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Do You Leave Your Bike Rack on Your Car?

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Do You Leave Your Bike Rack on Your Car?

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If you are someone who goes on bike rides often, chances are you might own a bike rack. And, if you take the bike on road trips, your rack is probably attached to your car.

Now, you might be wondering whether it is alright to leave your bike rack on your car. After all, it is extremely convenient to do so. Not only does it save time, but it also saves your energy, and allows you to take your bike on a ride whenever you want.

But, does that mean that it is practical? Rather than being a matter of can you leave your bike rack on your car, it is a matter of should you be doing so.

So, do you leave your bike rack on your car? Keep reading to find out the pros and cons of leaving the rack on so that you can evaluate for yourself!

Pros of Leaving the Bike Rack on Your Car

To evaluate whether you should leave your bike rack on your car, you will have to first consider its pros of it. Here are some of the advantages you will have if you always leave your bike rack in your car:

Go For A Ride On A Moment's Notice

Sometimes, when the weather is nice, you will want to just take your bike on a hike. If you do not have your bike rack locked and loaded on your car, you will have to spend time doing so.

Having the bike rack on your car all the time means you will be able to go for a ride whenever you want! The convenience of it is what makes most people want to keep their racks on their cars even when they have not been put to use in a while.

Save Time And Energy

If you do not have tools to help you screw and unscrew all the parts of a bike rack, assembling and disassembling it is going to take some time. This time consumption is really inconvenient for those who have a lot of work and are in a rush.

On top of that, bike racks can be heavy, and on a sunny day, carrying and assembling them is the last thing you want to be doing. Besides the time consumption, the amount of energy it takes to put it on and off the car really does not seem to be worth it.

So, keeping it on is a huge advantage if you are looking to save some time and energy.

No Extra Storage Needed

While some bike racks that only fit one bike are smaller, if you have multiple bikes your rack is likely bigger as well. And, the bigger the bike rack is, the more difficult it is to store. So, if you do not have a proper storage space, you might end up damaging the rack while trying to fit it in a small space.

In cases like this, it might be a better idea to keep the bike rack attached to your car. Not only will it save you the hassle of disassembling and carrying it to storage space, but it will also save you the worry of finding storage space in the first place.

Cons of Leaving the Bike Rack on Your Car

While the pros of leaving your bike rack on your car seem tempting, there are a lot more cons to it. Having a rack attached to the back of your car is not as simple as it seems.

Here are some of the cons you will have if you keep your bike rack attached to your car all the time.

Car Looks Worse

If you are a car enthusiast, chances are love to keep your car as clean and presentable as possible. If that is the case, having a bike rack attached to it will make it look messy and unkempt.

While not the worst disadvantage, if you want to avoid having a car that looks messy, you best detach the rack after use.

Fuel Economy Is Worse

The heavier your car is, the more fuel it will consume to get places. Bike racks weigh a significant amount which can have greater inertia and resistance to moving forward, thus having a higher fuel consumption rate.

Overall, if you keep the rack attached to your car all year long, you will have a poor fuel economy due to the weight of the rack.

Car Becomes Noisier At Highway Speeds

When you will have a bike rack attached to your car, it will get louder when you drive faster. The rack will rattle against your car, not only creating a distraction for you but also increasing the chances of damaging both the car and the rack.

Risk Of Additional Wear And Tear On Car

The longer your bike rack will be attached to your car, the more likely it will be to damage the car. The chances of this happening will increase when you will be driving fast, or have a bumpy ride. There is also always a chance that the rack might scratch the paint of your car, and such damages cost a fortune to fix!

It is best to avoid having a bike rack on the car when it is not in use because it can prevent you from wearing out the paint or denting the car.

Bike Rack Subjected To Elements For No Reason

Depending on the material your bike rack is made out of, it can be subjected to elemental damage.

If the bike rack is made of steel, corrosion due to rain and snow will shorten its lifespan. A rusty rack would mean that it would not sit securely on your car anymore.

Moreover, the chances of it breaking down in the middle of the road would increase too. If that happens, a broken bike rack is not the only thing you will have to worry about; your bike will perhaps break too due to the impact.

If your bike rack is made of aluminum, however, you will have to worry less about corrosion. Yet it is still better to have your bike rack stored somewhere else so that it is safe.

Harder To Park

With an extra load on it, your car will definitely be more difficult to park. If you have a hitch-style bike rack, and it is attached to the back of your car, you will need a bigger space to park it.

Usually, garages and outdoor parking spots do not accommodate the extra length you will be adding. This might mean that your car will obstruct other passing vehicles.

What's more, is that the rearview cameras and parking sensors of the car may not work. So, you can hit the curb or other vehicles while trying to park it.

Risk of Accident

With the bike rack acting as an extension to your car, you might find yourself underestimating the length of your car. If this happens, you might rear-end other cars while you are trying to park your car. Similarly, others might not realize you have a bike rack on the car and end up hitting it.

On the other hand, if your bike rack somehow gets detached in the middle of the road, it might hit a car or passersby.

However, if you are an optimist, there is one silver lining you will find to this. While an accident with a bike rack will completely damage the rack itself, it will shield the car in the process. But if you think about it, is it really worth the price you have to pay?

Security Issues

Bike racks actually get stolen more often than you would think. If you park your car in a relatively unsafe location, there will always be a possibility of it getting stolen.

This is because even if bike racks are heavy, they are mostly quite easy to take off and disassemble from a car. So, a group of thieves can steal it without any risks if they please!

Risk of theft of the rack

Attracting Cop's Attention

There is news that people are sometimes getting pulled over and left with warnings for having a bike rack on the car. The main reason for this is the obstruction of license plates.

You can easily avoid an encounter with the cops and a hefty fine if you do not leave the bike rack on when it is not in use. And, if you really must do so, study the local laws to ensure that the obstruction of plates is not illegal where you live.

Things to Consider

Here are some things you will need to consider when you have a bike rack that you are contemplating about attaching to your car:

Storage Availability

You will always have to consider where to store your bike racks when you have them. If you have space inside your house, you should definitely keep it there. There is a chance that you have enough space available in your living space if you live in a house. If you live in an apartment, you likely have less space.

Yet, it is still better to disassemble the rack when it is not in use and keep it inside for everyone's safety.

Parking Habits

If you are often parking in unsafe neighborhoods, especially without security cameras and supervision, there is an increased risk of rack theft. Hence, you should keep your parking habits in check.

If you did not get a chance to detach your rack before heading out, remember to park in a location that is safe; even if it means you will have to walk a while.

Parking Situation At Home

If your car is parked in a garage or under a roof, leaving the rack on makes more sense.

But there is still a chance that the parking space you have does not accommodate to the size of the bike rack. In such cases, it is best to store your rack elsewhere.

Some people consider leaving the car on the driveway due to this. Do not do this! You will be inconveniencing others by blocking the space.

If you live in a region with freezing temperatures in winter, snow, ice, salt, and road chemicals will damage the rack.

This can easily be avoided if you keep it inside when you are not using it on a regular basis.

Your Driving Habits

If you drive at highway speeds often, it is better to remove the rack because it makes noise and is subject to air resistance. Also, if you are a rough driver, you will risk chipping the paint or denting the car itself with the bike rack.

The weight of the bike rack will also increase gas consumption. So, if you keep it attached all year long, you will find yourself filling up the car with gas more often than needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you leave your bike rack on the car when riding your bike?

So, when it comes to the question of if you should leave your bike rack on the car, the answer is always a no. If you have a space to store it, please do so!

As for leaving it on while you are riding your bike, the answer is still a no. This is because bike racks are very easy to steal. You should definitely avoid keeping it on your car if you have alternative options.

Conclusion

It is never a good idea to leave your bike rack on your car. Not only can it get easily stolen, but it can get damaged, or it can cause damage as well. Overall, the cons outweigh the pros by a lot, and if you are still considering leaving it on, take proper precautions and do it at your own risk.

So, now that you all the pros and cons, decide what fits you best!
Related reading: How to Carry Women's Bike on Rack? Related reading: Car Wash with A Bike Rack - Is It Safe?

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Do You Leave Your Bike Rack on Your Car?

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If you are someone who goes on bike rides often, chances are you might own a bike rack. And, if you take the bike on road trips, your rack is probably attached to your car. Now, you might be wondering whether it is alright to leave your bike rack on your car.

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How To Put A Women’s Bike On A Bike Rack?

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How To Put A Women’s Bike On A Bike Rack?

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A common question among women cyclists is about carrying women's bikes on the car bike rack. Since the structure of women's bikes is slightly different, it often becomes complicated and confusing when they want to transport their bikes on a rack.

In this article, we'll try to clear the confusion and find out how to transport women's bikes with you. Let's go.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

Why Is It Challenging to Put Women's Bike on a Bike Rack?

If you look closely at your bike, you'll notice that the top tube slides down through the handlebars to the rear wheel at a steep angle. On "normal" bikes, this part attaches to the vehicle's bike rack and is therefore horizontal.

We assume this is a "normal" bike because numerous bike models have this slanting upper tube. Thus the exact problem you're facing now. Low step-thru bikes and high-suspension mountain bikes are two examples. That's why we need something to take over the role of the horizontal top tube, and crossbar adapters are helpful for that.
Read more: Do You Leave Your Bike Rack on Your Car?
How to Carry Women's Bike on Rack?

Roof bike racks, rear bike racks, and trailer hitch racks are the three main types of bike racks. But not every bike rack is suitable for women's bikes, so we'll talk about the three racks mentioned below.

Roof Mounted Bike Racks

Roof racks are the most flexible option if you want to carry your bike on a bike rack. They carry the cycle by attaching the wheels through the rear wheel strap and arm assembly, not the bike frame. So you don't have to buy an adapter or anything else to carry the bike.

Since the structure of women's bikes is a little different than regular bikes, this feature of roof-mounted bike racks is an excellent option for women's bikes.
Read more: How To Reduce Roof Rack Noise and Vibration?
Platform Hitch Racks

A platform hitch style rack is the best and most convenient way to transport a women's bike. Like roof racks, they transport bicycles using wheels with next to nobody's touch. They also use rear wheel straps, arm brackets, and a level to hold the bikes. They're also great for DIY, so anyone who doesn't use a conventional bike can benefit from them.

Without adapters, they can also be used for step-through frames. Also, unlike suspended carriers, they don't allow bikes to swing behind the car. Therefore, platform carriers are the best choice for transporting women's bikes.
Read more: Best Hitch Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide
Hanging Hitch Mount / Trunk Mounted / Spare Tire Bike Racks

Hanging bike racks are another alternative that you can use to carry your bike. These bike racks hold bikes using a bar pole with arms that supports cycles by the framing on hanging racks. They're smaller and less expensive than other bike racks.

However, they aren't a good option for women's bikes because they use the bike frame and aren't suitable for various bike designs and sizes. Also, as the name implies, the bike is transported hanging, risking damage to both vehicles.

If you opt for a hanging hitch mount bike rack, you can solve this problem by adding a crossbar to the top tube. We've explained below how you can use this crossbar adapter.
Read more: Best Spare Tire Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide
Top Tube Cross Bar Adaptor

With a top tube crossbar adapter, you can easily mount your step-through bike on any hanging bike rack. If you try to transport your step-through bike on a bike rack because the top bar is different from regular bikes, you can hardly balance it. In that case, you'll need a crossbar.

It's two sides, one hook on the front and the other on the back. The top tube crossbars can be adjusted to the length of your bike. You just need to adjust the length properly and attach the bar to your bike, then just mount it to your bike rack. Check to make sure it's connected properly, and that's it.

ALLEN Tension Bar Bicycle Cross-Bar Adaptor
ALLEN Tension Bar Bicycle Cross-Bar Adaptor, Black, One size CHECK CURRENT PRICE
Its internal spring secures your bike and provides a top tube for non-traditional bikes. It doesn't need any additional fit. Its plastic-coated connectors are gentle on your bike's finish. It's a solid inner metal spring that creates tremendous resistance, so the bar won't shift when it's hooked to the bike. This makes it extremely stable. It also prevents scratches without the need for a heat gun.

Easy to use

Internal metal spring provides strong resistance

Cost-effective solution

A metal lock pin might scratch the bike's body.

Mounting Women's Bike on Bike Rack Without an Adapter - is it Possible?

Yes, it's possible to carry a woman's bike on a bike rack without the adapter. But it's not a safe option to transport a non-conventional bike without an adapter. That's because it won't be properly balanced since the top bar isn't there, unlike regular bikes. Even if you get a little creative and find an alternative to transport your bike without an adapter, it could pose a risk to your car, the rack, or the bike itself. So it's better to be safe than sorry and buy an adapter before you put your bike on a rack.

But there are also options if you don't want to buy an adapter. There are bike racks that are made specifically for non-conventional bikes. You can get one of those and just keep using it. Make sure the load of your bike is well distributed, and the center of gravity is low. Also, always tie both wheels together over the rack. Make sure it's securely fastened to the rack hooks as well.

If you do not want to use the bicycle cross bar adapter, another safe option is to carry your women's bike in a car.
Read more: How To Carry Bike In Car?
Conclusion

Mounting a women's or children's bike on a standard bike rack is harder than it seems.

A top bar adapter seems like a great accessory for any bike rack, as it'll help transport women, children, and step-thru bikes comfortably and safely. And if you think a crossbar won't serve you well, just invest in a bike rack that's designed for non-conventional bikes.

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How To Put A Women's Bike On A Bike Rack?

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A common question among women cyclists is about carrying women's bikes on the car bike rack. Since the structure of women's bikes is slightly different, it often becomes complicated and confusing when they want to transport their bikes on a rack.

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How To Reduce Roof Rack Wind Noise and Vibration?

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How To Reduce Roof Rack Wind Noise and Vibration?

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You must be lucky when you have got a roof rack, and it hardly creates vibrating noise in the middle of your drive. Some of you may not be able to relate to this situation.

We understand that removing a roof rack to disrupt the airflow will not be preventable. Due to this common phenomenon, we come across a range of alternative ways to provide you with a quiet ride.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

How to Stop Roof Rack Wind Noise?

Since wind hits the roof rack as fast as greased lightning, we need to look for feasible ways to minimize noisy sounds.

We have introduced here wind fairings, roof rack crossbars, and some DIY wind deflectors to let you adopt the convenient alternative below.

Get a Wind Fairing for Roof Rack
INNO Medium Universal Mount Fairing CHECK CURRENT PRICE
The INNO wind fairing is for roof rack owners who have been facing the whistling noise from the very beginning. This wind fairing, also well-renowned as Wind Deflector, is a plastic-made shield that deflects wind away. As the wind is being distracted, there is hardly any chance of getting the annoying vibration.

Universally, wind fairings are very popular to be fit to your vehicle. The wind fairing works as the top section tends to attach to the front crossbar when the bottom section connects on the top of the car. INNO fits all-sized crossbars and widths of your vehicle.

A wind fairing has other benefits too. For instance, improving gas mileage, experiencing less drag, and stylish appearance. Depending on the quality, design, and brand, the wind fairings' cost is well-determined. Before you purchase wind fairings, make sure whether it compatibles with your vehicle or not.
Related reading: Best Bike Rack For Car Reviews & Buying Guide
Consider 3 Features before Purchase the Best Wind Fairing

From our experience, we can say that the wind fairing technique works better than any other available products. Wind fairings are indeed pretty expensive. That is why we want you to decide the other features of wind fairing before you invest.

Materials are of High-Quality

Wind Fairing should be long-lasting, sturdy, plastic-made, or acrylic. Before you purchase, get assured whether it maintains these features.

A tint is always a must-have feature. When you pass other cars, tint spreads a glare that other cars receive.

Easy-to-Install

Wind Fairings are easy-to-install tools. You will not need to waste time with bolts and screws to make them attached.

Shift Your Roof Rack Crossbar into Aerodynamic One
YAKIMA - JetStream Bar Aerodynamic Crossbars CHECK CURRENT PRICE
Aerodynamic crossbars are highly designed tools to prevent wind noise on your roof rack. They mostly come in an oval shape that allows air to flow around the crossbars. With a no-noise feature, aerodynamic crossbars contain wind diffuser strips. Besides, they are so quiet that you barely require wind fairings to attach.

You can look into YAKIMA branded roof rack crossbars that reduce drag to provide maximum efficiency. These are lightweight and aluminum-constructed.

Check Whether Your Vehicle's Base Rack is Well-built

When you transport your belongings in the roof rack basket, you hear an irritating sound, don't you? If this is your case, look into the base roof rack. Ensure that you have kept the support towers secured.

You can secure it by tying down the straps and mounts attached to the vehicle. We all know, the base rack connects the vehicle. In that situation, you need to pull on the side of the crossbar to the side to check whether you've got a stable base rack.
Related reading: How to Carry Women's Bike on Rack?
Reduce the Humming through Bar Padding

It does not matter which type of bar you use, you can always add bar pads wrapping around the crossbars on the vehicle's roof rack. Cause bar padding disturbs airflow and reduces creating unpleasant noises.

Two types of bar load surfaces are out there- load bars and edge bars. Load bars refer to be heavy and wide with an additional space to keep objects placed. On the other hand, between these two, edge bars have better chances to reduce wind noise. Since edge bars allow better reroute airflow, the curvature of the bars prevents wind resistance.

Fix the Roof Rack Noise in the Following Steps:

If you ever face the situation that your aerodynamic-designed roof rack creates sound, consider these steps to fix the issue:

Make sure all the measuring strips are well-inserted on both undersides of the bars, including the rubber strip.

Cannot locate the strips? Take out the crossbars and give them a shake. With little effort, you will see them sliding out. Replace the rubber strip with the one in the crossbar parts section.

If the first two steps do not work out, find any wind-fairing product that deflects air around the rack and gear bars. It will keep the sound quiet.

Use Cordage to Reduce Noises

Take a nylon cord and wrap it around the first crossbar in a spiral pattern. Wrap the cordage twice and tighter overhand knot at a 45-degree angle. When wind travels over the crossbar, the crossbar tends to sound less than before. A ¼ inch thick or more diameter cord will work in this process perfectly.

DIY Tip-Tap Section of Pool Noodle to the Crossbar

If you are more into the Do-it-yourself trick, you should try taping the available sections of a pool noodle to the crossbars of your vehicle. Although it adds some drag to the roof rack, this method reduces the noise than the wind fairing cost.

Invest In An Aerofoil Bar
Thule AeroBlade Edge Flush Mount Rack CHECK CURRENT PRICE
You can find a new aerofoil crossbar that provides an eye-catching improvement in a noisy roof rack. Thule and Rhino-Rack bring out new products in the market with the feature of noise-reducing strips. These products are well-applied and remain silent during their use.

Besides, Thule Aeroblade has wind diffuser technology that reduces noise. Sometimes, it can reduce drag to provide an improved fuel economy.
Related reading: Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback
How to Stop Roof Rack Vibration?

Vibration noise occurs when you transport something on a roof rack. The sound seems to be annoying. Yet, it indicates that we need to look for loose connections that may cause the problem.

Get an Airfoil

Airfoil is another solution to install around the front rack bar. It blocks the difference or gap between the rack and the car roof. As a result, the wind goes through from two sides and the top of the vehicle's roof rack. It creates no sound even any vibration.
Related reading: How to Transport Bike in SUV?
Are the Contact Points Well-attached?

You need to look for contact points that rub the vehicle's surface. The contact points stay between the roof rack and other attached accessories. Apply rubber stripping to all contact points and attach to the adhesive side. It creates less vibrating noise in the surface area of the vehicle.

It is also significant to save support towers and straps (tie-down) to the vehicle. To stable the base rack, pull side to side on the crossbars. After that, adjust the roof rack's mounting points attached to the base. You can adjust by pulling a strap turning a knob.

A gear would never move if the mounting points are well-attached. We have talked before about cords to secure gear or crossbars. You can also try with duct tape and zip ties to stop vibrating.

Use an RTV Sealant

Under each foot of roof racks, there is a rubber gasket that vibrates when you go at a fast speed. Using an RTV sealant keeps it quiet. RTV sealant refers to room temperature vulcanizing. It starts curing immediately when it exposes to air.
Related reading: Best Bike Rack For SUV Reviews & Buying Guide
Final Words

It is even evident that roof racks set further away from the windshield make comparatively less noise.

Since wind fairing offers pricey budget, we bring you feasible solutions in order to help vehicle owners rid of irritating noise and vibration.

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How To Reduce Roof Rack Wind Noise and Vibration?

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You must be lucky when you have got a roof rack, and it hardly creates vibrating noise in the middle of your drive. Some of you may not be able to relate to this situation. We understand that removing a roof rack to disrupt the airflow will not be preventable.

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Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) is a category of car that blends the elements of road-going passengers and off-road vehicles, such as four-wheel drive. There are multiple advantages and essential features of SUVs.

In addition to all these, the transportation of bikes in SUV is another way SUV is being used. Due to its spacious interior, bikes can be fitted into the space and transported to locations.

How To Transport Your Bikes On Your SUV?

There are two ways to transport the bicycles outside the SUV - on the bike rack or on the bike trailer.

Bike racks are essential tools that can be utilized to carry your bikes in an SUV. It is a tension-free option without worrying about any hassle.

There are multiple types of bikes. Some of the bike racks include hitch mount, trunk mount, and roof mount. If you want to know more about the bike racks, check out our article about the best bike racks for SUV to hunt for more information.
Read more: Best Bike Rack For SUV Reviews & Buying Guide
Bike Trailers

Bike trailers are great tools to carry your bikes and load these in your SUV. You can stack several cycles on the trailers for transportation.

There are some benefits of transporting your bike using a bike trailer. These trailers are made of tough steel. Thus, it ensures that the bikes will be transported safely without any scratches or any other damages caused.

The Indie tie-down method secures the bikes to be safely loaded into your SUV and also unloaded from it. This method is very convenient and quick as well.

How to Transport Bike in SUV?

There are some ways of carrying the bike in an SUV from one place to the other. These will be discussed in this article. So, to know more about how you can transport a bike in an SUV, keep reading this article!

Placing It Horizontally In The Trunk

An SUV has an enormous capacity inside it. So, you can settle your bike by placing it horizontally. It will allow the bike to rest in the place properly and fit in the SUV. You can even remove your front tire and then place it horizontally.

However, it is not suggested to place your bike horizontally in the SUV without any support. For support, you can set an object, for example, an empty cardboard box. It will assist the bike to be in place when the SUV is driven.

It's one of the most convenient and costless ways. Do place it horizontally, and you can fold the back seat of your SUV. Then you will need to place your bike on the cargo.
Related reading: How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching Your Car?
DIY SUV Bike Carrier

Building your tool to transport bikes in an SUV might sound like a difficult task to accomplish. Yet, it is a great and fun method to do so.

You need some materials to create your equipment. Grab a cordless drill, an angle grinder along with a cut-off wheel and flap disc, and a countersink bit. In addition to these tools, some parts were used too.

These are Sunlite QR Bike Block Fork Mount, flat bar, and knobs.

Moreover, you will need some other materials. Gather some carriage bolts, black rubberized spray paint, and some machine screws, nuts, and lastly, washers.

Let's get to know how to make it to create your tool to carry your bikes. Firstly, take a flat bar. Then make necessary measurements for the dimensions as per your necessity for placing it in the SUV. Then cut the bar as per measurements using an angle grinder and a cut-off wheel and flap disc.

Then, drill holes on the bar using a countersink bit. Then, take small pieces

of the flat bar and drill holes. The holes' size should be the same as the screws you will use.

Moving ahead, now attach two fork mounts at two ends of the bar using screws. Paint the bar with the black spray paint and keep it for some time, for instance, overnight.

Now arrives the intersecting segment and that is assembling. Place the fork mount attached bar on the back of your SUV.

Next, put the small cut-out and drilled pieces of the bar and place the screws upside down in the hole. Place the flat bar on top of the screw and carefully match both ends. Then fasten a knob at each end where the screw is holding the flat bar. Tighten the knob on both edges.

You are almost there! Now open the front tires of the bikes. Place the bicycle in the rear part of the SUV and fasten it with the fork mounts. Yes, it is completed. Now, you can transport your bikes with you in your SUV.
Related reading: How To Reduce Roof Rack Noise and Vibration?
What to Keep in Mind?

By this time, you have been introduced to several methods to transport bikes in an SUV. Yet, you have to keep a few suggestions in mind to transport these safely.

Keep Your SUV Interior Clean

Do you want your SUV's interior to get muddy and dirty? If not, then you should clean the bikes before placing them in your SUV. Wipe up the tires, the chains, and all other tiny and big parts. It will ensure that your SUV will be clean even after transporting the bikes.

Moving further, you should place pieces of cloth beneath the fork dropouts. It will prevent your seat from getting punctured.

You might not be entirely successful in cleaning up the grease on the bike's chain. Thus, no need to worry and follow this simple trick. Put the bike's chain on the small ring. It will minimize the chances of staining your SUV with the chain's grease.

There might be accidents or events of serious crashes. Thus, you should try to secure yourself and the passengers from getting hit with the bikes. To do so, you need to use the seat belts to hold the frames and secure them.

These are simple tips and tricks to safely transport bikes in an SUV.

In conclusion, transporting a bike is convenient in an SUV. There are several options from which you can decide which one you would choose.

Also, there are additional factors that need to be remembered. On the whole, choose your method, transport your bike in an SUV, and get set!

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Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) is a category of car that blends the elements of road-going passengers and off-road vehicles, such as four-wheel drive. There are multiple advantages and essential features of SUVs. In addition to all these, the transportation of bikes in SUV is another way SUV is being used.

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How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching Your Car?

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How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching Your Car?

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What could be more awful than a large dent on your car's rear end? Moreover, the harm might have been escaped!

Bike racks are incredibly handy for moving bikes, but they might also cause damages to your vehicle. If you regularly need bike racks, this is a vital factor to take into account.

This is especially fundamental if you own a valuable vehicle because you will prefer to maintain it in excellent shape.

Which Rack Type is More Prone to Scratch?

Bike racks come in a number of styles and sizes, allowing users to place the bike in a range of places on the car. These bike racks are perfect for carrying your bicycle, based on the vehicle you have and the shape of the bike: hitch racks, roof racks, and trunk racks.

The hitch rack is not in immediate touch with the car, but the bike might strike with it if it is not securely mounted. Whenever the bike swings or the wheel rotates, it may collide with the vehicle, resulting in dents. Roof bike racks carry some of the same concerns as hitch-mounted racks, though with a few exceptions.

Rather than causing harm to the back of your automobile, it may cause harm to the roof. It is necessary to determine how much space the car has having bikes mounted. Foam mats are commonly used to put on top of trunk bike racks. After a while, the foam pads press over the car paint, causing dents, specifically when the bike rack is not tightly mounted.

The trunk bike rack, among all other styles of bike racks, is the one that does the greatest harm to the vehicle. Since the trunk bike rack is the one that makes direct contact with the vehicle.

Any scrapes or dents to the trunk of the vehicle will be visible. It is not a huge problem if the rack damages the vehicle's roof since nobody really takes a look at the top. As they are mounted to the hitch, hitch bike racks rarely touch the car.

The main reason you will ruin the coat of paint is if the bike rack falls into the car by accident. Therefore, the trunk rack is the only thing left. You must be particularly cautious if you own a trunk rack.
Related reading: Bike That Fits In A Car
How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching My Car?

There will always be a possibility of car damage, irrespective of the style of bike rack you choose. There have been terrible reports of bike rack crashes that required big bucks to fix. You do not wish it to occur to you, especially if you caused the incident, because collecting insurance coverage would be tough.

The details below can assist you in avoiding vehicle accidents created by bike racks.

Pick the Right Rack

Choosing the right bike rack might allow you to avoid causing harm to your vehicle. If you are planning to use a trunk bike rack regularly, skip it. This sort of bike rack might damage the paint plus wear it down at some point.

Select one with big foam padding that evenly transfers the load of the rack over several contacting surfaces. When you ride your bike occasionally, a trunk bike rack might be an excellent alternative.

If you often park in a garage, skip installing a roof bike rack. When you are going to park the car in a garage, you possibly need to take your bike down first. This is inconvenient when you use the bike rack regularly, also if you neglect to take the bike down first, everything around you might suffer significant deterioration.

