The Best Bike Cargo Rack For 2024
By, Sarah CombsUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Kuat Sherpa 2.0 - 2" - 2-Bike Rack - Gray Metallic
The Sherpa 2.0 is a bike rack that's simple to install, with no tools required. It can accommodate two bikes-even heavy ones-and carries up to 40 pounds of gear and accessories. The rear tire cradle offers protection for wheels and fenders, while the integrated lock secures your bike to the rack. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack -
The T2 Pro XTR 2 is Thule's most versatile and easy to use hitch rack. With an integrated wheel system for easy removal, the T2 Pro XTR 2 fits all mountain, downhill, and fat bikes without adapters. This lightweight design is perfect for carbon frames and has a maximum load capacity of 115 pounds (52 kg). Read Review
3. Best Design: Tow Tuff 62 Inch 500 Pound Capacity Truck Rear Bumper Bike Rack
Tow Tuff's 2-in-1 carrier is a versatile way to transport your bikes and cargo. The unique design allows this carrier to function as a cargo carrier or as a bike rack by removing the pins, which you can turn the bike rack into a cargo carrier. The 2-in-1 carrier fits 2" receivers on your vehicle and is constructed of 10 gauge steel, making it both durable and easy to use. Read Review
4. Best Portable: Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack
The Strong NV 2.0 Bike Rack is the perfect rack for your truck bed, with a durable design that can hold up to 2 bikes and can fit any hitch. With its integrated cable locks, you can be sure that your bike will be secure while you are on the road. Read Review
5. Best Capacity: Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack
The Thule EasyFold XT 2 hitch bike rack is designed to fit 1.25" and 2" receiver hitches. The steel construction provides a durable bike rack that can carry e-bikes, heavy mountain bikes and more. The integrated folding bike loading ramp makes loading and unloading your bikes quick, easy and safe. Read Review
Do you need to transport a lot of bikes? Do you want them securely loaded on your car for an excursion? Or do you need something affordable to help you with your storage woes? If the answer to these questions is yes, check out our top picks for a bike rack, from budget-friendly models that offer plenty of value for money and easy installation to more expensive models from premium brands that provide superior quality and performance. Bike racks are accessories that most cyclists wish they had had sooner.
They’re helpful in so many ways: they can carry extra clothes and gear while biking; they can also be used as a simple way to secure our bikes when we’re not using them or parking them. Check out our review below to see what the best bike cargo racks are right now.
After nearly -research hours, We think the best bike cargo rack is Kuat Sherpa 2.0 - 2" - 2-Bike Rack - Gray Metallic. Or you can check the Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack - as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet your requirements.
RELATED: We make a detailed review of best 5 bike hitch rack to help you stop confusing and save time and effort.
Our Top Picks
Equipped with lock Easy to install Sturdy design The wheels are protected by the rear tire cradle
The long bolts are loosen
Semi integrated bike lock
2 Bike capacity up to 40 lbs. each
No-tool install with hand tight hitch cam system
Rear tire cradle features co-molded strap to protect wheels
Compact and lightweight design Easy to lower the rack for the trunk It is stable even at fast speeds You don't need to set up it
It is pretty heavy
Carries up to 4 bikes with Thule T2 Pro XT Add-On (sold separately, 9036XTB, 2" receiver only)
Fits 20 - 29" wheels and up to 5" tires without adapters, making it ideal for carbon frames, mountain, downhill, or fat bikes
Integrated wheels help to maneuver the rack when it's off the vehicle
The HitchSwitch lever allows you to tilt the rack down for rear vehicle access or tilt it up when not in use
Generous 12.5" spacing between bikes with the ability to adjust side to side to eliminate bike interference
Integrated cable locks secure bikes to the rack and locking knob locks the rack to the hitch receiver
AutoAttach system makes installation and removal simple and tool-free
