It is challenging for some people to live without riding their bike every day, and it might be for fun or workout reasons. Whatever the reason doesn’t matter, your riding routine will always get interrupted when going for a road trip.
You can find the best hitch bike rack in the market to carry your bike anywhere you go. So, your daily routine will never get interrupted because of an on-road trip in your car.
Two types of bike hitch racks are available, and both can be used in different ways to carry the bike on the back of your car. Besides, the two types of bike racks include platform model racks and hanging models.
Finding the right hitch rack to keep your bike together with you will be confusing from this vast amount of products available on the market. So, to help you with that, here are some of the most appreciated and well-built bike hitch racks available out there.
Table of Contents
Best Hitch Bike Racks
1. Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack
- 2 Bike capacity up to 60 lbs. each
- Holds wheelbases up to 48” and tires as large as 4.8”
- Adjustable front tire cradle system
- Fully integrated cable locks
- No-tool install with hand tight hitch cam system
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for a simple bike holder that can hold two bikes easily on the back of your car while you are on the road? Then this bike hitch rack from Kuat is the product that can satisfy your needs.
Besides, this product is considered the best hitch bike rack to be used on the back of your car or any vehicle you prefer with ease. It has the ability to hold two bikes that has a wheel of up to 48,” and that makes it able to carry the tires up to 4.8″.
The front tire cradle system available on this rack is straightforward to use and can be adjusted easily so that the bike’s front end will not hang around loosely on the back of your car, which means no scratches on your car bike itself.
You don’t have to worry about the bike’s stability on this rack because of the powerful grip provided by the integrated cable locks on the rack. After all, you will never have to use any extra toolkit to install and detach this product from wherever you want to use the rack.
- It has an adjustable front cradle system that will keep the front end stable.
- The rack can carry two bikes easily at the same time.
- No tools are needed for the installation and uninstallation.
- Integrated cable locks will secure the whole bike.
- The product is a little expensive
2. YAKIMA Holdup Hitch Mount Tray Bike Rack
- Load your bike in seconds whether it's a 20-inch wheel or a 29er.
- Tilts down with bikes loaded so you can access the back of your vehicle.
- Carries 2 bikes out of the box, or 4 bikes with optional HoldUp +2. 1-1/4" or 2" Hitch Receiver.
- Side-to-side adjustability to adjust space between bikes.
- SKS Locks included for added security.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another bike rack model that holds the bike by the wheels instead of the frame, and it has locks for the upper part of the bike. First of all, the wheel lock system is more secure for your bike and the vehicle it carried on.
Because the wheels will be locked, which means the whole handle system and other moving parts like the chain system will be locked securely onto the rack. Altogether you get a safe and comfortable ride in your car without fearing the scratches that they can cause.
Your bike may have 20 or 29-ich tires that do not matter on this rack. The strong arms design of this rack will keep your bike safe without wobbling around in the rack. By using these wheels locking, it provides more care to frame and paints works of the bike.
Besides, you can tilt the rack in the opposite downwards direction with the help of the strong joint area it has, even if it is loaded with multiple bikes. The preferred amount of bikes are two, but you can carry four of them to keep them safe without touching each other.
- Very easy to install and uninstall the rack
- Side-to-side space adjustability offers more space and keeps the bikes safe.
- You can load bikes with any size of tires.
- There are locks to hold the upper part of the bike safe.
- The lock cable is not long enough for some models of bikes.
3. Kuat Transfer 2 Bike Rack
Another bike rack that can hold up to two bikes is the Transfer 2 model hitch bike rack from Kuat. This can be your best rack for the money as this model from Kuat comes at a very affordable price.
The rack can hold bikes with 20 to 29" tires easily without any risk or negative sides. Besides, the rack is designed to hold two bikes in different directions that means the front end of one back will be parallel to the back end of the other one.
It is a great way to minimize the possibility of the two bikes touching each other and getting scratched all over the paint in bumpy road circumstances. In addition, the special slots for the tires will keep the bike firmly on the rack.
Moreover, the rack is equipped with locks capable of keeping the bike locked without scratching any part of it.
- Multiple bikes can be carried around on this rack.
- The price is very affordable compared to some other brands with the same features.
- You can tilt the rack easily, even if the bikes are loaded.
- The material might not be the same as the expensive models.
4. Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack
- Easy to assemble
- Worry-Free Security
- Bike rack tilts down to allow access to the rear of the vehicle effortlessly.
- Easily transports up to 2 bikes and is compatible with a Class 2 or higher.
- Maximum weight capacity of 45Ibs, per bike.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another affordable bike rack that can also be considered the best hitch bike rack is this CHINOOK model from the Swagman brand. First of all, the rack is effortless to carry around in your car when it is not in use.
It is because of the straightforward procedures that have to assemble and disassemble this product. You can effortlessly access the vehicle's rear end by bending the rack even if the rack is loaded.
