Best Hitch Bike Racks -2021 Complete Buyer’s Guide

| Last Updated: January 3, 2022

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Going on a camping trip can be stressful enough, with all the planning.

Whether you decide to take your family or you are on a solo adventure, a bike always comes in handy, especially when you are a nature lover.

This is why we decided to put together a list of the best hitch bike racks – so you can choose the best one for you and keep your bike safe while traveling!

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Best 2 Bike Hitch Rack
  • Up to 120 lbs capacity or maximum 60 lbs per bike
  • Best suited for mountain, carbon frames, downhill, and fat bikes
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  • Best 4 Bike Hitch Rack
  • Enhanced bike stability during transport
  • The cradle design accommodates several bike sizes/frames
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  • Best Hitch Bike Rack for the Money
  • Compact 1-bike carrier ideal for traveling and commuting
  • Strong security straps for enhanced protection and sturdy padding
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  • Best hitch bike rack overall
  • Safety reflector with an anti-wobble design
  • Tilt-back design, padded arms, and a tray-styled loop
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  • Fold-up system for a compact storage when not in use
  • Has a soft frame-friendly finish to protect the bike and avoid scratching
  • Up to 2 bikes transportation system of maximum 45 lbs each and 20-29” wheel size
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  • Best 5 Bike Hitch Rack
  • Fits the standard 2-inch receiver
  • Set up in less than five minutes, includes a lifetime warranty
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  • Safe, secure and extremely durable
  • Best Hitch Bike Rack for Electric Bikes
  • Quick-release tilt design, easy to install and use
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Are All Hitch Bike Racks The Same?

Similar to any product, hitch bike racks come in different sizes and have various features. First of all, not all hitch bike racks can support the same number of bikes. Some of them can accommodate one bike, others up to five bikes, depending on your needs. 

In addition to this, hitch bike racks have lighter or bulkier frames, which mainly can handle a different amount of load on them. If you want to travel by yourself, a one-bike rack will be suitable, but you might need to pay more attention if your bike has fat tires. 

Long story short, the diversity of the hitch bike racks is entirely proportional to the diversity of bikes, although most of them are quite versatile and made to support a wide range of bike sizes and frames. 

If you have an electric bike, you need to look for a hitch bike rack that can handle the extra weight. Similarly, you will definitely enjoy a model that is foldable, so you can store it easily when you do not use it. Lastly, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with the size hitch receiver you own. 

How to Choose a Hitch Bike Rack

Here’s a short guideline on how to choose the best hitch bike rack:

Type of Bike Rack

Hitch bike racks are either platforms or hanging racks. The platform racks support the bikes on a platform, where the main point of contact is the bike wheels, while the hanging rack suspends the bike. 

Additionally, some bike racks are static, which means that you cannot access your truck or the rear hatch when they are on, so it is recommended to choose either swinging or folding racks. 

Maximum Weight

It is essential to pay attention to the load weight of the rack, especially when you have two or more bikes or an electric one. You need to consider the maximum load so that the bike will not suffer damage. 

Stability of the Rack

A good quality rack is exceptionally sturdy and stable. This is affected by many factors, including the holding mechanism, the space between the bikes (if you have multiple ones), but also the shape and size of the bikes you plan to transport. 

Security of the Rack

A good bike rack has different security mechanisms installed, one regarding the bikes and one regarding the security of the rack itself. 

Review of the Best Hitch Bike Racks

Once you are sure of what you are looking for when it comes to a hitch bike rack, have a look at some of the excellent models below.

Best Overall:
Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack

PROS

  • Can be easily folded up and stored
  • Tilt system for easy access to hatchback
  • Premium quality hitch bike rack for 2-4 bikes
  • Highly compatible with large bikes, up to 60 lbs
  • Sturdy frame able to handle up to four bikes at a time
  • Made of durable materials with sturdy security mechanisms

CONS

  • Quite bulky and heavy
  • Requires add-ons in order to load all four bikes
  • 120 lbs might not be enough for four large bikes

What Recent Buyers Report

Thule T2 Pro is a conventional hitch carrier for a large bike that will not disappoint you. It is great with most large bikes on the market, although the main drawback is that you need to purchase additional accessories to load four bikes at a time.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Thule T2 Pro is one of the most durable platform-style bike racks you may find on the market. The installation is completely tool-free as it includes an intuitive lever that folds the rack up when not in use. The same lever can also be maneuvered, so you gain full access to the rear of the vehicle.