Versatile design fits nearly all styles of bikes up to 60 lbs each with zero frame contact
Easy to mount vehicles High Capacity Easy to control wheel holder It is compatible with most bikes
The Tie-down strap is poor
The unique design allows this 2-in-1 carrier to function as a cargo carrier or as a bike rack by simply removing the pins to turn the bike rack into a cargo carrier or vice versa; fits 2" receivers for easy mounting onto your vehicle
The Tow Tuff Cargo Carrier measures 27” x 62” x 3” deep, giving you plenty of room to take care of your various hauling needs
Includes a tie-down strap; 1 year limited Manufacturer's parts warranty
With a total weight capacity of 500 lbs., this Tow Tuff product can hold large loads. Constructed of heavy-duty steel for a durable product
When using as a bike rack, the adjustable wheel holder and tie-down holes secure the bike(s) in place. The wheel cradles fit most bikes and holds up to 4 bikes
Easy to adjust the front tire cradle Convenient locking systems Easy to use Easy to set up
It carries a weight limit
Fully integrated cable locks
No-tool install with hand tight hitch cam system
2 Bike capacity up to 60 lbs. each
Adjustable front tire cradle system
Holds wheelbases up to 48” and tires as large as 4.8”
Easy to transport with an integrated folding bike loading ramp Solid handle Easy to store Flexible wheels
It has no expansion capability
Load capacity: 130 lbs / 65 lbs per bike
Fits 1.25" and 2" receivers
Integrated folding bike loading ramp
Premium, high-load capacity bike rack ideal for e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes
Please check the Compatibility Guide (under Product Details) to confirm the fit with your vehicle's receiver hitch.
Optional Thule Fat Bike Wheel Strap Kit to fit longer wheel bases and tires up to 4.7" (sold separately)
Quickly attach and secure bikes with torque limiting knobs and ratcheting wheel straps
Fast and effortless tool-free installation
Fully foldable design with transport wheels and a carry handle
Easy trunk access with smart foot pedal tilt | Lock bikes to the rack and rack to the receiver (locks included)
Made of high-quality steel It protects the bike well Easy to mount the bike It can load 3 bikes easily
The rack is not good
Fit type: Universal Fit
Locking hitch insert locks to vehicle, and locking spar arms
Tilts back for easy lift-gate access, and folds up against vehicle when not in use
Fits bike with wheels 26-29" (up to 40 lb per bicycle), and a tire width up to 3. 5". Carries bikes with wheelbase of 35-48"
Lightweight steel and aluminum design weighs approximately 40 LB
Sport type: Cycling
Note: Never use on trailers
Easy load 3-bike rack fits 2" receiver hitches
You can control the wheel holders easily High security for the bikes with a locking frame Easy to fold It transports the bike stably
Wheel locking straps are not sturdy
Adjustable wheel holders allow the bike rack to fit up to a 60" wheelbase bike; Folds flat against the car when not in use and tilts down for easy cargo access
Locking frame hooks to secure the bikes to the rack; Includes keyed alike locking hitch pin and security cable
Optional 2 bike add on kit (HR1475) or cargo basket (HR1485) sold separately
Fits 2" hitch receivers only; Not to be used with a 1-1/4"-2" hitch receiver adapter; Not to be used on a trailer or towed vehicle.
Heavy-duty platform style bike rack holds up to 2 bikes (max. 50 lbs per bike); Features patented no wobble-no tools hitch tightening system for fast and secure installation
ANYTIME ACCESS: Reach for your gear without removing your bike rack. A quick-release tilt lever provides easy access to your vehicle’s rear cargo area, no bike unloading required. This rack creates a low profile and stores easily when not in use, thanks to its compact folding design.
LIMITED LIFETIME MANUFACTURER WARRANTY: KAC will replace defective parts or materials for as long as you own your rack. (Please note that use on RVs and 5th-wheels is prohibited.)
NO-SWEAT SETUP: Spend more time on your bike and less time in the garage. Quickly assemble and install this bike rack and hit the road (check out our assembly videos). Easy-to-follow assembly instructions and all assembly and installation hardware included.
MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: Looking for an e-bike hitch rack? This platform-style, hitch-mounted bike rack supports everything from the skinniest road bike to the fattest e-bikes and everything in between. This bike carrier can transport 1 or 2 bikes weighing a total of 120 lbs. This rack is for 2-inch hitch receivers only.
SAFE AND SECURE, EVERY TRIP: With tire and frame straps, locking easy-slide ratchet frame hooks, and a locking anti-wobble hitch system, your bike is safe and secure from bumps, bangs, and theft on this heavy-duty hitch bike rack.
The limited lifetime warranty of a quality product / 60 days satisfaction guarantee
The kit has been manufactured and designed for the world of trailers and cars
2 bikes / 80 lbs maximum (40lbs by bike)
Anti-theft system
Transferable from your trailer to your vehicle in less than 2 minutes easily
Simplicity: push button Ratchet design, securely holds bikes in-place and off-set so handlebars and seats don’t touch are rub against each other.
E-Bike capability: each tray can carry up to 60 lbs.
Multiple receiver sizes: Fits 1 1/4" And 2" Receivers with an adapter (included)
No CONTACT: carrier secures bike without touching bike frame or forks
All Frame types: excellent for carbon frames, large size fork and 29Ers semi fat bikes (up to 3-inch tires)
Adaptable: foldable trays when not in use and trays tilt down to allow trunk access with easy-pull lever
Warranty: Limited Lifetime
How Can You Choose The best bike cargo rack Among Numerous Products From Different Brands?
It can take you much time to research the outcome of best bike cargo rack. It doesn't mean you can’t get the best one for yourself. We are the experts specializing in studying market and products. We will help you with your best bike cargo rack issues, no matter what time it is!
Please have a closer look at the things below to evaluate and then choose the right best bike cargo rack for your need:
Security
It only takes seconds for someone to steal your bicycle from the rack, whether you are going to a shop or just to get you home at night.
Your entire rack can be taken if someone is equipped with the right tools. If you don’t own a garage, this can pose a problem.
Ease Of Use
Hanging racks are a great option for a common bicycle, the diamond-frame. You can lift the bike and slide it on the rack. Once it is secured, you can bungee it to the front wheel. It also gives you the opportunity to do some bicep curls before going on your ride.
A platform rack is a better choice for bikes with heavier frames or unique designs. It is easier to transport the bike because it has a lower frame. Once you get it on you won't need to move it around to make adjustments. It can be difficult to hang a bike on a rack.
The ramp is often the most cost-effective option, but it's also the most convenient. You can simply place your bike on the platform rack using this feature. This feature is great for riders with heavy bikes such as e-bikes and cruisers.
Bike Frame Compatibility
Hanging racks may not work well if your bike is a mountain bike or step-through, as well as a smaller child's bike.
Wheel Size And Tire Width Compatibility
Bike Capacity
Bike Weight
Maximum weight capacity for a bike
If you plan on transporting heavy downhill mountain bikes or e-bikes, fat, and/or cruiser bikes, make sure to check the rack's weight limit. Each design listing will indicate the bike's maximum weight. This amount may vary greatly. For comparison, standard road and mountain bikes weigh less than 35 pounds. E-bikes, however, can be up to 50 pounds. We recommend that you upgrade to a more robust model if your weight is close to or above the max. It's worth it to avoid breaking the rack or invalidating your warranty.
Mounting Systems
This is most commonly used in platform racks. It is an arm that extends from the platform to ratchet down on your bike's tires. They secure the bike to the platform. They are often reinforced with straps that run around the wheel's bottom to increase security.
The strap system is used in every hanging rack that we have seen. It's strong and reliable, but it can be damaged or broken by users. Many straps secure bikes with at least two straps at every attachment point. Your bike could fall off if the shepherd's hook is broken (which happens very rarely).
Tilting Feature
RELATED: Are you looking for the right best 4 bike car racks? We cover all options. To pick the best one for you, please compare quality, price, and customer reviews.
FAQs
What Is The Easiest Bike Rack To Use?
