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10 Best Hitch Mounted Bicycle Racks 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Saris Bones 3-Bike Hitch Rack Bicycle Carrier, with Easy Fold Design and Tilting Base

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,348
Bike Capacity
Rack Type
Security Features

Most important from
4378 reviews

Bike Capacity
The rack fits most bikes well, but bikes with full suspension may require an additional bike beam accessory for proper mounting.
Rack Type
The rack folds compactly for storage and is lightweight enough to handle easily, balancing durability and convenience.
Security Features
Using stabilizer bars to keep bikes level significantly improves the overall bike security and ride quality on the rack.
Ease of Use
Installation is straightforward with helpful online resources, but securing the rack perfectly may require a second person for best results.
Durability
The rack performs reliably on long trips without wobbling, providing solid stability even on highways.

The Saris Bones 3-Bike Hitch Rack is a solid choice for anyone needing to carry up to three bikes at once, with each arm supporting up to 35 pounds. It fits both 1.25” and 2” hitch receivers, so it works with most cars and SUVs. One of its handy features is the tilting base, which lets you access your vehicle’s trunk even when bikes are loaded, saving you the hassle of removing the rack.

The rack is made from rust-resistant materials and has injection-molded arms, which makes it both durable and lightweight at around 16 pounds. When not in use, its arms fold down to a compact size, making storage and parking easier. While it doesn’t have built-in locks, the sturdy mounting and design offer decent security when paired with your own bike locks.

It’s generally easy to install and use, though some users mention that bikes with unusual frames might require extra care in securing. If you want a reliable, convenient rack for regular bike trips with up to three bikes, this model balances strength, flexibility, and space-saving features well. However, if you need advanced built-in security or carry heavier bikes, you might want to consider other options.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,348
Bike Capacity
Rack Type
Security Features

Most important from
4378 reviews

Bike Capacity
The rack fits most bikes well, but bikes with full suspension may require an additional bike beam accessory for proper mounting.
Rack Type
The rack folds compactly for storage and is lightweight enough to handle easily, balancing durability and convenience.
Security Features
Using stabilizer bars to keep bikes level significantly improves the overall bike security and ride quality on the rack.
Ease of Use
Installation is straightforward with helpful online resources, but securing the rack perfectly may require a second person for best results.
Durability
The rack performs reliably on long trips without wobbling, providing solid stability even on highways.
#2

Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack , Black

Rating
9.6
Bike Capacity
Rack Type
Security Features

Most important from
1094 reviews

Bike Capacity
It is easy to hook up by one person. It holds 2 bikes (1 electric/1 not) tightly.
Rack Type
The rack itself is heavy but is on wheels so it is easy to mount to your vehicle.
Security Features
This rack is worth the money. You can lock the rack to the hitch and the bikes to the rack.
Ease of Use
Very easy to install and use. It's very sturdy, this rack doesn't move at all once it's in place.
Durability
Bikes don't wobble even at 75 mph.

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a high-quality option for those needing to transport e-bikes or heavy mountain bikes. With a load capacity of 130 lbs (65 lbs per bike), it can handle even the heaviest bikes with ease. It fits both 1.25-inch and 2-inch receivers, making it versatile for various vehicles.

The integrated folding bike loading ramp and tool-free installation simplify the setup process, and the ratcheting wheel straps and torque-limiting knobs ensure your bikes are securely attached. Additionally, the rack can be fully folded and features transport wheels and a carry handle for easy maneuverability when not in use.

The smart foot pedal tilt allows for quick access to the trunk, and built-in locks provide extra security for your bikes and the rack itself. However, users need to verify compatibility with their vehicle's receiver hitch. While it offers many conveniences, including the option for a Thule Fat Bike Wheel Strap Kit for larger tires, this rack is on the pricier side and might be overkill for those with lighter or fewer bikes. It's an excellent choice for serious cyclists with specific needs, but casual users might find it more than they require.

Rating
9.6
Bike Capacity
Rack Type
Security Features

Most important from
1094 reviews

Bike Capacity
It is easy to hook up by one person. It holds 2 bikes (1 electric/1 not) tightly.
Rack Type
The rack itself is heavy but is on wheels so it is easy to mount to your vehicle.
Security Features
This rack is worth the money. You can lock the rack to the hitch and the bikes to the rack.
Ease of Use
Very easy to install and use. It's very sturdy, this rack doesn't move at all once it's in place.
Durability
Bikes don't wobble even at 75 mph.
#3

Yakima RidgeBack Tilt Away Hitch Bike Rack Carries Up to 2 Bikes, Fits 1.25 and 2 Inch Hitch Receiver for Cars, SUVs, and Trucks, Black

Rating
9.4
Bike Capacity
Rack Type
Security Features

Most important from
1466 reviews

Bike Capacity
The rack is heavy, but it's designed to hold upwards of 100lbs of expensive bikes securely over bumpy roads.
Rack Type
The folding feature allows quick access to the trunk without taking the rack off.
Security Features
The lock mechanism is not the best, but the rack stays secure after a long drive.
Ease of Use
The rack came fully assembled and took about 2 minutes to install.
Durability
The bike rack is rock solid and sturdy, made with strong materials yet light enough for easy installation.

