked #180 in Bicycle Car Racks.
963 Pro is created with Stay-Put Cradles with anti-sway cages that will prevent bikes from moving around. Both popular spare tire and oversized tires can be installed and fit this rack ( an oversized 35’’ tire perfectly suit the rack). In addition, there are carbon frame and one key system which are well-matched with the rack.
To secure your bikes and rack, integrated locking cable and locking knob are available to keep your property from damage. With the loading of 2 bikes up to 75 lbs in total, 963 Pro is just a rack for couples.
One main issue for carrying your bikes is no blocking centre brake light, but this Spare me 2, the third brake light is still visible when the spare tire is installed.
Pros
- Handle oversized spare tire
- Good locking system
Cons
- Available in one color and one size
Product specs:
Roof Mounted Bike Racks
Yakima ForkLift SUV Bike Racks
Yakima ForkLift stands #246 in Bicycle Car Racks.
The rack is compatible with bikes that have standard 100mm x 9mm front hub, there is also an adapter sold separately to fit other hubs such as thru-axles. Sliding wheel tray is able to adjust to becoming fit with a variety type of bike lengths. The rack can only carry 1 bike up to 35 lbs on the roof of your SUV.
The crossbar on the roof fit between 16’’ to 42’’ which is flexible for your bikes. Installation and removal are done by simple tool-free so that shorten your assembling time.
ForkLift keep the bike by the front and the rear wheel that reduce shake while transporting. No worry about scratches because there is no frame contact.SKS locks which are sold separately securing your bike, rack, and vehicle.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Remain stability in wind
- Suit any type of crossbar
Cons
- Locks are not included
- Thru axles need 15 and 20 mm adapter
Product specs:
Yakima FrontLoader SUV Bike Racks
Yakima FrontLoader placed #133 in Cargo Management Products which is a model rack for those who are finding bike rack for SUV with no hitch.
This rack carries almost any kind of bike including mountain bikes, thru-axles, disc brakes, and full-suspension bikes, the dimensions for bike’s wheel is 20’’ to 29’’ and tire maximum of 3’’.
One feature that might cheer you up is that the rack is ready for fully assembled bike instead of taking the front wheel off like another roof rack.
Crossbar must be between 16’’ and 48’’, Yakima round, factory, aerodynamic or square crossbar would fit the rack.
Excellent parts are carbon fiber and custom paint jobs as no frame contact included. Front Loader will hold the bike with the front and rear wheel.
Security system is sold separately including 2 SKS locks.
Pros
- Don’t have to remove the front wheel for loading
- Able to fit any axle type
- Easy installation
Cons
- No locking system included
- Fat bike is not compatible
Product specs:
The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Best Bike Racks For Suv In 2020
First you have to determine that what you are going to bring with your trip, is that only bikes or you need the space for cargo and spare tires?
Hitch rack:
- Suitable for families with a large number of bikes.
- Almost include locks
- Need compatible hitch receiver
- Quite heavy
- Roof racks:
- Made for a single bike
- Some of the racks required taking off the front wheel to load
- Can cause trouble while traveling because of trees and low bridges
- Carry only one bike
- Take little effort to install the bike to the rack
Trunk Rack:
- Suitable with 2-3 bikes for almost types of rack
- Reduce a part of the visible ability
- Easy to install
- Keep bikes far from the ground
- Economical purpose
- Lightweight
- Limited access to the trunk
Spare tire rack:
- Lightweight
- Carry one extra spare tire
- Capacity for bikes is limited
- Risk of scratches
One more thing should be in our attention is the dimension, you should know what racks are compatible with your SUVs, this would avoid buying the wrong rack.
FAQs
Do Trunk Bike Racks Work On SUVs?
Trunk bike racks work on many types of vehicles including SUVs, there are 3 kinds of trunk racks on the list for you to consider. In fact, almost trunk rack can be adjusted to fit your SUVs.
What size hitch do I need for a bike rack?
Almost hitch rack has 1-1.25’’ or 2’’ so any bike rack has this dimension would fit your vehicles, so first comes first, you need to know the dimension of the hitch receiver of your SUVs then find the rack that suits the receiver.
Do Bike Racks Fit All Cars?
Not really, some of the racks are created for all sizes of cars but some don’t. Roof-mounted bike racks and Strap-on trunk racks would fit all SUVs as they don’t require a particular receiver and can adjust flexibly with available features. But for Spare tire bike rack and Hitch bike racks need to attach to a fixed receiver so that all the dimensions of SUVs and racks must fit together.
How Do You Put A Trunk Bike Rack On An SUV?
- Unfold the mainframe and remove the hand nuts
- Position the carrier on the rear of your vehicle and adjust the arm to find a stable position
- Insert the securing bolts through the mainframe then tighten the securing bolts with washers and hand nuts, repeat above steps to another side
- Insert straps into the buckles
- Attach the hooks to each side of the trunk
- Make sure all the straps and the hooks attach the trunk evenly and firmly
Will I Have To Dill Holes In My Car?
Drilling holes on cars is necessary when you put more fitting extra such as an aerial, wing mirror or towbar. But you need to be careful as mistakes can cause huge damage.
My Vehicle Doesn’t Have Rain Gutters, Can I Still Put A Roof Rack On It?
Absolutely yes, the rain gutters are still in your car since the mid-eighties, vehicle manufacturers have been put the rain gutters inside the door frame.
What If I Change Vehicles?
It is based on the racks to buy before, now they are designed to suit as many vehicles as possible. In some cases, you can install some accessories such as crossbars towers to fit your new vehicle.
Can I Put A Hitch On My Car While Using A Bike Rack?
Popular selections now are trailer hitches and receiver-style hitches. To protect everything from painted surfaces, a hitch-mounted bike rack or ski-board carrier can be used and then the roof rack can be used to store luggage and items.
Can I Get Replacement Parts For My Rack?
Yes, of course, many replacement accessories are sold separately on the web.
Can I Go Through A Car Wash With My Rack On The Car?
You should not bring your rack to a car wash because the car washes suit only for a car so that your rack could be damaged or even a car wash is broken down.