Who Will Use This Most

If you are the lucky possessor of a mountain, carbon frame, downhill, or fat bike, up to four of them, this sturdy bike rack is the ideal product for you. It comes with a user-friendly design, and it can be easily operated whenever you need to use it or fold it.

Bottom Line

All in all, the Thule T2 Pro XT bike carrier is one of the most durable and reliable racks you can get. It is versatile, reliable, durable, and suitable for more experienced cyclists. It is definitely worth the investment to protect your bikes while commuting.

Runner-up:
Thule Range Bike Rack - 4 Bike

PROS

  • Can accommodate up to four bikes
  • Easy to fold down its arms when it is not being used
  • Quick system to attach and secure bikes to the rack
  • Sturdy, reliable construction with premium materials
  • The compact cradle design is ideal for a large variety of bike frames and sizes

CONS

  • Heavy and bulky
  • Supports a 2-inch receiver only
  • Sturdy, but the extension is quite short

What Recent Buyers Report

This rack is ideal for the whole family, as it supports up to four bikes. It is easy to use, and you do not need to remove the bikes in order to access the back of the vehicle because the rack tilts back.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Thule Range Bike Rack can accommodate up to four bikes that are safe and secure during the entire transport due to the 7” spacing between each of them. It also has increased bike stability due to the anti-sway integration, which stops bike-to-bike contact. It is easy to fold down when not in use.

Who Will Use This Most

This bike rack supports up to 150lbs, which makes it ideal for any family with up to four bikes. Due to the large distance of 7” between each bike, it is perfect for RVs, but it can also be attached to other types of vehicles. It was specially designed to provide security and protection.

Bottom Line

Overall, this model offers high value for money. If you need a hitch bike rack with a large gap between the bikes, the Thule Range Bike Rack is all you need. It can easily handle the forces on the back of your RV or travel trailer with enhanced durability, protection, and security.

Best for the Money:
Allen SportsTrunk Mounted Bike Rack

Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 1-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model MT1-B, Gray powder coated

PROS

  • Secures and protects your bikes
  • Fits any sedan, hatchback, minivans or SUVs
  • Has a tight fit to the vehicle for enhanced security
  • Folds up so it can be fitted in a carry bag or backpack
  • Intuitive control and installation in a matter of seconds
  • Has minimal contact with the paint of the car or with the bike

CONS

  • The nylon straps that fasten the top part of the bike do not have a quick-release mechanism

What Recent Buyers Report

Allen SportsTrunk Mounted Bike Rack is a full-featured bike carrier with increased convenience and ease of use. Allen’s patented folding design is extremely easy to use, and is built with the best quality steel. What is more, Allen offers exceptional customer service and a lifetime warranty.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This hitch bike rack is perfectly designed to meet all your needs when you are traveling with your bike. The dual-compound tie-down cradles are specially crafted to help you protect and secure your assets, while the mechanism ensures minimal touch-points with your car and your bike.

Who Will Use This Most

If you are tight on space, this hitch bike rack can fold down to the size of a shoebox when not in use so that you can store it easily and efficiently. It is suitable for most sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and minivans. The product delivers great advantages when you are on the go.

Bottom Line

If all you need is a compact, tiny, and easy to use hitch rack for your only bike, this product checks all the boxes. The design is easy to fold when not in use and can be stored away in the included carry bag. The enhanced security system ensures that your bike is safe at all times, and comes at an affordable price!

4. BV Bike Hitch Rack

BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier for Car Truck SUV for Standard Bikes, E-Bike, Fat Tire Bikes - Tray Style Smart Tilting Design (Standard Tire 2 Bike)

PROS

  • Can be folded when not in use
  • Fold-up design for easy operation
  • Easy to install, made from durable materials
  • Compact design, created to keep the cycle scratch-free
  • Comes with safety reflector for higher visibility during the night
  • Has a tilt-back design which eases the access to the back of the vehicle

CONS

  • Bike tires of 3” or less
  • Foam padding is quite flimsy
  • Not more than 35 lbs each bike

What Recent Buyers Report

The BV Hitch Bike rack is a high-quality, durable product. What makes it worth every cent is that you do not need to detach the hitch or unload the bikes to gain access to the rear gates. You can easily fold it up and store it away when you don’t need it.

