The 10 Best Vertical Bike Rack Hitch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Best Vertical Bike Rack Hitch
Best Vertical Bike Rack Hitch

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

Get on the road with your bikes safely and securely with the new Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack. This rack fits both 1 1/4-inch and 2-inch receiver hitches and is designed for quick installation in less than 5 minutes. The 22-inch long carry arms allow you to transport up to four bikes with ease, while the folding carry arms make storage a breeze. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack

Get ready to hit the road with the Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack. This rack has upright ratchet arms that can accommodate bikes up to 59 cm (23.2") and it can carry up to 2 bikes at 35 lbs. per bike. Its built-in anti-wobble hitch device ensures a wiggle-free ride and its quick-release tilt feature allows you to easily access your vehicle’s rear hatch or trunk without having to remove the rack. Read Review

3. Best Design: Hollywood Racks Vertical Bike Rack Hitch

Transport up to four bikes with ease with the Hollywood Racks Vertical Bike Rack Hitch. It mounts easily to your vehicle's hitch and features a locking threaded hitch pin for added security. The adjustable ratchet straps provide a secure fit for multiple types of bikes, and can accommodate a maximum wheelbase of 48" and max tire width of 3". Read Review

4. Best Style: YAKIMA Vertical Bike Rack Hitch

Take your biking adventures to the next level with the YAKIMA Vertical Bike Rack Hitch. This ultra-durable rack can support up to 6 mountain bikes or 4 road bikes, and has a rotating rear wheel cup that fits up to 50” wheels. With a built-in lock loop, bottle opener, and 2” hitch receivers, you can rest easy knowing your bicycles are safe and secure. Read Review

5. Best Choice: Ride KAC S4 Hitch Mounted 4-Bike Suspension Rack

Get your bikes safely to your destination with the Ride KAC S4 Hitch Mounted 4-Bike Suspension Rack. This hanging-style hitch-mount bike rack easily and securely accommodates up to four bikes weighing up to 120 lbs total, with ultra-durable rubber frame holder straps for added protection. Read Review

Are you looking for the best vertical bike rack hitch to conveniently and safely transport your bikes? With vertical bike rack hitches, the task of getting your bikes from one place to another is made easier and safer. These racks are designed to fit onto your vehicle's hitch and offer a secure and effortless way to transport your bikes. They are also easy to use and provide a safe, reliable way to get your bikes to your destination.

With the right vertical bike rack hitch, you can be sure that your bikes will remain safe and secure while you're on the road. From easy-to-install options to heavy-duty racks, the options are endless. No matter the size of your vehicle or the number of bikes you need to transport, there's a vertical bike rack hitch that can meet your needs.

Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 15 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 vertical bike rack hitch is a Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack. With a built-in lock loop, you can rest easy knowing your bicycles are safe and secure.

If you want to pick another product, you can check out the Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following buying guide & FAQs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack
Our Score:
9.9
Allen Sports

Folding carry arms quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use. Minor assembly required.

4 bike rack fits vehicles with a 2 inch trailer hitch only. Vehicle will require professionally installed Class III or IV 2 inches hitch to use this product

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

Rack sets up and installs in less than 5 minutes; Included no wobble bolt secures rack inside of receiver hitch with a movement free installation

22 inch long carry arms individually secure bicycles with Allen's patented tie down system

TOP Choice #2 Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.8
Swagman

ACCESSORIES SOLD SEPARATELY: Fat tire wheel trays (64674), 1/2" Locking Hitch Pin (64029) or 1/2" Locking Hitch Pin and Security Cable (64031)

VERSATILE: Easily transports up to 2 bikes and is compatible with 1-1/4" and 2" receiver Hitch. Maximum weight capacity is 35Ibs per bike and fits 20" to 29" tire sizes

KEEPS YOUR BIKE STABLE: Sturdy design includes a built in anti-wobble hitch device to keep bikes in place

SAVES YOU STORAGE SPACE: Rack folds easily in to compact mode so that you can conveniently store when done using it

EASY TO ASSEMBLE & USE: Only takes a few minutes to assemble and the upright ratchet arms easily adjusts to different bike frame sizes, will accommodate bike frames up to 59 cm (23.2")

TOP Choice #3 Hollywood Racks Vertical Bike Rack Hitch
Our Score:
9.7
Hollywood Racks

Quick and Easy Loading and Unloading: Our hitch mount bike rack features individual wheel trays for fast, hassle-free loading and unloading. This SUV bike rack fits a standard 2" hitch and carries four bikes with a maximum of 35 lbs per bike.