If you are parking around the city, do not use a hitch bike rack. A hitch-bike rack can lengthen the car and turn judging distances while reversing extremely challenging. This allows it seamless to crash with other parked automobiles, causing significant harm to both the cars and the bikes.

You also need to ensure that the bike rack can securely support the load of the bikes. The weight restriction of the bike rack may be found in the product details. Ensure your hitch can hold the overall volume of the bikes and the bike racks when you are installing a hitch bike rack.
Related reading: How to Transport Bike in SUV?
Installing Properly

Following the selection of the appropriate rack, the installation process begins. Even if you already have a rack, reread the user manual while placing a new rack. Utilize the supplies included with the base and abide by the directions. Do not wing it.

Try and ensure the bike rack is installed on a fresh, grime-free, and non-greasy platform. If you do not do so, your bikes might not fit correctly on the rack.

Ensure Everything is in Working Order

Spend some spare energy making sure your bike rack is safe and solid. This is also true for the bicycles themselves. It is important to double-check the rack on multiple occasions to ensure that the bikes do not come off, causing damage to both the car and the bikes. Examine the bikes' and rack's durability, as well as the belts and every other element linked with the bike rack. If you need a bike rack regularly, you may even write a logbook to ensure you have secured everything properly.

Boost the Protection

You might use protective films to safeguard your car against bike rack dents. Many racks include translucent protective paper to cover any areas where the bikes get into touch with the car. Add a paint protection film or painter's tape to the area where the rack rubs against the vehicle to avoid the paint from breaking out or damaging.

Take Care of the Rack

Take good care of the rack you own. This makes everything easy. If you own a trunk-mount bike rack that has been properly placed, you must clean the touching areas, like the foam pads. This covers the paint layer it is resting on.

When dust is buried beneath the foam, it will scrape across the coat and damage it as if it were sandpaper. Dust will build up over the years, so check these touch areas regularly to prevent harm.

Mount Properly

Even if you got everything within essence, if you do not attach your bike correctly, you might bring harm. Before transportation, apply the proper straps and double-check that the bikes are attached correctly. To maintain your bikes and vehicle's top shape, make sure that nothing is missing the tune.

Thinks to Keep in Mind

Here are some practical guidelines for harnessing a bike rack to safeguard your car. Be aware of the environment at all times. So that you do not strike anything, make a visible indication of the whereabouts of your bike rack.

Before you move, double-check all straps, hooks, and locking on your bike. Stop attempting to overburden the bike rack as this increases the chance of it swaying or falling, which can bring significant harm based on the style of rack you have.

Check that all pieces of your bike rack are in good working order before operating it. Also, when you are not using the rack, consider putting it aside. Keeping a bike rack on a car doubles the likelihood of it causing damage to your car. In addition, exposing a bike rack to severe conditions might accelerate its deterioration.

Conclusion

A bike rack is a wonderful piece of equipment for carrying your bicycles, but improper use can cause harm to both your bicycles and your car. What could be more frustrating than trying to delve deep into your wallet to repair the damage that might have been avoided?

Investing additional time to ensure correct installation and an additional set of support on your automobile will help maintain your car paint looking new for a significant period of time.

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How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching Your Car?

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What could be more awful than a large dent on your car's rear end? Moreover, the harm might have been escaped! Bike racks are incredibly handy for moving bikes, but they might also cause damages to your vehicle. If you regularly need bike racks, this is a vital factor to take into account.

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If you are someone who takes your bike on car rides, your car's safety might be a concern for you. After all, none of the roads you will be using are going to be smooth. So, if you are using a car bike rack to transport your bicycle, it would be natural for you to wonder if bike racks can damage your car.

Well, if that sounds familiar, you have come to the right place. Keep reading to find out if bike racks damage your car.

Do Bike Racks Damage Your Car?

Bike racks work by creating tension on the vehicle's surface where you've secured your bike. We usually use the straps across the bike to produce tension, which securely fastens it to the car. Naturally, the more straps you use to secure your bike, the safer it will be.

When you make the placement, though, you will run across a few complications. If you tie it to the trunk, for example, you may be limiting its functionality. In such circumstances, you may need to remove the bike rack fully to have access to the trunk.

So, do bike racks damage your car? The short answer would be yes, they might. But, don't just leave and remove the bike rack! Because there are a lot of factors that play a major role here. If you can keep these in check, you're good to go!
Read more: How to Fit a Bike in a Car?
How Can Bike Racks Damage Your Car?

In this part, we'll go through how bike racks can damage your vehicle. Let's take a look at them!

The Bike Rack's Weight

A car is designed in such a way that it balances its weight and grips the ground. However, if you add a bike rack, which adds weight to the equation, it will influence not only the center of mass but also the center of rotation.

Furthermore, it has the potential to damage the body panel and paint of the car on which it is parked.

Getting Your Rearview Mirror Blocked

When a bike rack is mounted on the back of a car, it naturally inhibits blind-spot view. This isn't the only issue that it brings with it. The secured bike may also collide with side objects, causing damage to your automobile as a result of the shock.

Failure of the Straps

You may forget to tighten the straps as you're securing the bike on the rack. Otherwise, the straps may get slack, worn, or damaged throughout the trip, causing the bike to fall out of the truck.

It has the potential to severely damage your vehicle, resulting in a hefty repair expense. As a result, keep in mind that bike racks are only useful if the straps are appropriately used to secure the bike.

Wind Resistance

Have you ever considered how a bike rack can enhance a car's wind resistance? If that's not the case, we're here to reassure you. And what kind of issues does it have? Wind resistance can reduce your gas mileage dramatically. Furthermore, because it creates turbulence, it can have an impact on the vehicle.

Increase in Height and Length of Your Car

The addition of a bike rack to a vehicle can dramatically extend the length and breadth of the vehicle. This might cause major problems since you may have difficulty navigating through enclosed spaces.

If you have a bike rack on the roof of your car, it might badly harm your vehicle if you park in a garage with low ceilings. It may also prevent spoilers from being installed.

How to Avoid Damage When Putting Up a Bike Rack?

Every issue has some potential solutions. As a result, here are some solutions to consider to avoid damage.

Selecting the Correct Model

Choosing the correct bike rack for your car type is one of the greatest methods to avoid harm with a bike rack. As a result, you'll be able to properly load the bikes and avoid causing harm to your vehicle.

Installing Bike Rack Properly

If you want to avoid damage to your car, you must learn how to properly install the bike rack, whether you select the rear of your car or the top. As a result, get a pro to install the rack for you.

Choosing a Rack of Higher Quality

The majority of bike racks have a rubber coating that acts as a cushion to protect the car. Furthermore, some of them include multi-position hinges. As a result, they may be installed in practically any vehicle.
Read more: Can A Bike Rack Rest On Glass?
If the bike is not properly secured, it may cause harm to the vehicle. If the bike is attached too near to the bumper, for example, the pedals may rotate, increasing the risk of scratching and denting the bumper.
Read more: How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching Your Car?
Frequently Asked Questions

Do roof racks damage your car?

Yes, your roof racks can damage your car, especially if you install it incorrectly. If you install it too tightly, it might dent your car or scuff your paint, in which case you will have to get it buffed. On the other hand, if you install it too loose, your bike and rack might bounce around on bumpy roads. They might fall off your car and damage it in the process!

If you have a sunroof, you must be extra careful about installing your roof rack. While the sunroof might be able to take the rack's weight, the bike's weight and extra items might be too much for it to hold.

Do trunk racks damage your car?

Yes, trunk racks can damage your car, especially if you install them incorrectly. Trunk racks often mess up the paint on the car; while some of them have padding to protect the paint, most do not. So, if you are planning on getting a trunk rack, this is something you will definitely need to consider.

Additionally, if you install it too tightly or too loosely, your bike and rack might bounce around on bumpy roads. They might fall off your car and damage it in the process!

Trunk racks also make you slightly more prone to accidents since the bike usually extends out of the sides of the vehicles. So, please be careful while you drive.

Conclusion

While most current bike racks are created with cutting-edge technology, there may still be some risks that could cause harm to your vehicle. There can be numerous reasons why your bike rack might damage your car. For instance, it can happen because of its weight, failure of its straps, or wind resistance.

However, if you understand what can hurt your automobile, you can avoid it by installing the rack correctly and selecting the correct rack model. Then you can safely transport your bikes wherever you want. Happy transporting!

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If you are someone who takes your bike on car rides, your car's safety might be a concern for you. After all, none of the roads you will be using are going to be smooth. So, if you are using a car bike rack to transport your bicycle, it would be natural for you to wonder if bike racks can damage your car.

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You might want to transport your bike in your car instead of putting it on the bike rack for many reasons. Whether you're packing it up for a trip or taking it to the repair shop, knowing how to your bike in the car will come in handy.

There are many advantages to knowing how to fit your bike in your car. For example, you save yourself from buying a bike rack. Also, you're less likely to be involved in an accident and damage your bike or car.

But can you even fit a bike in your car? Well, yes, you can! And it's really easy! Here's how you can fit a bike in a car.

How To Fit A Bike In A Car?

Fitting a bike in a car is much easier than you think. It's done step by step as follows:
Related reading: How To Carry Bike In Car?
Clean The Bike

If you've been using your bike for a while, it's probably dirty. With all the dirt and grease accumulated over time, you risk staining your car's interior if you don't clean your bike before putting it in your car!

To avoid ruining your car's interior and seats, clean your bike before putting it in your vehicle. To do this, you should wipe the body of the cycle and the gears with a damp cloth or wipes.

If you take your bike on a trip, you should take wet wipes with you so that you don't have any problems bringing your bike home.

Remove The Bike Wheels

Although it sounds tedious, removing the bike wheels would be a big help! Smaller cars often can't accommodate the size of larger bikes because they're so tall when the wheels are mounted.

Most bikes have quick-release levers that allow you to easily remove and reattach the wheels. Remember to set the lowest gear, so the chain doesn't stretch before you take the wheels off.
Related reading: Do Bike Racks Damage Your Car?
Fold Down The Rear Seats

Even when disassembled, bikes take up quite a bit of space. That's why you need to make room for the bike before you put it in the car.

Adjust your rear seats so that the bike fits easily. This is especially handy if your bike is longer than usual or can't be folded down.

Moving the rear seats forward also frees up extra space in the trunk. So you can stow your bike after wet and muddy bike rides without worrying about getting your whole car dirty.

Keep Gears Away From Seats

To keep your car clean, keep the wheels and gears of your bike away from the seats. Imagine how hard you'd have to scrub to remove all the dirt and grease!

If you've just returned from a muddy ride, you may not have time to clean the gears before the car ride. Remember to place them, so the gears don't touch hard-to-clean areas.

Place The Bike Gear Side Up

Bicycle components - such as the chain, brakes, and derailleur - are pretty delicate. If you put pressure on them, they can be seriously damaged!

The best way to avoid this is to arrange the gears, so they aren't damaged, i.e., with the gear side up.

Wrap the Bike Pedals

If you don't wrap your bike pedals, they can easily scratch your car's interior. However, this can be easily prevented. Just wrap them tightly with a rag or strap so they stay in place and don't damage anything.

Align The Brakes

As mentioned earlier, the brakes on a bike are pretty fragile. The entire alignment will be wrong if the lever is accidentally pressed and the brakes get squeezed.

Therefore, when transporting your bike, you must not place it so that the brakes are out of alignment. If you want to be on the safe side, putting plugs on the brakes before the trip would be better.
Related reading: How To Fit Two Bikes In A Car?
Use Straps And Bungee Cords

When you put your bike in your car, there's always the risk that it'll move too much when the vehicle is moving. This can cause scratches, or the bike parts could even hit a passenger and injure them!

In such situations, it's best to secure the bike with straps and bungee cords.

Keep A Bike Bag Handy

If you've one of those folding bikes, a bike bag is your best friend. Not only will it keep your bike from getting dirty, but it'll also protect your car. The bike bag prevents you from damaging parts of the bike and keeps it in place.

So, a bike bag can solve all your travel problems. In addition, these bike bags are usually made of nylon and, therefore, waterproof!

How To Fit A Bike In A Car Without Taking It Apart?

Disassembling the bike to fit it in the car is doable but usually inconvenient.

However, there are many folding bikes that can make your life easier. With these bikes, you don't have to take the whole bike apart and save the time it takes to assemble and disassemble it.

Also, it would be especially helpful if you had a bigger car. A large vehicle with enough storage space for your bike will even save you the time it takes to fold and unfold the bike.
Related reading: How To Carry A Tandem Bike On A Car?
Can You Fit A Bike In The Back Seat Of a Car?

Yes, you can fit your bike in the back seat of your car, but you've to take off both wheels.

I have a mid-size German sedan, and I've to take off both wheels to fit the car in the back seat. I could remove only one wheel, but the other wheel would rub against the door and dirty it.

You need to consider a few more things before you do that.

First, you must remember that your car seat will get dirty if you don't clean the bike properly. So before you put the bike in your car, you should wipe it down thoroughly. Also, you should cover the seat with an old beach towel or a bedspread.

Another thing to remember is to secure the bike properly. The more your car moves, the more your bike will move. If it's unsecured, it can damage the interior of the car.

How To Fit A Bike In A Sedan?

If you have a sedan and can't fit your bike, the easiest way is to disassemble it. Follow the steps above, and you can easily fit your bike into your sedan. If that's not an option, you can buy a folding bike to make your life easier. Getting a bike rack is always an option if you regularly transport more than one bicycle.

Can I Fit A Bike In My Trunk?

Yes, depending on how big your bike is, you should be able to fit it in your trunk.

Your bike will fit in easily if you have a big car or a car with a folding back seat.

You'll need to disassemble the bike if you have a smaller car. Consider removing one or both wheels and removing the handlebars and seat. My car seat doesn't fold down, and the bike won't fit in the trunk even if I remove both wheels. If I also remove the handlebars, I could probably put my Trek 3900 in the trunk, but in this case, it's easier to put it in the back seat, as I described above.

Consider a folding bike if you really want a bike to fit in your trunk.

Also, don't forget to secure your bike. Otherwise, the movement in the car could send it flying everywhere.
Related reading: Bike That Fits In A Car
Conclusion

You need to transport your bike in your car for numerous reasons. Therefore, the confusion about how to fit a bike in a car is natural.

If you have a bigger car, it's up to you whether you disassemble the bike or load it fully assembled. Just remember to do it safely so that neither your bike nor your car gets damaged!

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You might want to transport your bike in your car instead of putting it on the bike rack for many reasons. Whether you're packing it up for a trip or taking it to the repair shop, knowing how to your bike in the car will come in handy.

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There are many cases when you, as a cyclist, are faced with the problematic situation of transporting your bike in a car.

You may have a place where you need to bring your bike in one piece, but you've no way to mount a bike rack. If you have a bike that fits in a car, you've solved the problem.

Not every bike fits in a car. Foldable bikes are always a solution, but most cyclists have a regular bike or even an e-bike. Can you fit these into a vehicle?

Please read on to find out!

Can You Put a Bicycle in a Car?

You can certainly fit a bicycle into a car with a few tricks and precautions. However, it depends on two factors: the type of car and the type of bike. You should keep in mind that not all bikes fit in a vehicle in the same way.

Also, it's essential to know how many bikes you want to fit in and how often you need to transport them in your car.

A few disassemblies of the bike and a few adjustments to the handlebars, saddle, and wheels - that's how you can fit your bike into your car. A quick-release system can save the day if you need to remove one or both wheels.

Still, you've to be careful not to squeeze the bike into the car because that could damage both the bike and the vehicle.

How Can You Transport a Bike in a Car?

If you want to fit your bike in a car, there are basically three ways you can transport it in your car. Let's get right to it.

On The Back Seat

You can transport your bike on the back seat of your car. Whether you drive an SUV or a sedan, there's enough room in the back seat of your vehicle to carry most bikes if you position and adjust it properly. However, you'll need to clean your bike's tires, cogs, and greasy chain before placing it on the seat.

It would be even better if you could put a replacement cover on the seat so that the seat doesn't get dirty or damaged. An old beach towel or blanket will do the trick if you don't feel like getting fancy. If you put your bike in the back seat, you can also use the footwell to position one of the wheels. Or you can put the wheel in the trunk.

With Back Seat Folded Down

Some cars have seats that can be folded down to create extra space.

Tip: If you have a large and heavy bike, it's advisable to ask someone to help you safely get the bike in and out of the space created by folding the seat down.

In The Trunk

Another option is to simply put your bike in the trunk of your car. However, we've to stop you at this point because an unsecured cycle can cause damage to your bike and your vehicle. Therefore, you should secure your bike with bungee cords or cable ties.
Read more: How to Fit a Bike in a Car?
Bikes that Fit in a Car

Not all bikes fit in a car. Whether you want to carry it in the trunk or in the back seat, the bike you want to transport should have an easily removable front wheel. Also, adjustable saddles and handlebars add to the convenience.

The following bikes fit well into the category of bikes that fit in a car, thanks to their construction and design.

Folding Bikes

When you think of space-saving bikes, the thought of folding bikes is already buzzing in your head, right?

As the name suggests, these bikes are designed to transform into a compact size for easy transportation and storage. Since this bike folds up to a small size, you can carry more than one folding bike in the trunk of your car or in the back seat. This is perhaps the most significant advantage that folding bikes have over other types of bikes.

If you don't have a folding bike yet, you can choose between a folding bike with one gear and one with multiple gears. The usual mechanism of a folding bike is that the rear wheel folds up to the middle frame while the front wheel overlaps the frame.

The saddle and handlebars are designed to fold down to a position where they can be used as carrying handles. You don't have to remove the wheels, which saves you a lot of hassle and time. Plus, the folded bike can be positioned to fit in your car in just a few easy steps.
Related reading: How to Keep Bike Rack from Scratching Your Car?
Mountain Bikes

Fitting a mountain bike into a car isn't as easy as putting a folding bike in a car. While we must warn you that it could get messy, there are a few viable ways to fit a mountain bike in your car, sedan, or SUV.

If you decide to fit the mountain bike in the back seat of your car, you'll need to take a few precautions. First, clean your mountain bike with a damp cloth. Next, remove one or both wheels and turn the handlebars on their side.

Once you've done that, you can try putting the bike on the back seat. If you think there's not enough room on the back seat, you can remove the pedals and fold drop down the saddle to make the bike more compact.

However, mountain bikes ride through dirt and mud and often have greasy chains that can damage the padding of your car seat.

To avoid a potential mess just because you're transporting your bike in the car, you should bring an extra seat cover or large towel, as well as rags and paper towels. It's also good to cover the oily parts like the gears to keep your car seat clean.

Since many mountain bikes are equipped with disk brakes, we definitely recommend using brake plugs. This way, you can make sure that the brake clamps don't get crooked.

Fitting a mountain bike in the trunk, you can save yourself the extra work of cleaning it up, but you'll still need to remove the front wheel and position the handlebars. If the trunk is big enough, you can leave the pedals attached.

Although mountain bikes come with a quick-release system that allows you to remove the front wheels, this could be an extra hassle for many.

Electric Bikes

Another bike that can fit in a car after applying some effort is an electric bike. Transporting your precious e-bike not only protects it from theft, but you can bring your e-bike to your desired destination without worrying about water or dust damage. Trying to fit an e-bike into a car is different and requires a few other tricks to get it right.

If you have an e-bike, it will probably fit in a hatchback or a car with fold-down rear seats. If you fold the seat down, you'll have more room to fit your bike.

To avoid staining or scratching your car's interior, you should put a cover or plastic wrap on it before you put the bike inside. Whether you want to transport your e-bike on the back seat, the trunk, or on a fold-down seat, you must ensure that the seat belts and cargo nets don't interfere with the space.

The batteries in e-bikes make them heavy. If you remove the battery from the electric bike, it's much lighter and easier to maneuver. If there's a way to easily remove the front wheel, you should do it.

Since e-bikes are heavy, we recommend asking a friend to help you lift the bike into the car. It's best to lift the bike by the front first and then push it through from the back while someone adjusts the position of the cycle from the opposite side of your car.

Next, you should make some adjustments. First, you should adjust the handlebars so that they're turned sideways. Next, you could tilt and readjust the front wheel if you're having trouble getting your e-bike in. It's a good idea to put the bike down towards the footwell.

Are There Any Bikes that Fit in Small Cars?

Yes, bicycles do fit in small cars. Believe it or not, most bikes would fit in your vehicle, no matter how small it is. The most important trick is to position the bike and adjust the parts accordingly.

However, if your car is too small and you need a bike that fits inside, the folding bike will work best. The main feature of folding bikes is the ability to turn them into a compact size, so they're easier to transport and fit into tight spaces.

If you remove the wheels and pedals and lower the saddle, you can also pack a mountain bike into a small car.

Bikes that Fit in Car Trunk

Almost any bike that allows the front and rear wheels to be removed will fit in a trunk. Mountain bikes, foldable bikes, and electric bikes will all fit in the trunk if there's enough room.

You should tie the bikes down with bungee cords and straps and secure them well. Even though most bikes fit in the trunk, the risk of damaging the frame and handlebars is higher, especially if you have an aggressive driving style.

Conclusion

Mountain bikes, electric bikes and folding bikes are the bikes that fit in a car. However, you'd have to remove the wheels and move the handlebars to a sideways position.

If you lower the bike's saddle and remove the pedals, you create more space, whether you want to fold up the car seat or put the bike on the seat or in the trunk of your car.

You should use enough covers and plastic to protect the car seat or trunk bed as a precaution. Also, it's important to clean the bike before you put it in the car.

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There are many cases when you, as a cyclist, are faced with the problematic situation of transporting your bike in a car. You may have a place where you need to bring your bike in one piece, but you've no way to mount a bike rack.

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If you love the sport of cycling, you would probably want to carry your bicycle, or even your friends' and families', wherever you go. Likewise, camping and adventures on the road and up to the hills call camper trailers.

Most of us, by habit, love to carry cycles with us when we go camping. It provides you with additional activities in your list of adventures while you are out enjoying your picnic. With your family with you, you might even have to carry one or two extra bikes, including children's.

That being said, you already have wandered to the thought of how to carry a bicycle on a camper trailer. While there are numerous ways you can consider carrying your bikes on your travel trailer, you should only go for the safest one.

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Easy Ways of Carrying Bike on Camper Trailer

Camper or travel trailers are often a form of non-motorized RV that comes in various sizes and styles. They are a breeze to set up and comprise efficient security through locking systems. Most of them range from anywhere from 13 to 50 feet and can fit up to 10 sleeping humans.

Well, if it's that big, you should be able to fit bikes as well, right? That surely is an option but might not be the best one when a lot of you and your friends are camping and sleeping in.

Importance of Choosing The Right Bike Rack

Bike Racks are perhaps one of the most common ways to carry your bicycle on your travel trailer. It is also one of the safest ways to take your bike out camping, which guarantees you the convenience of carrying multiple bikes, sometimes up 4.

Most bike racks offer you the simplest loading and unloading methods, most of which only take a few minutes. Other than that, bike racks feature specialized locks and straps that keep the bikes being carried on the camping trailer secured and stable.

You wouldn't want your bicycle to wobble and crash with your vehicle. Now that's something that could scratch, mark, and damage both your bike frames and your camping trailer vehicle.

However, you may want to keep in mind that every bike rack carrier is designed to suit certain needs and you would have to consider a few factors before deciding on which bike rack would be most suitable to carry your bicycles on a camper trailer along the long roads.

You may want to consider the number of bikes you are about to carry for once. Affordability is another factor to take into reflection. Furthermore, a daunting feature of bike racks that makes many fret incessantly from using it is the way you may want to access it.

Unless you have some help with the loading and unloading process of a bike, you may want to avoid using a roof mount rack on your towing vehicle. Easily accessible carrier options include Hitch mount, bumper mount, or tire mounts racks.

With bike racks, the downside of carrying your ride on a camper trailer includes exposure to heat and moisture. Although a cover can help provide a certain degree of protection. Besides, the locks integrated into bike racks are sometimes not strong enough, making your bike more prone to theft if you aren't too careful when your truck is pulled up for a long.

Here are a few bike rack options to consider.
Related reading: Transporting Bicycle in Pickup Truck
On Hitch Mount

There's a reason why many of the travel trailers you may come across, perhaps even the one you own is outfitted with a hitch attachment. This is how hitch mount bike racks are made suitable for carrying bikes on camper trailers.

It is also worth mentioning that not all towing trailers are equipped for hitch installment. You may only attach a hitch if the structure of your trailer is sturdy enough to be able to carry more than one bike. In such situation, even if you can install a hitch, a trailer might be prone to damage under the load of the bikes.

Other than hitch mount racks being extremely easy to install, the biggest advantage of such a carrier is its ability to carry up to 4 or 5 bikes securely. Many people also like how a hitch mount bike rack can be mounted on bumpers as well, making the carrier all the more versatile. However, coupling a hitch to a trailer's bumper might be more damaging than you think.

A trailer's bumper is not designed in a way a way that it can carry so much weight, once the bikes are affixed.

When on the road, the attached bikes wobble, sometimes more abruptly on rougher roads, with serious potential to cause damage to the bumper allowing to the downward pressure created by the contact.

To fix this issue, it may be a good idea to take away some of that downward contact pressure on the bumper. One way is to strap the bikes to the travel trailer, creating additional support for both the bumper and the bicycles.

As we have mentioned, the structure of the trailer would tell you whether you would be able to install a hitch safety. Likewise, the rigidity and hence the durability of the trailer also plays a vital role in deciding which hitch type is best for your travel trailer. Other than that, the hitch type would also have to be compatible to the frame width.

If you examine and find that your trailer is not equipped with a bumper that is all compatible with a hitch attachment, a quick and reliable fix is frame mount hitch receivers. Even then, you would need a seamlessly welded bumper, preferably with a dimension of 4 inches x 4 inches.

Likewise, you have the option to choose from either a platform style or hanging style bike rack. One of our favorite hitch mount bike racks from Swagman features ratcheting hooks and push button-equipped arms that make loading and off loading the bikes a breeze.

On Bumper Mount

Second to hitch mount bike racks, the most popular and trusted bike rack style to carry bicycles when you're out camping is perhaps the bumper mounting bike racks. These racks don't require a hitch receiver, unlike a hitch mount rack but the similarity lies in the availability of platform style and hanging style racks.

Bumper mount bike rack requires U bolt attachments for the bike loading and securing. Another benefit of having bumper mount racks is how easy to use and install they can be while keeping the rear vehicle access totally free of a barrier.

Yet, not every bumper is made to carry a bike on a bumper mount bike rack. Bumpers constructed with high quality stainless steel with a continual design, preferably in the 4×4 dimension range can hold a bumper mount rack with a bike.

On the Roof of the Towing Vehicle

When driving a large vehicle like a camping trailer, a lot of people prefer hindrance free view both on the front and rear of their vehicle. One technique to make sure that no side of your vehicle is blocked in access, you can rely on a roof mount bike rack.

As the name suggests, the rack secures your bicycle, sometimes multiple, safely on the roof of the towing vehicle. However, if you own a towing vehicle with very high roof, you may want to keep in mind that loading and unloading a bike from a roof mounted rack is not the easiest task and if you are a one-man army, you'd have a tough time doing so.

On A-Frame Tongue Mount

With the help of a carrier, the A-frame or tongue mount bike rack is bolted and fixed into the vehicle's tongue frame, and it is done so by mounting the bike rack on top of the travel trailer's propane gas tank.

These sturdy racks are particularly used for traveling across the country for days and can be quite the help if you are two carries no more than 2 bikes. The position of the bike allows the driver to keep an eye on the bike and the rack through the rear mirror.

Though, that might be an issue for some who want more security and ease of hauling. Because the rack is hoven up so high on the tanks, loading and unloading the bike can be an arduous task when you can no help.

Haul Bike In the Truck Bed

It's not always the camper trailer that has to take in all the burden of the added weight of your bikes, every time you decide to head out camping and hit the road. A lot of times people lug their camper trailer while driving their trucks. Off road camper trailers can be readily towed to even the farthest distance, but only with the right vehicle.

