What should I do if I want to travel long distances but want to experience the fun of cycling? What if I need to transport my bike? Install a bike rack in your car and you’ll solve all your problems.
We have summarized the various categories of bike racks and their performance and selected the 20 most cost-effective bike racks in the comparison. If you want to choose a bike rack that is more suitable for your car, both in terms of performance and use, then please continue to browse below. We have compiled the corresponding bike recommendations in the following, which you can refer to.
Learn More: How To Choose The Best Bike Rack For Your RV?
Purchase Advice
I. Choose According To The Model
Different car models have different bike racks. If you want to find a bike rack that will fit your car perfectly, then you need to find out which bike racks fit your car first.
1. More truck-friendly bike rack
If your car is a small truck, please note that you should never assume that the compartment can be used to store bicycles directly. Be aware that when you are driving, the bikes in the compartment will shake with you. This will inevitably lead to a collision with the compartment. If you don’t want your bike to be damaged in a collision, then I would still recommend that you have a bike tailgate mat.
By the simple operation of fixing the tailgate, the bike tailgate mat can help you hold your bike very well. And the bike tailgate pad has a lightweight and relatively friendly price. It is not only easy to install and remove, but also convenient to carry.
Recommended Bike Racks.
Thule GateMate PRO ($249.95)
1.2 More car-friendly bike rack
If it is a smaller model car and your roof is equipped with a roof rack, then you can choose among roof bike racks.
Roof bike racks can be further divided into fork bike racks, frame bike racks, and tire bike racks. Among them, the wheeled bike rack has the most excellent performance because it not only eliminates the need to disassemble the bicycle tire. And the design without contact between the bicycle and the roof also provides good protection for the bicycle, and also brings excellent stability. The other two types of bike racks either require the removal of the front tire in exchange for better stability or are slightly less stable.
Of course, you can also choose a suspension bike rack, which is usually less expensive. It is also very easy to install and can usually carry more than one bike. But suspension bike racks because of their design has the unavoidable disadvantage that it is very easy to collide between multiple practice bikes. And the belt used to fix the frame wears out faster, so you need to regularly check and consider whether you need to replace the belt with a new one. And the use of the suspension frame needs to be equipped with a top tube adapter, which inevitably adds a certain amount of trouble.
Recommended Bike Racks.
Rockymounts BrassKnuckles ($249.95)
1.3 More suitable for off-road bike rack
For off-road vehicles, the range of options is much wider. You can consider not only roof bike racks, but also rear tow bike racks and trunk bike racks. A rear towable bike rack is also a platform rack. It has the advantage of easy loading and unloading, as well as a wide range of compatibility and stability. However, it is more expensive and the frame is bulky.
The trunk bike racks are divided into suspension racks and vertical hangers. The suspension rack has the advantages of being lightweight and excellent price, but it must be equipped with a top tube adapter before it can be used. And because of the small space, when carrying more than one bike at the same time, it is easy for bikes to collide with each other. The vertical rack is relatively much better, it has good stability and can protect the bicycle from collision. It also has a large capacity, but this also gives it a relatively high price.
You also need to be aware that off-road bikes are a high test of the safety performance of the frame. This means that when you are choosing a frame you must be concerned about the frame’s ability to hold the bike in place.
Recommended Bike Racks.
1UP Recon Rack 6 ($1400)
1.4 More suitable for SUV bike rack
SUVs also have a wide range of options like off-road vehicles, so if your roof is equipped with a rack you can also choose a roof-mounted rack. Or if you want to have easier loading and unloading, then you can also choose a platform bike rack or a suspension rack with a better price. However, although the suspension mount has a better price, it is far less secure than the platform mount.
Of course, if you have a very good budget, then I also highly recommend the vertical suspension bike rack. It has more stable features and can protect the bike well. But at the same time, it also has a higher price and heavier weight than the bracket.
Recommended Bike Racks.
