Bikers know that the best cycling session always needs a really good, peaceful, and adventurous location. Reaching these locations however is often difficult if you choose to travel on public transport or your bike. Therefore, having a good car bike rack is an important thing for all hobbyist bikers.
You can go camping, hunting, and even go out for a bonfire for some chilly winter nights with your bike by having the best car racks. The market today is packed with various kinds of racks that come with different installation systems and features. If you are planning a trip with your friends with your bikes, you will also need a rack that can accommodate multiple bikes at a time. So, you can easily find such racks that accommodate 2,3 and even 4 bikes at a time.
Other variants of bike carriers for cars include those with vacuum racks, padded feet, safety belts, and some also come with foldable design. The following article reviews the ten best bike racks you can install in any car. Read ahead to find the best car bike rack for yourself.
Contents
- 1. Deluxe Trunk Mounted Bike
- 2. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe
- 3. Thule T2 Pro XT
- 4. BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier
- 5. SeaSucker Falcon Bike Rack
- 6. Allen Sports Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
- 7. Yakima – FrontLoader Wheel-On Mount Upright Bike Carrier
- 8. Allen Sports Deluxe Model 102DB
- 9. Hollywood Racks F4
- 10. Prorack Frame Mount Bike Carrier
- Conclusion
1. Deluxe Trunk Mounted Bike
Deluxe Trunk Mounted Bike Rack by Allen Sports features a single configuration design to ensure ease of installation. The rack is available in 3 different capacities. It is a highly reliable product coming from a very reliable, market-leading brand.
Pros
- You can choose the capacity you want.
- The rack is very easy to install.
- Features side straps for added stability and safety.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty provided by the manufacturer.
Cons
- Does not have wide feet to add stability.
- Might dent and damage your car.
This car bike rack features a solid heavy-duty body that weighs about 18 pounds. The rack is made of steel. It has an all-black exterior with shiny, smooth, and solidly built racks.
The car rack also has 2 side straps that strongly secure your bike on the stand. Plus, it has rubberized ends that ensure protection for your car, and also make it user-friendly. The most distinctive feature of this rack is its ease of installation. It’s quick and easy to install because it comes pre-assembled.
It is accompanied by a lifetime warranty as well, which is provided by the brand itself. The warranty not only makes you even more convinced to buy this excellent product but also guarantees cost-savings and reliability. The rack can also withstand a weight of about 140 lbs.
However, the car rack might damage the vehicle it is mounted on. Few customers might also experience their car denting because of this rack.
Bottom line
In conclusion, this Deluxe Trunk Mounted Bike Rack by Allen Sports is a slightly more expensive option in the market. However, it will add great value to your money with its excellent features such as the solid steel built and easy mounting design.
2. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe
If you plan to take a trip to the countryside with your friends where you want to ride your bikes, then the Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe is the perfect choice. It comes with numerous security features such as a hitch lock, able lock, and security straps as well. It also has an all-black exterior with E-coating to ensure rust resistance.
Pros
- Extremely sturdy and solid built, ensuring longevity.
- Rust-resistant built makes it highly durable.
- Safe and secure with its 2 lock systems.
- It can be bought for a capacity of 3 to 4 bikes.
Cons
- Some issues with the quality of straps
The 4-bike car rack features an all-black exterior made with steel that has a rust-resistant coating. The rack also features an easy-to-install system, along with foldable arms. The foldable arms make it very easy to store the rack when not in use.
It is also equipped with padded arms and cradles. This feature ensures that the rack does not scratch your bike. The rack also comes with two types of lock systems, along with included straps that ensure secure positioning of your bike.
All these incredible features are backed by a lifetime warranty provided by the brand. Not only this, but it is also highly user-friendly. If you are using a bike rack for the first time, then the instructional guide coming along with this rack will prove to be highly helpful for you.
One problem that few users experienced with this otherwise great product are the quality of straps. Users found the strap falling apart and breaking up after very few uses.
Bottom line
To sum it up, this car bike rack is a high-end product that will be hugely beneficial for people who want to carry more than just one bike. The Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe is a durable, and sturdy rack that will last a long time, while also providing protection and safety for your bike as well as your car.