If you have a truck bed that is at least 80 inches in length, you'll have no issue carrying your bikes whiles towing the travel trailer. For smaller truck beds, consider using an automatic hitch to make movements more flexible especially in tight corners and slopes. You may use truck mount bike racks, for extra security and steadiness.

One of our favorites that offer an adequate locking system is a bed rider bike rack like Thule Bed-Rider Bike Rack. You can also use tonneau cover, hard cover, or shell covers to keep the bikes protected from whether, head and of course, the sight of possible thieves lurking around.

Tossing your bike at the back of your car sounds like a great idea when executed right. One of the ways that we recommend to make sure you're your bike frame and vehicle are both damage free is using a good quality tailgate pad. These thick pads take only minutes to install and also let you take in multiple bikes while you tow your camper trailer, especially when you are you have a pickup truck.

Bed bike racks are a more solid option if your vehicle is not a tailgate truck type. These racks keep your bike steady at the back of your truck, without taking all the space available. Other than that, tonneau covers are a viable option that uses double rails as support, meaning whatever your truck size and type, you can use these covers to carry your bike.
Related reading: Best Truck Bed Bike Rack Reviews
Bring Bicycle Inside the Camping Trailer

Travel trailers usually have ample space to accommodate more than one bike. Although camping trailers come in various sizes, the size can mostly range from 13 to 50 feet. What's great about camping trailers and carrying bikes and gears inside is the strong security you can be sure of. The doors and windows can be locked up.

One way to carry the bicycle on a camper trailer without thinking about your bikes or racks vanishing in thin air because of possible theft, if taking the bike inside the camping trailer itself. That would only be possible if your tailer has enough space for the bike you intend to carry and the additional gears that come with it.

What's great about this particular way of carrying your bike on the road is that the process requires minimum effort and offers maximum security, at least when you are on the road. Some camping trailers have a specialized entry door, often referred to as a bike door. Through this door, you can effortlessly haul up and get your bike inside the caravan without difficulty.

A bike inside your vehicle means you have already compromised space, whether it's the storage space or simply one where you can move freely to cook or clean. Every time you intend to use the washroom, you'll have to move your bike a little here or there to make space. Few modern campers also consist of a gear garage that solves the storage issue.
Related reading: Bike That Fits In A Car
Final Thoughts

To conclude on the question of how to carry bike on a camper trailer, The safest, and possibly more professional way of taking your bicycle along with you to the camping ground is using a bike rack.

Other than causing the minimum damage to your vehicle and cycle, bike racks enable you to carry multiple bikes while saving you the hustle of folding up your bikes.

Carrying the bicycle inside your caravan camper is also a great option if you're ready to sacrifice some of the inner space. If you're towing the camper with a truck, your truck bed can always be used.

Still, one of the ways comes without a price. Hence you may have to choose the carrier method that best suits your vehicle, your camping trailer, and precisely the type of travel you are up for.
Related Articles

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If you love the sport of cycling, you would probably want to carry your bicycle, or even your friends' and families', wherever you go. Likewise, camping and adventures on the road and up to the hills call camper trailers. Most of us, by habit, love to carry cycles with us when we go camping.

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Best Way To Carry Bicycles In A Pickup Truck

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Best Way To Carry Bicycles In A Pickup Truck

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5 Best Way To Carry Bicycles In A Pickup Truck

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Looking for the best ways of transporting your bike without damaging them? Click here to find all the various methods you can follow for pickup trucks and other vehicles.

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Leaving one's bike unlocked at a parking lot or on the roadside can be dreadful for bikers, even when it's only for a few minutes. For peace of mind, bike owners often resort to different security methods. However, securing your bike securely on a car rack can be complicated.

That being said, the process becomes more straightforward when you know what exactly to do. So, in this article, we'll share how to lock a bike on a car bike rack.

Whether you're traveling solo or in a group, the methods discussed will surely come in handy the next time you leave your bike in your car.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

Why Should You Lock Bike To Car Bike Rack?

So, you decided you needed to get a car bike rack. That means your bike could use a little more security, which you do because it's relatively easy to remove it from a car bike rack.

Locking the bike to the bike rack is one of the primary preventative measures to keep pesky thieves at bay.

Bike owners know about the inherent risk of traveling with a bike. Securing your valuables can help you relax and take the edge off a trip. There's a saying in the biking community that any bike can be stolen if the thief has the right mindset and tools.

While this certainly sounds discouraging, the more precautions you take, the less the chances of your bike getting stolen.

Theft can happen in grocery store parking lots too. One can never be too safe. However, security is only one of many factors; you must get extra security accessories.

Not every car bike rack has the capability of holding your bike firmly. So, when you drive your car fast or with too much wind pressure, the bike might fall off of your vehicle. A lock can hold the bike in place better than anything.

Also, an extra lock will help keep your bike firm. Even if the bike doesn't fall off, it may vibrate when you venture off-road. The vibration may lead to traction against the rack itself, damaging the bike. With extra security measures holding the bike tight, it'll be safe from harm.
Related reading: How To Fit Two Bikes In A Car?
How To Lock The Bikes To The Car Bike Rack?

There are five methods to lock a bike to a car rack. Before we get into each detail, we will briefly discuss them to give you a quick idea.

Firstly, you can use a bike rack with an in-built locking system. While not the most secure or popular option within the bunch, it's convenient and cheaper than most alternatives. When buying a bike rack, try to get one with a lock for added protection.

A passive lock strap uses a long strap to loop around the crucial parts of the bike and keeps it safe. It's best for use in trunk-mounted bike racks.

A tow hitch way requires more effort and is harder to assemble. Think of it as a multi-step process to ensure better protection for your bike.

A U-lock is a lock shaped like a letter "U" to go around the bike's wheels and frame and holds it in place.

And finally, cable locks are long chains and cables used to wrap around the different parts of the bike and lock the bike to the car rack.

Use Bike Rack with Built-In Locking System

Some bike racks come with a built-in locking system. The more expensive ones have higher-quality locks which are more difficult to penetrate.

Using a separate lock on top of the in-built locking mechanism works the best as you create a two-layer safety system for your bike.

There are many types of bike racks, such as hitch racks, roof racks, and more. If you want to get a hitch rack, the most popular option for bike racks, we recommend the Thule T2 PRO XTR 2.

Passive Lock Strap or a Trunk Lock Strap

The passive strap looping system is ideal for your trunk-mounted bike rack but can also lock your bike on the roof-mounted bike rack. Although this strapping method is simple, it might not be the strongest or safest lock.

In this method, you'll have to use a lock strap that can be labeled as either passive or trunk in the market. A long cable is used, which is usually made of materials that are flexible and thin. The cable sports a rounded rubber disc at the end. It is perfect for locking the bike to the rack, which can be an entry for the strap to be threaded in.

Here, you'll have to place the bike frame on the rack and use the strap to create multiple loops. You'll then have to tighten the belt and check for movements of the bike frame. As of last, you are closing the puck of the cable loop will seal the deal.

Thule Passive Lock Strap uses metal cables in nylon coverings to ensure that the straps are unbreakable and laid back on the frames. One of the ends should be looped around the nearest car door when you intend to use this strap for a roof rack.
Related reading: How To Lock Up A Bike Without A Rack?
The Tow Loop / Tow Hitch
Master Lock Python Adjustable Cable Lock 8413KACBL-12 CHECK CURRENT PRICE
The tow hitch way of locking up a bike on a car bike rack involves more effort; to some, it can be pretty challenging. For your hitch-mounted bike rack, securing the bike with any of the fixed parts of the car, like the bumper, can be a simpler version of the security system.

Otherwise, affix the bike with a looping cord on an external hitching system. Make sure to use a padlock for absolute protection. An adjustable, vinyl-coated cable lock like the Master Lock Python cable lock comes with keys and Velcro straps for additional steadiness.
Master Lock U-Lock Bike Lock with Key 8170D CHECK CURRENT PRICE
If you want the most heavyweight method to secure a bike on a bike rack, go for the U-lock. They are challenging to cut through and thus naturally deter thieves looking for a weak bike to snipe.

Don't get us wrong; any lock is breakable. But you would need specialized tools to get through a U-lock. Their working mechanism involves a key removing a bolt connecting the two ends of the lock's "U." once that's done, you can easily slip the lock in or out.

A U-lock can be used to fasten the bike frame to the rack, or you can get a bigger U-lock and secure multiple bike frames together.

The Master Lock U-Lock is a sturdy, easy-to-use option. It comes with two keys and a carrier bracket for simple transportation. And since the lock is under $20, it's a budget-friendly choice too. Thanks to the disc key, users get extra protection against lock picking. It's also scratch and weather-resistant.
Related reading: How To Lock Multiple Bikes Together?
Cable Locks

Chain and cable locks offer better security for bicycles in comparison to straps. Run through the wheels and bike frame and then across the bike rack.

Users love them for their lightweight, portable, and practical nature. However, their lightweight nature is also what takes away from their strength.

Cable locks are best for short stops. You can use them to tie a bike to a bike rack or multiple to one.
Related reading: How To Cut A Bike Lock?
How To Lock Bikes To Hitch Rack?

For this process, you need the hitch rack and extra locking straps for added protection. Many cars have a tow hook on the rear, welded to the frame. Thread a cable lock through the rear wheel and frame, and lock the ends below the car's frame onto the metal loop.

If your cable is long enough, thread it through the front wheel.

How To Secure Bike To Roof Rack?

You don't usually need unique methods or equipment to secure the bike to a roof rack. Check the manufacturer's instructions, as this may differ according to bike rack type. This instruction goes without saying for every bike rack - check the user manual.

Lift the bicycle onto the rack, fasten it in place, and you're done! You can also use a cable to run it through the bike and then inside the vehicle for added protection.

How To Lock Bike To Trunk And Spare Tire Rack?

The best method here would be using a U-lock to secure the bike to the trunk and spare tire rack, secure them to the tow hooks, and you're good to go.

Alternatively, use a cable to wrap around the inside of the trunk rack, lead out the trunk, wrap it around the bike securely and then place the other end inside the trunk. Lock it, and that's a tight fix.
Related reading: How to Secure Bike Rack to Car?
What Part Of The Bike Do I Lock?

Focus on something other than the frame and wheels when you lock the bike on the car bike rack. If you can nicely secure these bits, the thief will find it very hard to access your bike. A cable or chain can quickly wrap around a bike's parts, but you may only be able to secure some of the parts if you use a U-lock.

In these cases, it's best to get two U-locks for the job; run one through the bike rack, the front wheel, and the other through the frame and the back wheel. If you cannot afford to buy 2 U-locks, use one on the frame and front wheel and a cable for the other parts.

When strapping bikes to a bike rack, ensure all the necessary parts mentioned above are secure.
Related reading: Transporting Bicycle in Pickup Truck
Conclusion

As you can see, getting a bike rack with quality built-in locks is the easiest way of securing your bike. It's the cheapest as well. However, not every bike racks come with quality locks, and one lock may not be sufficient either.

U-locks are durable, but they might damage your bike due to friction. Cable locks are safe in this aspect but are comparatively easy to cut. So, if you use a U-lock, you should use extra padding to keep the bike safe. If you go for cable locks, go for high-quality ones that are hard to cut.

As for trunk straps or tow hitch locks, their usage is rather situation-based. If you have a trunk or hitch rack, only then will you be benefited from these.

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Leaving one's bike unlocked at a parking lot or on the roadside can be dreadful for bikers, even when it's only for a few minutes. For peace of mind, bike owners often resort to different security methods. However, securing your bike securely on a car rack can be complicated.

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Cycling is a fantastic way to get away from the urban jam and get lost in the wilderness. But for many of us, getting the cycle to a place where we want to pedal can be tricky.

Transporting the bike inside your car might be a good idea for some. Although, carrying two bicycles in your vehicle is a daunting task. But the hassle is worth it if it means that you can spend more time racing down the mountain tracks and feel the air in your face.

Today we're bringing out the question of your answer - how to fit two bikes in a car? Continue reading the article, and you'll surely get the answer!

How to Fit Two Bikes in a Car

So, you want to know how to keep two bikes in your car, here's how to do it. Obviously, you need a vehicle with a relatively large interior space. Fold down the rear seats. Then remove the wheels from the bike's body while keeping the brakes in mind.

Then put it gently on the car seats while keeping the bike part that carries chains and other bits upward. Put two bikes vertically to protect the important components. Don't forget to put the wheels in the trunk of your car.
Related reading: How to Fit a Bike in a Car?
The Process

In this section, let's talk about the overall process in detail.

Clean up your bikes first

The first step you have to make sure is your bikes are clean and ready to transport. So fill up two buckets with water and put a good amount of soap in them. Don't forget to keep brushes, sponges, and rags close to you.

Then what you need to is put the bike on a work stand, if you have one. Don't worry if you don't; you can clean up your bike perfectly fine without one. Then use a degreaser to remove greases from the chain.

After that, pull out those brushes and sponge and start putting washing liquids onto the frame and scrubbing. Be extra mindful with the tough spots, as they can be hard to clean up.

Take care of the rear seats

For longer bikes, it might not fit inside the space for those long seat rods. Pull them down and back the seats. Turn the screws or nuts that are keeping the bike seat up, and then push them down. They'll get lower in the body and might save you some valuable space.

Remove the front wheels for the body

This might be tricky for some of you if you haven't done this before. If your bikes have a rim or cantilever brake, you need to release the cable tension first. There's a lever present in the caliper for rim breaks that will release some cable tension so that the brake pads get far enough for the wheels to slide past them.

Then flip over the bike because allowing the bike to rest on the handlebar or the seat will make the process much easier. If there's a quick-release function on your bike, now is the time to flip the lever to open.

Then gently lift the wheel from the fork, taking extra attention to the calipers. For disk brakes, be very careful with the rotors while you take them out.

Don't forget about the brakes

After taking the wheels out from the bikes, put some brake plugs on. If somehow the levers get accidentally pushed, it won't mess up the alignment of your brakes. Also, put the bikes in such a way that the brakes don't get squeezed during transportation.

Put chains on the small ring

It would be best if you put the chains of the bikes to a small ring for ensuring two things. The first one being the chains don't break down or get bumped during transportation. And the second one is keeping the amount of grease spreading to a minimum.

Place the first bike on the seat

After being done with the following stuff, time to put your bike to the seat. But first, put some papers or soft clothes on top of the seat to protect it from scratches and dirt. Then gently pick your bike up and gently place it on the seat. Keep the left pedal locked at 12'o clock for maximum stabilization.

There's a term for keeping the bike in the seat known as the 'dry side up.' This means keeping the critical parts of the cycle on top. Because keeping the on the downside will create extra pressure that can damage your bike.

Time to align the second bike

After you're done with one bike, pick up the second one. The instructions are almost the same as the first one, but this time, rotate the bike vertically and put it on top. This will make sure that both of the bikes don't clash with each other during transportation.

After putting the bikes on your seat, time to put your wheels safely. If you have a wheel bag lying around, then great. Put the wheels on the bag. When putting them on the bag, the cog side should be down to avoid spokes getting struck to the gear. Store the wheel bag on your trunk.

Alternatively, you can use the wheels as a cushion

Using the wheels as a cushion for your bike might be a great idea if you want some extra protection. After you neatly pack the frames on top of the seat, place the wheels for cushioning portions of the bike that might rock.

The whole idea is put gently put everything together tightly for the least amount of rattling or swaying. You might want to use the wheels as padding between the two bikes for extra safety, but that is totally up to you.

Remove the skewers

If you feel like they can poke or scratch your frame or wheels, it might be best for you to put them in a bag and place them elsewhere. You might pack everything neatly while using the wheels as a cushion, so the skewers remain in one place. Whatever you feel okay with, it's entirely up to you.
Related reading: Hitch Bike Rack Safety
Time to remove the bidons

These are actually your 'water bottles that come with the bike. Make sure you remove them before proceeding. It might be a little thing, but an oversight like this could mean a problem during the transportation process.

Seatbelts for securing the frame

After doing all the hard chores, time to secure it all together by using the seatbelt. So you can be rest assured that even during a crash, your bikes will remain pretty safe inside the car.

Other Alternative Ways to Carry Two Bikes in your Car

Instead of keeping them in the seat, there are some alternative ways you can carry your favorite bikes safely from one place to another.

In the Trunk

Actually, putting your bikes in the trunk might be a pretty compelling idea if you have a bigger-sized trunk. You can easily fit two of your bikes inside with a minimal amount of disassembly needed.

You need to take out two front wheels of the bikes and then safely put them inside the trunk. You might be surprised as to how little space you can squeeze two bikes if you have a trunk handy.

Bikes are very safe

A convenient way to carry

The seats remain empty for the passengers

Applicable for bigger cars only

This is the traditional bike rack that most people prefer. The space on top of your car mostly remains empty and unused; why not use them for something useful? Roof racks provide you with a good way of transporting your bike from one place to another without compromising seat or trunk space. Most roof racks may require you to take the front wheel off for installation. But some of the newer models come with an extra arm for taking a complete bike.

Efficient use of space

Carrying more than two bikes are even feasible

Racks can be used for carrying other things

Extra protection needed for theft

Hitch racks are some of the more popular methods of carrying your bikes with the car. The hitch rack holds onto straps with hooks that enter into the edge of the trunk. The included padding on the hitch will protect the car from accidental scratches. The two arms can carry up to four bikes varying on the model. Aerodynamically, this is the most stable way for carrying the bike along with the car.

Bikes are easier to load and carry

Ensures less fuel consumption than roof racks

Quite inexpensive

The trunk may get harder to access

Some Important Things to Consider while Carrying Your Bike

Let's go through some essential things that you have to consider while trying to fit two bikes in a car.

Get a larger sized car for carrying

You may carry one or two cars inside your sedan, but they might be harder to pull off. If you have to take bikes regularly to different places, consider getting an SUV or station wagon. This decision alone will make your life a whole lot easier.

Try to transport the bike inside the vehicle

If you can do it properly, then all of the tips below are not worth reading about. But this process might be challenging for some to accomplish. If you're constantly going back and forth carrying your bike, it might be a better choice to bring a rack. But for infrequent cases, it is cheaper, safer, and you can keep the cycle at your eyesight.

Try to get a quality bike rack

If you're on the road often and thinking about carrying the bike frequently, invest in a good quality car rack instead. A tray-style rack on the back of your car will make the carrying process more manageable and safer.

Keep your bike away from the car

When you're carrying the bike in your car, the best thing is not to touch the vehicle at all if possible. Reduce the contact with the vehicle by putting cushions and sheets beneath the frame. Which, in turn, will keep both your bike and car in pristine shape.

Cover the pedal with paper or sheets

Make sure your pedals don't rotate during the transportation process. Lock them into place by covering them with sheets of paper or cloths.

Keep your bike and car safe

If you carry your bike with a rack, don't forget to lock the bike. There are a lot of accessories available for the frames to keep them safe. And always double-check your car doors before leaving them for the night.

Lube your bike upon arrival

After assembling the car once more, don't forget to put lubricants on parts like the wheel, brakes, and pedals. They'll act like regular bikes yet again.

Check suspension and tire pressure after arriving

Carrying your bike for long periods on the road might change the tire and suspension pressure. Double-check them after arrival and make sure they're in working conditions.
Related reading: How To Lock Bike On Car Bike Rack?
Final Words

Carrying two bikes in your car is not an arduous task to accomplish. Anybody can do it if he or she knows how to. The first disassembly and putting everything on the vehicle might be a little daunting, but we hope you can achieve it pretty quickly with our guide.

A bike rack is always preferred for short and frequent trips on the road but keeping everything inside the car will do too. With that said, now you know how to fit two bikes in a car. We hope you can put it to good use. Happy cycling!

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Cycling is a fantastic way to get away from the urban jam and get lost in the wilderness. But for many of us, getting the cycle to a place where we want to pedal can be tricky. Transporting the bike inside your car might be a good idea for some.

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Hitch Bike Rack Safety – Are Hitch Bike Racks Safe?

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Hitch Bike Rack Safety – Are Hitch Bike Racks Safe?

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Nowadays, hitch bike racks have become quite popular among people and many cyclists prefer to use them instead of other types of racks.

Whether you have a road, mountain, or electric bike, hitch bike racks make it easier to transport them effortlessly. They are designed to carry your bicycles, making them easy to load and unload.

Although an increasing number of people are leaning towards buying hitch bike racks, some are concerned about their safety. Hitch bike rack safety is not a negligible issue. Let's dive into what you can do about it!

What Do Hitch Bike Racks Do?

Hitch bike racks allow you to keep the bikes behind the vehicle. As a result, the car is aerodynamically more stable. These racks are often considered the ones that provide the most protection for vehicles.

They are compatible with a large variety of bikes. Therefore, it's a better option for all. When it comes to user compatibility, it varies between racks, but most are lightweight, easy to store, and user-friendly.
Related reading: How To Fit Two Bikes In A Car?
Why Should You Choose a Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack?

There are a few questions and things to look for before you choose a bike rack. Let's dive into those without any further delay.

What are you carrying?

You might carry bikes, paddleboards, or skis, probably multiple units. So, make a list of all the activities you will involve yourself and plan accordingly. Chances are pretty fair that you might have to spend more money if you fail to choose an appropriate bike.

What vehicle model are you using?

It would be best to choose the right bike rack that fits your specific vehicle designed to your needs. Depending on what type of car you own, an SUV or a pickup or sedan, you'll find various options. Most bike rack manufacturers provide user manuals that help determine which racks will work appropriately based on your needs.

Type of Hitch Bike Racks

There are a few varieties of hitch-mounted racks. But most of these racks fall into one of two categories - Platform (Wheel-mounted) or Hanging style racks. Although, other bikes don't fit in these hitch-mounted racks. For example, trikes, recumbent, tandems, etc. But, let's discuss the features of these particular categorized racks.

Platform Styled Racks

They help ease the loading-unloading task.

They are capable of holding a large variety of bikes.

They barely make any contact with frames.

These racks especially exterminate swinging problems.

Hanging Styled Racks

These racks are cost-efficient, which means they are affordable for pretty much anyone.

They also weigh less than the platform-styled racks.

They need adapter bars for an alternate-frame bike.

They can easily hold up 2-5 bikes.

Safety Benefits of Hitch Bike Racks

Hitch bike racks have a lot of advantages over roof-mounted and trunk-mounted ones. As they come in a large variety of styles, people can choose based on their design preferences. Some other benefits are enlisted below:

They have more aerodynamic advantages over roof-mounted racks.

Compared to the roof and trunk-mounted racks, they make it easier to load-unload bikes.

They are also available with a larger capacity.

They offer far better security than trunk-mounted racks.

They work with a lot more vehicle models than trunk-mounted racks.

They also exterminate overhead clearance troubles with garage doors compared to the roof-mounted bikes.

Drawbacks That Come Along with Hitch Bike Racks

No matter what you buy, there are always some cons that come along with them. In the case of hitch bike racks, there are very few that you must know:

Advanced hitch rack models can be a bit pricey. You might have to pay through the nose to afford them.

There might be certain times when the bike may keep swinging a lot.

Even the most basic models interfere with accessing the trunk. It feels like a hassle if you have to open and close the trunk constantly.

Is Using Hitch Bike Racks the Safest Option?

Many online surveys have reported that people mostly prefer hitch racks to other types of racks. If you don't have a suitable hitch hatch, you should consider owning one. For protection from any damage to your vehicle, these racks are the ones to go for as they have very rare contact with the cars they are attached to. Since they pose very little threat to your vehicle, we can consider them safe.

Compared to other rack types, they can bear larger loads very efficiently. If they are geared up or fit perfectly, you won't have to worry about the safety of your vehicles and bikes at all.

Can You Safely Install a Hitch by Yourself?

Yes, it's safe. If you are willing to install the hitch rack, there's nothing to be worried about. The best part about installing it on your own is that you can save a good amount of money as you won't have to pay it to the service providers. You can buy one of these racks that fitted to your needs and install them step by step, following the manual.

Other Safety Concerns

There are a few other safety concerns you might have. We'll try to cover as much as we can in the following segment.

Vehicle Taillights Visibility

There are certain times when the bike racks tend to block the visibility of your vehicle's taillights and make it quite hard to notice the signals. When you are on the road at night, other vehicle drivers may feel confused about whether there's a car upfront or not. This instance can lead to severe damage. We want to recommend using a light board for safety purposes if you don't want the risk of being pulled over by the cops.

Number Plate Visibility

The visibility of number plates is necessary; it gets you out of other troubles. Most police officers don't bother themselves with this. But be sure to carry a lightboard; otherwise, there are chances you might be troubled by the insurance guys. Why get into trouble when you can fix everything with a lightboard? As they account for other safety measures as well.

Wobbling or swinging is quite a problem when it comes to hitch-mounted bike racks. People who prefer hitch bike racks know about this hassle. But, mostly, these hitch-mount racks come with anti-wobble knobs that prevent swaying. We would recommend you lift and wobble the rack when you're tightening the knob. It leads to a perfectly balanced fit.

Carbon-Fiber Bike Racks

To prevent extensive damage to your bike's carbon frames, choose bike frames with more cushions on cradles. Make sure the rest of the bikes don't keep hitting each other's carbon frames. It is often seen in the hanging-styled racks.
Related reading: Hitch Bike Rack Accessories
Frequently Asked Questions

Do vehicle types matter in terms of safety?

Vehicle types do matter in terms of safety because you have to make sure you are vehicle is a good match for the kind of hitch rack you're using.

Are all trailer hitch-mounted bike racks wobbly?

Stability has become a more significant issue for these pieces of equipment. There are a lot of adjustments in the racks to make them stable. This is one of the most common concerns people have while buying a new rack, especially for hitch-mounted models.

Is it possible for the hitch-mount bike racks to be tilted?

Yes. The hitch-mount bike racks can be tilted to a 45-degree angle which must not interfere with the hatch opening for cars.

Is Wiring Necessary for Hitch Rack Safety?

Wiring is only required if the rack you're using has some electrical connections. There are moments when the bicycles on the rack may cover the taillights, so proper wiring to a lightboard might be needed for safety purposes. Or else, vehicles may hit your car on the road.

How do you keep the rack straps from scratching the bicycle's paint or wheels?

Usually, it doesn't seem to happen, but we can suggest ways to help prevent it.

Maintain the bikes in a way so that they don't swing around and hit each other while you are on the road driving your car.

Clean the surfaces that often get strapped. If you don't pay much attention to this, unanticipated friction may occur caused by dust particles.

Bottom Line

People are always looking for more adventures. As a result, they are more into trying out new things that feed their interests. Bike racks have been an essential household item all around the world. A vehicle owner who is into cycling and other adventures tries to own these racks for their comfort.

Depending on what one might need or their vehicle type, people may choose different racks. Hitch racks are pretty familiar today among both youngsters and grown-ups. Hitch bike rack safety should also be among the top concerns. Hope you had an informative read. Remember to always be safe on the roads!
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Hitch Bike Rack Safety - Are Hitch Bike Racks Safe?

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Nowadays, hitch bike racks have become quite popular among people and many cyclists prefer to use them instead of other types of racks. Whether you have a road, mountain, or electric bike, hitch bike racks make it easier to transport them effortlessly. They are designed to carry your bicycles, making them easy to load and unload.

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Best Hitch Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Hitch Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide

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If you want freedom, you need to start cycling. With the wind at your back, you can hit the open road and go wherever you want to go. But after some time, you will have to go somewhere far from your home. And getting your bike to the starting point of your adventure can be challenging.

That is why you should invest in a capable bike rack rather than maneuvering your bike around the folded back seats. And if you regularly take your bike out on trails, then bike racks are a must for you. While some may choose to mount their bikes on top of their cars, tow hitch bike racks are the best option.

You may think that getting the best bike rack is a simple job. However, thanks to the wide variety of bike racks out there, it is not as simple as you may think. That is why we have brought you a list of the best hitch bike racks.

And for your convenience, we have added a detailed buying guide at the end of this article. That way, you can make sure that you are getting one of the best hitch bike racks of 2023 possible.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

Best Hanging Hitch Bike Racks

Let's look at my selection of the best hanging hitch bike racks you can buy right now.