Thule EasyFold XT ($999.95)
1.5 More suitable for electric cars bike rack
As we all know, the roof of an electric car is not suitable for loading heavy objects. So if your car is an electric car, then you can choose your preferred bike mount among platform type, suspension type, and vertical suspension type.
In the previous article, I talked about the advantages and disadvantages of each of the three. Platform type and vertical suspension type have the best performance and are easy to load and unload the bike. But they are expensive and bulky, while heavier in weight. The suspension type is excellent in price and easy to install, but the safety performance is not as good as the previous two.
So if you have enough budget, I still recommend you to buy a bike mount with strong enough safety performance.
Recommended Bike Racks.
Kuat Transfer V2 ($349)
2. Choose According To The Bike Rack
2.1 Roof bike rack
If your car is low and has a roof rack on it, and you also want to use all the space in the back of the vehicle, then you might consider a roof bike rack.
1) Fork top bike rack
This bike rack has absolute stability and you can fully trust it to protect your car. Because the frame is completely separated from the roof, they are not subject to any collisions. Therefore, it will not cause any damage to your car.
However, when loading and unloading the bicycle, it is necessary to remove the front tire of the bicycle before installation. This increases the trouble of loading and unloading bicycle tires to a certain extent.
2) Frame-type roof bike rack
Compared with the fork type, the frame-type bike rack does not need to remove the front tire. But accordingly, it is not as stable as the fork top. So in the process of riding and driving, the bike will have the risk of swaying. This is likely to give you a more dangerous situation. Therefore, I do not recommend this kind of bike rack.
3) Wheeled roof bike rack
If you want a stable enough roof bike rack without the hassle of loading and unloading front tires. Then you should consider a wheeled roof bike rack. The design of zero contact between the roof and the bike frame fully protects the bike from collision with the roof. At the same time, the bike rack is directly attached to the tires of the bike, with absolute stability.
So if you want to choose a suitable roof-mounted bike rack, then a wheeled roof-mounted bike rack will be your best choice.
2.2 Rear towable bike rack
Platform bike rack
The bike rack of the platform rack has a good advantage that it is easy to load and unload the bike. This is the reason why it is loved by many consumers.
Not only that, the platform frame has a wide range of compatibility and high carrying capacity. Therefore, there are numerous bicycles adapted to it, and the stability is also very good.
And platform racks are far more stable than suspension racks. This means that when you are driving on the same road with different bike mounts. If you are using a platform stand.
Then your bike may not be affected in any way at all. Whereas if you are using a suspension frame, then your bike may experience body-to-body collisions and cause wear and tear.
But there are two sides to everything, if you want to enjoy the convenience and stability of the platform rack, you have to bear its higher price. At the same time, the weight of the platform rack is heavy, which may bring some trouble when installing the bracket.
2.3 Trunk bike rack
Suspended bike rack
Very different from the platform rack, the suspension rack is very small, and lightweight and does not need to use when it can easily be stored on it. It is also very affordable.
But accordingly, it has the disadvantage that it must be equipped with a top tube adapter at the time of installation. Otherwise, it will not be compatible with different bikes. Furthermore, if you need to carry more than one bike, then the bikes will collide with each other because the contact is too intense between bikes or even between bikes and cars.
Finally, because suspensions hold the bike in place with rubber and plastic straps, you have to pay attention to their wear and tear so that they can be replaced in time when needed.
Vertical hanging bike rack
Vertical hangers have absolute advantages as an emerging bike rack in recent years. It has a large capacity, and good stability, but also good protection for bicycles from collisions. But it also has the same disadvantages. That is, it has a higher price, and loading and unloading bicycles is not convenient. At the same time, the vertical rack also has a large volume and is heavyweight.