Why it Stands Out to Us

BV Bike Hitch rack offers one of the most efficient and effortless ways of transporting your bikes. It has a tilt-back design that enables you to open the rear gates without having to detach the hitch rack. Additionally, your assets are always kept safe and secure due to the three-point connection system.

Who Will Use This Most


This product is ideal for anyone who wants simplicity and seamless operation. If you need a smart, convenient, and compact design that does not have to be detached and reattached any time, this hitch bike rack has a fold-up design that allows you to fold it whenever it is not in use, saving space. 

Bottom Line

All in all, BV Hitch Bike Rack is one of the best products you can find on the market. It packs in all the features you need to have an effortless operation every time you need to use it. It can also be used during the night due to the safety reflector, and it is ideal for bikes of up to 35 lbs.

5. Swagman Chinook

Swagman CHINOOK Hitch Mount Bike Rack

PROS

  • Fold-up system saves space and time
  • Easy to assemble and can hold up to two bikes (45 lbs each)
  • Design favors access to the trunk when the bikes are loaded
  • Comes with adjustable and locking hooks for improved security
  • Tilt-down system secures the wheels through wheel ratchet straps

CONS

  • High price range
  • Can handle only two bikes at a time

What Recent Buyers Report

Swagman Chinook is a straightforward, simple to use a hitch bike rack. It is lightweight, with intuitive installation, and can carry up to 2 bikes at a time, which is perfect for most people’s needs. It has an improved security system due to the adjustable locking hooks.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Swagman Chinook is a high-quality, fashionable bike rack that offers security and protection to your bikes while on the road, but also convenience and comfort to the user. Most features are highly adjustable, allowing you to attach two bikes at a time. The steel frame is strong, sturdy, and has a long-life service.

Who Will Use This Most

This hitch bike rack is extremely versatile, suitable for anyone's needs. As long as you have a maximum of two bikes, you will find this product to be everything you wish for. It is easy to install, offers enhanced protection to your bikes, and also has a compact mode for when it is not in use.

Bottom Line

Overall, Swagman Chinook is a versatile, premium quality hitch bike rack, suitable for all needs. It is extremely easy to use, and all of its features are completely adjustable, so it can accommodate almost any type of bike size, wheel, and tire widths. It’s surely a great bargain you won't regret!

6. Allen Sports 5-Bike Racks for 2” Hitch

Allen Sports Deluxe 5-Bike Hitch Mount Rack, Model 552RR-R , Black, 2-Inch Receiver

PROS

  • Can be folded out when it is not used
  • Most affordable 5-bike hitch rack on the market
  • The 28” long arms have individual bike securing straps
  • Extremely easy to assemble and use, has no wobble bolt
  • Has a durable steel construction and can fit a 2-inch receiver hitch

CONS

  • Steel construction makes it heavy
  • Difficult rack removal with a need for tools
  • Five full-sized bikes would be quite a tight squeeze

What Recent Buyers Report

What is truly great about this product is how easy it is to access the back of your truck or SUV, considering the bulkiness of usual bike racks which can hold up to five bikes. What is more, the rack also comes with a no wobble bolt, which prevents the rack from moving when commuting.

Why it Stands Out to Us

This Allen Deluxe Hitch Rack has all it takes to make it on our top list. It is easy to operate, highly secure, and provides full protection to your bikes when in use. All you need is three bolts to assemble, and you will be on the road in no time.

Who Will Use This Most

This rack is specially designed to fulfill the needs of families. When you have five bikes, traveling around with them all secure becomes a tricky mission. Fortunately, the Allen Sports Deluxe is ideal for this kind of situation. It has 28” arms which keep all five adult-sized bikes in place.

Bottom Line

If you are looking for bells and whistles, this product is not for you. But, if you need a sturdy, durable and reliable bike rack to meet your family’s needs, you are in the right place. With an affordable price tag, this hitch bike rack is all you can wish for.

7. Overdrive Sport 2-Bike Rack

KAC Bike Rack for Car, SUV, Hatchback Mount - 1.25' Anti-Wobble Hitch for 2 Bikes - Heavy Duty Bicycle Carrier, Easy to Assemble/Install - Tire & Frame Stramps Included

PROS

  • Powder coat for durability
  • Reliable anti-wobble system
  • Includes patented anti-wobble system
  • Foldable for easy storage when not in use
  • Highly versatile, with adjustable wheel clamps
  • Comes with rear reflector for nighttime visibility

CONS

  • Heavy structure
  • Can only be used with two bikes of the same size
  • Needs additional accessories for bikes with low frames

What Recent Buyers Report

This 2-bike rack is sturdy, reliable, and you can easily tell that from the bulky construction. It can support fat-tires of a maximum of 5 inches in diameter, up to 60 lbs each, which makes it ideal for heavier ones. On the other hand, it is not fully equipped for bikes with low frames.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Overdrive Sport 2-Bike Rack is our top contender for electric bikes. It has a mechanism that keeps your bike safe and sturdy at all times, and, despite its bulky frame, you can easily fold it up when not in use. The padded clamps and the heavy-duty construction recommend it for large bikes.