Yakima Ridgeback (5 Bike Hitch Bike Rack)

If you are looking for a convenient way to transport your bikes daily to local destinations, Yakima's Ridgeback is a solid option for you. While the bike is lightweight, it is heavy-duty enough that you can take long distances for biking adventures.

The Ridgeback is incredibly easy to install and remove. So, you can easily take it off whenever you want to without any trouble. Moreover, its compact size makes it easy to store. Apart from its compact size, you can also fold it. So, once you take it off your vehicle, you will not have difficulty looking for places to store the unit.

Design & Quality

The Ridgeback has a lightweight design. However, that does not mean it is not sturdy. Yakima has constructed this unit with ease of access in mind. Thanks to its solid but lightweight foundation, you can easily take it off after every use.

The rack features an anti-sway cradle. This cradle ensures that there is adequate spacing between the bikes and eliminates any bike-to-bike contact. However, some users have stated that you can only load four bikes safely instead of the advertised five.

Easy to install and remove

Fits most bikes

It comes equipped with the tilting feature

Features an anti-sway design

Foldable unit is easy to store

Lightweight design

Higher longevity

Lengthy loading process with more than two bikes

Low spacing between bikes on the rack

Thule Helium Pro (2 or 3 Bike Hitch Bike Rack)

With ample space between the bikes (seven inches), the Helium Pro eliminates any worries that you might have about your bikes' safety. This unit is debatably the best lightweight bike rack in the market. So, if you are looking to provide the highest security for your bikes, you should opt for this unit.

As the Helium Pro is a lightweight unit, it is effortless to maneuver. Moreover, its HitchSwitch lever allows you to fold down your bike arms, adding more to the ease of access feature. The unit is transferable between hitch receivers of 2 inches and 1.25 inches.

Design & Quality

Thule has constructed the Helium Pro 3 with sturdy construction. However, unlike a typical bike rack that weighs a lot to provide safety, the Helium Pro can provide ample security without gaming a lot of weight, thanks to its high-quality build.

The rack contains the HitchSwitch feature that allows you to access your automotive's rear cargo area without any trouble. This feature also allows you to compactly fold down the bike arms when the unit is not in use.

Enhanced bike protection with seven inches spacing between bikes

Features the anti-sway feature that eliminates any bike-to-bike contact

It comes equipped with the HitchSwitch feature that allows you to tilt the rack down with ease

Provides bike security with the incorporated bike lock

Most kids' and women's bikes need a top tube adapter that can increase the cost.

Difficult to load and configure

Thule Apex XT 4 (4 Bike Hitch Bike Rack)

If you are looking for a hanging bike rack with excellent quality and an affordable price, look no further. The Thule Apex XT 4 is a combination of both. It has a compact cradle design that allows the rack to accommodate a wide variety of different frame styles and bike sizes.

If you are worried about your bike's safety, don't be. The Apex XT 4 has ample spacing between the bikes to prevent the cycles from colliding against each other. Moreover, it comes equipped with an anti-sway cradle extension that will offer enhanced bike stability. You can also fold it away when it is not in use.

Design & Quality

Thule has used high-quality material to construct this fantastic rack. This all-metal bike is for those who do not mind keeping the rack on their car regularly. Do not worry. It does not obstruct the rear window view.

Thule fits this unit with the HitchSwitch feature that allows the user to easily access the rear cargo space by tilting the bike rack. However, if you want to load and unload quickly, you should look for another unit. The Thule Apex XT 4 is not best known for its loading and unloading time.

Maximum weight capacity of 150 pounds

All-metal construction

It has a dimension of 42.1 x 11 x 37 inches

Can carry up to 4 bikes

Can fit hitch receivers of two inches and 1.25 inches

Difficult loading procedure

Thule Camber 2 / Camber 4 (2 or 4 Bike Hitch Bike Rack)

Thule is a long-standing name in the bike rack industry. And one of their most popular mid-range options is the Thule Camber 4. It has two versions, the two bikes version and the four bikes version. Thule is famous in the industry for its all-around performance, and the Camber 4 unit is no different.

While the Camber 4 unit is not particularly featherweight, it is lightweight compared to the typical hanging bike rack. Moreover, it has a sturdy build that provides a sound transport system for bikes.

Thule has equipped the Camber 4 with an anti-sway strap system. Thanks to this feature, the Camber 4 can ensure safety for your bikes. And thanks to its tilt mechanism, you can have uninterrupted access to the rear cargo area.

Design & Quality

The Camber 4 has an all-metal construction that allows it to provide its users with a solid bike rack. The seven-inch spacing between the loaded bikes keeps the bike safe. And it has a unique build that allows it to load all types of frame sizes. However, if you want to load women's and kids' bikes, you will need a tube top adapter.

Weighs 34 pounds

Maximum weight capacity of 150 pounds

Has a dimension of 11 x 42.2 x 35.6 inches

All metal construction

Can carry up to 4 bikes

Can fit hitch receivers of 1.25 inches and 2 inches

There is an issue with the long-term durability of the bike rack.

Allen Sports Deluxe (Budget 4 Bike Hitch Mounted Rack)

Allen Sports is an established brand with a long-standing name for creating solid products at a low price. This product is one of the budget buys, and you will not be getting any top-of-the-line features. However, that does not mean that this is not an excellent rack to invest in.

Compared to its price, the four-bike version of Alien Sports Deluxe offers decent quality stuff. The unit has a low loading height. As a result, you do not have to raise your bikes too high off the ground to load your bikes. You will have no trouble loading any traditional bike with front triangles. However, if your bike has a non-traditional front triangle, the fit may not be perfect. It can even be impossible in some cases.

This wallet-friendly bike rack may not have the state-of-the-art features, but it will help you transport your bikes within budget.

Design & Quality

The Allen Sports Deluxe unit has an all-steel build. It uses plastic buckles to keep the bikes fastened to the racks. However, it lacks various security features that various high-priced bike racks have.

Compatible with fat bikes

Can carry ebike with removed battery

Weighs 23 pounds

It has a dimension of 25 x 13 x 3.5 inches

Uses steel as raw material

It has a weight capacity of 140 pounds

Can carry up to four bikes

Not enough spacing between the bikes

Lengthy loading process with more than two bikes

Best Platform Hitch Bike Rack

In this section, I will talk about some of the best platform hitch bike racks (in my opinion) available in the market.

Thule T2 Pro XT (2 Bike Hitch Rack)

There are not many cyclists who do not know the name of Thule. This globally recognized brand has been leading this industry for quite a while now, and the T2 Pro X2 is one of their most incredible offerings to the cycling world.

The T2 Pro XT has a combination of all the features that you may need in it. This thoughtfully designed package includes a built-in locking system that provides ample security to the loaded bikes. Thanks to its tilt lever, you can uninterruptedly access the trunk area of your vehicle.

Platform mounted bike racks are very easy to use, and the T2 Pro XT is a prime example. You can quickly load and unload bikes within ten seconds. While it may sound too good to be true, but it is valid, nonetheless.

Design & Quality

The T2 Pro XT is a bit on the pricey side. But there is a reason for that. Apart from all the beautiful features that it offers, the T2 Pro XT showcases a high-quality build. Thule used only the highest quality materials when building this unit.

It has a sturdy metal frame with burly plastic cradles. While it is relatively more expensive and heavier, there is no better bike rack to use.

Can carry electric bike (max 60 lbs)

Weighs 52 pounds

It has dimensions of 54.7 x 22.5 x 33.8 inches

Can accommodate tire width of up to five inches

Maximum wheelbase spec of 1270 mm

Hass a maximum weight capacity of 120 pounds

Can accommodate up to two bikes (four bikes)

It can accommodate almost all styles of bikes

Features an AutoAttach system that helps the user with the installation and removal procedure

It can fit up to 5" tires and 20-29" wheels, making it ideal for mountain, fat, downhill, and carbon frame bikes.

It comes equipped with an integrated cable lock and lock knob lock system to secure the receiver's rack.

Ample spacing between the loaded bikes ensures zero collision between the cycles.

A bit on the expensive side

It takes a lot of space

Saris Superclamp EX (4 Bike Hitch Rack)

The Saris Superclamp EX is a combination of unrivaled compactness and utility. If you need a bike rack that can carry up to four bikes but need a short profile, this is the product. Thanks to its low profile, you can keep it stored in the car because it does not block your rear window view.

The four-bike carrier can accommodate different types of bikes. These bikes include standard mountain or road bikes, hybrid adult bikes, and 24" kids' bikes.

Design & Quality

The Superclamp EX features an eye-catching style with a robust build. The bike has two rods and carries two bikes on each rod. Thanks to its lightweight yet sturdy design, you can rest assured of your bikes' and car's safety.

One problem with platform mount racks is that it extends too far out of the vehicle. But with the Superclamp EX, that will not be a problem. It puts the bikes close to one another and, as a result, does not extend too far out.

Compatible with fat tire bikes with up to 4 inch tires out of the box. Additional adapter required for wider tires.

Can carry ebikes

Weighs 38 pounds

It has a dimension of 49.61 x 15.75 x 11.02 inches

It can fit a wheelbase of up to 50 inches

Can carry up to 4 bikes

A very compact design allows it to be folded away when not in use

Can accommodate 24-inch and adult bikes with ease

Very low profile

Easy installation and adjustment procedure

Features a high-quality build and is very durable

The close spacing area between the bikes

One of the two tire trays is not highly adjustable

Kuat Sherpa 2.0 (2 Bike Hitch Rack)

The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is a tray-style hitch mount bike rack that features a simple yet aesthetically pleasing design. It has a low loading height which makes loading and unloading bikes onto the platform very easy.

At 32 pounds, it is one of the lightest platform trailer hitch bike racks. Thanks to its lightweight foundation, it is comparatively easier to store the Sherpa 2.0 than some of its competitors.

However, if you are planning on carrying electric bikes on this rack, you cannot. The Sherpa 2.0 has a weight limit of 40 pounds per bike. So, while you should not have any problems with regular mountain or road bikes, you cannot use them to fat or electric bikes.

Design & Quality

The Sherpa 2.0 has an all-new design utterly different from its predecessor. Like its predecessor, the 2.0 version uses an expanding cam system to secure the rack to your car's hitch. However, unlike the older model, the Sherpa 2.0 uses a streamlined grip.

Another new design on the 2.0 version is the foot-assisted pivot lock. In the previous version, lowering the tray was a hand job. But now, you can simply drop the tray with one hand while holding your bike (or anything else) in your other hand.

Not compatible with fat bikes because it can accommodate bikes with a tire width of up to 3 inches

Not a good fit for electric bikes because it has a maximum weight capacity of 40 pounds per bike

It weighs 32 pounds

It has a dimension of 45 x 15 x 11 inches

Can carry up to 2 bikes

It fits a hitch receiver of 2 inches

Can accommodate wheelbases of up to 47 inches

Features a tilting lever that grants access to the rear cargo space, even when the rack is loaded with bikes

Easy installation and removal procedure

Provides enhanced security with a semi-integrated bike lock

Features an aesthetically pleasing low-profile arc design

It is a bit on the more expensive side

Not compatible with heavier bikes because of its recommended weight limit per bike

Not compatible with fat tire bikes

Kuat NV 2.0 (2 Bike Hitch Rack)

Kuat's NV 2.0 is a solidly built, refined bike that has a very smooth functional capability. Kuat has packed it with different kinds of features. Some of these features are the work stand, integrated lock, anti-rattle system. And to add to its ease-of-use feature, it has an additional Pivot system that can help you load large items.

Bike racks are becoming more and more expensive. And the Kuat NV 2.0 is no different. It is one of the costliest bike racks on the market. However, its price is worth the features and the advantages that it has to offer.

Design & Quality

If you are worried about investing a significant sum of money in the NV 2.0, don't be. The Kuat NV 2.0 will not disappoint you. The rack features a high-quality build and an unrivaled sturdiness. The NV 2.0 has a mostly metal construction paired with a black powder coat finish that withstands years of abuse.

Weighs 52 pounds

Can carry up to 2 bikes

It has a dimension of 36 x 23 x 11 inches

It has a weight capacity of 60 pounds per bike

Can accommodate bikes with a tire width of up to 4.8 inches

Can accommodate wheelbases of up to 48 inches

Can fit hitch receiver of 1.25 and 2 inches

Features a large lever at the pivot point that allows the user to raise and lower the rack with ease

Features a powder-coated finish that is abrasion resistant, retaining a brand-new look

It can accommodate almost any size of bike.

It has a high weight capacity allowing it to carry even the heaviest bikes

Lack of locking of the Trail Doc feature

Assembling takes a lot of time

Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack (Budget 2 Bike Hitch Mounted Rack)
Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack , Black, 2-Inch Receiver CHECK CURRENT PRICE
The Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is an affordable tray rack option for a more budget-friendly buy. While it is far from being one of the top performers, it offers some great features that make it a decent choice for any infrequent bike riders.

The assembling procedure may take a bit of time. But it is simple enough to do it on your own. The bike features an anti-wobble bolt that will help you reduce but not eliminate the wobbling.

Design & Quality

While the XC2 has an affordable price, it has a solid foundation. It has two upright ratcheting arms that you can easily adjust to accommodate different bike frame sizes. They come equipped with a soft coating to protect the frames from scratches. It also features a powder-coated finish to prevent the metal from rusting.

You can fit the rack to any SUVs, cars, trucks, and vans. However, if you are looking to transport your bikes in trailers, RVs, or motor homes, this unit is not suitable for you.

Weighs 28 pounds

All-steel construction

Can carry up to 2 bikes

Can fit wheel sizes of 20 inches to 29 inches

It has a maximum weight capacity of 35 pounds per bike

Features an eye-catching and aesthetically pleasing design

Easy installation procedure

It comes equipped with an anti-wobble bolt that prevents the rack from wobbling.

Features a soft cushioning on the grip arms that protects the bike from damages

Availability of cradler for larger tires assists the rack in carrying larger bikes.

Lengthy installation procedure

Loaded bikes may block the driver's rearview

What Is the Difference Between Kuat NV 2.0 and Kuat Sherpa?

The Kuat NV 2.0 and the Kuat Sherpa are both platform mount bike racks with excellent features. They can both fit the two-inch models, and both include locks for bikes to the rack. They also include locks for the rack to the hitch. So, whichever one you end up investing in will be a great buy, and you will not have to worry about security issues.

That being said, there are some distinct differences between the NV 2.0 and the Sherpa.

Weight of the Racks

Between the two, the Kuat NV 2.0 is a bit more on the heavier side. The NV 2.0 weighs 52 pounds, whereas the SHerpa is a lot lighter and weighs only 32 pounds.

One of the reasons for the NV 2.0 being heavier than the Sherpa is because it comes equipped with a built-in repair stand. The repair stand allows you to perform any maintenance and repair your bikes on the go. If that is an essential factor to you, the NV 2.0 should be your choice.

Weight Capacity

Apart from their weight, their capacity to carry weights is different from each other as well. While the NV 2.0 unit weighs 52 pounds, it can carry up to 60-pound bikes. On the other hand, the lightweight Sherpa weighs only 32 pounds. But it can only handle bikes that weigh up to 40 pounds.

If you are looking to carry bikes that are not that heavy, you should opt for the Kuat Sherpa unit. Despite its lightweight construction, the Sherpa has a solid build and will provide you good service. It also has more reasonable pricing.

Another difference between the two platform mount bike racks is their generous tire width. The Sherpa unit can hold up tires that have a width of up to three inches. On the other hand, the heavier unit, the NV 2.0, can accommodate bikes with a tire width of 4.8 inches.

So, if you are looking to carry around fat-tire bikes, the NV 2.0 should be your go-to option. And if you are looking to accommodate regular mountain or road bikes, you should consider the Sherpa 2.0.

Hitch Bike Rack Buying Guide

There are several factors that you need to consider when purchasing a tow hitch bike rack. They are as follows.

Receiver Size

You must always check the receiver size of your hitch-mounted bike rack. Surely you do not want to buy one and then find out that it does not fit your vehicle.

Generally, most hitches have a receiver opening of 1-¼" x 1-¼" or 2" x 2" size. So, if your vehicle has a hitch with a gap of 2" x 2", you will have to choose a bike rack with the same receiver size.

On the other hand, if your vehicle's hitch is 1-¼" x 1-¼", you will have to find out what class it belongs to before you can buy it. There are mainly two classes for this type of hitches, class I and class II. The difference is the load that they can carry. Class II hitches carry more weight compared to class I.

To make sure that the user does not overload a class I hitch, manufacturers design class I hitches in such a way so that class II accessories cannot fit them. So, whatever class hitch you have, you will have to pick the hitch that is compatible with it.

You can easily find out the class of your hitch based on its maximum weight capacity. Manufacturers generally put the information by stamping it on the hitch or put it on a sticker. Most class I hitches can carry a load of around 200 lbs.

In comparison, class II hitches can generally carry a weight of approximately 350 lbs. And if your car does not have a hitch, no need to panic. You can easily install a hitch with simple tools.

There are mainly two types of bike racks. Both the type has their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let us see what they have to offer.

Platform Racks

In a platform rack, your bike's wheels rest on the cycle. One of the advantages that platform racks offer is their compatibility with a broader range of bikes. Platform racks sit closer to the ground. As a result, you will not have to raise your bike as much as when using a hanging rack.

Most platform racks come equipped with two attachment points. There is one ratcheting arm securing the front wheel while a strap holds the rear wheel in place. Thanks to this simple system, you can load and unload your bikes with ease.

So, if you are looking to load and unload your bike from the rack frequently, then a platform rack is the perfect choice for you. Moreover, since the platform racks come only in contact with the wheels, it is accessible on the bike's body.

Platform racks are not an unmixed blessing. To get those beautiful advantages, you will have to compromise in some other areas. For example, the platform racks tend to be heavier than their hanging counterparts.

So, when you are not using a rack, it is difficult to store it. Moreover, the platform racks tend to extend farther out from the vehicle compared to the hanging rack. So, you will have to keep that in mind when buying one.

Hanging Racks

In a hanging rack, the bike's frame rests on the rack. One place where the hanging rack has its platform counterparts beat is price. A quality hanging bike will cost you half of what a platform bike with the same capacity will do.

Moreover, hanging racks tend to be more on the lighter and more compact side. So, if you plan on removing the bike rack frequently, the hanging racks should be your choice.

Unlike the platform racks, the hanging racks do not extend as far out from the vehicle. So, it will be easier for you to maneuver your car when you're using a hanging rack. And as they are more compact and lighter, you can store them anywhere without facing many difficulties.

One of the biggest reasons hanging racks are not popular amongst cyclists is the compatibility issue. Hanging racks cannot accommodate any bike with irregularly shaped frames. These bikes include kids' bikes, step-through bikes, and full-suspension bikes.

Another issue that comes up with hanging racks is how they secure bikes. Hanging racks hold onto a bike with plastic or rubber straps that attach themselves to the frame.

Unfortunately, these straps can damage your bike's paint job over time. And if you are not using an anti-sway bar, your bikes will begin to sway and come into contact with each other. It can potentially damage your bike's structure if the collision is too rough.

Bike Capacity

There are various sizes of hitch bike racks. Majority of platform-style racks can hold from 1 to 4 bikes or up to six bikes if you use an extension. On the other hand, hanging racks can carry from two to five cycles. While there are outliers that can hold a more considerable number of bikes, these are the regular numbers.

Most riders use the two-bike design for ease of use. But if you have a growing family and are planning on going on a trip with them, it is better to invest in a model that can accommodate their bikes.

Extension or Add-on for Additional Bikes

If you are looking to increase your rack's carrying capacity, extensions are the way to go. You may also know them as add-ons. A typical rack extension will double the carrying capacity of your trailer hitch bike rack. While a high-quality add-on will cost you, it will also provide you with more security. Moreover, you can use them with ease, and they are effortless to install and remove.

Weight Capacity

Weight capacity is an essential factor to consider when buying a bike rack. If you are looking to buy one of the lighter bike racks, you will have to sacrifice the carrying capacity. But if you plan to haul heavy bikes, you should check the weight capacity of the rack you are looking to invest in.

If you are looking for a point of reference, most road bikes weigh around 33 pounds. At the same time, e-bikes can weigh even more than fifty pounds. So, you should decide on the type of bike you are using. If the weight seems to be closer to the limit or over it, it is good to invest in another model with more weight capacity. That is if you do not want your bike rack to break down in the middle of the road.

Compatibility

You will have to make sure that the bike rack you are looking to invest in is compatible with your car's hitch receiver size. Otherwise, you may end up with a rack that will not fit your vehicle.

No need to be worried about it. Most mountain and road bikes in the market will not have any trouble fitting on any of the racks mentioned in our list. The only problem can arise when you are using the outlier models.

These models include kids' bikes and fat bikes. You can store a kids' bike in your backseat without any trouble. All you have to do is make sure the hitch size is the same as your receiver, and you are good to go.

Frame Sizes and Types

If you are looking to buy a platform rack, you do not have to worry about the frame sizes. Platform racks secure the bikes via their wheels. So, issues like frame sizes are irrelevant. But if you are looking to buy a hanging style rack, you will need to consider the frame sizes that the particular bike rack can support.

Make sure to inspect the shape of the top tube of your bike's frame. Unless it is a step-through bike, kids' bikes, or full-suspension mountain bikes, you should be in the clear. Most mountain and road bikes have a triangular frame with a level-top tube. They fit great on hanging racks, so you do not have to worry about the fit.

Wheel Sizes

You do not want to invest in a bike rack that cannot hold your bike. So, you will have to make sure that your bike will fit in the rack. It is not an issue in the hanging style racks' cases as they secure the bikes by their frame.

Platform racks secure the bikes via their tires. You must make sure that the bike's wheel size is compatible with the rack's parameter. You can check the rack's technical specs from the brand's website. Most companies usually list all the technical specs on their company website.

The wheel sizes would not be an issue for the majority of bikes. However, fat bike tires may not fit on your typical platform rack. So, if you are the owner of a fat bike, make sure that the rack you invest in can support it.

If you opt for a platform-style rack, you will need to verify whether your bikes fit the rack or not. For that, you will want to consider the rack's supported tire width. Now tire width is not one of the primary considerations when you have a regular mountain or road bike. That is because most bikes come with a supportable tire width.

But if you are an owner of a fat bike, you will want to check the specifications of the rack you want to invest in. Make sure that the rack can support your fat bike's tires. And if you are opting for a hanging rack, you do not need to worry about the tire width at all.

Wheelbases

Every generation has its trends. Currently, mountain bikes are trending towards longer designs. This recent trend has affected the length of the wheelbases. These longer wheelbases can cause compatibility issues.

While it does not affect most people, if you are an owner of larger mountain bikes with a modern, extensive, downhill-oriented design, you may face some problems. So, it is a good idea to check the information regarding the wheelbase compatibility before you make the buy.

The checking procedure is pretty straightforward. You can look your bike up online and check its specifications. Most manufacturing companies list their product's specifications on their website. From there, you can check the length of your bike's wheelbase.

You can physically check your bike's wheelbase length. For that, you will need a tape measure. The distance between the center of the rear and front axles is the length of its wheelbase. Once you have checked your bike's wheelbase length, compare it against the maximum wheelbase spec of the rack that you have your eye on. If it can accommodate your bike, you are good to go.

Thanks to their numerous benefits, fat bikes are becoming more and more popular in the cyclist community. Thanks to their growing popularity, many manufacturers now sell adapter parts so that they can accommodate fat bike tires.

If you are an owner of a fat bike, you will need to consider two critical factors. Fat bikes have wider tires, and they tend to be heavier than your average mountain bikes. So, whatever type of bike rack you want to buy, you will have to make sure that the rack has a weight capacity to accommodate your bikes.

Another name of fat bikes is fat-tire bikes. That is because they have wider tires to reduce the pressure by increasing the surface area. So, if you are looking to invest in a platform rack, you will need to check whether the rack's tire width spec can accommodate your bike. And if you are looking to buy a hanging rack, you simply need to check its weight capacity.

Electric Bikes

Electric bikes come equipped with a motor to assist the rider by producing more power. As a result, they tend to be heavier than your regular non-electric bikes. As a rule of thumb, you can say electric bikes weigh twice as much as traditional non-electric bikes.

So, if you want a rack that can carry electric bikes, you will have to invest in a rack with a higher weight capacity. Do remember that racks with higher weight capacity tend to weigh more. An efficient way to carry electric or e-bikes is to remove the battery and carry it in the backseat of your car.

Vehicle Clearance

Vehicle clearance is one of the more puzzling considerations that you will have to tackle when buying a rack for your bike. Failing to consider this issue will lead to a bunch of technical problems.

For example, every time you press on the brakes, your bikes may swing into your rear door and leave a mark. Or you may not be able to open your car's back door as the rack blocks your way.

One easy way to check for clearance is to contact the manufacturer. Most manufacturers often supply reliable information about these technical issues. You can also get the technical drawing of the rack in question. You can base your decision on that technical drawing that you can collect from the manufacturing company.

The easiest way to check clearance is by doing a test fit. However, that option is not always available.

Swing-Away Feature

Racks that come equipped with the swing-away feature take your accessibility to your vehicle to the next level. They come equipped with a pin. When you release the hook, you can move the entire bike rack to the side of the car.

The swing-away feature provides you with uninterrupted access to the rear area of your vehicle. And, you do not have to unload your bikes for that. However, the price of having this feature is added weight and cost.

To accommodate the complex design and the extra materials to build this feature, you will have to pay a bit more. And because of the added materials, the rack will be heavier than any traditional racks.

Tilting Feature

One of the biggest challenges of using a bike rack is having limited access to the rear cargo area of your automotive. However, there are a few solutions to it. And one such solution is the tilting feature.

Most cyclists tend to keep their rack on their cars for an extended period. To ensure that they have access to the vehicle's rear area during that time, most cyclists use the tilting feature. You can pull over a tilting rack and lean it far enough to have adequate access to the rear hatch of your car.

This feature is available on both platform and hanging racks. However, most platform bikes can tilt while loaded with bikes. On the other hand, hanging racks need you to unload the bikes before you can tilt the rack.

One of the biggest tips for buying a hitch-mounted bike rack is, do not cheap out. That is only if you are planning to use that rack for a long time. In the world of hitch bike racks, you get what you pay for.

If you plan on using your bike rack for a long time, it is a good idea to pay a bit more to get a high-quality one. Your bike rack will have to withstand different types of harsh weather. Besides, it will be on the road for a long time, so it will have to withstand many unfavorable conditions.

Racks that use high-quality metal as their construction material tend to have a longer lifespan than their counterparts. Bike racks with plastic or thin-metal construction tend to break down or gather rust over time.

It is not just the material of your rack that matters. The quality of the material used can determine the longevity of your bike rack. Just because a rack has an all-metal construction does not mean it will provide you with good service. Thin, cheap metal constructions will break down over time and are not worth the money.

On the other hand, you can get a high-quality rack even if it is all plastic. Racks that feature a high-quality build will last you for a long time no matter the material used. However, they will cost you more but are very cost-effective.

There are different types of bike racks with different weights. You will find racks that weigh as little as 15 pounds, and then there are some well above 80 pounds. The weight determines your ease of access and security. The lighter the rack, the easier it to load and remove it. However, you will be sacrificing security with a more lightweight bike.

On the other hand, heavier bikes tend to have a sturdier construction and, as a result, can provide more security. However, if you are looking to remove it frequently, that is not a viable option. One way to have the best of both worlds is to choose a rack that weighs around 45 to 52 pounds.

Most bike racks have similar feature sets. But as we said before, you get what you pay for. That saying is true even for the offered features. Low-range racks do not come with locks. But as you move up the price table, you will see that mid and high-range bikes feature locks.

One type of locking feature that racks offer is bike locks. You can use the flexible cable locks to secure your bike's wheels or frame to the rack. While they are not state-of-the-art, and anyone can get rid of them with a set of bolt cutters, they provide a reasonable degree of security. Moreover, they will put your mind to ease when you park your vehicle on the side of the road for a short break.