3. According To The Size Of The Bicycle Specifications
| Recommended Frame Brands | Applicable bike wheelbase | Applicable tire size (maximum) | Applicable tire width | Applicable bike weight (maximum per bike) | Does include bike and receiver hitch lock |
| Thule EasyFold XT 2 ($999.95) | 51″ | 29″ | 3″ | 65 lbs. | Yes |
| Kuat Transfer V2 ($349) | 50″ | 29″ | 5″ | 40 lbs. | Yes |
| Saris SUPERCLAMP EX 2 ($579.99) | 50″ | 29″ | 4″ | 60 lbs. | Yes |
| Saris BONES EX 3 ($259.99) | No restrictions | No restrictions | No restrictions | 35 lbs. | No |
| Yakima FullTilt ($259.99) | No restrictions | No restrictions | No restrictions | 40 lbs. | Yes |
| Rockymounts BackStage ($768.99) | 50″ | 29″ | 5″ | 60 lbs. | Yes |
| Rockymounts BrassKnuckles ($249.95) | 48″ | 29″ | 3″ | 45 pounds | No |
| 1UP Recon Rack 6 ($769.95) | No restrictions | 29″ | 3″ | 45 lbs. | No |
| Saris Door Country ($1299.99) | 48″ | 29″ | 3″ | 60 lbs. | Yes |
| Thule GateMate PRO ($249.95) | No restrictions | No restrictions | No restrictions | No restrictions | No |
| Thule Outway ($449.95) | No restrictions | No restrictions | No restrictions | 33 lbs | No |
| Yakima TwoTimer ($533.95) | 48″ | 29″ | 3″ | 45 lbs. | No |
| Saris SOLO ($69.99) | No restrictions | No restrictions | No restrictions | 35 lbs. | No |
| Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 ($629) | 47″ | 29″ | 5″ | 40 lbs. | Yes |
| Rockymounts SplitRail LS ($579.95) | 50″ | 29″ | 3″ | 60 lbs. | Yes |
| Yakima HangTight 4 ($848) | 50″ | 29″ | 5″ | 37.5 lbs. | Yes |
| 1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY HITCH ($726.53) | 54″ | 29″ | 3.1″ | 75 pounds | No |
| Saris Freedom 4-bike ($649.99) | 48″ | 29″ | 2.5″ | 60 lbs. | No |
| Thule UpRide ($299.95) | 51″ | 29″ | 3″ | 44 pounds | No |
| Yakima HangOver ($798.95) | Compatible with bikes with shock forks only | Compatible with bikes with shock forks only | Compatible with bikes with shock forks only | 37.5 lbs. | Yes |
4. Choose according to the bike’s capacity needs
When you have different needs for the number of bikes to be loaded, you must choose a bike rack based on the number of bikes that can be loaded.
4.1 Choose according to 2-bike rack
Usually, 2-place bike frames are used for family trips rather than group trips. For this reason, these consumers do not need a large capacity frame, but just enough stability to hold it in place.
The 2 position bike frame is usually found on a platform bike frame. This type of bike rack can be easily loaded and unloaded, and also has enough stable fixing effect. So it is a very good choice for most consumers.
4.2 Choose according to the 4-bike rack
A 4-bit bike rack is already considered a high-capacity rack. When you need so many bike spaces, the most important thing you need to take into account is easy enough to load and unload the bike as well as the security of the bike.
Of course, there are many options for 4-bit bike frames, such as platform, suspension, and vertical suspension. But you must know the pros and cons of each of them. Although there is a price difference between them, remember that there must be a positive correlation between price and performance. If you want to pursue higher performance, you must pay more money.
4.3 Choose according to the 6-bike rack
The 6-bit bike racks are usually used for group trips. It is also because of this that large-capacity bike racks become a necessary tool.
Frames with a capacity of 6 or even more positions tend to be found only on vertical suspensions and truck protection pads. The truck protection pads are only available for trucks, so the range of options becomes very small in the end.
Vertical suspension bike racks are reliable and safe, but they tend to have a high price and a heavyweight. Therefore, when you are installing the rack, it may take two people to complete the job.