3. Thule T2 Pro XT
The Thule T2 Pro XT bicycle rack comes in a variety of 2 colors. It is a high-end car rack that features a maximum capacity of accommodating two bikes at a time. It also has a weight capacity of about 60 lbs. per bike.
Pros
- It comes in a variety of 2 colors for you to choose the best from.
- Easy-to-reach hitch ensures convenience for users.
- The rack is easy to install as it does not require any tools for installation.
- Tilt down functionality allows access to the vehicle’s rear.
Cons
- It cannot be used with towed vehicles and trucks.
This bicycle car rack comes with a highly user-friendly design. The hitch switch lever feature is placed in a highly strategic manner that allows users to use it easily. Moreover, the rack is also great for people who are buying one for the first time and don’t have much experience with installation.
The tool-free attachment of the rack allows quick and easy installation, which requires no tools or hardware. It features a built-in lock that secures the rack in a stable and secure manner. Another most distinctive feature of this rack is its tilt-up feature.
The tilt-up feature is a unique functionality that allows you to use the rear of your vehicle even when the rack is attached. It is also supported by a bike clearance feature. This feature allows two or more bikes to be set on the rack with a reasonable amount of space between them that decreases interference and wobbly set up.
Even though the bicycle has excellent features, it is still not backed up by a reasonable warranty. The lack of a specific warranty policy might have some impact on the reliability of the product.
Bottom line
The Thule T2 Pro XT bike carrier for cars is one of the most reliable and durable racks you can find in the market. Undoubtedly, its versatile features, including the two varieties of color, will surely add value to your money. It’s a top-notch, high-end product for true cyclists.
4. BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier
Whether you have a car, a truck, or an SUV, the BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier will be the best option for you. This bike carrier features a tilt-back design that lets you access the rear gates of your vehicle. Plus, the product is also equipped with excellent safety features that ensure the user’s safety.
Pros
- The rack is versatile in terms of compatibility with different vehicles.
- It has an easy-to-store design with a foldable feature.
- 2 anti-wobble systems make it secure and stable.
- Padded arms protect your bike and prevent scratches.
Cons
- It has a difficult pin system.
- Installation can be tricky for some people.
The bike rack has a wide range of highly functional features. One of these is its tilt design that allows for easy access to the rear part of the vehicle while the cycles are attached to the rack. Moreover, it also has a great quality built to last you a long time.
The rack is equipped with intelligently designed anti-wobble systems. This feature ensures that the bikes are secured safely and strongly. In addition, it also has tray-styled loops that make sure that your bike is strongly held in its place.
Furthermore, if you are looking for a rack that is easy to store, this product will work great for you. It has foldable, padded arms that can perfectly fit in your car or any space you want to keep it in when not in use. The rack’s tilting design, foldable feature along with its safety reflector, makes it an outperforming product in the market.
Some customers who used this product, however, report issues with the installation. The pin system was also slightly difficult to use for some beginners.
Bottom line
Undoubtedly, the BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier is a highly well-performing product in the market. It’s one of the most loved and highly rated products by its users and buyers. Therefore, we think that it should be bought by anyone who wants to invest in a long-term cycle car rack.
5. SeaSucker Falcon Bike Rack
If you are looking for the most convenient, beginner-friendly car rack, then this SeaSucker Falcon Bike Rack is surely going to be your best friend. The rack has the easiest, tool-less installation process. Made in the USA, this bike rack can be used with all kinds of bikes, including mountain bikes.
Pros
- Easy release system makes it highly user-friendly.
- Quick and easy vacuum suction installation.
- Holds the bike from the front with a sturdy and strong grip.
- Very easy to store with its compact size and lightweight built.
Cons
- Only appropriate for trucks.
- Holds only one bike at a time.
The vacuum mount makes this product the easiest, most convenient product in the market. It’s specifically designed for mounting on trucks. The rack also weighs about 4.35 pounds, which makes it extremely easy to store when not in use.
Moreover, the rack is compatible with all kinds of bikes. Whether you need to carry a mountain bike or a road bike, this mount will work great for you always. When it comes to durability, the rubber vacuum mounts outperform other alternatives in the market.