So, you don't have to go through unloading and loading the bikes again to access the trunk of your car. Besides, the rack's adjustable locking system will keep the bike securely and safe from each other.
Almost all frame sizes and shapes can be used on this rack without worrying about the strength because the rack is made with a pretty reasonable and strong.
- It has an affordable price tag.
- It can bend over along with the loaded bikes.
- The product is straightforward to assemble without any complex way or tools.
- The pins will get stiff inside the rack release region.
5. Vibrelli Bike Hitch Rack
- Easy Tilt Down & Fold Up
- Triple Lock Security - Three locking mechanisms to keep your bikes extra secure.
- Includes Safety Strap - Feel confident with your precocious cargo.
- Patented Anti-Wobble Hitch - Locks the rack to the hitch receiver to reduce movement.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Here is a bike rack that can hold any bike that includes e-bikes too, and the rack can hold up to two bikes at a time. So many things make this product special for bikes.
You can easily tilt down the rack to open the trunk and fold up without any problems, even if the rack is fully loaded up to the maximum capacity. That means you don't have to worry about any damages to the bikes or the car.
The center bar with two locks on both sides will support the bike's upper part while the wheels are locked to the rack. These wheel locks make the bikes safer, and the frame or other painted parts will never get scratches with the touching rack parts.
Besides, this hitch bike rack is equipped with a triple lock system that will give your valuable companion more support and safety. Finally, none of the body parts, including the bikes' tires, will get scratched with the ratchet straps' help.
Still not satisfied with this SUV rack option? Read here, we have covered the best bike racks for SUVs.
- The triple lock system provides more safety to the bike and the vehicle it carries the rack.
- All the movements are reduced with the use of Anti-wobble-hitch.
- You can easily tilt and fold up the rack without any difficulty
- The price is affordable compared to some other brands.
- The built quality may not satisfy like the expensive models.
6. Hollywood Racks HR1400 Hitch Bike Rack
- Weight limit – Max 50 lbs. per bike
- Features patented "No Wobble-No Tools" hitch tightening system
- Easily fold the rack flat against the car when not in use, or tilt it down for easy cargo door access.
- Not to be used on any trailer, fifth wheel, or towed vehicle.
- Includes keyed-alike locking hitch pin with 8' security cable to prevent rack sway, and locking frame hooks to deter theft.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You may have more than two bikes to carry around if you are a professional rider or other people to travel with you. In that case, you need a hitch bike rack that can hold more bikes simultaneously.
That itself made this bike rack alongside the quality to be the best hitch bike rack for your car or truck. All your bikes will be firmly locked and secured with the help of a locking hitch that is pinned with the 8" security cable.
And this 8" cable is responsible for the stability of the bike holders in the rack. That, along with the frame locks for the bike's upper side, will never allow the bikes to wobble around.
Besides, you don't need any tools to install or remove the rack to and from the vehicle, and the rack can be easily folded flat when not in use. This makes it easy for you to keep the rack safe and out of the way and don't have to worry about the problems that may cause on the road.
- our bikes can be carried around on this bike rack.
- Easily foldable and can keep it flat when not in use.
- An 8″ lock cable is provided for more stability of the bikes in the rack.
- The locking frame system will keep the upper body of the bike stable alongside offers security from theft.
- The sliding cradle adjustment on this rack might be a little difficult for the first time.
7. Thule T2 Pro XT Platform Hitch Bike Rack
- Dimensions: 54 x 15 x 43 inch | Folded dimensions: 54.7 x 22.5 x 33.8 inch.
- A Tool-free Auto Attach system makes it easy to install and remove.
- Secure bikes quickly without frame contact with the frame-free ratcheting arm.
- Rack tilts down for rear of vehicle access and folds up when not in use.
- Ideal for carbon frames, mountain, downhill, e-bikes, and fat bikes.
- Max bike weight: 60 pounds | Load capacity: 100 pounds.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Thule is one of those brands well known for the high-quality bike racks of all kinds. And this T2 Pro XT platform bike rack is one of those products made of high-quality materials and advanced features.
First of all, what makes this rack the best hitch bike rack is the platform it has for locking up the bikes. It offers a great base for the bikes, and the rack is straightforward to install and remove from the car without any tools.
Besides, the 12.5-inch distance between the bikes on this rack makes sure that the bikes are not touching each other, and you can bend the rack to get space between the car and the bikes to open the trunk without removing the bikes or the rack itself.
Moreover, the rack can work perfectly with any frame material without worrying about scratching them, and the rubber locks provide an efficient grip to hold the frames and wheels.
- This provides a great base to hold the bikes.
- Frame locks are available to keep the upper part of the bike stable.
- The 12.5-ich space between the bikes is very spacious.
- Any bike with any frame material can be loaded on it.