Another type of accessory lock is for the receiver hitch. You can find it integrated into the bottom of the rack or on the hitch pin. That way, no one can remove the rack from your vehicle. Even if the rack you are buying does not come with a receiver lock, most manufacturers offer it as an accessory for your rack. On that note, according to users, the integrated lock is easier to use. So, it is a good idea to invest in an integrated receiver lock.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why should I choose a hitch bike rack?

When choosing a bike rack, it is always better to opt for a hitch-mounted bike rack. Even though hitch bike racks cost more than truck racks, they can also accommodate more bikes than their roof-mounted counterparts. Hitch bike racks are a good choice for those who need to carry more than two or three bikes.

Can bike racks damage my car?

While bike racks are handy for transporting bikes, they also have the potential to damage your car. But that can happen only due to improper installation, usage, or maintenance of the bike rack.

The truck-mounted bike racks have the highest possibility of causing damage to your car. As this type of rack is always in contact with your car's chassis, it can rub against the surface and scrape the paint off of it. And if the mechanic has failed to install the bike rack properly, the damages can be even more severe.

In the case of hitch-mounted racks, they are comparatively the safest option for you. In a hitch bike rack, the bikes do not generally come into contact with the car. However, if the rack has not been correctly installed, the bike can sway, or the wheels can turn and damage the vehicle by hitting against it.

Can I open my rear door with a bike rack on it?

Simply put, yes, you can open the trunk door of your vehicle given that your bike rack has the tilting or the swaying-away feature. If your bike rack does not have that feature, you will have minimum access to your rear cargo area with the loaded rack.

However, even if you have those features installed in your bike rack, you shouldn't open the rear door with a bike rack on it. That is because the manufacturers do not design the car door hinges to hold the extra weight of the bike rack and the loaded bikes. It is better to keep the rear door close when there is a bike rack and only open it for emergencies.

How much can I tilt the hitch bike rack?

You can only tilt the bike rack when your bike rack comes equipped with the tilting feature. Most hitch bike racks come equipped with a design to be tilted down to a thirty-degree angle. That should provide you with ample space t open your rear hatch.

What type of bike rack should I use for my horizontally opened rear door?

It is better to opt for a bike rack with a swaying-away feature for your horizontally opened rear door. That way, when you want to open the trunk door, you can simply remove the pin and move the bike rack out of the way. However, you should only do it in case of an emergency. That is because the hinges on your rear door cannot carry the bike's weight and the bike racks. If you frequently open the door with a bike rack on it, it can damage your car door hinge.

How do I prevent the rack straps from damaging my bike's paints and wheels?

No matter the type, bike racks use plastic or rubber straps to secure the bikes onto the rack. Platform racks use belts to secure the bikes' wheel on the platform. And hanging racks fastens the bikes' frames with straps. This situation can often lead to the scraping of paint or damage to the bike.

To make sure that does not happen, you need to clean the surfaces that will be in contact with the straps. Any unwanted particles can create excess friction between the frame or wheel and the belt. It may lead to scrapping in the long run.

You must also make sure that the bikes do not sway loose behind the car. If the bikes sway, they can hit your car or each other and cause damage to either or both vehicles. If you have correctly installed the bike rack, this should not be an issue.

Is it safe to use hitch bike racks?

Yes, you can safely use hitch bike racks. If you have correctly installed hitch bike racks, they will not contact your vehicle. Moreover, the bikes will not come in contact with each other, keeping them safe as well.

Most bike racks come with hitch locks and able locks that can ensure the safety of your bike and the bike rack.

Can I use hitch-mounted bike racks even if my vehicle does not have a hitch?

You can attach hitch bike racks to your car via a hitch. However, you can still use a hitch bike rack even if your vehicle does not have a hitch. You can have a hitch installed on your car if you want to. Or you can simply install it yourself.

A professional installation will cost you around fifty to two hundred dollars. But you can save yourself the extra buck by installing it yourself. Do not be intimidated. The installation procedure is quite simple, even and you can do it yourself with some essential tools. Do note that the size of the hitch will depend on your car's size. That is because smaller vehicles tend to have a weight limitation.

How do I safely transport a carbon fiber bike on my bike rack?

Carbon fiber bikes are one of the most popular and pricey bike options. So, it is no wonder that riders will want to transport them safely. To keep your bike safe, you will have to select a design that does not allow your bike's frame to come into contact with the rack.

So, it is a good idea to steer clear of any hanging models. You will want to choose a design that fastens the bike to the rack by strapping in the wheels. While this will cost you more, it will keep your carbon fiber bike safe.

Is it legal to use bike racks?

While it is legal to install and use bike racks, you should notify the local state's road authority about your rack's usage. Many states require the drivers to keep their license late visible, by law. So, make sure to check your local state's law and prevent yourself from obstructing it.

Conclusion

Hitch mount bike racks are handy for every cyclist, even more so if you are looking to go on an adventure with your trusted bike. But to do that safely and efficiently, you will need to choose the best hitch bike rack for yourself.

The best hitch bike racks are easy to load and aerodynamic. Just as they will keep your bikes secure, they will also not hinder your driving experience while on the road. But you will need to consider several factors before you make a decision. You will have to find out how you plan to use your bike rack, and then you can make a purchase.

When you have decided on how you plan on using your bike rack, choose any of the above options, and you will not be disappointed.
Related Articles

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Best Hitch Bike Rack Reviews 2023 & Buying Guide

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If you want freedom, you need to start cycling. With the wind at your back, you can hit the open road and go wherever you want to go. But after some time, you will have to go somewhere far from your home. And getting your bike to the starting point of your adventure can be challenging.

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In this article, we are going to walk you through how to transport a tandem bike by a car.

As the tandem bike is designed for 2 people to ride it simultaneously, it will not fit all bike racks built for the standard bikes. Therefore, you need to figure out the ways that work for your tandem bike.

It would be best if you had a safe and suitable road to ride a tandem bike. The best method is to go to a convenient place to enjoy riding with your friends after safely carrying the bike on your automobile.

The article includes a list of methods by which you can transport the bikes and their further explanation. At the end of the article, we also have included several tips that will help you on your journey with tandem bikes.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

A Quick List Of Different Methods Of Transporting The Tandem Bike

Let's go through the list of methods that you can follow to transport the tandem bike on a car. I will also describe each method in detail below.
Related reading: How to Transport Bike in SUV?

1. Carrying The Tandem Bike Without Any Rack. With this method, you will not need any racks. In fact, you can carry the bikes in your car just like any other item if you have the right type of car. However, you must improvise if you are hauling other things or passengers. Do not worry. We got you covered on that too!

2. Trunk Carrier. Using this method, you will need a strap-on trunk rack. The rack will be mounted on the back of the car. The bike will be in a vertical position.

3. Regular Roof Cargo Rack. Roof cargo racks are very convenient as they allow you to easily carry all sorts of items. You can even carry tandem bikes on these, but you'll have to take the wheels off to do so. Also, improperly placing the bike can damage the roof as the bars may dig into them while you're driving. However, you can easily set this right by tying the front fork at full lock and turning the stoker's bars to 90 degrees. You'll have to lie the bike flat on the roof rack and tie it down with Bungie cords.

4. Hitch Bike Rack for Tandem Bikes. Hitch bike racks are rather convenient as they can be used to carry your bike at the back of your vehicle. The hitch racks are fitted into the receiver tube of a vehicle. Depending on the model, hitch racks can let you carry one or two bikes. The hitch racks for tandem bikes are a bit different as they are designed to facilitate longer bikes.

5. Roof Bike Rack for Tandem Bikes. As tandem bikes are longer, they can't be fitted on regular roof racks. Thankfully, there are specially-made roof racks for tandem bikes. These are much longer and can usually be folded so that they don't block the trunk.

6. Utility Trailer for Car. Utility trailers can help you carry one or multiple tandem bikes on the back of your vehicle. You'll have to attach the utility trailer to the vehicle and then mount the bike or bikes on the trailer. Although you'll need some time to get used to dragging a trailer behind your car, it'll become very convenient once you get used to it.

7. Truck Bed Bike Rack For Pickup Truck. If you own a pickup truck, this method might be for you. You can buy racks that you can mount on the back of your truck. These racks allow you to tie your bikes down so they can't be stolen. Also, the bikes don't move around when tied properly. So, there won't be any damage to your vehicle.

8. Tailgate Bike Pad For Pickup Truck. This one too is for pickup trucks. You can get tailgate bike pads that you can fasten to the tailgate. Finally, you'll have to fasten the top tube of the bike to the tailgate pad. The tailgate pads come with a strap for facilitating this. This is a great method for keeping tandem bikes stable and for carrying multiple bikes at the back of your pickup truck.

Now lets talk about each method in detail.

How To Transport A Tandem Bike On A Car?

Carrying A Tandem Bike Without Any Rack

It's not advisable, but you can actually transport a bike without a rack. For the larger car like a station wagon, minivan or SUV, it's pretty easy. Drop the rear seats down using the electric control panel or the manual lever on the sides of the back seat. Just make sure the bike's drive side is facing front here.
Read more: How To Carry Bike In Car?
Slide the bike calmly and gently. Make sure the bike's gear does not face too much pressure. It can damage them. Also, keep in mind that the chain and the rings are not in contact with the side of the car. Cover the bike with a sheet, if possible.

What If I Am Hauling Kids and Cargo in the Back of My Car?

In that case, remove the front wheel of the tandem bike. It'll help you to protect the rear mechanism. The chain will also stay in place. Most bikes have a quick release. Use that mechanism and undo the clamp mechanics on the brake.

Put it in the rear as before but make sure the handlebars do not strike the top tube. After that, put the front wheel again on the top of the bike.

Make sure there is a sheet between. If you are using disc brakes, put something in the caliper of the wheel to make it secure. Or else the pistons can push out and pads close onto each other, potentially damaging the bike. Use stock plastic or hardboard cards.

Still, if the car is not able to fit, you can remove both of the wheels.

How To Remove The Rear Wheel?

Turn the bike upside down. Put the rear gear in the smallest cog. Use the quick-release mechanism if available. Now pull the real derailer upwards. Now the wheel will automatically come up.

Installing the wheels is much easier. Just follow the instructions but in reverse.

Multiple bikes can be carried through the method we have mentioned. Just follow the instructions and make sure to use soft cloth sheets to create layers between the cycles.

Carrying A Tandem Bike On The Trunk Carrier
Important! Please check the vehicle safety regulations and statutes for your home state and any state you intend to travel through before assuming you can operate your passenger vehicle with any cargo extending beyond the fender lines.
While the tandem bike is wider than the regular one when mounted on the trunk rack, the regular hanging style trunk rack can be used for short trips witout a problem. You may consider removing the front wheel or even both wheels to reduce the width and improve the stability on longer trips.

Just lift the rear side of the bike and drag it towards the wheel tray assembly. Anyone can do it easily with one hand. Attach a strap from the support of the carrier to the bike's rear tire. The strap is adjustable, so it's going to fit any tandem bike you have.

The next thing that you have to do is, tip the bike to a vertical position. The rack has two places where you can hook it up. Carefully hold the cycle up vertically and attach the tubes with the bolts.

The bolt also has a hand knob to fasten the grip. As we have said before, these racks are not that secure so, try to use the mechanism. Tighten the strap in the rear wheel too. Use a second strap to hook the handle. Once you do this, you should be all set.

Carrying A Tandem Bike on the Roof Cargo Rack

For this method to work, your racks need to have the roof utility bars installed or cargo roof rack. If you do not have a utility bar on the roof, you are going to have to buy a new one.

After buying the rack, assemble the carrier on the roof bar. Adjust the length of the roof rack according to the carrier. Tighten the bolts. Now do the same for the other side.

To carry the tandem bike on the rack, you have to remove the front wheel and attach the front fork to the rack. You'll be able to lock the fork into the rack if the rack offers security features.

You can also lay the bike flat with the roof. In this case, you'll have to turn the stoker's bar to 90 degrees and tie it firmly with a bungee cord. This will render the bar immobile and will prevent any rattling.

Now for the unloading part, just follow the instructions as mentioned earlier, but in reverse. The tandem bike should now be ready to ride. The two remaining clamps need to be removed entirely. You can store the carrier in the back of your car.

The best part about roof tandem racks is the security features. These allow you to lock the front fork right into the rack and the fork can't be unlocked without the key. So, you can leave the bike on the roof of your vehicle.

Also, the rear part of the rack acts as an extension. The extension can prevent you from opening the trunk of your vehicle. As it's removable, you can remove the extension whenever you don't have the bike mounted. This will help you access the trunk easily.
Pros

It makes it easy to carry the tandem bike

Mounting and dismounting are very simple.

Built-in security features make it secure and convenient

The rack extension can be removed to make space for the trunk

Cons

The bike may hamper the aerodynamics of the vehicle and make it harder to control

Despite the simplicity, the mounting process is time-consuming

Hitch Bike Racks for Tandem Bikes

Tandem bikes are simply too long, so you won't be able to carry them flat against the back of your car as they'll increase the effective width of your vehicle. This makes it tough and impractical to carry tandem bikes on hitch racks designed for regular bikes.

Fortunately, you can find hitch racks made especially for tandem bikes. These racks come with a short bar on which you can place the rear wheel of the bike, and a long vertical bar that can support the tube of the bike.

To mount a tandem bike on these, you need to place the rear wheel on the bottom bar and attach the strap to the wheel. Once that's done, position the bike vertically and attach the top strap to the top tube. This will help you keep the bike stable while driving.

This is a great method for carrying tandem bikes, but it comes with certain disadvantages. For example, installing these will give you a hard time accessing the trunk of your vehicle. It might also limit your choices when it comes to finding a parking space. You'll also need some time to get used to driving the car with the bike installed.

Allows you to carry a tandem bike without requiring disassembly

Easy to mount and dismount the tandem bike

The racks are built well enough to support the bike properly and keep it safe

Cons

You'll have a hard time accessing the trunk

Access to the rear doors may get blocked if you use these with a mini-van or SUV

Makes parking difficult

Needs some time to get used to driving with the hitch

Roof Bike Rack for Tandem Bikes
Thule Pivoting Tandem Carrier CHECK CURRENT PRICE
If hitch racks for tandem bikes don't appeal to you, you can take a look at tandem roof racks instead. There are some amazing options to choose from in this regard. The best part about roof racks is that they're very safe and usually come with a built-in locking system.

You have to remove the front wheel and lock the front fork to the locking mechanism of the rack. The rear part usually comes as an extension of the main rack. The extension allows you to place the rear wheel, which you can strap into the rack.

One disadvantage of this method is that you'll have a hard time using the trunk as long as the bike is mounted. If the bike isn't mounted, you can take the extension off to make some clearance. Another disadvantage of this technique is that you'll need to take the front wheel off. While this doesn't take a lot of time, it's an extra step. Also, you'll need to carry the wheel in the vehicle, which will eat some space up.
Pros

Very safe as it comes with built-in security features

Convenient as the rear extension bar can be removed

Doesn't hamper the driving experience much

Bikes can be mounted without extra pair of hands

Cons

Accessing the trunk can be tough with the bike mounted

You need to take the front wheels off and carry the wheel in the vehicle

Utility Trailer for Car

If you don't want to haul the tandem bike on the roof, back, or inside your vehicle, then it leaves you with the option of using a utility trailer. Utility trailers are great for carrying your tandem bikes.

These are essentially extensions with wheels. These offer bars or a platform on which you can tie the bike down. With some extra U-locks or cable locks, you can even secure your bike firmly on these trailers.

The best way to carry the tandem bike on a utility trailer without damaging the bike would be to use a fork mount. You can always install a fork mount on the trailer. With this, you'll have to remove the front wheel of the tandem bike and lock it into the fork mount. If you get a fork mount with a built-in locking system, all the better.

Once the front fork is locked right in, you have to attach the rear wheel to the trailer using a strap. You can also use a U-lock for additional security. As there's going to be some space left in the trailer, you can use a u-lock to secure the front wheel on it as well.

Also, if there isn't any protection in the front of the trailer, you can put up a board for extra safety. This will protect your bike from any stone or dirt that may fly onto the bike and damage or dirty it.
Pros

Leaves a lot of space inside and outside the bike for carrying extra gear

Doesn't block any opening of the car, as in the rear doors or the trunk

Keeps the bike safe and secure

Extra accessories can be used to protect the bike from environmental damage

Cons
Carrying the trailer is burdensome

Truck Bed Bike Rack (For Pickup Trucks)

You can get a great bike rack for a truck bed. You can either get a rack for one bike or even for multiple. These are very convenient as you can carry as many bikes as your truck allows, lock them securely, and keep them safe at the same time.

There are different types of truck bed bike racks. You can get bike racks that rest on the surface of the truck bed. These come with vertical parallel bars between which you can place and lock the front wheels.

You'll also find racks that look a lot like regular roof racks but are for tandem bikes. You can use these to secure your bike's front and rear wheels. There's also a side mount option where you attach the rack to one side of the truck. Then, you attach the bike to the rack.

Also, you can get racks that allow you to mount the fork of the bike to the truck. These, like the first method discussed, are to be placed on the surface of the back of the truck. You need to take off the front wheel of your bike and mount the fork on the rack. These are great for keeping your bike secure.
Read more: Best Truck Bed Bike Rack Reviews and Buying Guide Pros

Offers a variety of racks

Let's you carry the bike without the fear of harming it

It doesn't affect the truck as the bikes are secured firmly

Keeps the bikes secure from theft or external damage

Cons

Some racks can be a bit pricey

Some of the racks can be tough to use

Tailgate Bike Pad (For Pickup Trucks)

Tailgate bike pads might be a bit tougher to pick because they come in various sizes. You need to pick one that fits the size of your truck. These are easy to use.

All you need to do is attach the bike pad to the tailgate of your truck. Lay the pad on the tailgate first. Slightly open the tailgate and take the straps from underneath the hinge to the other end of the pad. Depending on the tailgate pad, there may be four to six fasteners on the tailgate pad.

The key to proper setup is to fasten the inner two straps first. Tighten these so that they come down to the right height. After that, fasten the straps on the sides.

Depending on the pad, there will be three or more straps on the top of the tailgate pad. To mount the tandem bike on one of these, you need to put the bike's top tube on the pad. Position it properly so it sits on one of the straps of your pad.

While the bike is mounted, make sure to mount it from the left and keep the front wheel hanging out of the truck. In this position, the handlebar should be kept at a 90-degree position.

Finally, strap the top tube of the bike in, and you should be ready to go.
Read more: Best Tailgate Bike Pad Reviews & Buying Guide Pros

Easy to setup

Keeps the bike as well as the tailgate safe from damage

Keeps the bikes well secured and minimizes rattling

Let's you carry a lot of bikes at once

Cons
Aren't heavy-duty accessories

Some Tips to Follow When Carrying the Tandem Bike on Your Car

While we covered the instructions, here are a few extra tips for carrying the bike.

Use a bike traveler bag, which will save your car from dirt. The bag will cost about 20-40 bucks.

Use a stepping stool to load the bike on the roof-mounted rack.

Buy a tray-style back rack when opting for trunk strap-ons. It means less wear and tear for your bike's tires and delicate frames. Try an aftermarket trailer hitcher to keep the cost down.

Use a tailgate pad to protect both the bike's frame and the rear bumper of the pick-up trucks. The tailgate pads are soft pads made with foam that are installed in pick-up trucks.

Related reading: How To Carry Bike In Car?
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use hitch mounted bike rack to carry my tandem bike?

No, you cannot use the regular hitch-mounted bike rack for your tandem bike. Why? Simply because the distance between the front and rear wheels is larger, and the regular hitch rack's wheel trays will not fit. So, you have to choose between either the roof-mounted or trunk carriers. Or you can invest in a custom-built hitch tandem bike rack.

Which is the best way to carry the tandem bike in a pickup truck?

If you have a pickup truck, you can choose between two ways of transporting the tandem bike. You can use either the pickup truck tailgate bike pad just and set up the tandem along with your regular bikes. Or you can install the truck bed bike rack.

Conclusion

If you were wondering about how you could carry a tandem bike in a car, I hope my comprehensive guide has helped. We understand that securing it is more challenging than regular bikes. Hence, in my blog post, I explained different types of racks that work with tandem bikes, and how you can use them.

To give you a small recap, you can carry your tandem bike using a trunk carrier, roof cargo rack, hitch bike rack, utility trailer, truck bed, or even a tailgate bike pad. If you don't have space inside the car or even at the back, you can remove its front or back wheels for more space. But, at the end of the day, no matter which method you use, they all have their pros and cons.

I hope now you can go to your favorite road or track to ride the tandem bike with your family or friends.

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In this article, we are going to walk you through how to transport a tandem bike by a car. As the tandem bike is designed for 2 people to ride it simultaneously, it will not fit all bike racks built for the standard bikes.

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A car is an ideal way to carry bikes, especially long distances. However, due to the restricted space in automobiles, you cannot simply dump your gear inside. It is critical to protect the safety of your bike as well as your vehicle.

If you do not take precautions, you may end up harming both. Using a car to haul your bike around will require caution, and you'll undoubtedly have to be strategic in approaching the situation.

Consider a few things when carrying a bicycle in a car. The back of the vehicle must have enough to accommodate the bike in the first place.

You can also try out a few more techniques that don't require putting your bike inside the car. Read on to find out.

How To Carry a Bike in a Car?

A car is so versatile that you don't have to stick to one method to carry your bike in your vehicle. Some will call for disassembling the bicycle, while some techniques require extra equipment.
Related reading: How to Carry A Tandem Bike On A Car?
In the Trunk

If you have the time and willpower to assemble and disassemble your bicycle, you can put it in your car's trunk.

This method is also one of the safest ways to transport your bike during long trips. Your bike will stay safer thanks to the cloth and foam surrounding them within the box.

Some vehicles have enough trunk space to fit a bike without taking the wheel off. However, you will need to disassemble the bike for smaller sedans, essentially taking off the wheels. It will make the bike more compact, and you'll be able to place it inside the trunk easier.

If your vehicle has back seats that can be pushed down, do that. It will ease fitting the bicycle into the back seat through the trunk. Longer bikes are easier to handle this way.

Place the bike inside the trunk so that the gears face up. Cogs and gears are dirty and can get dirt all over your car. Just make sure the gears are never facing down. We recommend laying down a sheet or blanket over the vehicle's trunk.

Doesn't make the interiors of your car a mess

The bike isn't visible to the naked eye, which prevents theft

No necessity to buy additional accessories

Allows you to carry all lengths and types of bikes

You must disassemble the bike

The trunk may get dirty unless you take precautions

Related reading: How to Transport Bike in SUV?
In the Rear Seat

Lay down some old towels or an old blanket on the back and boot of the seats. Given how much grime or mud a bike picks up, you'll be glad you did this later. Plus, take one of the wheels off to fit the bike better. It'd be best if you could remove both wheels.

Most new bikes come with quick-release levers, which make removing the wheels super easy, particularly the front wheels. Make sure you move down to the last possible gear to exert the least tension on the chain. It will make taking off the rear wheel significantly easier.

Brake plugs can fasten the brake calipers. For bikes that come with disc brakes, ensure you attach a few disc brake plugs. Even if the levers get scrunched up during travel, the brake calipers' alignment will stay the same.

Worst case scenario, you'll not be able to ride your bike as the brakes will be jammed. To fix that, you will either have to re-bleed the brakes or pry on the calipers.

When stashing the bike's frame into the rear seat, ensure the dry side is up. By that, we mean the side of the bicycle where the chain, derailleurs, and brakes are found. These components are sensitive and should not experience unnecessary pressure.

Once you've packed the frame properly into the rear seat, you can just place the wheels where they can fit. The wheels can cushion parts of the frame that might move around.

Your goal is to fit everything snugly together while minimizing the chance for movement. Roads by riding trails may get bumpy; the last thing you want is unwanted scruff marks on the bike or car.

It might be best to wrap an old rag or a bunch of newspaper around your pedals. The studs that grip your shoes when riding the bikes will scratch your car's interior.

Easy to take the tires off

Leaves the trunk open for carrying other stuff

It doesn't require you to purchase any additional accessories or items

Not convenient when you're traveling in a group

It might leave your interior dirty despite the preventive measures

In the Trunk with Rear Seat Folded Down

Another method involving the rear seat requires the owner to fold down the rear seats. To start, clean your bike. Remove any debris on the frames, handlebars, and tires too.

Now, fold the rear seats of your car to make space for your bike. How much space this will free up depends significantly on your vehicle, but you should generally get sufficient space for laying your bike down.

Suppose there's enough space to lay your bike flat, do that. Make sure to put a blanket on the surface to protect the car's interior.

If there isn't sufficient space for laying the bike flat, turn the front wheel to the sides so that it faces up when the bike is lying in the car. It will free up some floor space and help you fit the bike even in a smaller vehicle.

Because your bicycle will shift a lot when the car is driving, you must secure it in the car, especially when the front wheel is facing upwards. Use a bungee cord to hold the bike firm.

You don't have to disassemble the bike

There's no additional expense

One of the easiest methods as it doesn't require much preparation

Keeps the bike safe as it isn't exposed

It might leave your car's interior dirty

The bike may get damaged unless it's secured properly

You won't be able to take extra passengers as the rear seats will be folded

On the Bike Rack

In this approach, you purchase a bike rack built for a vehicle's trunk and attach it roof or trunk of the car.

It's as simple as tying it to the car's part. However, bikes are easier to steal when they are on bike racks because the thief only has to cut the straps with a knife.

Some bike racks come with locking mechanisms; you should opt for these to keep your bike safe. If your bike rack has no built-in locking mechanism, you must opt for aftermarket accessories such as U-lock or cable lock.

Based on the bike mounting, sensors and backup cameras are often entirely operable. That's worth double-checking. When placing your bicycle on the back, examine the sides. How far does your bike protrude?

A hatchback is easier to operate with a trunk mount, given you're okay with the tailgate weighing more because of the one or two bikes you have attached to it. A trunk-mount rack can easily be moved between vehicles with a little loosening and fastening straps.

Remember that any vehicle with racks installed might experience wear on its body - paint stripping on the edges where the bike pads sit.

Many people forget to consider the possible dual purchase situation with roof-mounted car racks.

Also, the bicycle will still be outside the car, so the risk that applies to any bicycle on a bike rack also applies to this one. Plus, bike racks cost a great deal of money, and not everyone may be willing to spend that sum.

It lets you carry your bike anywhere without having to compromise interior space

Keeps the interior clean

It doesn't require you to disassemble the bike

It affects your car's aerodynamics and increases gas consumption

It makes noise if the bike isn't secured firmly

It opens opportunities up for thieves eyeing your bike

Depending on the rack, you may need some time to get used to the mounting process

Your bike is exposed to environmental factors

Read more: Best Bike Rack For Car Reviews & Buying Guide
In a Trailer

Bicycle trailers are the most expensive option, but they're very convenient for those who need to carry multiple bikes frequently. Despite their high price point, trailers are preferred by many cyclists because of their convenience.

Firstly, you don't have to disassemble your bike as trailers offer enough space to carry them in one piece. Also, depending on the trailer, you can take anywhere from three to five cycles.

For this method to work, get yourself a trailer first. You can find various kinds of trailers online and offline on the marketplaces. You need to purchase one that offers you an appropriate number of slots.

For example, some trailers might allow you to carry up to six or five bikes, but you may not need that. You can go for smaller counts to save money and get a lighter trailer, which will save gas consumption later.

Most trailers don't offer built-in locking systems. However, they come with bars and poles that allow you to position your bike correctly and lock it firmly in place. So, it would be best if you also got appropriate locks.

Leaves the interior unaffected and free

It doesn't require you to disassemble your bike

It lets you transport up to five cycles or even more

Great for carrying your bike across long distances

Perfect for racers as it doesn't tamper with your bike's balance

You need to get used to the trailer

Expensive as you must get the bike as well as security measures

Increases gas consumption

Leaves your bike exposed to the weather

Related reading: Mazda CX5 Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide
Conclusion

Now that you know how to carry a bike in a car, it's up to you to choose the method that will work best for your vehicle and bicycle. Taking your bike in the trunk is excellent if you're moving and not planning on cycling right upon arrival.