The rubber construction of the mounts has allowed most of the buyers and users of this product to use these for a very long time. It holds your bike from the front wheels, which also makes releasing and carrying the bike away from an easy task. This product is a complete package of durability, versatility, and convenience.
However, the product is quite limited in terms of its application and use. It is only specifically designed for use on trucks. So, if you have a car or an SUV, these might not work for you.
Bottom line
To sum it up, the SeaSucker Falcon Bike Rack is the most user-friendly bike rack you will find in the market. Its installation is really easy, and it also has amazing durability.
6. Allen Sports Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
Once again, the Allen Sports Ultra Compact Truck Mounted Bike Rack is another brilliant product by the brand. Not only does the rack have a great, sleek looking appearance, but it also features great flexible functions. With its padded legs, adjustable straps, and a compact built, you will not be left unimpressed.
Pros
- Sturdy steel constriction makes it very stable and safe for use.
- Adjustable straps allow different sizes of bikes to be placed securely.
- It has a foldable design that allows easy storage.
- It is supported by a lifetime warranty.
- Relatively affordable than other products.
Cons
- Might damage your car as well as your bike.
- Not the most durable rack in the market.
This Allen Sports bike rack is known for its compact size. It has an incredible foldable design that lets you store it easily and quickly. It can fit in a storage bag and a suitcase as well.
The rack is also packed with safety features. It has three padded legs that allow you to safely mount the rack on your car and also carry your bike safely. The adjustable strap allows the safe placement of your bike and prevents wobbly movement.
Moreover, the rack is also great with all kinds of vehicles. Whether a minivan, a truck, or an SUV, this will work great for you. All these features and the intelligent foldable design is backed by a warranty that will last you a lifetime.
This affordable, versatile rack has some minor setbacks. Many users of the product reported that it left dents and scratches on their vehicles.
Bottom line
The Allen Sports Ultra Compact Truck Mounted Bike Rack is an outstanding product for meeting all your biker needs. It can carry one bike at a time but has a great grip and sturdiness to last you a long time.
7. Yakima – FrontLoader Wheel-On Mount Upright Bike Carrier
The Yakima FrontLoader Wheel-On Mount Upright Bike Carrier is the perfect choice for you if you want something durable for the long term. The carrier is known for its versatile compatibility with several kinds of bikes. It weighs about 19.45 pounds and features a tilt-back design as well.
Pros
- The bike is kept in an upright position to prevent any damages to it.
- Compatible for use with all kinds of vehicles and bikes.
- No frame contact design allows no damage to the car or bike.
- It has a universal roof rack fit to be compatible with all vehicles.
Cons
- Holds only one bike at a time.
The ForntLoader bike car rack is a well-built product. The credits for that go to its intelligent design that holds the bike from the front and rear wheel. This allows an upright position, leading to a no-contact positioning.
The no-contact frame is great for users who want a rack to safely mount on their vehicles without damaging the paint or leaving scratches. Plus, the product also comes fully assembled, which makes installation easy. The rack weighs about 19.4 pounds, with a medium-size that doesn’t make it too hard to store it.
In addition, it is easy to install. It requires no installation or hardware tools. So, if you are using a bike rack for cars for the first time, this is your chance to become a pro cyclist.
However, there is one drawback. If you want to or plan on carrying multiple bikes on one vehicle, then this rack will not work for you. It only holds one bike at a time.
Bottom line
In conclusion, the Yakima FrontLoader Wheel-On bike carrier is a very carefully built, well-designed, and advanced car rack. All its features contribute towards ensuring a convenient experience for the user. Undoubtedly, this is an incredible choice of product for the long term.
8. Allen Sports Deluxe Model 102DB
Yet again, we have another excellent, outperforming product from Allen Sports. The Allen Sports Deluxe Model 102DB is a rather budget-friendly yet high quality, well-performing bike car rack. It is equipped with a single configuration setup design that can be used with all types of vehicles.
Pros
- It features 12-inch long arms to accommodate various kinds of bikes.
- Easy to install with a single configuration.
- The tie-down system provides extra stability and security to the bike.
- Can work with and fit all kinds of vehicles.
Cons
- Accommodates only one bike at a time.