5. Choose According To The Load-Bearing Needs Of The Bicycle
Bicycle mounts have always had a large variance in weight bearing. This also means that if your bike is overweight, such as a hybrid e-bike or fat bike. Then you need to choose a bike rack that has a strong load-bearing capacity.
When you need this, you need to go for a frame that is specifically suitable for electric bikes. Because ordinary bike mounts simply can’t reach that high carrying capacity.
Recommended Bike Racks For Purchase.
Saris Door Country ($1,299.99)
Product Recommendation
Bicycle Frame Specifications, Price Comparison Table
| Frame name | Type | Weight | Price |
| Thule EasyFold XT | Platform | 50.1 pounds | $999.95 |
| Kuat Transfer V2 | Platform | 33 pounds | $349 |
| Saris SUPERCLAMP EX 2 | Platform | 35 lbs. | $579.99 |
| Saris BONES EX 3 | Suspension | 11 pounds | $259.99 |
| Yakima FullTilt | Suspension | 40 lbs. | $249.95 |
| Rockymounts BackStage | Platform | 63 lbs. | $769.95 |
| Rockymounts BrassKnuckles | Wheeled | 18 pounds | $249.95 |
| 1UP Recon Rack 6 | Vertical suspension | 104 pounds | $1,400 |
| Saris Door Country | Platform | 63 lbs. | $1,299.99 |
| Thule GateMate PRO | Protective pads | 6.5 lbs | $249.95 |
| Thule Outway | Suspension | 23.1 pounds | $449.95 |
| Yakima TwoTimer | Platform | 39 pounds | $533.95 |
| Saris SOLO | Suspension | 2 pounds | $69.99 |
| Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 | Platform | 32 lbs | $629 |
| Rockymounts SplitRail LS | Platform | 44 pounds | $579.95 |
| Yakima HangTight 4 | Vertical suspension | 73 lbs. | $899 |
| 1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY HITCH | Platform | 47 lbs. | $726.53 |
| Saris Freedom 4-bike | Platform | 53 pounds | $649.99 |
| Thule UpRide | Wheeled | 17 pounds | $299.95 |
| Yakima HangOver | Vertical suspension | 65 lbs. | $798.95 |
Best Overall Performance Bike Rack
Thule EasyFold XT ($999.95)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 50.1 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 65 lbs
- What we like about it: The platform bike rack with absolute load capacity and a very simple way to load the bike. It also has a foldable nature, making it easy to install and carry.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s too expensive.
Thule EasyFold XT as a platform bike rack has everything that a platform bike rack should have. First of all, you can feel how easy it is to load your bike. At the same time, the absolute stability allows you to drive without worrying about the safety of the rack. Although the Thule XT has a high price tag, you’ll understand how worth it if you use it, which is not only powerful but also dexterous. Thanks to its smart pedal tilt feature, I can still use my trunk as I please, even with such a large bike rack installed.
Not only that, but the Thule XT is the most popular rack in the XT series, and it has an absolutely wide range of compatibility. Whether it’s a fat tire bike or a wide-wheelbase bike, the Thule EasyFold XT can handle it with ease.
The Most Cost-Effective Bike Rack
Kuat Transfer V2 ($349)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 33 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 1 (2, 3w/additional)
- Weight capacity per bike: 40 lbs
- What we like about it: The Kuat Transfer V2 has a more robust construction than before, and upgrades to the hooks have made the Kuat V2 more stable. The semi-integrated steel cable lock also enhances security.
- What we don’t like about it: Compared to more expensive bike racks, it’s not complete in terms of design.
The Kuat V2 is a great choice for a super high-performance bike frame at a price that is friendly and with the upgraded Flatock hook cams, the stability of the frame is greatly improved. In terms of safety, the semi-integrated steel cable lock fully protects your trip.