Who Will Use This Most

If you have an electric bike or one that is large, with fat tires, this model is the top recommendation. It is easy to install because it is already pre-assembled for some parts, and it is incredibly safe. It is also a great choice if you travel at night, due to the rear reflector.

Bottom Line

If you need a sturdy, durable hitch bike rack for your bulky bikes, the Overdrive Sport 2-Bike is definitely worth a closer look. It is safe, reliable, and ensures that your bikes remain stable and safe during the entire trip. It can hold up to two bikes, and it has a quick-release system.

Best Hitch Bike Rack for Truck Hitch:
XCAR 2-BikeHitch Rack

XCAR 2-Bike Universal Hitch Mounted Bike Carrier Rack for Car Trailer with 2' Receiver

PROS

  • Ideal for truck use
  • Easy to install and use
  • Has foldable carry arms
  • Foldable system and no-wobble mechanism
  • Great craftsmanship with high-quality materials
  • Supports up to two bikes on the heavy-duty steel construction

CONS

  • Instructions are unclear

What Recent Buyers Report

This hitch bike rack is ideal for using with your truck, as it comes with durable rubber straps that secure your bikes tightly in place. You can also adjust it to fit different bike sizes, and the construction is reliable, not bound to break under shocks.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Constructed from heavy-duty steel, this model is recommended to all truck owners who need to hitch a bike rack for a maximum of two bikes. It has a stable, secure bearing and fastens all your bikes, keeping them protected even during shocks. What is more, the mechanisms avoid scratching your bikes due to friction-less design.

Who Will Use This Most

This hitch bike rack is a great option for your truck, but it can also be used on other types of vehicles. It has a foldable carry arm design, which makes it compact and easy to store when not in use. The dual-compound tie-down cradles are high-quality and provide full protection to your bikes.

Bottom Line

Overall, this product is a high-quality hitch rack with a strong promise for security, easy commute, and thorough protection of the finish of your bikes. The heavy-duty steel construction ensures that the fastening is strong and stable, suitable for all kinds of harsh weather and environments.

Best Platform Hitch Bike Rack:
Venzo 2-4 Bike Platform Style Carrier

VENZO 4 Bike Bicycle Platform Style Carrier - Bike Rack for Car SUV Truck Tow Trailer Hitch Receiver Mount Size 2' - Sturdy & Rust Proof

PROS

  • Anti-corrosion properties
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty
  • Maximum load of 45 lbs per bike
  • Passed all tests for driving, vibration, pulling and swinging
  • Foldable arms for easy access to car rear boot or easy storage
  • Includes an adjustable foam protector to prevent hitting or scratching the bikes

CONS

  • No built-in locking system for the bikes
  • Tire loops not wide enough for fat tires

What Recent Buyers Report

This heavy-duty hitch bike rack is ideal for the entire family, especially as your kids grow up, and their bikes become heavier. It is extremely strong, durable, and easy to use. On the other hand, there is no built-in locking system for the bikes, so you may need to purchase it additionally if you need one.

Why it Stands Out to Us

Venzo 2-4 Bike Platform Style Carrier is a high-quality platform carrier, ideal for many uses and suitable for the entire family. It is made of heavy-duty, durable materials that ensure long-term use, and the safety of your bikes without scratching or damaging the finish. What is more, it can support up to 45lbs per bike!

Who Will Use This Most

This product is ideal for anyone looking for a platform bike rack to commute their bikes safely. It is compatible with all types of bikes, and it can hold up to 45 lbs per bike, so it is incredibly versatile and suitable for many occasions.

Bottom Line

Overall, if you are looking for a sturdy, durable, and secure bicycle platform, Venzo did a great job with this model. It is sturdy, rust-proof, and it is suitable for the entire family, supporting up to four bikes. It is reliable and durable, made of heavy-duty materials. You should definitely check it out!