- It is expensive because of the high-quality build and materials.
8. Bell Rightup 250 Platform Bike Hitch Rack
- Easily adjusts to carry 2 bikes from 20" to 29" with tires up to 4" wide
- Fits 11/4" and 2" receivers
- Padded hooks and straps stabilize bikes
- Folds up when not in use
- Maximum 35 lbs per bike (70 lbs total)
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Another platform model hitch bike rack that can be considered the best is this Rightup 250 model rack from the Bell brand. First of all, this one is also a rack that can hold two bikes simultaneously.
The rack can hold the bikes with tire sizes from 20" to 29" that are equipped with tires of size up to 4" without any difficulties, and the receivers of sizes 11/4" and 2" are compatible with this bike rack.
Besides, the rack has all kinds of locks and straps to keep the bike on the rack all stable and firm so that the bikes and the vehicle it carries the whole system will not get scratched.
And as you might expecting, this rack also can be folded to a level so that it will never become a problem in your doorway if you need to open the trunk of your car. So. this product is eligible to be considered in the list of products you may look forward to.
- All kinds of bikes can be loaded.
- Very easily adjustable and built with enough space
- Padded hooks and straps are available to keep the bike stable.
- You can fold the rack when not in use.
- The product is expensive when compared with some other racks.
9. Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
- Easy To Assemble & Use
- Keeps Your Bike Stable
- Saves You Storage Space
- Easily transports up to 2 bikes and is compatible with 1-1/4" and 2" receiver Hitch.
- The maximum weight capacity is 35Ibs per bike and fits 20" to 29" tire sizes.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Are you looking for a bike rack that has the simplest look from all these products we went through? Then this Swagman XC2 is the best hitch bike rack for you without any doubt.
If you are running on a tight budget, then never look back again because this is one of the cheapest racks but built without any compromises in the market of many different kinds of bike racks.
The simplicity itself makes it more preferable by many riders, and the cheap cost never says that the rack is poorly built; instead, it is solid and durable. Besides, this rack is effortless and lightweight to install and remove within seconds.
The rack's metal frame is intended to keep the bikes stable on point without skidding the tires away. Then comes the upper frame lock that will keep the bike from getting unbalanced from the rack.
It has a very compact profile when folded without the bikes on it so that your car or truck will not make a scene for people around it.
- A very compact profile is provided when folded.
- It has one of the most simple and high-quality designs in racks.
- The upper locks will keep it from theft, and the locks will hold the tires.
- Very easy to assemble and remove the rack.
- There are some quality issues when compared to other models because of the low price tag.
10. Allen Sports 2 Bike Hitch Rack
- 2-bike carrier hitch ideal for road trips and camping excursions.
- Fits 1-1/4- and 2-inch receiver hitches, with no-wobble bolt.
- Tie-down cradle system individually secures and protects bikes.
- Accommodates a wide range of frame sizes and designs.
- Rack tilts back for easy lift-gate access; black powder-coat finish.
- Max Capacity: 70 LB
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As the name suggests, this bike is a two-bike carrier available at a meager price range, but the quality is pretty good at a low price. The bikes that can be loaded on this rack include a 35" to 48" wheelbase.
Besides, it also can carry bikes with a wheelbase of 20" to 29". The rack has a rugged powder-coated finish that gives more grip to the bikes while they are loaded. This, along with the rack's foldable characteristics, makes it possible to access the truck area.
Then the secure no-wobble connection is another special thing to be noted with this product that will keep the bike stable by keeping the bikes unmoved with the help of straps and locks.
After all, the rack will never come in your way while it is not in use because of the foldable bend that will keep the rack in a compact size while not in use.
- A No-wobble hitch locking system will keep the bikes stable.
- It can be folded into compact size while not in use.
- The rugged powder finish offers more grip on the bike.
- Heavy bikes like e-bikes are not recommended to be used on this rack.
11. MAXXHAUL 50027 Platform Hitch Bike Rack
- Hooks and tire cradles adjust to fit most bikes frames with 20" to 26" wheel sizes.
- Vertical post can be quickly removed for compact storage.
- It Fits Class III and IV standard 2" hitch receivers.
- 80 lbs Maximum Capacity or up to 40 lbs per bike.
- Fit Type: Universal Fit.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is another platform model rack from MAXXHAUL that is considered the best hitch bike rack available because of its easiness and safety alongside the lowest price range.
It is a steel-made product that comes under the rate of less than a hundred dollars, so that the affordability of this product is not even a question for anyone. In addition, the hooks that are used to keep the bikes stable are padded with foam.
That foam padded hook will keep the bike secured on the rack alongside resisting any scratches on the bike. Besides, this foam will help the hook to fit the bike parts with enough pressure perfectly.
