The Best Hitch Bike Rack Under $200 For 2024

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Hitch Bike Rack Under $200
Best Hitch Bike Rack Under $200

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Allen Sports Deluxe Bike Carrier Hitch

With its quick install hitch, you can secure and protect up to 4 bicycles in no time. It accommodates a wide range of bicycle frame designs and features folding carry arms that make it easy to store when not in use. Its individual tie-down system ensures that each bike is securely attached and ready for the ride ahead. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: MaxxHaul 70210 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

Installing in minutes and featuring a Swing Down feature, you can easily access the rear of your vehicle. The padded bike cradle protects your ride's finish, while the adjustable wheel holders ensure a safe and secure fit. Whether you're on the road or off, this bike rack is perfect for all your biking needs! Read Review

3. Best Reliable: Allen Sports Premier Bike Carrier Hitch

This easy-to-install hitch offers a quick locking hitch insert and quick set carry arms that snap into place for secure transport of up to four bikes. Dual compound tie-down cradles provide extra stability and individually secure and protect your bicycles. Read Review

4. Best Easy To Assemble: Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

This easy-to-assemble bike rack is designed to fit most standard vehicles and can accommodate two bikes of any size or style. Once installed, simply place your bike in the rack and secure it in place with the worry-free security straps for a safe and secure ride. Read Review

5. Best Design: BV 2 Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack

This rack is designed to keep your bike safe and secure while you're on the go. It has a tilt-back design so you can easily open the rear gates and a fold-up design that saves space when not in use. Plus, it features a safety reflector to enhance visibility when driving at night. A Read Review

Are you looking for a reliable way to transport your bike? Look no further than the best hitch bike rack under $200! Hitch bike racks provide an easy and secure way to transport your bike, so you can focus less on worrying about how to get your bike to its destination and more on enjoying the ride.

Hitch bike racks come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit any budget or bike type, and they can be easily attached to the back of your car or SUV. With the right bike rack, you’ll have the confidence that your bike is safe and secure while you’re on the go. Read on to learn more about the best hitch bike racks under $200, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 16 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product.

As result, We believe the best hitch bike rack under $200 is Allen Sports Deluxe Bike Carrier Hitch. This secure bike rack can be easily installed in minutes and features a swing down feature that allows easy access to the rear of your vehicle. Consider MaxxHaul 70210 Hitch Mount Bike Rack as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Allen Sports Deluxe Bike Carrier Hitch
Our Score:
9.8
Allen Sports

Quick install hitch secures and tightens rack inside of receiver hitch; Includes 2 keys

Arms fold out of the way when not in use and rack tilts back when needed

Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers

Locking hitch insert fits either 1 1/4 inch or 2 inch receiver hitches

Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles

Accommodates a wide range of bicycle frame designs

TOP Choice #2 MaxxHaul 70210 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.6
MAXXHAUL

Comes with hitch pin. Includes reflector for added safety

Powder coated to resist rust and corrosion. Rigid all steel construction. Includes reflector for added safety

Not for use on RV's, campers and fifth wheels

Securely transport 4 bikes.Towing Capacity (lb.):150Comes with hitch pin. Includes reflector for added safety

Swing down feature allows easy access to rear of vehicle, MaxxHaul Towing Products 70210: Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is Ideal for vans, RVs, SUVs, pickup trucks and sedans with receiver hitch. Can be easy installed in minutes. Support arms with adjustable hold down straps firmly secures and transports your bikes

Towing Capacity (lb.):150

PLEASE SCROLL DOWN AND BROWSE OUR A+ PAGES FOR MORE PRODUCT INFORMATION

Adjustable bike cradle with hook and loop straps. Comes with hitch pin

Our 70210 Bike Rack is designed to handle bikes with frame that has horizontal top bar. Different style bike frame would require adding or installing horizontal cross bar (not included).