Best Car Hitch Bike Rack:
Swagman XC2

Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack , Black, 2-Inch Receiver

PROS

  • Easy to load and use
  • Sturdy, yet lightweight frame
  • Can be folded up for easy storage
  • Increased stability and highly versatile
  • Maximum two bikes transportation suitable for 35 lbs per bike
  • Center arm is foldable, so access to the rear of the vehicle is improved

CONS

  • Does not extend very far
  • Clamps make contact with the bike frame
  • 2” sleeve has a screw that is hard to remove

What Recent Buyers Report

The Swagman XC2 is an ideal bike rack for frequent use. It has a strong, solid construction, and it does not take a long time to assemble and install. It is made of high-quality materials, and you can easily mount the bikes, which are then very securely attached. Overall, it is very reliable!

Why it Stands Out to Us

This product is our top recommendation for the best car hitch bike rack. It saves storage space due to the foldable system, it is versatile, and it can easily store up to two bikes. It is compatible with 1-1/4” and 2” receiver hitch, and it has a maximum capacity of 35lbs per bike.

Who Will Use This Most

This hitch bike rack is ideal for cars. If you have a maximum of two bikes, with 20” to 29” tire sizes, it is the perfect match. You can also purchase separately fat tire wheel trays, locking hitch pin, and security cable if needed.

Bottom Line

Overall, this hitch bike rack is highly versatile, made of high-quality materials. You can assemble it easily and quickly, and it is ideal for bike frames up to 23.2”. You can also purchase additional accessories to make it suitable for fat tires, so it offers high functionality and great value for money.

Advantages of Investing in a Quality Bike Rack

Here are some of the main advantages of investing in a high-quality bike rack:

Simplicity

A good bike rack is not rocket science. It should be simple, easy to install and use and make you comfortable when using it. Moreover, the simpler it is, the easier it is for you to ensure that your bikes are properly mounted, so you will not risk any damage to them. 

Security

The most important feature of a bike rack is security. If it is flimsy, you might scratch your bike, which is the best-case scenario. The worst that can happen if your bike rack is of poor quality is that you will lose a bike or two on the way! High-quality bike racks have several mechanisms that ensure that the bike is stable and does not move when you are on the road. 

Build Quality

Security is further enhanced by the build quality of the bike rack. The materials need to be strong, durable, and solid, such as steel or titanium. The rack you decide to invest in should serve you for many years to come, so choosing the best quality materials is the optimal choice. 

How to Install a Hitch Bike Rack

Here are some general guidelines to help you install your new hitch bike rack:

  1. Place the bike rack hitch tube into your vehicle’s receiver. If you notice or you are concerned about any wobble, you can insert a hitch bolt or an anti-tilt device. 

  2. Adjust the arms and tire trays, locking everything in place, using the security pins. Adjust the tire trays to your needs and place the tie downs all ready to accommodate your bikes. 

  3. Place the bikes on the carrier carefully. Secure each bike after you place it onto the supporting arms or tier trays, depending on the model of your bike racks. 

  4. Double-check the attachment points during the trip. If you are on the road for some time, make sure you stop and check whether each bike is still correctly anchored. Also, check whether the rack is still secured to your vehicle. If you take highways, you should double-check the bikes before, as high speeds might loosen an improperly fastened connection or strap. 

  5. Remove the bikes when you arrive at your destination, one at a time. Fold the rack and store it away. 

Conclusion

Our top recommendations for the best hitch bike racks should now fade all of your worries regarding the safety of your bike. Our models offer a stress-free, reliable method of transporting your bikes, whether it is a short trip or a far-away destination. 

Can You Put a Bike Rack on Any Car?

Yes, any car can support a bike rack. There are numerous designs on the market which can accommodate them, so it is quite important that the bike rack will be ideal for your bike. What you should also pay attention to is the vehicle receiver, as the bike rack needs to be compatible. 

Do Bike Racks Damage Your Car?

Bike racks are simple, safe ways of transporting your bikes. The attachment, however, might scratch your car paint in some situations. For instance, when you mount the rack, you need to make sure that your car is not dirty.

I used to work in construction and landscaping, so I've seen my fair share of ratchet straps, winches, and similar rigging gear. I started Winch Central because I've seen some nasty accidents due to crappy rigging or poor practice. I wanted to be able to recommend good equipment that's SAFE and also provide resources for how its used. I handle the research side of things here as well as product selection for gear reviews.