This rack can hold bikes with wheel sizes from 20" to 26" when it comes to the bike's size. In addition, the vertical post used for securing the bike can be easily removed, and the platform can be folded when you need a compact look.
- Quick adjustment knobs are available for the fast and easy loading of bikes.
- The foam layered hooks offer more grip along with preventing scratches.
- It has an affordable price tag.
- The vertical post can be removed when not in use.
- The rack cannot be folded when you need to open the trunk or access the tail end when it’s loaded.
12. Saris Freedom Hitch Bike Rack
- Hitch mounted rack carries up to two bikes.
- Rack adjusts to fit all bike frame sizes, up to 60 lbs, each.
- Ratcheting straps keep any size bike secure.
- Universal hitch fits 1 ¼" and 2" hitches.
- Add wheel holders to your Freedom rack to fit Fat Tire bikes.
- This rack fits a wheelbase up to 48" right out of the box.
Last update on 2021-10-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You are looking at another premium model and an expensive bike rack manufactured with all the advanced features you may expect. First of all, the rack is built to carry bikes of all sizes.
Two versions of racks are available in which one can carry two bikes, and the other comes with space for two bikes on board. Ratched straps on this bike rack can hold any bike without scratching the frame and other parts.
Besides, you can add extra tire holders that make it possible to carry extra tires on the rack without consuming extra space for them. And the rack is available in short and long-wheelbase versions.
So, you can go with a long-base version if the bike has a longer wheelbase. Moreover, the hooks and other straps and the metal parts are made with the most premium and high-quality materials.
- The rack is made with premium, high-quality materials.
- Extra holders can be added to load tires on the rack itself.
- Different versions of wheelbases are available.
- Foldable so that you can get the compact look while not in use.
- The rack is expensive.
Things to Consider for Best 4 Bike Hitch Rack
Before selecting a hitch bike rack to be used on the back of your car or truck, it is important to know what needs to be considered.
If it is not satisfying in all those ways possible, then that product might not be the right product for you. So, go through all the points and make your final decision.
The number of bikes you have to carry
It is always important to know the number of bikes you may hang on the rack while using. You can go with a hanging hitch bike rack if you have more bikes.
Because the hanging model consumes little space so that it offers more holders; instead, there is a platform model rack on that the bike will be placed on the platform. It is safer but consumes more space.
You may read our reviews on specific 4 bike hitch racks.
Number of Arms
There are single-arm models and twin-arm models in the hitch bike rack category. And the single-arm comes with a single holding arm on the center part of the bike so that the bike will be hanging on one arm.
But with a twin-arm configuration, your bike will be hanging on two arms parallel to each other, which means more support to the bike. So it is always better to go with a twin-arm model when you have multiple bikes.
The way of Holding the Bike
Some hitch bike racks hold the bike from the wheels and some others from the frame. These frame-holding models are the hanging hitch bike racks.
The other one is a platform model that will hold the bike from the wheels, and it is always better to keep the bike safe from scratches that happened because of the shaking of wheels and other parts of the bike.
Folding ability of the rack
This rack character is important if you are using the bike rack on the back of your car or any vehicle with a door to open on the vehicle's back like a truck. It is impossible to get a little gap to open the trunk if the rack is loaded with bikes.
If the rack can be folded in the opposite direction, you can easily get that gap and open the trunk without removing the rack's bikes. However, if there is no truck or you do not want to open it, you can go with a rack that does not have more moving parts.
FAQ's About 4 Bike Hitch Racks
If you need more information about the bike hitch racks, some of the most asked questions from the customers about the hitch racks.
Do these hitch racks scratch the car?
There is a chance for scratches on the back of your car with these hitch bike racks if and only if the bike is not fully secured into the lock. In addition, you have to make sure that the bike wheels are not dangling around because moving parts of the bike are the main reason for these scratches.
Can I use all kinds of racks for all kinds of bikes?
No, there are different bike models available in the market, so you have to test fit the bike on the rack or take the bike's measurements and the rack and compare them if you are buying it online. However, the most commonly available bike model frames are easily fit and comfortable on every hitch rack.
How fast is the recommended speed to drive the car while the bike is loaded on the hitch bike rack?
The most commonly recommended car speed while the bikes are loaded says that you have to keep the speed below 45 mph.
Is there any problem with driving the car when the empty rack is mounted on it?
There is no problem with it, but in this case, the racks may hide your car's number plate, and that is not recommended if the racks are not in use. Besides, some states have the law not to use the racks if they are not in use.
Conclusion
Having a hitch bike rack is always a great way to keep the bike with you all the time if you are a traveler who doesn't want to miss the bike rides.
So, getting the best hitch bike rack for your bike is the way to go with the flow. Having a bike rack offers the freedom of traveling without messing up your daily workout rides.
All these products mentioned above are confirmed for being the best bike racks for your vehicle so go through all the information provided and make your mind.
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