Fits 2" x 2" hitch receivers

TOP Choice #3 Allen Sports Premier Bike Carrier Hitch
Our Score:
9.5
Allen Sports

Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers

Quick install locking hitch insert fits 1 1/4 inches and 2 inches receiver hitches; includes 2 keys

Internal tilt away release allows for easy lift gate access

Quick set carry arms snap into place and fold out of the way when not in use

Padded spine shield protects bicycles during transport

Dual compound tie-down cradles And quick set straps individually secure and protect bicycles

4 Swagman XTC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.3
Swagman

SAVES YOU STORAGE SPACE: Rack folds easily so that you can conveniently store when you are done using it

EASY TO ASSEMBLE: The XTC2 hitch mount bike rack only takes a few minutes to assemble following the instructions. Once installed, simply place your bikes on the rack and start cruising to your destination

WORRY FREE SECURITY: Have peace of mind knowing that your bikes are protected with locking ratchet hooks and locking hitch pin

VERSATILE: Easily transports up to 2 bikes and is compatible with a Class 2 or higher, 1- 1/4" and 2" hitch receiver. Fits most frame sizes, shapes and style (fits 12" to 29" tire sizes). Maximum weight capacity of 35Ibs. per bike

Safety Reflector – This rack includes a rear safety reflector to enhance the visibility, ensuring the night driving safety.

Fold Up Design – User can fold up the rack when not in use. Smart idea to save space!

Tray-styled Loops and Padded Arms – Not only can firmly held your bike in place, the padded arms can protect your bike from scratching.

Bike Compatibility- For bikes under 35 lbs each, and 3" maximum tire width (Not for fat tire bike)

Tilt Back Design - The tilt backward design enables users to open the rear gates without detaching the hitch rack.

Fits all types of dual-arm bikes on vehicles equipped with either a 1.25 or a 2 inch hitch receiver. (Please check listing picture for some exemptions.)

Convenient vehicle access with tilt down feature and foldable carry arms when not in use. Soft cradles and protection pad designed to secure your bikes individually and protect your bike frames.

Easy installation in minutes. (DIY instruction included in package.) NOTE: Both provided Safety Straps must be installed to stabilize bikes while driving. Otherwise, any resulting accident and damage will not be covered by warranty.

4 bike capacity with sturdy and handy construction. Easy ratchet buckles. TYGER cable lock & hitch lock & security strap included. OE standard Black color E-Coating for rust resistance.

TYGER No-Hassle Limited Lifetime Warranty for US customers!

7 Bell Right Up Bike Hitch Rack
Our Score:
8.9
Bell

Easy to store when not in use

Fits 11/4" And 2" Receivers with hoops stabilize bikes

Easily carries three bikes from 12" To 29"

New trays accommodate tires up to 3" Wide

Maximum 35 lbs. per bike (105 lbs. Total)

8 Saris Bike Racks
Our Score:
8.8
Saris

COMPATIBILITY: Fits 90% of the top vehicles sold, including those with spoilers; has the largest vehicle compatibility of any trunk rack on the market, Unique dog leg fits over most spoilers, including those on popular sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs

MADE IN USA: Hand built in Madison, Wisconsin with 100% recyclable materials

BONES EX: Lightweight at 11 lbs; strongest frame on the market, arc–based design separates bikes on different levels

STRONG & RUST FREE: Injection-molded arms and legs keep the rack solid for years to come; rubber feet articulate to protect paint

CLEAN, SLEEK LOOK: Best-in-class ratchet straps speedily fasten bike to the rack, integrated strap management caps hideaway strap excess

CAPACITY: Carries 3 bikes (35lb/bike) premium bike hold downs that are easy to use and quick to load

LIMITED LIFETIME MANUFACTURER WARRANTY: We’ll replace defective parts or materials for as long as you own the rack. (Please note that use on RVs and 5th-wheel trailers is prohibited.)