Suitable for a Variety of Bike Sizes and Frames: This 4 bike hitch rack features padded frame holders with 360-degree rotation to accommodate bike frames of every shape and size. Travel securely and confidently with this versatile bike rack for hitch.

Expand your Cycling Experience: Explore quiet country roads or take a cross-country tour with our 4 bike rack hitch mount. This bicycle rack for car with a locking threaded hitch pin and ratchet straps ensures safe and secure transport for up to four bikes.

Perfect for Traveling with Friends and Family: This bike carrier hitch mount accommodates most bike models. With a max wheelbase of 48" and max tire width of 3" this 4 bike rack carries most kids, ladies, hybrids, road and mountain bikes.

Compact, Lightweight and Foldable: One of the lightest models available, this bike mount for car is only 42 lbs. Our bike car rack is foldable for added safety and convenience when not in use. Light and compact, this bike hitch is easy to store.

6 Mountain Bikes, 4 Road Bikes, Kids Bikes, BMX, Fat Bikes, Lighter E-Bikes

Includes SKS lock - locks to vehicle, Built-in lock loop for rider’s own bike lock, Built in bottle opener

Holds 20"-29" tires up to 4.8" wide, 37.5 lbs per bike

2" hitch receivers only, Compatible with BackSwing and StraightShot

Rotating rear wheel cup fits a wide range of wheelbases up to 50”

SNUG AND SECURE RIDE: Ultra-durable rubber frame holder straps, safety straps, and anti-wobble locking hitch system fasten your bike tight to this heavy-duty, powder-coated steel rack—keeping your bike safe and secure for years of adventure to come.

MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: This hanging-style hitch-mount bike rack features dual arms to support most road, gravel, and mountain bikes, and even accommodates step-through style frames with our KAC frame adapter (sold separately). Transport up to four bikes weighing up to 120 lbs total. It fits perfectly on your car, truck, or SUV with a 1.25-inch or 2-inch hitch receiver.

NO-SWEAT SETUP: Spend more time on your bike and less time in the garage. Assemble and install this bike rack in a flash and hit the road (check out our assembly videos). Easy-to-follow assembly instructions and all assembly and installation hardware included.

ANYTIME ACCESS: Reach for gear in your trunk or hatchback 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 folding bike rack creates a low profile and stores easily when not in use.

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-wheel trailers is prohibited.)

6 Stromberg Carlson BC-204 Platform Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.3
Stromberg Carlson

STURDY CONSTRUCTION: This 4-bike platform mount carrier is crafted from a rust-resistant reinforced steel frame and black powder coating, making it highly durable. It incorporates folding arm cradles for easy storage and transportation. The innovative locking mechanism on this rack is strong enough to keep parts and gear in place.

VERSATILE COMPATIBILITY: The BC-204 Folding Hitch Mount Bike Rack is compatible with most bike frame sizes and has a 2-inch hitch receiver. Its flexible frame allows it to accommodate most bikes of various sizes, shapes, and styles. However, this mounting bicycle rack is not intended for use with e-bikes, a bumper, or a hitch behind a fifth wheel or travel trailer.

ABOUT US: Stromberg Carlson, based in Traverse City, Michigan, is a third-generation, family-owned business supplying the recreational vehicle aftermarket since 1959. We are committed to designing, creating, and improving our products while adhering to strict quality standards to provide simple yet effective products that will make your next adventure more pleasant.

RELIABLE BIKE RACK Our hitch mount bike rack is another rider travel essential. It can support 4 bikes weighing up to 160 pounds in total. Furthermore, compared to a roof rack, a hitch-mount bike rack can save you up to 30% on fuel costs by lowering wind resistance.

EASY INSTALLATION: This platform bike rack is easy to assemble and install. It includes simple installation instructions and all the necessary hardware, allowing you to spend more time riding your bike and less time in the garage. The BC-204 Folding Hitch Mount Bike Rack provides freedom for more bicycle riding adventures.

7 Young Electric Vertical 4-Bike Rack Hitch
Our Score:
9.1
Young Electric

👍🏻DESIGN FOR RV. WARNING❗❗ - DO NOT exceed 120 lbs of capacity when installed behind a RV. DO NOT use this bike carrier for transporting or carrying other items or materials besides bicycles.

👍🏻2 INCH HITCH RECEIVER: ONLY fits vehicles with 2" receivers, the rack is sturdy and does not wobble easily. Most parts come pre-assembled for easy installation. Parts including locking hitch pins, instruction manual and hardwares.