If you're traveling to ride your cycle at some particular place but don't want to spend much, you can try carrying it in the rear seat or fold the rear seats altogether.

Those who need to carry their cycles frequently can go for a bike rack. These are versatile and will save up a lot of interior space. If you're a professional bike racer or planning on carrying multiple bikes, go for a trailer!

It won't be the cheapest option, but it's the most convenient one for taking a ton of bikes in one piece.

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A car is an ideal way to carry bikes, especially long distances. However, due to the restricted space in automobiles, you cannot simply dump your gear inside. It is critical to protect the safety of your bike as well as your vehicle. If you do not take precautions, you may end up harming both.

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Best Mazda CX5 Bike Rack 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Mazda CX5 Bike Rack 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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As a car owner, you might have felt anxious whenever you had to travel somewhere with your bike. Well, not actually ride them but carry them. If you have a car with ample trunk space, it is easy for you to travel with your bicycle. You keep it in the trunk and forget about it. But if your vehicle doesn't have much space, it can be a problem.

Mazda CX5 is such a car. It does have enough space in the trunk, but if you keep your bike there, you would have to relocate your luggage. And we all know which is more important. This is where bike racks come in. there are quite a few options for Mazda CX5 bike racks. That is why it might get confusing as to which one to get. For that reason, take a look at this article so that you can find the best Mazda CX 5 bike rack in the market.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

What Style Bike Rack Will Fit a Mazda CX5?

So, you own one of the magnificent Mazda CX5s. Now you are planning on going on a trip and are thinking about taking your bike. The problem is that your vehicle's trunk does not have enough space to store your bike. That is why you need a bike rack. More precisely, a bike rack for Mazda CX5.

Now you have mainly three options when choosing the type of bike rack that you can get.

If you are in a hurry, here is my selection of the best bike racks for your Mazda CX5 SUV:

Trunk Bike Racks

This is one of the most common forms of bike racks. The rack is mounted or attached to the trunk. It can be attached to the trunk using straps or utilizing straps and hooks. Some of them also have the feature of being linked with screws. They are designed in such a way that they can be used with any vehicle body form.

Roof Bike Racks

Roof bike racks are to be attached to the roof of your vehicle. They are optimal for cars that have a low form factor. They are also compatible with the crossbars that some vehicle roofs have. One of the best features is that these bike racks have is that they can be used to carry other equipment when the bike is not on the scene.

Hitch Bike Racks

If you don't like modifying the body of the vehicle, this is the hitch bike rack that will suit your taste. These racks are attached to the towing hitch rear side of your car. They are perfect if you are thinking of carrying more than four bikes. They can also pull cargo if the weight is within their limit.

So you now know about the three different types of bike racks you can get. This brings the question - are they all available for Mazda CX5? The answer is yes, obviously. Moreover, if you are panicking if there is any specific model, then don't. That is because all the models of Mazda CX5 are compatible with any type of bike rack you chose. The car is versatile in that sector.

Best Bike Racks for Mazda CX5 Reviewed

Now that you know the types of bike racks and their installment process for your Mazda CX5, you must be eager to find the best bike rack for your car.

Well, here are the three best bike racks for Mazda CX5 in my opinion.

Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0 (2 Bike Platform Hitch Mounted Rack)

If you are lucky enough to have a hitch attached to your CX5, then this is a viable option. The Kuat Racks Sherpa 2.0 is one of the greatest Mazda CX5 bike rack among the hitch-mounted ones. The rack has a full aluminum built. This makes sure that they will last a long time. They are super user-friendly.

You just attach them with your vehicle's hitch and drive away. The rack has a folding tire cradle. Due to this, enough clearance is created when the bike is mounted on them. The rack is also lighter than all its other competitors. So, if you have a hitch, get this bike rack. You can store it in the trunk of your car when not in use. And when in use, just hook it in and start driving. There is no pain of strapping in the bicycles

Full aluminum built

The finishing is of industrial-grade

Rack weighs only 32 lbs

Easy to install

Can be stored anywhere

Can carry two bikes

Has about 14 inches of spacing between the bikes

Lightweight rack

Foldable tire

Plug and go installment

Heavy-duty performance

Can carry only two bikes

The bikes are not locked in properly

Thule UpRide (Roof Bike Rack)

The best thing about roof bike racks is that you can determine the number of bikes you can carry. This is the same for Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack. Each rack is capable of holding only one cycle. But the number of racks that you can attach to your roof is limited by you. The racks are directly locked in with the crossbars of your car.

So, you can connect four to five racks and secure a bike with each of them. The design is innovative and fits perfectly. The interface of the rack is easy, and it locks the bike perfectly. You can even use external locks to make sure your bike is secure. The rack uses plastic frames with an aluminum body. This makes sure that the bike doesn't make any contact with the car's body. So if your CX5 has crossbars, then this is a great Mazda CX 5 roof bike rack worth considering.

The design is super versatile

Easy to install and use

There is no contact with the frame

The rack weighs 17 lbs

Can carry bikes weighing 44 lbs

The bike remains upright when strapped in

Has locking feature

Fits perfectly with the crossbars

Number of bikes is determined by you

Straps in securely

No contact with the frame

Compatible with most roof rails and crossbars

One bike per rack

Can not carry bikes with thin tires

Saris Bones EX Model 803 (3 Bike Trunk Mounted Bike Rack)

So, your car does not have any hitch or roof rails. Then Saris Bones EX Trunk Bike Rack is a great option for you. It is a trunk-mounted bike rack. So you can easily strap the rack to your Mazda CX5's trunk. The rack is light but sturdy. The strap used by the rack is a spring buckle one.

So, the installment is easy. Just wrap it around the trunk and use a ratchet to tighten it in place. The rack has a clean and sleek look due to being built by injection molding. This makes the arms sturdy, and almost no metal is used. So the probability of your car getting damaged is virtually zero.

Fits like a glove due to the spring buckle attachment

Can carry up to three bikes at a time

The load capacity is 105 lbs

Rack weighs about 11 lbs

Injection-molded arms for no rust development

Sleek and clean look

Vehicle specific design

Rack weight is meager

Premium Bike hold

100% recyclable material

The bike capacity is only three

If the straps are damaged, there is no way to repair them

Related reading: How To Carry Bike In Car?
What is Mazda CX5?

If you are someone who likes SUVs, then you might have heard of Mazda CX5. It is mainly a compact crossover SUV. That means the car is a variant of an SUV. Due to its compact and crossover feature, it is a bit different from conventional SUVs. The compact feature makes the vehicle have a smaller form factor. This gives them a good look that suits the taste of many soccer mom-type families.

On the other hand, due to the crossover tag, the car's body is that of a Sport Utility Vehicle or SUV. It is making the car an option to act as a heavy-duty passenger car. The body of the Mazda CX5 is not a Cabrio or a Hatchback. But despite that, the vehicle has a similar trunk space as a hatchback. Moreover, the car consists of five doors, four-passenger, and one trunk. This makes it a great car to be used for traveling.

Mazda CX5 has been in production since 2012. They are still in production due to their popularity. The car features a front engine. There are two drive options you can choose from. One is the front-wheel drive, and the other is the four-wheel drive. Since the start of production till now there have been two models that have been marketed. They are,

First Generation - KE, 2012 to 2017

Second Generation - KF, 2017 to present

The First Generation - KE has two variants. One is the Pre-facelift style, and the other is the Post-facelift style. When it comes to performance, both generations have the same benchmark. The only significant difference is their exterior and interior design details.

The car does not have any alternative name for being marketed in different regions. They are sold globally under one name, Mazda CX5.

What Should You Be Aware of When Choosing a Mazda CX5 Bike Rack?

If you are looking for the best Mazda CX5 bike rack, you need to look out for a few things. These things will affect your choice as they will make sure the bike rack you chose is the correct one.

For example, if the Mazda CX5 that you own has roof rails, it is better to get roof bike racks. That is because this rack can utilize the roof rail correctly and at the same time secure its hold. On the other hand, if your vehicle's design is one void of roof rails, then choose the trunk bike racks. They are easy to mount, and they also can be strapped. Then again, if you are thinking of hitching light cargo, then try out the hitch bike racks. They will help you tow both bicycles and load when you need to. But do take note of the weight the tow can carry. If you overload them, you are likely to damage the hitch.

Installing Mazda CX5 Hitch

If you got the hitch system bike rack for Mazda CX5, you might be asking how to install it. Well, rest easy. The installation process for any Mazda CX5 is pretty straightforward.

Take a look at the CURT 13315 Class 3 Trailer Hitch. It is cheap and easy to attach to your car. The system of an installment is similar to plug-and-play. There is no need to cut anything. You just need to remove the plastic piece under the bunker. After that, the hitch can be bolted with the bumper due to the four predrilled holes. The only hindrance is getting that plastic off.

For easy removal, you can use some lube like soapy water. With the help of some lube, the whole installation process can be completed in a matter of minutes. There are cases where the entire process has been completed in less than two minutes. If you still feel like the process is challenging, then take a look online.

There is sure to be an installation guide along with the product, and you can even lookup online for the installation process. If you search on YouTube, you are sure to find videos showing the steps elaboratively.

So, if you are thinking of getting a hitch bike rack for Mazda CX 5 for a reasonable amount of money, then go for CURT 13315 Class 3 Trailer Hitch. It is cheap and easy to install. You can do the installation yourself.

This helps you save you $300 labor costs that you would have had to spend if you wanted it done by the dealership. Don't worry about the quality. Though the product is cheaper than the alternatives, it is of excellent quality and will last a long time. Most of the hitch rack installment is as easy as this.

Installing Mazda CX5 Roof Bars

Another type of Mazda CX5 bike rack is the one for the roof. These racks are attached to roof rails or roof bars. The Mazda CX5 has mounting points on the roof. These points are perfect for roof bars and roof rails. One such product which utilizes this feature is the Mazda OEM roof rails. These rails are an ideal fit for Mazda CX5.

The installation process for the rails is pretty straightforward. Some roof rails require more tools like measuring tapes, masking tapes, markers, saw, etcetera. But that is not the case with Mazda OEM roof rails. You mainly need three tools while installing them. They are a flathead screwdriver, a ratchet, and a T30 socket. With these tools at hand, you can install them yourself and save the money you might have needed if the dealership was involved.

To install the rails, the first thing you need to do is remove the roof molding. It is the plastic lining on both sides of your car's roof. Just use the flat head screwdriver and pop it open. After that, take the racks and line them up with the screw holes. Then using the rachet and T30 socket, screw it in.

The rack might seem to be a bit elevated, but that is supposed to be like it. Just make sure the screws are tightened properly. After that, you are good to move on to the final part. Line up the crossbars with the holes on the racks and bolt them in place. And voila, you are done. The installment is done, and you are good to go. Don't worry if the roof bar that you want to be installed is not the same model. That is because the process is similar for almost all Mazda CX5 roof rails.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you fit a bike in a Mazda CX5?

The trunk space of the Mazda CX5 is the same as Mazda 3 Hatchback. So the room in the trunk is pretty big. But sadly, it is not spacious enough for you to store your bike in it. If it is a kid's bike, then it is possible when there is no other luggage. But in the case of an adult bike, that is impossible. That is why bike rack for Mazda CX5 is preferable.

Conclusion

You just got a Mazda CX5 and thinking of going somewhere for a bike ride. Then you must be thinking of getting a bike rack for Mazda CX5.

I have discussed all the points that you need to know before you buy the bike rack for your Mazda CX5. I have also explained which I believe are the best Mazda CX5 bike racks of different types. Hopefully, this article helps you find the CX5 bike rack that's best for your needs.
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Best Mazda CX5 Bike Rack 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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As a car owner, you might have felt anxious whenever you had to travel somewhere with your bike. Well, not actually ride them but carry them. If you have a car with ample trunk space, it is easy for you to travel with your bicycle. You keep it in the trunk and forget about it.

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Best Bike Rack For BMW i3/i3s Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Bike Rack For BMW i3/i3s Reviews & Buying Guide

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Cyclists who are passionate about outdoor excursions often find themselves spending money on different bike racks that will transport their outdoor toys without a squabble. Your bike will go wherever you go.

Hence, it is imperative to be carrying your bike on a secured rack. You'll not want to look back every other minute to check if all is well. After all, adventurers relish and savor the drive just as much.

If you are an avid bike rider, who owns a BMW i3, you'll want to invest in a bike rack that warrants the safety of your bike, more so, does not graze or scrape the surface of your car.

Before you jump into the ins and outs of each product, run through to know what styles are most suitable and what factors to duck out when choosing the right BMW i3 bike rack.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

What Style Bike Rack Will Fit a BMW i3?

Choosing the right style for your BMW i3 can be vital in determining your overall experience of using a bike rack. More importantly, a style that is not suitable for your vehicle might end up damaged all three gears involved.

Whichever you choose, the bike racks can be fitted into any of the BMW i3 models that have been produced over the years. Our thorough research may confirm that the design disparities in the model upgrades would not affect the choice of bike rack.

For the specified i3 or i3s models, the following are suitable choices of style:

Roof Mount with Suction Cups

If you are concerned about damaging the roof of your car with scratch and scraps from nuts and bolts of a bike rack, the suction cup bike racks are there to save you the trouble.

Just a little push and plunge, create the steadiest attachment. It is easy to install and remove, but without any adequate locking system, there is a chance of theft.

Hitch Mount

If you have a hitch already installed in your BMW i3, a hitch mounted bike rack is one of the more reliable options. Not only are they quick to install, but there is also an added advantage of easy loading of the bike.

Although there is a limited range of wheel sizes this style can fit, it's easy on your gas mileage and usually more secured.

Trunk Mount

Trunk mount bike racks are usually the most affordable of the three options, with better security and more capacity. If you have a few different bikes to carry about miles, with stops in between, trunk mount will fit your BMW i3 [perfectly. Remember, there is the risk of contact or damage with the car body.

Best Bike Racks for BMW i3

To make your shopping experience a less perplexing matter, I have chosen the best bike racks for BMW i3 and i3s from different rack types.

Thule Apex XT Swing Away (4 Bike Hanging Hitch Rack)

When we talk about the oracle brands making the best bike racks for the BMW i3, Thule is a reputable and trusted name. With its Apex XT Swing Away rack, it delivers a carrier that is swamped with hallmarks and can carry up to 4 bikes. Although the bike rack has the outstanding capacity, the product itself is surprisingly lightweight.

In case your BMW i3 has a hitch, you'll want to opt for Apex XT for the abundance of features. If you are to load up 4 bikes, the cohesive cable locks will make sure there is no trouble in security, while the generous spacing of 7 inches between the bikes ensures there is no damage caused by contact. Moreover, the stabilizing cradles minimize swaying for more fulfillment.

The swing away option is specially patented to guarantee a hassle-free access to the back of the BMW, even when the rack is loaded with bikes.

Moreover, the SnugTight integrated locks mean you can install the bike rack within minutes, that too without any additional gears. Bonus, additional lock, and keys as also included.

Key Features

Loading and unloading may take time

SeaSucker Mini Bomber Two Bike Roof Rack (Universal 2 Bike Roof Rack)

If you can only overcome the fear of having your bikes attached to the back of your vehicle with the help of only suction attachments, the SeaSucker Mini Bomber is one of the best bike racks for BMW i3/i3s.

(If SeaSucker Mini Bomber is not available, check out alternative with similar features - TreeFrog Pro 2 Bicycle Rack Suction Cup 2-Bike Mount.)

In fact, this two-bike capacity carrier has fit into any vehicle you can think of and can hold bikes of the widest range of tire size. That's how incredibly versatile it is.

The unique design of the bike rack uses no nuts or screws for attachment, just 4 suction discs, with two at the front and two at the back. The front ones have a fork mount attached to them, where the bikes are held by the forks when loaded.

While the idea of this SeaSucker mini bomber might be dicey, the Velcro straps and the incredible pull strength make sure your bikes don't wobble at all, even on the rougher terrains.

The ride with your bikes would be fuel friendly as well. Moreover, the rack is super simple to install, and easier to remove. The only problem is, there are no integrated lock anchors for good security. The lock system can be modified with added tools.

Key Features

Bikes can only be locked with additional tools.

SeaSucker Talon Single Bike Rack (Universal Single Bike Roof Rack)

Much similar to its confrere from the same line, is the SeaSucker Talon for carrying one bike with the vehicle of your choice. Whether you own a BMW i3 or other rental, family, or off-road wagons, the fork mount style bike rack carries your bike without jerks and damage to your vehicle. To add more bikes, you simply attach more talon racks.

(If SeaSucker Talon is not available, check out an alternative with similar features - OLIGANE Suction Cup Bike Rack.)

The rack is compact, slim, and easy to install with 3 suction cups, and a strap for the rear wheel that holds the bike wheel most securely. The size of the BMW i3/i3s bike rack makes sure the drag force and nose are minimum, and so are the side movements. It also creates greater clearance for low height passes.

To attach the talon firmly, all you have to do is push the cups on the surface of the car body and use the plunger to create a vacuum that works as the main catch. The indicator bands signal you when it's time to re-pump.

With high quality materials used in the construction of the bike rack, it is one of the most durable, one-of-a-kind products, that does come at a fairly hefty price.

Key Features

Maximum capacity: 1 bike

Fork mount hook base

Vacuum pump system

Dual sided crank arm straps

Additional suction cup included

Built in indicator band

Premium quality rubber and polyethylene

Lightweight

Fuel efficient

Easy to install and remove

Heat and moisture resistant

Firm attachment

Can be attached anywhere in car body

Minimum movement

Thule Raceway 9003 (Trunk Platform 2 Bike Mount)

Although Thule's Raceway 9003 is a trunk platform style bike rack for your BMW i3, what makes it to our list of selected favorites is the addition of features that provide the best of benefits of both a hitch mount bike and the affordability of a trunk mount carrier.

One of the major complaints that trunk platform racks usually face is the difficulty in loading the bikes and removing them as well. Thule manages to minimize this issue using SureTight ratcheting straps, along with a quick release arm system.

Moreover, the installation of this cost friendly bike rack is swift and easy, with the unified cable locks assuring further security. For security, the foamed clamp claw locks the bikes firmly in place.

What makes it a good choice for people who want a hitch mount style platform rack that can be attached to their rear car bodies is specifically the adjustable wheel tray. This lets the wheels turn freely, and gives you the facility to change the size of the rack for more space.

Key Features

Simple and quick installation process

Fits various sized wheels

Quick release

Great security

Compact design

Loading can be slightly challenging

Paint marring can be an issue sometimes

What Should You Be Aware of When Choosing a BMW i3 Bike Rack?

When choosing and working to install a BMW i3 bike rack, you must be wary of a few important warnings, limitations, and shortfalls.

Installing BMW i3 Hitch

To install a hitch, similar ones like that of the Ecohitch or InvisHttch, you will have to have to cut out a fairly good-sized hole in the lower side of the bumper body. In the case of a leased car, you could have to pay about $600 to $700 for the damage to the bumper.

To avoid such a hefty payout, it's a good idea to use a second-hand bumper to cut out a hole for the hitch. Even so, the total cost could stand to a few hundred dollars, with the tools, painting, and finish.

No Rails or Fixing Points on the Roof

One point to remember when choosing a BMW i3 bike rack is that the vehicle's roof does comprise fixing rail points. So, installing a convention roof rack is out of the question. A great option if you want to haul your bike on the roof of your car is a suction cup-based roof rack like SeaSucker.

Difficult Access to Roof Rack

The BMW i3 is designed as a high roof hatchback. For this reason, it would be considerably difficult for petite people to load and unload their bikes off the roof of the BMW i3. A good solution is using a step stool to make the reach easier.

Few models of the BMW i3 come with a panorama sunroof. A regular roof rack cannot be installed on such a sunroof. With a few modifications, you can install a SeaSucker rack.

Avoid Small Trunk Racks

Hauling your bike on a small trunk mount rack can eventually damage the paint. The BMW i3, being a square back wagon, runs the risk of damage as the bike comes extremely close to the car frame. If you choose a trunk style bike rack of a more extended size, you would avert this issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BMW i3?

The BMW i3 is a B segment model that has been designed by BMW and has been in production since 2013. The vehicle has a hatchback body style with raised roof height and 5 doors. As for the engine, the layout is in the rear of the car while the driving style is rear-wheel drive.

The i3 model from BMW is assembled in Germany and is considered to be one of the most popular battery powered electric cars. One of the very first of its kind to be manufactured in large numbers, this zero-emission configuration of the model is powered by a 25 kW 647 cc engine at its core.

In outer looks, the BMW i3 looks more like a racing car, with the internal structure made of CFRP pr carbon-fiber reinforced plastic. The wagon, which comprises a 170 hp powertrain does not have multiple generations but has come into the market with several upgrades over time.

One such alternative model is its sportier option, is the BMW i3s. The modifications on the i3s model were mainly in its low-profile suspension, greater speeds, and larger sized wheels.

Can you fit a bike in a BMW i3?

Yes, you can certainly fit a bike in a BMW i3 to carry it to your destination. Being a regular and passional mountain biker, I take out my bikes even on days when it's raining heavily.

For murky days like that, I don't fancy the idea of detaching mud immersed bike tires, only to haul in on my BMW i3, even if It is lined with heavy gauge plastic liner. I do much prefer just fitting my bike on my i3, and you can do the same as well.

Final Words

For a square back, high roof hatchback vehicle like the BMW i3 or i3s model, the bike rack that will carry your bikes should be chosen with care. Decide on what style of bike rack you want depending on how many bikes you need to carry and how often you plan to use it.

While a roof suction cup rack is uncomplicated to install and use, some riders dislike the increased work it needs to load a bike to that height. A hitch mount bike rack is an exceptional option for a secured ride, but it may not be as versatile in the range of wheels it can sustain. For a budget restricted buy, you may consider the trunk mount bike racks, but make sure to only go for the larger size sections.

Whichever you may choose, it is indisputable that the bike rack is manufactured by prominent brands like Thule, or SeaSucker. Such brands have mastered their craft over the years to design the best bike rack for BMW i3 and i3s.
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Best Bike Rack For BMW i3/i3s 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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Cyclists who are passionate about outdoor excursions often find themselves spending money on different bike racks that will transport their outdoor toys without a squabble. Your bike will go wherever you go. Hence, it is imperative to be carrying your bike on a secured rack.

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Best Bike Rack for Kia Soul Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Bike Rack for Kia Soul Reviews & Buying Guide

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A Kia soul has an interesting design. It has less capacity than an SUV, but more than any other standard car of its size. While a Kia Soul is a great vehicle if you want the cargo capacity of an SUV coupled with the ease of use and compatibility of any regular-sized car, the space inside this vehicle is not enough to carry a bike, whether it's one or more.

Other than running the chance of damaging your vehicle, your bikes might not make it to the destination at one point if the roads are too rough!

The solution to this is having a suitable bike rack for Kia Soul. When we say "suitable", we are mainly eyeing the type of bike rack that will be most compatible with your wagon. It can be a hitch mounted or rooftop mount rack, and it might also trunk mount bike rack for Kia Soul. For a trunk style, steer away from the smaller sizes!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

What is Kia Soul?

Kia Soul is considered to be a more compact version of a typical SUV and has been in production since 2008. It was first the unique model was first manufactured in Korea. Now, the vehicle is marketed all over the word as "Kia Soul", with no alternative names.

Kia Soul combines the total interior space of an SUV with the usefulness and functionality of a smaller sized car. The vehicle is commonly classed as a "Subcompact crossover SUV" with a hatchback body type, along with 5 door SUV body style. The typical layout of the vehicle has front wheel drive and an engine in front.

Additionally, Kia Soul has been upgraded in years of its production, the latest being the third-generation model (SK3), in production since 2019. The first generation (AM) was manufactured from 2008 to 2013, while the second generation of Kia Soul models came into the market between 2013 and 2019.

The latest model of the crossover SUV vehicle has an X-line trim option, better turbo 4 engines, and a dual choice of both gasoline and electric engines. The Kia Soul EV is the electric car option available in the third generation of models. However, this version is only available in Europe.

What Style Bike Rack Will Fit a Kia Soul?

In choosing the best bike rack for Kia Soul, you must also consider how many bikes you would be carrying and how much security you want for your bike rack. Moreover, you may have to adjust through budgets and take into account the fuel economy involved when riding with a particular style of bike rack. Besides, few bike carriers are easy to install, while some fold down without trouble.

Whichever style or brand you choose, make sure you choose the one that suits your needs. To make sure you choose the best bike rack for your Kia Soul, we have conducted thorough research to review the most sustainable and reliable options in the market!

Through in-depth research, we have concluded that the different generations of models that have been manufactured and produced through the years can fit bike racks that are trunk mount, roof mount or hitch mount. Although the models are each an upgrade from one another, there are no major differences in design or construction that could specifically affect the choice of bike rack.

For a roof mounted bike rack, your Kia Soul must have an installed rack already. Roof mounted bike carriers are versatile as they can carry a wide range of other gears along with your bikes. With hassle free hauling and no obstacle to any of the doors, these bike racks are incredibly stable. However, your little Kia Soul might see some extra fuel use on windy days due to air drag.

Hitch Mount

For your Kia Soul, a hitch mounted can be perfectly compatible for you if you have a tow hitch already attached to your vehicle. If you want a bike rack style that is easy to assemble, good for daily use and has good security, hitch mounted carriers could be a great match. For all that, the price is comparatively higher than a trunk or roof mount.

Trunk Mount

As they vary in size and have easier access to bikes, they are sometimes used as a common bike rack style for Kia Soul. A lot of people don't have an additional rack or hitch system for their wagons. In such a case, the inexpensive truck mount styles are ideal for them.

The downside of such a style when using it with a Kia Soul car is that trunk mounted bike carriers aren't the most stable in terms of swaying. Plus, the rear access is fully hindered.

What Should You Be Aware of When Choosing a Kia Soul Bike Rack?

While the style of the rack and the budget may vary based on how often you use and where you carry your bikes, they can vary from person to person and is more dependent on what feels comfortable to the rider. Nevertheless, there are few factors that you may want to keep in mind and be aware of when choosing the best bike rack for Kia Soul.

Panoramic Sunroof

Few Kia Soul vehicles, especially the latest models can have a panoramic sunroof. In that case, you should always sway away from using a roof top bike rack. A panoramic sunroof is more prone to damage and even sudden cracking if you haul a loaded bike rack onto it.

Avoid Small Trunk Racks

Trunk mount racks vary greatly in size. Always opt for the bigger sized ones even if you are carrying a single bike. Small truck racks, when loaded with bikes, have the potential to damage the paint of the bike.

Moreover, when you use a smaller size for the trunk rack, your bike will be at a worrying distance. The bike might come so close to the rear of your wagon that there would be a risk of contact and severe paint damage. With a bigger sized trunk mount Kia Soul bike rack, you'll never have to face this issue.

Using Hitch Rack with Kia Soul EV

If you are willing to install a hitch on your Kia Soul EV, you may want to find time to thoroughly look into the benefits it will bring, how you should set it up and whether it is allowed in the area you live in. This is because few countries have disallowed the brand's electric vehicle to carry any trailer. Even if a hitch is installed, you might now get to use it.

Besides, the hitch is mounted on panels below the vehicle. In the case of the Kia Soul EV, the panels underneath the vehicles are covered with fairly huge plastics. If you still wish to install a hitch, you might have to make great changes to the underbody of the vehicle.

Best Bike Racks for Kia Soul

Now, let's discuss my selection of best bike racks for Kia Soul so that you can find the best one according to your needs.

Thule ProRide Roof Bike Rack Model 598001 (1 Bike Roof Rack)

When it comes to bike racks, a crowd favorite brand that has built its reputation through the years is Thule. The ProRide Roof bike rack is just another addition to their lost list of premium quality products.

One of the most popular upgrades in this bike rack is the newly designed frame holder capable of positioning itself automatically. Additionally, the torque limiter lets you have complete control over how much you want to tighten the security. This ensures that the bike frame does not have to endure too much pressure and subsequent damage. A bonus, especially if your bike is carbon framed!