In terms of compatibility, the Kuat V2 has a broader range of compatibility than before, accommodating bikes with up to 50-inch wheelbase.
As a platform bike rack, Kuat V2 is not only very convenient for loading and unloading bikes. It also contributes to the travel aspect with its 33 lbs. weight, and its smaller size makes it easier to carry around. From a travel perspective, there is nothing more convenient than the Kuat Transfer V2.
The Most Suitable Bike Rack For Off-Road Bikes
SARIS SUPERCLAMP EX 2 ($579.99)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 35 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 60 lbs
- What we like about it: The platform bike rack with a wide range of compatibility and the foldable nature makes it more portable. The platform-style bike rack is very convenient for loading bicycles.
- What we don’t like about it: The relatively high price.
SARIS SUPERCLAMP EX 2 has a sturdy construction and a classic and simple enough design. This is also the reason for the low weight of the SARIS EX 2. Unlike regular platform bike racks, they are usually easier to load and unload. But the compromise is the heavier weight. The SARIS EX 2 doesn’t bother you with weight. 35 pounds of weight is not only not overly stressful to install, but also not difficult to carry.
The SARIS EX 2’s dual hooks ensure that all bikes can be ridden truly securely without touching each other’s frames. The tilt function is complete enough to allow the use of the trunk without disassembling the bike. In terms of safety, the SARIS EX 2 is not only secure enough to use, but the reflectors on the outer wheel trays ensure additional visibility in low light. the adjustable arms and wheel trays of the SARIS EX 2 also make it suitable for almost all types of bikes and also have a wide range of compatibility with bike spacing.
Easiest To Install Bike Racks
SARIS BONES EX 3 ($259.99)
- Type: Suspension
- Weight: 11 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 3
- Weight capacity per bike: 35 lbs
- What we like about it: SARIS EX 3 has an absolutely easy installation, is ultra-lightweight, and has an absolutely large compatible range.
- What we don’t like about it: When carrying too many bikes, the bikes may crash into each other.
As a suspension bike rack, SARIS BONES EX 3 has the signature ultra-lightweight and very easy installation. In addition, SARIS EX 3 is affordable. But there are two sides to everything. Although SARIS EX 3 has the advantages of lightness and compatibility, it also has inescapable disadvantages.
Although SARIS EX 3 has chosen a strong enough frame and advanced fixation. However, the suspension frame design does not give it an advantage in terms of sturdiness when compared to the platform frame. The suspension design also inevitably causes bikes to crash into each other when carrying multiple bikes.
Best 4-Bike Rack
Yakima FullTilt ($249.95)
- Type: Suspension
- Weight: 40 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 4
- Weight capacity per bike: 40 lbs
- What we like about it: Tool-free installation and excellent price for a 4-capacity bike rack with locking SpeedKnod.
- What we don’t like about it: When carrying multiple bikes, collisions can occur between bikes.
The Yakima FullTilt has an out-of-the-box feature that also makes it easy for consumers to install and use. The UpperHand lever tilts the rack down for easy access to the trunk, although it can carry up to four bikes. When not in use, it can also be folded up to save space. And the Yakima FullTilt comes with an SKS lock so you don’t have to worry about risking your bike being stolen.
Although Yakima FullTilt has tried to avoid the crash-prone disadvantages of suspension frames as much as possible: the bracket is thickened to protect the bike’s frame. However, for bikes such as children’s bikes and full-suspension bikes, you will need to purchase a separate TubeTop for better protection.
The Most Trunk-Friendly Bike Rack
Rockymounts BackStage ($769.95)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 59 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 60 lbs
- What we like about it: The first platform bike rack that can be rotated 180°, making it easier to use the trunk space.
- What we don’t like about it: the higher price and heavier weight of the mount, not suitable for bikes equipped with fenders.