Allen Sports has never failed to provide the most reliable and high-quality sports-related products. This bike rack is no different. Firstly, it features a strong and sturdy design with 12-inch arms that will easily accommodate various sizes of bikes.
Moreover, the rack is compatible with all kinds of vehicles. Its versatile compatibility makes it a convenient and high-rated product in the market as it caters to all kinds of customer needs. In addition, it also has a special tie-down system that further ensures stability and security.
Along with the safety features and a great built quality of this mount, it also features a lifetime warranty that the brand itself provides. All these amazing features come at a considerably affordable price. This bike car rack is not going to fail to impress you ever.
However, if you are planning to use the rack for more than one bike, this might not be for you. It can only carry one bike.
Bottom line
A great manufacturer like Allen Sports makes great products for all customer needs. The Allen Sports Deluxe 102DB is a much budget-friendlier alternative for you from the market that has all top-notch, high-end features and functionalities.
9. Hollywood Racks F4
Carry 4 bikes at a time on the trunk of your car with this Hollywood Racks F4. This product is made to withstand up to 3-4 bikes at a time with a weight limit of 35 pounds for each bike. The rack is made with extra durable, heavy-duty steel tubing and housing.
Pros
- It features a custom fit for most kinds of vehicles.
- Heavy-duty steel tubing allows it to be sturdy and durable.
- It can be folded flat.
- Includes a day glow safety flag.
- The foldable design and lightweight built allows easy storage.
Cons
- May cause some scratches to your car.
- It can be tricky to install for some people.
If you are looking for the most versatile, reliable, yet an average priced rack for your car, then this will be the one for you. It has all top-notch features such as the foldable design. You can fold it flat and quickly store it in your garage or even your car’s trunk.
Moreover, the rack is made with exceptional quality, high-grade steel tubing. It ensures that the product will last you a long time without any major damages and wear and tear. Plus, the rack fits with any vehicle, including SUVs and vans.
In addition to this, if you are a beginner or using a bike rack for the first time, it will be very suitable for you. This is because the product will be delivered to you fully assembled. It will not require any hardware tools for installation.
One small drawback of this rack is that it might damage your car. In some cases, it can scratch your car.
Bottom line
Hollywood Racks F4 is an overall great product that will meet most of your needs as a hobbyist cyclist or a professional. Its universal compatibility and fitting with all vehicles make it stand out from other products.
10. Prorack Frame Mount Bike Carrier
The Prorack Frame Mount Bike Carrier mounts your bike on the rooftop of your vehicle in an upright position. The product weighs about 10.95 pounds. It’s equipped with security locks in jaw-like shapes, along with straps for both front and rear wheels.
Pros
- Included locks and jaws securely hold down your bike.
- The upright position of the bike ensures protection from damage to both the bike and the vehicle.
- Backed by a generous 3-year warranty.
- Easy and quick strapping system for your bike.
- Holds a bike with both front and back wheels, ensuring safer mounting.
Cons
- Installation is quite time-consuming.
- Weight capacity is limited.
This Prorack car bike rack is best for people who want to carry their basic or everyday use bikes. The tray design of this rooftop rack is very easy to use. Moreover, the rack is also relatively lightweight and, therefore, very easy to carry and store as well.
Furthermore, the tray of this rack also features locking jaws. The jaws securely hold down your bike in an upright position. The jaws of this product are its more distinctive and outperforming features that ensure quality performance and security.
The rack weighs about 7 lbs., which is very lightweight. Meanwhile, it has a weight capacity of about 35 lbs. In addition to all these excellent features, it is also backed by a 3-year warranty for added reliability and value to your money.
However, we only recommend using this product for traditionally sized bikes. It has a limited weight capacity, which instantly makes it limited for use to traditional bikes.
Bottom line
The Prorack Frame Mount Bike Carrier is, in brief, an outstanding product and a rack for traditional sized bikes. For regular bikes, this is an excellent bike rack that will prove to be highly functional for you. It’s relatively easy to use and store as well.
Conclusion
Wrapping it all up, now you can make a well-informed decision by reading the best car bike rack reviews in 2020. It’s always important to thoroughly research the market and see what options you have at hand. Always match the car rack you are choosing to buy with the usage, purpose, and expectations you have from a product.
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