NO-SWEAT SETUP: Assemble and install this double bike rack quickly and easily for more time on the trail (check out our assembly video). Step-by-step assembly instructions and all installation hardware included.

MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: This platform-style, hitch-mount bike rack supports most road and mountain bikes. Transport 1 or 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs total using your car, truck, or SUV with a 1.25 inch hitch receiver (2 inch hitch receiver adapter included).

SPACE SAVER: Navigate crowded parking lots, your garage, and offseason storage. This flat bike rack folds behind your vehicle’s bumper when not in use, giving you the freedom to maneuver any tight space.

SECURES YOUR BIKE: Keep your bike safe driving around town or across the country. This rack features a heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frame, adjustable wheelbase trays, padded frame hooks, and a safety strap included for added peace of mind during transport.

STURDY: Sturdy design with soft, frame friendly grip arms which hold bike in place so you have peace of mind knowing your bike will stay put!

ACCESSORIES SOLD SEPERATELY: 1/2" Locking Hitch Pin (64029) and Locking Hitch Pin with Security Cable (64031)

CONVENIENT: Bike rack tilts down to allow access to rear of vehicle effortlessly. Saves you time and energy for more biking :)

EASY TO ASSEMBLE: The XTC2 TILT hitch mount bike rack is light weight and only takes a few minutes to assemble following the instructions. Once assembled, simply load your bikes and you are on your way!

VERSATILE: A great solution for carrying 1 or 2 bikes with the secure mounting capabilities of a platform style rack. Comes complete with a 1-1/4“ receiver bar and a 2“ adapter plate allowing it to easily fit most Class 2 or higher hitches

What to Look For in a best hitch bike rack under $200?

You may have some trouble making a purchase if you don't research it thoroughly. You are expected to invest time and focus on best hitch bike rack under $200 before investing in them. Usually, it will take you a long time to research a favorite product. But rest assured, we are here to assist you with your best hitch bike rack under $200 issue, no matter what time of day or night.

Although choosing a product is complicated, it will be more accessible and more available to everyone with today's information technology network. You are now given available sources of information such as famous websites, sale forums, or even customer's feedback. It can be said that information from these sources about best hitch bike rack under $200 will be beneficial to you.

So now you are expected to focus on needed criteria about best hitch bike rack under $200. All of them will come with your investment. 

Ease Of Use

You've likely had to lift a mountain bike with full suspension onto a hanger rack. Or, if you have tried to Tetris on four bikes from a rack that was poorly made, then you understand the importance of 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.

Security

Two main vulnerabilities of bike racks are theft. The bikes can be taken off the rack and the rack can be taken down. It doesn't matter if the bikes are there; racks can also be valuable items to potential thieves.
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.

Tilting Feature

A tilt-feature hitch rack is a good choice if you are like many cyclists and plan on keeping your rack attached to your car for extended time periods or want access to your rear cargo space. With the exception of a few very inexpensive options, almost all bike racks with a hitch mount have this feature. Tilting racks are able to be tilted over using a lever. This allows you to lift the rear hatch of the vehicle or open its tailgate. Tilting is possible on platform and hanging racks. However, platform racks can be tilted with bikes loaded. Hanging racks must first unload bikes. It's another reason why we like the platform rack design.

Bike Capacity

Generally speaking, platform racks are capable of holding anywhere between one and four bikes (if an extension is purchased), while hanging racks hold up to five bikes. The 1UP Recon Rack 6 can hold six bikes vertically and is a notable exception. Most riders prefer the 2-bike model, however families and those who plan to take their bikes on group rides may want to consider a hanging model with a larger capacity or one of these platform add-ons.

Bike Weight

Maximum bike capacity
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

Two ways can you lock your bike on a mounting system are available. First and foremost is the strap system. The strap system is usually composed of an elastic or ratcheting strap that covers a portion of your bicycle. It's usually the frame in hanging racks, but it can also be used for platform racks to hold the wheels.
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).

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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. ).

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.

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.


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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