Whether you’re a casual trail rider or are preparing for your next race, everyone who owns a bike could benefit from an accessible, easy-to-use bike rack. Hitch bike racks, in particular, make accessing your bike more efficient as you only have to lift your bike from the back of your car rather than get it off the top of your car roof.
With so many hitch-style bike racks available on Amazon, finding one that’s high quality and within your price range can be difficult. Read on to learn about details to consider when choosing the right hitch rack for you — as well as a list of the best hitch bike racks to make hitting the trail that much easier.
Hitch Receiver Size
Make sure to consider the size of your vehicle’s hitch receiver. While some hitch bike racks are universal and can accommodate a variety of different hitch sizes, others are size specific.
Bike and Weight Capacity
Depending on your needs and the number of cyclists in your family, you’ll need to take into consideration the bike and weight capacity of your hitch rack. While many racks on this list offer ample space for up to four bikes, others offer space for just one or two. Additionally, if you tend to ride with a heavy pack, make sure your rack can handle the extra weight capacity.
Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Rack
With space for up to four bikes, this hitch rack is designed for 2-inch hitches and is an ideal option for those who are off cycling with the family or a few friends. With an individual tie-down system each bike is secure and protected in a fixed position.
This hitch has a weight capacity of up to 160 pounds, and the folding carry arm accommodates a wide range of frame sizes and shapes. The rack tilts, and allows you to access your truck or SUV without having to remove the bikes. This bike rack is also available in a lockable version if you’re looking for something with a little more security.
Reviewers mention that this bike rack is comparable or higher quality than some of the bigger brand names. Another reviewer who has had this bike rack for three years and kept it on the car the entire time, reports that the quality has not deteriorated.
Thule T2 Pro XT 2-Bike Rack
Available for both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches, this bike rack from Thule comes in either black or silver. With space for two bikes, the rack tilts down and lets you access your trunk without having to remove the bikes. The included ratcheting arm allows you to secure your bikes without frame contact, preventing any damage to your bike’s paint or overall structure.
With a 7-inch clearance between the bikes, this bike rack prevents the frames from banging against each other when the driving terrain gets rocky. A receiver and bike lock are included with this unit which offers you peace of mind when you park the car and walk away.
Reviewers mention that this bike rack is well built and easy to install and load, although another reviewer warns the rack is heavy, and may take an extra set of hands to put together. Reviewers also say that though this bike rack is on the more expensive side, it’s well worth the investment.
Overdrive Sport 4-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack
Designed for a 2-inch hitch, this 4-bike rack from Overdrive is made of powder-coated steel and can hold up to 240 pounds. An anti-wobble mechanism is included that prevents movement between the receiver and the bike itself.
The bikes are held in place by padded clamps that protect your bike’s frame from dents and scratches. A quick-release lever allows you to tilt the rack up when it’s not in use and back down when you need to access the trunk.
Reviewers mention that this bike rack is heavy duty and highly customizable for a variety of different size bikes. The bike rack is easy to assemble, but once it’s in position, it may be a bit difficult to remove it.
Kuat Transfer Universal 2-Bike Hitch Mount
This 2-bike hitch mount from Kuat is compatible with both 1.25 and 2-inch hitch receivers and fits bikes with 20 to 29-inch wheels. This model is a smaller, more low-profile bike rack that can still support up to 80 pounds.
The rack doesn’t have any contact with the bike frame, so you won’t have to be worried about any bumps or scratches.
Reviewers mention this is a high-quality rack that is “simply the best” and fits compactly against the rear end of the car. One reviewer mentions that when the rack is folded it doesn’t obscure your license plates as similar products do.
RockyMounts Monorail Solo Platform Hitch Rack
If you’re riding solo expeditions, check out this single platform hitch rack from RockyMounts. Compatible for both 1.25 and 2-inch hitch receivers, this rack can be expanded to fit a second bike and can carry a maximum of 90 pounds. The rack sits compactly against your car and tilts up to 30 degrees to allow for trunk access.
Reviewers mention that this bike rack lives up to expectations and is easy to assemble and use. The rack stays secure on bumpy roads, keeping your car and bike safe and scratch-free. That said, one reviewer found the locks to be cheap and plastic rather than secure and heavy-duty.