The back lined and sleeved wheel straps take seconds to release, and are a much-wanted change in a roof bike rack because of the increased stability they provide. Moreover, this easy to mount bike rack for Kia Soul has cushioned "claw pads'" that allows you to secure several bikes with a range of tube sizes. The primary job of these pads is to distribute any heavy pressure on the frame of the bike.

Key Features:

Incredible security

Padded support to decrease frame damage

Easy installation

Sturdy and stable

Quick mounting and unmounting

Improved claw and lock feature.

The built-in cable locks are not very sturdy.

Thule Apex XT (4 Bike Hanging Hitch Rack)

If loading different-sized bikes for a family outing is on your mind, you might want to envision Thule's Apex XT. Considered one of the best Kia Soul bike racks, this product is designed to carry up to 4 bikes, ranging from smaller bike with 16-inch wheel sizes to bigger ones of 20-inch wheel size.

You can also invest further to have a 5-bike capacity or a swinging 4 bike rack. We love that the large capacity in this bike rack is not compromised with staggering 7' bike spacing.

With a titling HitchSwtich lever, you won't have to worry about rear vehicle access either. Like any other hitch mount bike rack, loading and unloading your bikes is not a breeze. However, the built-in anti-sway cradle and cable locks make sure your bikes are carried about without jerks, damage, and chances of theft, even in the coarsest of roads. Moreover, you won't need any tools or much effort to assemble this easy folding bike carrier in place.

With the stabilizing effects, the ratcheting straps that secure the bike's frames in place are not bulky or interfere during the loading process. If there are women's or children's bikes to be carried, this 4-bike hitch rack is ideal, although you might need an extra tube if the wheel size is too small.

Key Features:

Loading and unloading is not easy

Smaller bike wheels might need an additional adapter

Saris Bones EX 2 Bike Rack (2 Bike Trunk Rack)

The new and upgraded EX version of the original Saris Bones bike rack is specifically designed for vehicles like Kia Soul in mind. The mounting legs are spaced out in a way that they don't touch the spoilers easily. More so, the unique arc shape makes sure there is little to no hindrance caused by the handlebars.

Made with premium, non-rusting materials, this 2-bike trunk mounted rack is versatile in holding fatter tires to thinner ones, with adequate spacing between the bikes as well. If you are worried about all that sea saw movement on the roads, the anti-sway cradles and straps also take care of that issue.

Although the 3 strapping points are an added advantage and only provide more security, it may sometimes seem like there are too many of them.

Since it is a trunk rack bike carrier, you probably already expect some obstruction to the rear view of your vehicle. Even though, the adjustable arms fold down without hassle. Moreover, the same feature ensures you can change the height of the rack frame according to your need.

Key Features:

Maximum capacity: 2 bikes

5 bike spacing

Arc like design

Multiple strapping points

Integrated anti sway straps

Injection molded plastic

Aluminum core construction

Easy mounting

No locking system is available

Straps are bulky and metal clamps at the ends may hit a car when there is jerking

Allen Sports Premier S-102 (Affordable 2 Bike Trunk Mounted Rack)

Allen Sports, an already popular brand making bike carries of the highest quality for a very reasonable price, has designed a trunk mounted bike rack patented set up design.

This design ensures that the already assembled bike Kia Soul bike rack "snaps" into position during installation. This easy to install set up can hold 2 bikes but can be upgraded to have a greater capacity of up to 3 bikes.

Another patented feature is this incredibly strong construction, which is the tie down system consisting of rubber straps and cushioned cradle base. To add, your bikes and Kia Soul is further protected from damages and stretches with the help of the wide profile feet that make sure no point of the rack takes in too much pressure.

Whether it's an adult bike or smaller bikes for kids, this bike rack can hold a wide range of tire sizes. Apart from its super quick set up system, this carrier has a reputation for its affordable price point as well.

Key Features:

Great value for the price

No tool, easy to set up assembly

Durable build

Outstanding security

Great pressure distribution

Can fit many bikes

Rubber straps may come in contact with the bike causing damage

Frequently A

Can I use a single bike trunk rack like Tyger Auto TG-RK1B204B or Saris Solo?

The smaller sized trunk racks look appealing and on top of that are one of the most inexpensive options of bike racks available in the market.

However, it is not advisable to use one because the bike closes in the distance and comes too close to the vehicle. The close distance might result in the bike hitting the vehicle to cause paint damage. A more reliable option is the larger trunk racks, which make sure the bike and car are at a safer distance.

Final Thoughts

When you are researching and surveying the options for the best bike rack for Kia Soul, you'll come across myriads of options. Some with more security features than others, some with sturdier straps and better security.

You may want to buy something more affordable but do not wish to find a middle grown on the indispensable features. For all that, we've reviewed the finest and answered all the possible questions that might sound an alarm while looking for a quality Kia Soul bike rack.
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Best Bike Rack for Kia Soul 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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A Kia soul has an interesting design. It has less capacity than an SUV, but more than any other standard car of its size. While a Kia Soul is a great vehicle if you want the cargo capacity of an SUV coupled with the ease of use and compatibility of any regular-sized car, the space inside this vehicle is not enough to carry a bike, whether it's one or more.

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Best Bike Rack For SUV Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Bike Rack For SUV Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Bike Rack For SUV 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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To make your search for SUV bike rack easier, we’ve narrowed the top SUV bike carriers in the market and listed down the 5 best bike rack for SUVs that we think might interest you.

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Best RV Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best RV Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide

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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

There's a good reason why almost all RV have built-in hitches for racks. Most RV owners love to camp and go for adventures. Often, they turn out to be cycling enthusiasts who need to carry more than one bike over long distances.

Whether you own a motor home or caravan, your trailer hitch or a bumper vehicle is bound to need a rack at some point. While the space inside an RV may seem big enough for keeping a bike inside it, compromising that limited storage space could be annoying. And we certainly don't suggest you do so!

While there are plenty of good options in the market, choosing the right bike rack for RV could make all the crucial difference. The rack you buy must be well matched with the model of your RV and it must also be compatible with your bike sizes.

To make things easier for you, I have picked the 6 best RV Bike Racks based on functionality, price, and durability.

Best RV Bike Rack Reviews

Before you make a final decision, we recommend you scheme through the buying guide I have provided for a better understanding of what factors to consider and what type bike rack is best for your RV.

Swagman Traveler XC2 Bike Rack (Hitch Bike Rack for RV)

If you asked us to pick one hitch mount rack among all the ones in the market, we would probably choose Swagman Traveler XC2 RV Bike Rack. There are too many features in this that make it our top pick out of the 6.

Swagman is so sure about this traveler rack that they offer full lifetime warranty. And we think that reads sheer reliance and confidence in their own product. Additionally, this assembly is very easy to install and constructed with our preferred, powder coated finish. That's what gives it the corrosion free, durable effects.

One of the best features about this Traveler XC2 bike rack for RV is how it can be used as both a hitch receiver mount and bumper mount. On a particular day when you want more visibility on the road, you can place in on the bumper rack of your color.

The versatile Traveler XC2 bike rack comes with a ratcheting arm to more protection, along with a changeable hoop on the wheel hoops. This means you can use it for different sized wheels by just sliding the hoop. There is also a

Can be used as hitch receiver mount or bumper mounted rack

Capacity of 2 bikes, each of 35 lbs.

Ratcheting arm with push button

Corrosion resistant

Adjustable wheel hoop

Easy installation

Versatile use

Durable and corrosion resistant

Dual mount use

Lifetime warranty

Hitch receiver pin has to be bought separately

Camco RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack (RV Ladder Mount Bike Rack)

Camco's new modification on the bike rack for RV delivers some stellar features and for the affordable price that it's available, it surely is a steal. This is our top pick for the ladder mount rack.

The Camco RV Ladder Mount rack is simple to install, and comes with installation add-ons in case you have trouble putting up the piece together. The extra straps will ensure security, as the tight cradles keep your rack in place.

We must remind you to install your rack above the bumper mounted height to avoid damage during close turns. Although the total capacity of this rack might be too low for some, the easy folding and unfolding system of the rack makes it quite a pleasant use.

Capacity of holding two bikes, total of 60 lbs.

Extra Straps for security

Tight cradle system

Installation add on available

Convenient folding system

Affordable

Long lasting

Installation aid added

Easy folding for more space

Security guaranteed

Capacity is low for 2 bikes

Swagman 2 Bike Bumper Mounted Bike Rack (RV Bumper Rack)

When it comes to bike racks, we can trust Swagman's products with our eyes closed. With their Swagman 2 bumper rack, we can say the same.

The simplistic design is a solid, well-made rack constructed with heavy duty steel made to last for years. The painting and powder finish adds more durability, and make this bike rack free of wear and tear.

One of our favorite features of this bumper mounted rack is the steel made U bolts that add extra stability to the rack. The one downside of this efficient rack might be its capacity, as it is capable of holding only two bikes of 30 lbs. each. Apart from that, we should appreciate its handy ability to fit any frame size.

If your RV has a well built, sturdy bumper that can endure the weight of the rack, you may want to go for this affordable RV approved bumper rack.

Capacity of 2 bikes, 30 lbs. each

Steel construction

Paint and powder coated finish

U bolt security

Considerable distance between rack and bumper

Easy to Install

Can fit various wheel size

Durable

Anti-corrosion finish

Capacity is not enough for larger bikes

Swagman RV Deluxe Bike Rack (RV Tire Mount Rack)

By now you must already know that we love Swagman racks. So do their users and we have got reasonable explanation for it. Among Swagman's other feature-rich racks, the Swagman RV Deluxe rack is RV-approved around the spare rack, which has a capacity of 60 lbs. It can carry up to two bikes, and easily fits on 4.5 inch bumpers. As the name suggests, the spare tire is not a hindrance in this case, meaning the back of your RV is free for access.

This deluxe product is our favorite when it comes to tire mount racks. With additional straps to support both bikes, the anti-swaying features make sure both the bike and the rack are stable in place while you drive.

With this rack, Swagman has also included adjustable rubber cradles which you can vary according to the space you want between your bikes. Although this comes with limited warranty, unlike Swagman's Hitch Mount rack, the Tire mount rack requires no additional hitch or bumper. This is one of the most stable and durable options for an RV rack.

Users of this rack love its easy installation process, and durability. We must also mention that this tire mount rack can carry all kinds of bikes with ease.

2 bikes capacity

Rubber straps for security

Adjustable cradles to create space

Bonus Straps available

Anti-sway features

U-bolts included

Durable Product

Easy to install

Increased stability and security

Rear access easy

CURT 18065 Bike Rack Mount (RV Hitch Rack for Large Family)

If you have a big family and each of you own a bike that needs to be carried to your outing spot, then the Curt 18065 large capacity rack might be your best choice. With this RV hitch rack, Curt offers an incredible capacity of 225 lbs., making this rack suitable of carrying 5 bikes.

The star feature of this RV bike rack and one of the reasons why we love is, would be its tapered arm feature. Its tapered arms allow different sized bikes to fit in, making it ideal for use if you have kids' bikes to carry. The changeable rubber cradles ensure no damage is done to the bike frame.

The construction is sturdy and durable, and it is designed to resist rust or corrosion. The stability and security of this bike rack for RV is commendable, as it includes additional reflectors and anti-swaying shanks.

Can hold up to five bikes

Total capacity of 225 lbs.

Powder finish construction

Integrated reflectors

Variable Rubber cradles

Tapered arms for versatile fit of different sized bikes

Incredible Capacity

Hassle free folding

Durable

Rust free construction

Can fit bikes of several sizes

Accessories are expensive

Lippert Let's Go Aero bike Carrier System (For A-Frame Travel Trailer Hitch)

Lippert's Let's Go Aero rack has a unique design, which allows the rack to be installed in the A-frame of your recreational vehicle. With most of the racks, the racks are mounted on the body of the vehicle.

This A-frame travel trailer hitch or bumper is attached by the wheel, which prevents contact between the bikes. The damage or scratch free design is accompanied by PowerTower frame that shields the tongue jack from any kind of damage.

One of the stellar features that set this A-frame trailer part from other carriers is its ability to carry more weight of dual bikes.

A dual anti-sway cradle along with dual lock systems makes this a winner when it comes to adding protection and security to your bikes. The A-frame rack fits several different sized wheels and gives easy access to the rear of your RV. We may add that this rack is pricey in comparison to its counterparts, and it is most suitable for motorhomes.

Large capacity of 80 lbs. for 2 bikes

PowerTower frame for protection

Free access to the rear of vehicle

Foam bumper for protection

Anti-sway Cradles

Innovative construction

Extra security

Anti-wobble features

No contact between bikes

Can fit different size wheels

RV Bike Rack Buying Guide

Before you move on to buy a bike rack for RV, you need to know everything about it to make an informed decision. Let's take you through this discussion in details.

Types of Mount

A bike rack that fits my RV might not be suitable for my friend's RV. This is because all the racks are not built the same. They come is various sizes and shapes. Here is a look at the 5 prime kinds of racks and how each of them work. Knowing the different mount can create a significant difference is making the right choice.

Hitch Mount

Hitch Mount racks work for all kinds of vehicle, including RV. If you are an RV owner, you must be aware of the fact that almost all RVs have integrated hitch with them. Thus, a hitch mount RV bike rack can be installed without additional hassle. These are idea for family outings as they can hold up to 5 bikes. This might also be the reason this kind of rack is the most used when it comes to RV drivers.

The built in locks, anti-sway features and ease of loading and unloading makes it a good choice for a bike rack for RV. Hitch mounted racks come in two styles: platform style mount and hanging style mount. Keep in mind that you will need to purchase a hitch if your RV does not already have one.

Ladder Mount

The ladder at the back for your RV is used for many purposes. One of them is coupling a bike vertically on a rack installed to the ladder. Compared to hitch mount and bumper mount racks, ladder mount are not as widely used as they create bother every time you will need to use that ladder. Additionally, the capacity, in comparison to other types of bike racks is compromised. A ladder mounted bike rack can take up to 2 bikes only.

Bumper Mount

Attached to the bumper of the vehicle, these racks are perfect for you if you are an extra cautious driver. Bumper mounted racks ensure you have full visibility of the road ahead while you are driving and can hold more than two bikes easily.

These are easy to install and leave all the space in the rear of the vehicle for hindrance free access. However, the downside of bumper mounted RV bike rack is that your vehicle and rack would all undergo serious damage if your RV bumper is not sturdy enough. Only steel constructed bumpers are capable of holding enough loads and rattle is a suitable choice as a bike rack for RV.

These kinds of racks are installed at the back of vehicles that comprise of a spare tire. Tire mounted racks work great to keep your vehicle and bikes damage free. You need to keep in mind that a tire mount rack is not the one you would want to choose if your RV does not have a spare tire facility.

A-Frame Mount

A-frame mounts, also known as Tongue mount racks are welded securely into the propane tanks of an RV. Although the position of the rack is fitting if you want to keep an eye on your bike while you are driving, the high position of the rack can be of some disruption, and could mean it would be difficult to load or unload the bike.

Factors to Remember While Choosing the Best RV Compatible Bike Rack

In this section, we will discuss how you will be able to choose the best bike racks for RV based on your needs. Just assess the bike rack against these essential factors, and get the one that suits you the most!

Bike Capacity

The most important question you should be asking to yourself when looking for bike racks for RV is this- How many bikes do I have to carry? If you own one, and plan to go out for friends or family camps with a couple more, you need a rack that has the capacity of carrying up to 4 or 5 bikes depending on your bike sizes.

Quality Materials

The material of your RV bike rack will primarily determine how long your rack lasts, whether it is prone to scraping or cracking easily. We recommend high quality material like stainless steel with powder coating for the construction. This highly durable combination is corrosion and dent resistant.

If you have another friend helping you every time you load or unload your bike on the bike rack for RV, a ladder mount rack may be one of the kinds of rack you would want to consider. If you plan to travel often with your bike hitched RV, it's best you choose something that is easy to reach, unlike ladder mount which is installed at a significant height.

Hitch mount, bumper mount or tire mounts are considerably better options if you need easy access options. Also make sure that the type of rack can carry all the bikes without compromising the storage space.

Affordability

It's easy to get carried away with all the options available in the market, but we don't recommend you to spend too big or too little for all the similar features. Once you properly figure out which rack is perfect for you, you can choose from the pool of options we have presented, some more affordable than the others. A high quality rack from a reputable company will last you years and give you the necessary security without costing you too much.

Installation Process

The installation of racks into your RV isn't something you need to sweat over. The steps of the installation will mainly depend on two factors: what kind of rack you have bought and what is your RV like? Usually a ladder mount rack is easier to install than its counterparts. Each model of rack comes with a user manual that guides you in the installation process. For extra help, you may use tutorial videos and the installation should be a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best brand for RV Bike Rack?

As you might have guessed from our reviews of 6 best bike rack for RV, one of the most trusted brands when it comes to designing top-notch bike racks is Swagman Traveler. They make high quality racks for a number of bikes, with strong and distinctive features. With Swagman bike racks for RV, you will get what you pay for.

Making similarly durable and secured racks are Lippert and CURT. These brands deliver unique features, along with well-built finishes, meant to last for years to come. Camco on the other hand, constructs the best kinds of ladder mount racks with its affordable price range and incredible security features.

Does a bike rack obstruct access to other parts of the RV?

Whether a certain part of your RV is obstructed will depend on bike sizes and the type of rack you have chosen. If you own a bumper mounted rack, the rear part of your vehicle is free, unlike a ladder mount bike rack. With ladder mounts, the ladder is blocked. This means getting to the ladder whenever you want could be frustrating.

While hitch mount racks usually block the rear of your car, the easy folding systems make sure you have access to the back without any hindrance. The spare tire mount, on the other hand, mounts the bikes by the wheel. This means none of the RV parts are obstructed.

Conclusion

When it comes to owning and using an RV, we know that the time on the road is equally important for the rider than the destination itself. Sometime you might spend days, even weeks inside your RV, all the while carrying your bikes along. In that case, a quality RV bike rack becomes indispensable.

We've said it before, we'll remind you again. Choosing the right bike rack for the RV will make all the difference. It keeps your RV and your bike damage free. So, make sure it's a compatible one, and you're set to go off with your bikes.
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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you. There's a good reason why almost all RV have built-in hitches for racks. Most RV owners love to camp and go for adventures.

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Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback Reviews & Buying Guide

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Sure, your bicycle is good enough to carry you long distances. You could travel from your place to your friends, or even go to that race completion near your house. What do you do if you have to carry your bike to a distant picnic area everyone else has decided to meet? How do you drive your Subaru wagon with your bike along with your friends in the trunk of the vehicle? All that rattling and collision is sure to damage both the bikes and even the rear side of your car. Here's where a good bike rack could do more than just carry your bikes safely.

Whether you go for hitch-mounted racks or roof-style bike racks, it is important to invest in a well-designed rack that offers maximum stability and durability. Do keep in mind that the bike racks will not only secure your bikes, it will also prevent damage to your vehicle.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

5 Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback Reviews

I have reviewed and analyzed all types of bike racks, so you don't have to go through hours of research to know how to choose a bike rack for your Subaru Outback.

I have selected the 5 best Subaru Outback bike racks that in my opinion are worth considering right now.

Thule T2 Bike Rack (Hitch Platform)

Considered one of the most popular items among the available ones in the market, the Thule T2 bike rack is ideal for people who own more than one bikes of different size. This bike rack can easily carry two bikes with different wheel sizes, ranging from 20 to 30 inches. With the add-on, up to 4 bikes can fit in safely.

If you and your friends plan outdoor adventures often and have the need to carry multiple bikes, the Thule T2 bike rack will be your star choice for its well-built and stable construction. The frameless ratcheting arm in this bike rack ensures firm security when the vehicle is on the road. You can mount your bike and ride freely without worrying about damaging or displacing the racks for bike's weights.

With enough space between two bikes, the rack is designed to tilt down effortlessly, whenever the trunk of the car needs to be opened. The HitchSwitch lever feature allows this comfortable folding, meaning there is access to more storage space when needed.

The hitch-mounted bike rack is easy to assemble as the attachment is automatic and requires no additional tools. We highly recommend the rocking bike rack, even though we think the locks could be more firm. Designed with rust free steel, this is one of the most durable, heavy duty products you will spend on.

Capable for carrying two 60 lbs bikes

No tool is needed for attachment

Thule T2 add-ons can be attached for two more bikes

Hitch switch lever which tilts smoothly

Operational flexible arm for quick security

24 inch guard locks and knob

Can fit wheels of 20 to 30 inches

Comes with warranty

Can be easily folded for more storage space

Tilts up and down without hassle for easy access to the back side of the vehicle

Fair distance between two racked bikes

Well designed

Easy to use

Simple installation and assembly

If add-ons are attached, capacity increases to 4 bikes.

Costly compared to other racks with similar capacity

The lock is not the best

Yakima Highroad Roof Mounted Bike Rack (Roof Rack)

Yakima has come up with this new design of bike rack in its premium Highroad Mount Bike. As expected from Yakima, they have managed to deliver high quality features with long lasting roof back construction. With easy installation steps that anyone can understand, this bike rack for Subaru Outback can be assembled without the need to additional tools.

This inexpensive product takes one of the top spots in our list of Subaru Outback bike rack because of its flexible and secured features. There will be absolutely no contact of the rack to the car frame, while the ratcheting hitch firmly attaches the rack to the wheels. For further security, this rack comes with double same key system (SKS) locks.

Yakima's Highroad roof rack might be what you need if you own either a painted bike or one which custom fiber. While you can easily get access to the rear of the vehicle because of the faraway lever, it can also be easily folded when not in use. This frees up storage space and makes it perfect for those longer adventures out.

No contact frames

Little to no hatch interferences

Secured TorqueRight knobs

Dual Same Key System (SKS) locks available

Tool free installation

2 bikes capacity

Easy to install

Can be folded in idle state

Great Security

Budget friendly price

Thick cable lock

Not suitable for smaller bikes or kids bikes

Kuat Bike Rack (High Quality)

Kuat has upgraded its already high performing rack to produce its new NV 2.0 bike rack, and we were impressed enough to include it in our toppers. This super durable hitch mount rack is rich in security, stability, and amazing features, similar to its original version.

The design is pleasing to the eyes and includes a built in work stand, making it feasible to use it almost every day if needed. If you are one to race up and down, this work stand works fine. The highly adjustable straps and ratcheting arms makes loading and unloading an easy task. There is even no need for you to bend, as the rack can be moved using a foot pressing lever.

This versatile, platform style bike rack is a winner when it comes to holding firm a wide range of tires. It also comes with an impressive wheel tray that can be adjusted to your need. The locking system is one to mention as it has dual cable locks with great diameter, ensuring a risk free and damage free hook.

This high quality bike rack has great functionality, along with good looks. If you are looking for something that adds beauty to value, something to use often and is security efficient, this is the one for you.

Capable of carrying 2 bikes of 60 lbs each

Hand tight cam system

Built in work stand

No extra tools needed for installation

Adaptable cradle system

Integrated repair tool stand

Efficient locking system

Long and durable straps

Great Value for price

Solid construction

Easy to assemble install

Trouble free loading and unloading

Thule Helium Pro Bike Rack (Hanging Hitch)

The only triple bike carrier in this list of the finest bike racks for Subaru Outback, Thule Helium Pro Hitch Bike Rack is a lightweight, easy to install hanging hitch system. For this one, wheel size will not be of importance as it is a suspension carrier. This is secured and can even work for children's small bikes, given you use a 982XT Thule Frame adapter.

Thule has constructed very steady bike racks with aluminum, at the same time included anti-wobbling features that make this hitch rack greatly sturdy. Thule creates some of the most unique bike racks available in the market, and with this one, they have incorporated a HideAway feature. This feature gives extra steadiness by creating an anti-oscillating effect.

This bike rack allows a 7 inch of space between bikes will mean that the frames don't come in contact at all. To add to the list of impressive features, there is easy folding and unfolding system with the HitchSwitch allowing comfortable access to the back of the vehicle. In case you leave your bike behind, there is enough security for the job including an integrated cable lock.

Capacity of 3 bikes

Hanging hitch carrier

No wobble hitch pin

HitchSwitch lever for easy fold

7 inch space between bikes

Ratcheting strap security

Built in cable lock

Tilt down rack system

Very lightweight for capacity

Easy attachment system

Trouble free folding system

Incredible stability

Unsuitable for carbon fiber bikes

Swagman Hitch Mount Bike Rack (Affordable)

Considered one of the most versatile Subaru Outback bike rack in the market right now, this hitch mount bike rack from Swagman is designed to fit any hitch easily. For the stability of the rack, a flexible ratcheting system sits in place. Taking up a place in my selection of best bike racks for Subaru Outback is this steel constructed rack, for its outstanding locking features and budget friendliness.

The platform rack ensures a worry-free ride for you, as the integrated anti-swaying system holds the rack in place without noticeable wobble. Additional rubber straps for the wheels deliver further protection as it can carry up to two bikes of 35lbs. each. Folding and unfolding for access to the rear area is no issue for this hitch mount bike rack.

The bike rack comes with a warranty and can be installed within minutes without any hassle. If you are looking to keep your budget within limits for a well-engineered, least wobbling bike rack, this should fit your needs just fine.

Capacity of two bikes 35 lbs. each

Steel Construction

Ratcheting hooks

Powder coated rack

Changeable wheel hoops

Anti-wobble system

Comes with warranty

Easy assembly

Considerable steadiness

Great security

Different frames suitable

Convenient rack folding

Affordable

Hitch pin needs to be bought separately

Slight risk of damage from clamp contact

Subaru Outback Bike Rack Buying Guide

You've gone through my hand-picked list of the 5 bike carriers for your Subaru Outback. Now, I suggest you enlighten yourself with the right information. This will help you make the right choice if you still have doubts.

Types of Bike Racks

There are several types of bike racks available in the market. You need to know the correct types to find the one you need.

Trunk Mount Rack

As the name suggests, these bike racks are bonded to the rear of the car with the help of adjustable straps, ratcheting arms and cradles. Among the 3 main types of bike racks, trunk style racks are often the most affordable and can fit most types of bike easily. This type is ideal for someone who rides smoother roads along with their cycles, and has one cycle to carry.

Hitch Mount Rack

These come in two different styles: hanging style and platform style. The higher price range of hitch mount rack is fair for is ability to carry up to 4 bikes, that too on rougher terrain.

While hanging style is better for lightweight use comparatively, the platform style makes loading and offloading easy with outstanding security. Platform style hitch mount like the Thule T2 bike rack is our favorite pick among the best bike racks for Subaru Outback for its stability, easy installation, and abrasion-free features.

Roof Mount Rack

Usually, with a price range between the other two types of bike racks, the roof mount style is a space-saving option. Access to storage rear spaces will be of no problem, as the bike stays secured on top of the wagon. This usually does not sway or damage and has versatile use.

Spare Tire Mount Racks

Subaru Outback comes with the spare tire stored under the floor in the cargo area, so this rack type can not be used with this vehicle.

Considerations To Keep in Mind

How often will you be using the Subaru Outback bike rack? Are you a recreational cyclist or take cycling as a sport. Consider your usage while choosing a bike rack.

What is your budget? Are you looking to make a bigger splash for a feature-rich bike rack or you are just opting for something affordable?

Are you planning to carry more than 1 bike? If yes, how many? Make sure you have an idea of the weight of your bikes before choosing from the best bike rack for your Subaru Outback.

Lastly, find out which kind of bike rack is best suited for your Subaru Outback among the 3 basic types.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of bike rack for Subaru Outback is better - a roof rack or a hitch rack?

Hitch Mount system used in best bike racks are often more expensive but incredibly stable. The hanging cradle style for instance is an option for light cyclists, with lightweight construction and enough space from the ground, although the security isn't as strong when it comes to damages due to contact to the vehicle.

The one type is Platform style which is pricey but sturdy enough for rough rides. You may want to consider this seriously, as platform style hitch mounts is easy to install and remove, and lock protection ensures more security.

Roof rack, on the other hand, is great for long-distance rides and one we recommend if you cycle often and don't mind lifting the bike at the top of your car. This one is more versatile as it can also hold other bags and belongings, it case you are looking for a multipurpose bike rack.

While the locking system is commendable, the anti-wobble construction of the roof rack style prevents additional rattle. We should warn you that removing the rack is not an easy task for this one.