The Yakima RidgeBack Tilt Away Hitch Bike Rack is designed to carry up to 2 bikes and is compatible with both 1.25-inch and 2-inch hitch receivers, making it versatile for use with cars, SUVs, and trucks. Its construction boasts a durable aluminum frame with a powder coat finish, promising long-lasting performance.

The rack features an UpperHand Lever that allows easy tilting for vehicle access and folds flat for storage, adding to its convenience. Bikes are securely fastened with ZipStrips, and anti-sway cradles help prevent bike-to-bike contact during transport. The tool-free SpeedKnob simplifies installation, making it a hassle-free process.

With a load capacity of 32 pounds, it may not be suitable for heavier bikes. Customer reviews reflect a positive experience, with a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,448 reviewers, highlighting its reliability and ease of use. This bike rack is a great option for families or individuals who need to transport up to 2 bikes securely and conveniently while enjoying features that enhance ease of access and storage. The product's durability and thoughtful design features make it a strong contender in the hitch-mounted bike rack category.

Rating
9.4
Bike Capacity
Rack Type
Security Features

Most important from
1466 reviews

Bike Capacity
The rack is heavy, but it's designed to hold upwards of 100lbs of expensive bikes securely over bumpy roads.
Rack Type
The folding feature allows quick access to the trunk without taking the rack off.
Security Features
The lock mechanism is not the best, but the rack stays secure after a long drive.
Ease of Use
The rack came fully assembled and took about 2 minutes to install.
Durability
The bike rack is rock solid and sturdy, made with strong materials yet light enough for easy installation.

Buying Guide for the Best Hitch Mounted Bicycle Racks

Choosing the right hitch-mounted bicycle rack can make transporting your bikes easier and safer. When selecting a hitch-mounted bike rack, consider factors such as the number of bikes you need to carry, the type of vehicle you have, and how often you plan to use the rack. It's important to ensure that the rack is compatible with your vehicle's hitch receiver and that it securely holds your bikes without causing damage. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a hitch-mounted bicycle rack.
Bike CapacityBike capacity refers to the number of bikes the rack can hold. This is important because you need to ensure the rack can accommodate all the bikes you plan to transport. Bike racks typically range from holding 1 to 5 bikes. If you only need to transport one or two bikes, a smaller capacity rack will suffice. However, if you often travel with family or friends and need to carry multiple bikes, opt for a rack with a higher capacity.
Hitch Receiver SizeHitch receiver size is the dimension of the hitch on your vehicle that the rack will attach to. Common sizes are 1.25 inches and 2 inches. It's crucial to match the rack's compatibility with your vehicle's hitch receiver size to ensure a secure fit. If you have a smaller vehicle, you might have a 1.25-inch receiver, while larger vehicles often have a 2-inch receiver. Check your vehicle's specifications to determine the correct size.
Rack TypeThere are different types of hitch-mounted bike racks, including platform racks and hanging racks. Platform racks hold bikes by their wheels and are generally easier to load and unload, making them ideal for heavier bikes or frequent use. Hanging racks hold bikes by their frames and are typically lighter and more compact, which can be beneficial for occasional use or smaller vehicles. Consider how often you will use the rack and the type of bikes you have when choosing between these types.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and anti-theft mechanisms that protect your bikes while they are on the rack. This is important to prevent theft, especially if you plan to leave your vehicle unattended for extended periods. Look for racks with integrated locks for both the bikes and the rack itself. If security is a major concern, prioritize racks with robust locking systems.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple it is to install, load, and unload the rack and bikes. This is important for convenience and efficiency, especially if you plan to use the rack frequently. Features like tilt mechanisms, which allow access to the vehicle's trunk without removing the rack, and easy-to-use clamps or straps can make a big difference. If you value convenience, look for racks with user-friendly designs and features.
DurabilityDurability refers to the rack's ability to withstand wear and tear over time. This is important to ensure the rack remains functional and safe for long-term use. Materials like steel and aluminum are known for their strength and longevity. If you plan to use the rack frequently or in harsh conditions, choose a rack made from durable materials to ensure it lasts.

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