The Rockymounts BackStage is the industry’s first platform hitch rack that can rotate 180°, so it doesn’t matter which model it’s loaded on. If you need full access to your trunk, then the Rockymounts BackStage allows you to use your trunk without removing your bike. And as a platform bike rack, Rockymounts BackStage has easy loading and unloading of bikes. It also has a very good load-bearing capacity. Not only that, but Rockymounts BackStage also has a great range of compatibility. It can carry a maximum of 5.0 inches of road tires while carrying a range of tires from 20 inches to 29 inches in diameter.
However, Rockymounts BackStage does not apply to bikes with fenders installed. It is also possible that the cable lock will rub against the bodywork while the vehicle is in motion, causing wear to the surface of the bike due to road bumps. Therefore, the cable lock needs to be removed during use.
The Most Space-Saving Bike Rack
Rockymounts BrassKnuckles ($249.95)
- Type: Wheeled
- Weight: 18 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 1
- Weight capacity per bike: 45 lbs
- What we like about it: The excellent price of the roof-wheeled bike carrier, eliminates the need to remove the front wheel of the bike and guarantees secure enough transport.
- What we don’t like about it: Doesn’t work on bikes equipped with fenders and requires a separate lock cylinder to be purchased.
Rockymounts BrassKnuckles are popular with consumers for their ergonomic knuckle brass grips. It is also very easy to load and unload the bike.
Rockymounts BrassKnuckles does not require the front wheel of the bike to be removed compared to fork top bike racks. This saves unnecessary time consumed in assembling the bike. On top of completely avoiding contact between the frame and the roof, it also has a stable enough front wheel fixing design to ensure the stability of the vehicle during transportation.
And one big advantage of a roof rack is that you will have full trunk space to use. But only if you have a roof rack on your car.
Best 6-Bike Rack
1UP Recon Rack 6 ($1,400)
- Type: Vertical suspension
- Weight: 104 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 6
- Weight capacity per bike: 45 lbs
- What we like about it: A vertical suspension bike rack with enough capacity to fully secure the bike during transportation.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s very expensive and heavy.
As 1Up’s Recon Racks acquisition last year, the Recon Rack 6 has a similar look to 1Up’s pallet rack but is different from the Yakima Hangover. 1UP Recon Rack 6’s vertical frame ensures that no frame or fork comes into contact with the car’s bodywork. The 1UP Rack 6 also has a load capacity of up to 45 lbs. and a compatible range of 24″ – 29″ wheels. All of this allows the 1UP Rack 6 to accept most bikes on the market.
The powder-coated steel frame of the 1UP Rack 6 has an anti-sway hook insert. This helps ensure the frame’s sturdiness and stability. This is what makes the 1UP Rack 6 suitable for off-road terrain.
Bike Rack For Electric Bikes
Saris Door Country ($1,299.99)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 63 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 60 lbs
- What we like about it: Platform bike rack with strong enough load-bearing capacity, very easy to disassemble and install the bike.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s very expensive and heavy.
As a bike rack very suitable for electric bicycles, Saris Door Country has done its best in facilitating bike loading and unloading. For starters, Saris Door Country has a full-service hook rack. This means that instead of manually lifting your bike onto the rack, you turn the key and press the button and the Door Country platform hitch rack drops down to where you need it to be. And Saris Door Country has an e-bike-friendly bike mount that not only holds the bike securely but also doesn’t touch the fender or the e-bike battery mount.
The Saris Door Country’s foldable design minimizes the amount of space it takes up when a bike rack is not needed, making it easier to store. The Saris Door Country’s built-in wheels also make it extremely easy to transport the bike rack.
Bike Racks For Truck Beds
Thule GateMate PRO ($249.95)
- Type: Protective pads
- Weight: 6.5 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 7
- What we like about it: Has a large capacity bike protection pad that protects the bike from colliding with the carriage during transport.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s only available for trucks.
As a truck-specific bike rack, Thule GateMate PRO has a lightweight and very easy installation.