Each type of rack has its advantages. Hanging racks can be used if you don't have to lift your bike. You can secure your bike by placing it on the arms. Then tie the straps and bungee your front wheel.
The platform racks are easier to use than the cradles, but they require less muscle. They do require a little more effort to secure the bike. Swing-away racks make it easy to reach the rear of your bike. If you have a lot to carry (for example, camping trips), one of these racks might be a good choice. ).
Can You Put A Bike Rack On Any Car?
You should find the right bike rack for your vehicle amongst many options. For some styles, you will need to attach a hitch or crossbars/tracks to the roof. Before you make a purchase, be sure to check the specifications on the rack.
Do Bike Racks Damage Your Car?
A hitch-mounted rack has a greater chance of being preferred to a trunk-mounted one. This is because the hitch does not have contact with the vehicle's body. It reduces rubbing on the paint. This keeps the rack from contacting any parts of the body where it could damage or dent.
No matter how careful a company takes when creating a rack system, human error is always possible. If the rack is not on the car, opening the hatchback can cause the rack to be lifted off the vehicle.
It can damage the rack and cause scratching. When you reach the back of your car, make sure that the rack is not in the way.
If you aren't careful, bikes can contact your car. Sometimes platform racks are used to transport the bike near a car's rear window. If the road is particularly bumpy, this can make it more likely that the handlebar will pass through the window.
This can be solved by moving the cradles closer to the windows. The front tire can hang unsupported, which could lead to it bumping into your car.
Although it's not as serious as breaking windows, the damage to the finish can be severe over time. This is a simple fix. To solve the problem, secure the wheel using a strap and bungee rope.
Why Are Bike Racks So Expensive?
A high-quality bike rack is essential if you are to keep your bicycle safe. Racks made of durable materials will last for years, protecting your investment. A cheap rack will cause damage to your bike or vehicle.
How Do You Transport A Bike Without A Rack?
Some bikes can be put in the trunk, back or under the vehicle. However, it may not work if the front wheel is removed. You may not be able to accommodate some bikes in your vehicle. A friend who has a van can help you to transport your bicycle.
Do All Bike Racks Fill All Cars?
Although most bikes racks can be adjusted, they are not universally compatible. There are simply too many shapes and sizes of bikes to make this possible.
You need to know the dimensions of your rear bumper if you are thinking of buying one. There are different rear racks that work well with various cars, such as saloons and hatchbacks. You can find the manufacturer's website to check which racks will fit your vehicle.
A roof rack that is not compatible with the current roof bars may also be incompatible. There are two types: the traditional square-profile or more modern, oval aero bars. Oval bars cut through air and reduce drag. They also produce less wind noise. Make sure your roof rack will fit with any shape of roof bar you choose.
Are Hitch Bike Racks Better?
Hitch racks can be a good option if your car has that capability. Mounts that attach to the hitch receiver are better than trunk racks and roof racks. They also protect your vehicle's finish.
These racks are also easier to set up than any other option. This is great news for those who don't need a rack in their car all day. It's attached with a steel pin so it takes only one step to attach it to a trailer hitch and then one to take it off when it's time to go.
What Is The Best Bike Rack For Four Bikes?
There are versions of both platform and hanging racks that can accommodate four bikes. The hanging racks are more difficult to protect your bikes as they attach from the top. The bikes can swing or hit each other while traveling thanks to this.
It is possible to space out fewer bikes, which reduces risk. Space is constrained with only four bikes. Make sure that your cradles are sufficiently spaced so the bikes don't collide, even with minimal swings.
Platform racks make this less problematic as bikes can be locked in place by both wheels. This adds stability and strength. Because the platform racks are lower, it's easier to place the bikes onto them.
We suppose that these descriptions above are accurate and objective since experts give them. The best bike cargo rack information, in other words, is continuously updated. Thus, don’t worry about the out-of-date data. Rest assured!
If you have any questions, let inform us. We will make all our effort to solve your problems, and please feel free to do that. Thank you!
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About Sarah Combs