Our choice for an overall, convenient and steady type would be the Hitch Rack platform style.

How many bikes can I carry?

Thule 2 Bike rack can carry 2 bikes without add-ons. With add-ons, it is capable of carrying up to 4 bikes. Thule Helium hanging hitch can carry up to 3 bikes without add ones, while Yakima's roof rack has the capacity of carrying two bikes. Look for bike racks depending on how many bikes you need your car to carry.

Which type of bike rack is better for rocky or rough roads?

A hitch rack with platform style or a roof mount rack, either will be good choices for your rocky adventures.

What is bike rack for Subaru Outback usually made of?

Most bike racks are made of steel and plastic that is UV treated. Other metals like aluminum and titanium are also used. Aluminum is lightweight but steel constructs more durable bike racks. The best racks are often painted with powder coating which prevents any kind of rusting.

Conclusion

Hitch Mounted or Roof mounted bike rack, the best bike rack for Subaru Outback will be hassle-free and incredibly steady. Since the prices don't vary greatly, we do suggest you spend a little more for a Subaru Outback bike rack that ensures most security

I hope the list of my top picks gives you outstanding options: easy to install, simple to remove, and one that does not cause damage while you are on your ride.
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Best Bike Rack for Subaru Outback 2023 Reviews & Buying Guide

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Sure, your bicycle is good enough to carry you long distances. You could travel from your place to your friends, or even go to that race completion near your house. What do you do if you have to carry your bike to a distant picnic area everyone else has decided to meet?

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Best Spare Tire Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Spare Tire Bike Rack Reviews & Buying Guide

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Cycling can be a fun activity rather than just a commute. In cities, we mostly see and use it for commuting from place to place, but there are people that cycle as recreational needs.

You might take your cycle to the seaside or a rural area and cycle in the clear weather. Nothing like cycling with the calm breeze and cool weather. But the problem for most recreational riders is, how do you move around with a cycle if you don't want to be actively riding it while doing so?

This is where the spare tire bike rack comes in. This is a unique hinge system that attaches to the back of your car's spare tire and can easily mount cycles. With a quality spare tire rack like Thule 963PRO Spare Me, you don't have to worry about safely carrying your bike around. The carrier is easy to attach, and some can hold up to three cycles, basically taking care of your family's needs as well.

However, there is an overwhelming number of spare wheel mount bike racks in the market, and the choice can be quite confusing. So how do you choose the best spare tire bike rack? What to look for in a bike rack? Well, we're here to tell you exactly that.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

8 Best Spare Tire Bike Rack Reviews

As I mentioned, it can be quite overwhelming and hectic to go through the list.

Lucky for you, I have made a list of the 8 best spare tire bike racks that you can consider. I have taken adequate measures to identify the best ones that are suited to your needs.

Thule 963PRO Spare Me 2 Bike Spare Tire Bike Carrier (Editor's Choice)

The first one on my list is my rack of choice, the Thule 963PRO Spare Me 2 Bike Spare Tire Bike Carrier. This is an excellent and certainly one of the ​best rear tire bike racks out there in the market. The unique feature of the Thule spare tire rack is that it can fit both regular and oversized tires. The two-arm cradles are designed in such a unique way that they do not sway or wobble. Meaning your bike will remain sturdy and secured no matter how bumpy your car ride gets. Unlike most others, the Thule 963PRO has a bike to rack and rack to spare lock mechanism that provides for all-round protection unseen before.

The rack is designed to hold up to 2 bikes taking the total weight capacity to 75 lbs. Even though the rack has two cradles or arm design, it looks very minimal thanks to its U shape weight distribution mechanism. The result is a sleek and elegant style rack that feels very much part of the car and doesn't stand out much. This can be the right choice for anyone looking for a handy rack at an affordable price.

Rack Features:

Easy mount and dismount.

Has a secure anti-theft mechanism

Made of steel.

Sturdy build.

Portable and lightweight.

Even weight distribution mechanism.

Soft treads for a firm grip on the bike.

Secured with knob mechanism.

The locks are anti-theft.

Limited lifetime warranty if purchased from the official seller.

The weight gets distributed mostly on the lug and the rim, which is not good.

Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack

Here we have a rack Hollywood Racks. Hollywood Racks SR1 has some unique features that compelled us to include this one in our list. When we talk about the best rear tire bike rack, we want some distinct features like easy installation, easy mount and dismount, and minimal looks. The SR1 Spare Tire Rack from Hollywood Racks has exactly that and some more.

The spare bike rack is designed to look minimalistic. On top of that, you won't have to remove the wheel to mount the rack. The rack itself also comes pre-assembled. That means gone are the days of hassle and tussle to set up the mount itself. This one on our list of best spare tire bike rack models is an easy recommendation for the price.

Rack Features

Anti-theft protection

Easy to use.

Works with almost all types of tires.

Suitable for an off-road drive.

Not suitable for e-bikes

No knob system for mounting on the spare.

Hollywood Racks SR-2 Bolt-On Spare Tire Rack

The Hollywood Racks SR2 spare tire bike rack is a bit sturdier in appearance. I say this because it has two distinct tubes teaches to the spare wheel as a support mechanism for the bike. The rack is designed to fit most tires up to 12 inches wide, which basically gives it a place in our best spare tire bike rack list. It can also be folded while not in use, and the secure grip mechanism ensures that your bike is safe while it is mounted and on the go.

Rack Features

Supports up to 35 lbs.

Hand tightened knob means you can secure as per your strength.

Anti-wiggle and wobble mechanism that ensures your bikes are secure even on bumpy roads.

Looks minimal when not in use.

Sporty design

Setting up the rack on the spare is a tiring process.

No anti-theft mechanism for the rack itself.

Allen Sports Deluxe Two Bikes Spare Tire Rack (Budget Option)

The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack is probably the most innovative one considering its price point. What it offers for its price is truly remarkable. The spare wheel rack is basically mounted on heavy cars with large exhausts. Mounting the bikes near the hot exhaust may damage them. In addition to that, taking support from the spare to hold the bikes may damage the spare's rim. Allen Sports also thought about this and introduced a support mechanism that distributes weight on the tire itself, not the rim.

The hands for holding the bike are also positioned at an upward angle keeping the bikes far above the hot exhaust system.

Rack Features:

Innovative patented designs

Even weight distribution systems

Extra-wide bottom foot for better stability

Good enough to fit any bike under 35 lbs. weight limit

Comes with a lifetime warranty

Competitively priced.

Good handling and balance in an off-road scenario.

Perfect for any car that has a standard spare.

Very lightweight.

Easy to mount.

Does not support a spare wider than 12 inches.

Allen Sports Premier 3-Bike Spare Tire Rack

The next one on our list is also from Allen Sports. The unique aspect of Allen Sports Premier 3-Bike Spare Tire Rack is that it is a patent-pending design to fit all sorts of spare tire design. Weighing at just 10 pounds, the rack is exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry around. We recommend this for anyone that has to regularly mount their rack on the spare.

In addition to that, the Allen sports is a family pack given that it can hold up to 3 bikes at one go. For safety and even balancing, it is recommended that you put the heaviest bicycle first and then move in the others. The bike rack also comes with a set of anti-theft and secure fit option that does not let it slide around and bump into each other or the car. Considering the price, this can be a great choice of bike rack for spare tire.

Rack Features:

Easy to mount

Sturdy built

Has dual hands for balanced mount

Foldable hands provide for a minimal look when not in use.

Perfect for family and long haul trips.

Portable and lightweight

Easy to attach with the spare.

Calibrated for balance.

Has an anti-theft feature.

When fully open, it looks a bit bulky.

The rear wiper gets disturbed at times.

SportRack SR2813B Pathway Spare Tire Rack

Sports Rack has truly mastered the art of minimalism with this one. The SR2813B Pathway Spare Tire Rack does not look anything like you'd expect a spare back tire rack to look. The design is sleek, minimal, and pleasant to look at. But that doesn't take away from the fact that this is an absolute bargain of a rack.

Made from solid steel, this rack speaks of durability all around. This rack has one key feature absent on most rigs, yet a convenient and needed one - most of the units available in the market feature a secure anti-theft lock only for the bikes. SportRack SR2813B has an anti-theft lock system for the rack itself when fitted with the spare tire. In addition to that, the bikes are locked on a rotating platform, ensuring a comfortable fit and mount, making the process totally hassle-free.

Rack Features

Soft tire treads for easy grip.

Solid steel build

Limited lifetime warranty

Perfect for long haul rides

Safe and secure.

Balancing the single-arm over the rim can be a bit difficult for first-timers.

Surco BT300 Spare Tire Rack

Are you looking for something solid and rugged that feels heavy duty for your spare tire rack? If that is the case, you definitely should consider the Surco BT300 Spare Tire Rack. The rack itself is made from solid steel that speaks for its durability. Even though it is minimal in looks, the dimension is much thicker. The result is a single-arm rack that can hold up to 3 bikes easily.

The solid, rugged steel is coated with a durable black powder coat. This gives the rack its rugged look as well as better grip. The rack is mounted on the spare with a single knob mechanism, which is sturdy enough to hold it in its place. The mounting plates feature a heavy-duty design that holds the rack and the bikes securely in their place. The plate even has an anti-theft mechanism that securely fixes it with the rack. The overall build quality of this one feels so strong that you can go on long haul rides without a worry. This makes it an easy recommendation for our list of bike racks over the spare tires. You can hardly go wrong with the Surco BT300 Spare Tire Rack.

Rack Features:

Has grip assistance for mounted bikes.

Durable yet lightweight.

Easy to mount

Does not supports spares beyond 2006 models.

YAKIMA SpareRide

When it comes to bike racks, you want your rig to be secure, sturdy, and anti-theft mount. And as you will see, the Yakima SpareRide has all that and some more. This unique spare tire bike rack is designed to be minimal in appearance but effective in usage. The rack can hold up to 2 bikes. The rack is also traded with tire treads for added grip and stability for the bikes.

Yakima has also managed to include their signature SuperCush ZipStrip cradles to allow the bikes' easy mount and dismount. Considering all these features, in my opinion, the Yakima SpareRide is undoubtedly one of the best spare tire bike rack s out there right now.

Rack Features:

Supports up to 2 bikes

Has SuperCush ZipStrip cradles for easy load unload.

Supports bike up to 35 lbs.

Unisex design

Universal spare tire mount plate that fits almost any lug design.

Ani theft mechanism.

Slim and minimal

All-steel build ensures durability.

Secure and balanced holster for bikes.

Easy mount and dismount.

Initial setup requires technicality.

The bike weight support is limited to 35 lbs.

Over Spare Tire Bike Rack Buying Guide

Now you know which are the best spare tire mounted bike racks in my opinion. I would like to share some of my insight into what you should consider while buying a spare tire bike rack.

As you will see, it is not as simple as heading over to Amazon and ordering the one that pleases your eyes. There is more than meets the eyes when it comes to the are the ​best spare tire bike racks. However, all you need to do is understand the following.

Spare Tire Bike Rack Types

It is essential to understand what type of bike rack do you want for your spare. This is a crucial determiner when it comes to making a purchasing choice. Two types of spare tire racks are used abundantly, and it all comes down to the size of the spare tire.

If the spare tire's size is small, it is suggested that you use the bolt-in rack with a single-arm design. This helps the rack to get extra support from the rear door as well as the spare. But if your spare tire is a large one, you can definitely consider getting the frame with straps as it will help distribute the weight evenly and gain support from the tire and rim.

Before buying a spare tire bike rack, you also need to understand how many bikes you are gonna use it for. This is an essential determiner because most bike racks come in with either a 2 or 3 bike capacity. Each rack can hold up to 35 pounds taking the total weight count to nearly 100 lbs.

You should understand what size and how many bikes you want to be mounted in your spare tire and choose the rack accordingly.

Bike Security

Bike security is another vital aspect that you should be considering while making a rack purchase. Imagine getting a rack that doesn't provide enough protection, and your bike gets stolen. Now you surely don't want that do you?

Thankfully, most bikes come with anti-theft and secure lock mechanisms for added security. Still, be sure to check the rack that you're buying has your desirable security measures on or not. You should be aware that built-in security will not fully prevent the theft of your bicycle. You may need to look into additional methods of locking your ride to the bike rack.

Budget is also another critical aspect that is on everyone's consideration. Depending on the number of bikes you need to carry, the budget will vary. However, try to find a balance between usability and money while choosing your desired rack.

Ease of Installation

For most people, a spare tire rack isn't something that you keep mounted for long. This is something that you mount and unmount as per your need. Considering the frequency of mounting and unmounting, you might opt for a rack that has an easy installation procedure.

While selecting a rack, you should see whether they are durable and lightweight and their assembly and mount process. They act as a key determinant factor in the long term comfort of using the product.

Advantages

While selecting the bike rack for the spare tire, you should seek whether the advantages are in your favor or need. You need something that will provide you with superb usability and provide you with value for money. So before selecting one, do consider their advantages.

Just like the advantages, you also need to consider the downsides of your desired product. If it does not fit your requirement criteria or if it doesn't provide you with better value for money, then you should definitely skip it for another one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to get a spare tire bike rack for my vehicle?

There are multitudes of reasons why you should get a spare tire bike rack for your vehicle. The most obvious one is carrying around your bike from one place to another.

But not just that, a bike rack will ensure that you don't have to dismantle the bike or put it in your back seat. This saves tons of extra space. A bike rack also ensures that you won't accidentally scuff your car or the bike, providing you with safe transportation throughout.

What type of spare rack is best for my vehicle?

The answer to this particular question lies within your own car. Depending on the spare and your car's size, you should select the rack that best suits your needs.

It can be a bolt-in design or the strap design. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits perfectly in your car and your bike.

Will this type of rack suit my bike?

The answer to this one depends on the type of bike that you own. If you own an electric bike, rest assured most spare tire bike racks won't support it. The racks are designed for bikes that are traditional with standard poles and pipes. It even carries a weight limit of 35 lbs.

So before going out to purchase a rack, be sure to be thorough about your bike's specifications to determine whether it'll be a perfect match or not.

Does Saris offer a spare tire bike rack?

No, there are no spare tire racks manufactured by Saris.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks, my full in-depth look into the best bike racks for SUV with spare tire available on the market. I tried to be as comprehensive as possible while selecting my top pick - the Thule 963PRO Spare Me. Rest assured, no matter which one you go for, you won't be disappointed.

I hope the buying guide will also help you make a better purchase of racks. Tire mount bike racks are an essential item whose need isn't felt until one day you actually need it. They can come in pretty handy if you often travel on your bike or have kids that need their bikes transported from one place to another.

Whatever needs it may be, we hope you're happy with your next purchase and make full use of the ease of transportation provided by it.
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In this article, we got you covered with our best pick and everything there is to know about bike racks for car with spolers!

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Best Truck Bed Bike Rack Reviews and Buying Guide

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Best Truck Bed Bike Rack Reviews and Buying Guide

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Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or love to experience Mother Nature, bike riding is one kind of passion for you. But, unluckily, most trail trips require a truck driving to taste of it. Some individuals may think throwing the bikes in the back of a truck bed is fine.

But truck bed without rack is nothing but total damage to your bikes. While you're driving on rugged roads, there is a massive probability of jingling your bikes with one another. Most probably, this makes a disturbing sound that will be more uncomfortable and even unbearable. Also, you might end up getting scratch on your bikes or pilling of your truck's paint. Fortunately, truck bed bike racks come in handy to provide us a proper solution to this problem.

Thankfully, several popular brands offer multiple bike racks designed to haul bikes on the surface of a bed truck. In this article I have selected 5 Best Truck Bed Bike Racks that can satisfy you. Since I have made it through in-depth research, these top products can fulfill your demands. Additionally, I have mentioned three types of mounts to expand your choice list. Without further ado, let's move on to our review portion and find the best bike rack for the truck bed!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases made through links in this post at no extra cost to you.

Best 5 Truck Bed Bike Rack Reviews

If you frequently plan to go on trailing trips with a couple of friends or solo, you should choose a high-quality bike rack to take an incredible feeling of your adventures. The best truck rack comes with some excellent features, though they differ from one another. Buy an overall good product is a great move to transport your bike on the truck bed. Since you're using it to load your expensive bikes, it's a better idea to invest in buying the best product.

Otherwise, it can hamper your cycles and cause a significant loss. A bike mount helps you take your bike anywhere but also protects your bike and truck. It's a great way to haul one or more bikes without any damage. You don't have to worry about sudden stops or force since this bike rack firmly grips your bikes.

In other words, the most secure way to hold bikes on the tailgate trucks. It provides the facility to store additional equipment like RV, camper, or small trailer when you're not using it or keeping it in the garage to hold other gears. A must-have accessory if you are an outdoor enthusiast.

In this section, let's discuss the top 5 best truck bed bike racks I have selected for you.

Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack (Wheel Mount)

If you're looking for a strong and quickly assemble truck bed bike rack, you can go for the Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack. This bike can hold up to four bikes in your tailgate truck without detaching your bike's front wheel. So, you don't have to face extra hassle. Moreover, it doesn't require any tools to assemble it and a lockable cable comes with the product.

This bike load saver is suitable for 54.5 to 66.5 inches wide beds and you can prolong it from 60.5 to 72.5 inches by using a full-size spacer. In an overall view, if you want an excellent combination of natural scenery and exercise, this bed rack can be perfect for you.

Design and Quality

This truck bed bike rack is made of steel material and offers anti-scratch truck paint. A soft-padding layer is attached to protect the bike finish. This truck bed rack provides additional advantages to use away from the truck as a standalone bike rack.

If you plan to go on a trip with multiple bikes and want to keep them secure, Heininger Automotive can provide you all facilities. This bed bike will attach tires up to 27 inches and appropriate for 2.5 inches in width. The added advantage is its adjustable spacers that haul up many bikes in one place without removing wheels.

The weight is approximately 8 ounces

Fits with most truck beds

Measures 31 x 27 x 6 inches

Includes 72 inches locking mechanism·

Compact in size

Not ideal for some of the bed liners

Bike Rack needs straps

Thule 822XTR Bed-Rider Truck Mount (Fork Mount)

Thule 822XTR Bed Rider is one of the top products among its market competitors. This fork mount rack comes with quick release skewers, which you have to adjust on the single-side. This adjustment ensures stable and secure bicycle transport.

This bike bed rider includes 3 Thule One-key lock cylinders to fit the bikes to the carrier and the carrier itself to the truck. If you want to mount many bikes, you can purchase Thule locking bed-rider add-on block separately.

Design and Quality

Thule Bed Rider comes in aluminum telescoping bar and rubber feet, which holds the carrier on the side rails of the tailgate pad pickup truck without drilling holes. Since it's a fork mount bed rider, you will need to remove the front wheel.

This fork mount Thule bed rider doesn't appropriate for a 135mm large hub. It can haul up two bikes in its 9mm swift-release style fork mount. Moreover, this rack features a One-Key lock system. So, it perfectly secures your 2 bikes when hanging your dual crown fork over the tailgate pad.

The measurements are 50.3 x 4 x 4 inches

Available in silver color

It weighs 9.25 Pounds

Strong and Light

Not compatible with rail type bed liners

INNO RT201 Truck Bed Bike Rack (Side Mount)

If you're looking for a space-saving truck bed bike rack, you can explore this bed rail rack. INNO brand comes with an RT201 bike rack that will help you transport your bikes using a pickup vehicle. The economic design accommodates you to mount the bike to your truck's bedside rail without any drilling or bolting.

The package includes two mounts, a couple of D-rings, and ratcheting holders. You can quickly secure your bike by maintaining enough cargo space in your truck's flat surface with all these things. INNO manufacturers offer another model, the INNO RT202 Bike Rack for Pickup Truck with C-Channel Track Systems.

This model is a lightweight rack that comes with a space-saving design, freeing up 90% of your tailgate truck bed to carry other arsenals.

Design and Quality

The blend material makes the rack durable to hold your bikes in the bed tightly. Additionally, this truck bike rack is manufactured to carry any bike in the bed of most tailgate pickup truck-the adjustable rods aid in storing the bike securely by its front fork.

The convenient part is that you don't have to eliminate the front wheel. The INNO truck is extremely versatile, offering a secure mount for heavy-duty applications. This side clamped bed rail rack protect your bikes from sliding when you're riding on bumpy roads. Moreover, you can install it quickly and easily than other similar bike racks.

The weight is about 4 pounds

Includes all essential components

Measures 12.5 x 10.3 x 2.7 inches

Hassle-free operation

Offers bike mounting in both inside and outside of a tailgate truck

Easy to install

Well-built and lightweight

Holds the bike firmly, with no movement

Budget-friendly

There is a possibility that clamps can scratch your bikes

Thule Insta-Gater Bike Rack (Wheel Mount)

If you need a solution to prevent your bikes from the paint pilling off while loading them in the pickup truck, Thule Insta-Gater Carrier can give you a stable solution. This truck bed bike mount offers complete security as it holds the bike by grabbing the front wheel.

The product is made for 20 to 29 inches wheel diameter and fits in most cases up to 3 inches wide tires. You can conveniently load and unload the bike by rising and lowering the ratcheting arm above the wheel. If your bike's tailgate pad is 51 inches or greater than that, you can utilize it for up to 3 instigators. On the other hand, up to 2 instigators can be used with tailgates 34 inches or more than that.

Design and Quality

This rack Thule is made of steel with a vinyl-coated finish makes it enough sturdy and durable. Thule One-Key lock cylinder is available for grappling the bike to the tailgate truck rack. It offers the easiest and quick installation in your pickup. You don't have to drill or bolt to assemble it means hassle-free operation.

The Thule rack comes with one 501 Insta-Gater racks, two-arm bearing halves, one hook for a short ratchet arm, a locking ratchet arm, one bearing clamp, 10 Philips screws, and two molded straps. All you get in one package, so you don't need to buy anything separately. A guide manual is attached to assemble it correctly.

Can't lock on the truck bed until the tailgate pad lifts

A little bit pricey

Saris Kool Truck Bed Mount Rack (Fork Mount)

Saris Kool comes with two-bike carrier racks with swift release skewer levers on fork blocks. This truck bed bike rack can be mounted forward or backward a little to keep each bike's handlebars from jingling into one another. Whatever you're hauling, you can use it to secure them.

This fork mounted bike rack fits truck bed sizes from 50 to 74 inches perfectly. It has a built-in adjustable hydraulic pump with a pressure-release valve. You have to push the release button simply to free the bike rack. While the valve extents protect your truck bed walls, the pressure pump holds the bike rack in one place.

The significant difference between fork-mounted and other frames is that fork mounted rack doesn't require to sit on the top of the truck bed rails. This feature makes fork rack a versatile load stopper.

Design and Quality

This full-size truck mount bike is built with 100% recyclable and non-rusting materials, so wholly environmentally friendly. It includes pivoting rubber pads that will adhere to most surfaces or bed-liners. Moreover, the feet region axel to contour to truck bed walls.

Though this rack comes with two fork mounts, you can attach additional mounts, sold separately. These truck beds can also be used to secure your pickup from sliding around the tailgate truck bed. The installation process is quite simple. Just use your bike's quick-release to strip off your onward tire, put the forks in the blocks, strengthen them down, and it's done.

Cons:

Difficult to fit with through axel quick-release bikes

Essential Factors to Consider Before Buying (Buying Guide)

While choosing a truck bed rack, you need to appraise some essential features and make sure that the must-have qualities do not compromise in any way. You should pay attention to the product quality rather than the cost. Because an inferior product not only a huge loss, but it's also an extra nuisance. Here we are mentioning some crucial factors that you should think about before purchasing a mounted bike.

3 Mount Types

To find the best bike rack for truck bed for your needs, you should consider its mount type. Most importantly, you have to focus on which kind of truck bed you have and what kind of mounting fits your bike. In our article, we have reviewed three different types of truck bed bike racks:

These three come with various amenities. Try to pick one that flawlessly meets your needs.

Wheel Mount

This kind of mounting doesn't require drilling or bolting. All you have to do is attach the front wheel of your bike to the bed rack. Suitable for holding heavy-loads and offers three to four bikes holding capacity. If you just want to stow two or three bikes into the back of your bed and promptly cross the trails, this one can be a perfect option for you.

The fork mount probably requires drilling into the truck's bed to secure rack to your truck. Most remarkably, you have to remove the front wheel of your bike to fit with the bike rack. Though this fork rack offers a hassle-free operation, it needs a little bit of time for installation rather than a wheel mount. These types of bike racks secure your bike with a thru axel and keep your bikes tightly while bouncing on bumpy roads.

Side Clamped

Another available option is side clamped. You can install the carrier at any side of your truck bed without sacrificing precious cargo space. It can fit with any size of the bike as it comes in an adjustable feature. Moreover, it has built-in D-rings that offer tie-down points. A simple and hassle-free installation and doesn't need any drilling.

Number of Bikes

The number of bikes is another vital point that can't be avoided. In other words, this feature depends on your requirements, how many bicycles you want to haul into your truck bed rack. Some offer four bikes holding capability, while a few bike carriers are compatible with two bikes.

It is important to remember that the width of your truck bed is an important factor that will limit the number of bicycles you will be able to transport in your truck.

Besides, a wide range of bike racks come with a one bike mounting capacity. Suppose you often love to ride with your friends or family members; you have to consider a mounted bike that can easily attach multiple cycles or even come with the facility for integrating additional holders. Choose a suitable tailgate rack that can provide enough space for maximum storage.

Permanent or Temporary Installation

A bike rack can be installed permanently or temporarily. If you want to store your bikes more securely, you can accommodate the permanent installation. For this set-up, you have to place your bike in the exact spot and measure it correctly. Then remove the cycle from the installation spot and drill holes according to your bike's specifications.

Since you're installing the rack permanently, you don't have to face extra hassle while going on a trip. If we talk about temporary installation, this one is the easiest and convenient operation for your transporting. The quick installation offers you to utilize your truck bedside for multiple purposes.

Whenever you want to haul a bike on trucks bed, you can install it. After that, when you don't need it, you can remove it quickly. Since trucks are designed for heavy-duty applications, it's not better to use it only for carrying bikes.

Bike Protection

Some load carriers can damage your bike while riding on bumpy roads. It would be best to pick one that comes with straps and cable-lock to grip your bikes firmly. Moreover, your tailgate rack should be adjustable and have a proper distance between each mounting to prevent scratching.

To avoid this problem, you can place your bikes in a convenient place where they aren't clinging to each other. Using paint protection film can be another good move for bike protection.

Bike Security

If you have to leave bikes in your absence, bike security is an essential factor. Tighten your cycles with carriers by using a strong cable lock so that any potential someone can't steal your bike and rack.

Some truck bed bike racks come with useful locking features that help protect your bikes from unpredictable conditions. Make sure to lock your bikes properly if you need to leave that place for any critical reasons.

Additional Functions

Though it generally holds bikes, it can be used for other functions. You can utilize this tailgate rack to secure your truck bed linings by giving it sufficient force. In other words, we can say it a support bar.

Not just during the transport, you can utilize it to hold your bikes while keeping in the garage. Since you can secure your bikes from scratching or jingling, bike rack can be a suitable carrier for other considerable gears.

Ease of Storage

Choose a lightweight and compact size yet strong that you can stow easily while you're not using it. Most popular models come in space-saving design and provide you with complete freedom when installing the rack into the truck bed. It's not a good idea to keep it on the truck all the time, so pick one that serves you the ease of storage.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do you transport a bike in a truck bed?
Trucks are generally designed to haul heavy loads. If you plan for trail riding and want to carry a bike in your vehicles' bed, you need an effective solution to avoid damaging your bicycle scratches. You should check out my guide to transporting bikes in the pickup truck.

Conclusion

There is no doubt that many bike racks are now readily available in the current marketplace. Finding the right rack among them is a challenging task. Moreover, they provide different excellent features. As everyone has individual requirements, it's natural that their needs can vary.

By reviewing multiple bike carriers' models, I have come up with the five best truck bed bike racks for your convenience. I have also included some essential features that you should give into account before purchasing. I am sure you will find a suitable truck rack for your upcoming trail riding!
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