👍🏻FOLDABLE & TILT BACK DESIGN: Users can fold up this rack to save space when not in use, convenient for garage parking. Quick release tilting down feature allows easy access to trunk without detaching the hitch rack.

👍🏻SAFE AND SECURE: Comes with soft padded hooks and locking hitch pin, that secure your bikes in place without swaying and scratching the paint. Slide down over the vertical frame with hitch tightener to fit different size bike frame for safe. With rear Safety Reflector to enhance the visibility in the dark.

👍🏻1 YEAR WARRANTY: If anything ever goes wrong with your hitch mounted bike rack , please contact our 24H Service Team.

👍🏻160 LB TOTAL CAPACITY: Easily transports up to 40 pounds per bike. 120lbs of weight capacity when installed behind a motor home.

More bikes, less space: Made of heavy-duty steel with a vertical orientation; Transports 4 to 6 bikes with suspension forks using minimal space, no multiple racks or trailers required

Nuts and bolts: Fits suspension-fork bikes only; Fits 2" hitch receivers only; HitchLock included; Built-in bottle opener

Supports and protects: Securely supports bikes and fat bikes by the fork crown (required for use); Soft padding protects the fork's finish; Rotating wheel cup accommodates bikes with various wheelbases

Convenient carrying: Foot-operated tilt mechanism changes rack position for easy loading and unloading; Tilts down and out of the way for easy rear-of-vehicle access with bikes unloaded

Improved ground clearance: 3 mast height positions for improved ground clearance and ease of loading; 3 mast angles to avoid bike-tire contact with your vehicle

9 MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.8
MAXXHAUL

Vertical post can be quickly removed for compact storage

Bike tire cradles can be adjusted along horizontal bars using quick knobs for convenience and includes rubber straps for added stability.Material:Steel

Fit Type: Universal Fit.Patent Pending.PLEASE SCROLL DOWN AND BROWSE OUR A+ PAGES FOR MORE PRODUCT INFORMATION..Unique hook design adjustments using quick hitch pins assist in accommodating different size bike frame for safe and reliable transport.

Includes two foam-padded hooks to secure and stabilize bikes to the rack without scratching bike's finish. Hooks and tire cradles adjust to fit most bikes frames with 20" to 26" wheel sizes

Fits Class III and IV standard 2" hitch receivers. 80 lbs Maximum Capacity or up to 40 lbs per bike

🎄Easy Tilt-Down Access £ºConvenient access to rear of vehicle with easy-to-use tilt-down feature

🎄Backed by IKURAM's Lifetime Warranty: All IKURAM bike carrier racks are backed by professional consulting services and warranty. Please visit the IKURAM web site for full details.

🎄Rigid All Steel Constructed Bike Hitch Rack: Long-lasting and durable all steel construction with protective powder paint finish

🎄Dual-Arm Mounting Design: Optimized dual-arm bike carrier rack which spacing accommodates bicycles of a wide range of frame sizes and designs, more stable and easily accommodates up to 2 bikes.

🎄Easy fold-down Arms: Be folded up quickly when bike racks not in use for compact transport and easy storage.

What to Look For in a best vertical bike rack hitch?

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.

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.

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

How much weight can a vertical bike rack hitch hold?

A4: The weight capacity of a vertical bike rack hitch depends on the specific model you purchase. Generally speaking, most bike racks are capable of carrying up to 60 pounds of weight, so you should be able to securely transport most bikes without any issues.

What is a vertical bike rack hitch?

A vertical bike rack hitch is a type of bike rack that is mounted to the back of a car, truck, or SUV. It is designed to securely hold up to two bicycles in a vertical position, allowing for easier transport of bikes than with traditional bike racks.

How do I install a vertical bike rack hitch?

Installing a vertical bike rack hitch is relatively straightforward. First, you will need to mount the hitch onto the rear of your vehicle. This typically requires some basic tools and hardware, such as a drill, wrench, and screws. Once the hitch is mounted, you will need to attach the bike rack to the hitch. This is usually done by tightening the included bolts with a wrench.

Are vertical bike racks safe?

Yes, vertical bike racks are generally considered safe for transporting bicycles. The racks are designed to securely hold the bikes in place, and they usually come with a locking mechanism for added security. As with any bike rack, however, it's important to properly secure the bikes to the rack before driving.

There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a best vertical bike rack hitch, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.

Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the best vertical bike rack hitch? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.


0 ratings

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.

Read Katie's full bio