Because the truck itself has a large enough storage space, the bicycle can be placed directly inside the compartment. However, if the bike is simply placed in the compartment, it will inevitably collide with the compartment during long hours of driving. Therefore, the Thule GateMate PRO is designed to hold the bike securely in place. This ensures that the bicycle will not be damaged by a crash due to road bumps. The Thule GateMate PRO’s heavy-duty vinyl adjustable padding also provides excellent protection for the bike on the road.
Thule Outway ($449.95)
- Type: Suspension
- Weight: 18.3 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 33 lbs
- What we like about it: A suspension bike rack with absolute security, which is not only easy to install but also effective in preventing collisions between bikes.
- What we don’t like about it: Higher price compared to regular suspension frames.
Thule Outway has a sturdy frame and an absolutely simple installation. The double hook attachment and the rubber protection pads hold the bike securely and provide adequate protection. The Thule Outway does more than that when it comes to vehicle protection. Its integrated anti-sway system prevents collisions between bikes and also prevents contact between the bike and the car body.
In terms of bike size compatibility, Thule Outway’s adjustable bike arms can effectively accommodate almost any bike on the market. In addition, when bike racks are not needed, Thule Outway’s foldable design reduces the amount of space it takes up, making it easier to transport and store.
Although the Thule Outway is mounted on the trunk, you don’t need to make any moves while using the trunk.
Yakima TwoTimer ($533.95)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 39 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 45 lbs
- What we like about it: It has a lower pallet height for easy loading and unloading of the bike, and lighter weight and smaller size for easy portability.
- What we don’t like about it: The frame material is average.
As a platform bike rack, the Yakima TwoTimer has a definite advantage in terms of weight. First of all, its 39 lbs. weight can be easily installed even by one person. Secondly, the Yakima TwoTimer is extremely compatible. No matter what kind of frame or any type of bike, the Yakima TwoTimer can fit perfectly with its hook receiver.
But there is no absolute perfection in everything, and despite the friendly price and high performance of the Yakima TwoTimer, it is not very good in terms of frame material. After using the Yakima TwoTimer for a while, I was surprised to find rust stains on the frame of the Yakima TwoTimer. This made me feel much less favorable about Yakima TwoTimer.
Saris SOLO ($69.99)
- Type: Suspension
- Weight: 2 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 1
- Weight capacity per bike: 35 lbs
- What we like about it: Very easy installation and ultra-light weight of the stand at a very low price.
- What we don’t like about it: It can only carry one car and has a low weight capacity.
Saris SOLO weighs only 2 lbs. This means that it is very easy to install and operate, and it also means that Saris SOLO is very easy to store and carry.
Not only that, but Saris SOLO also has a non-rusting material construction, which makes it eco-friendly enough. At the same time, Saris SOLO’s compact, one-piece frame is suitable for any car make and model. And when loading and unloading the bike, you only need to tighten the straps to secure the bike perfectly to the frame.
The downside is that the Saris SOLO has a load capacity of only 35 lbs. This means that it can’t be used to transport overly heavy bikes, such as hybrid e-bikes. Also, the Saris SOLO can only carry one bike, so it’s not ideal for group travel. Also, the Saris SOLO has a problem that all suspension frames can’t avoid, and that is belt wear. You have to keep an eye on the belt worn regularly and consider whether you need a new one.
Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 ($629)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 32 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 40 lbs
- What we like about it: Has a high clearance folding tire carrier and foot-driven pivot bar for the easy unfolding of the rack. The frame is lightweight and easy to install and remove.
- What we don’t like about it: The price is higher.
Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 has a beautifully curved shape and is light enough to be used. The lightweight and foldable design also make for easy installation. In addition, the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 can be installed tool-free, as it has a hand-tightening cam system. This is also a great benefit in terms of ease of installation.
The semi-integrated bike lock selected for the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 secures the bike with the included cable. This guarantees the stability of the bicycle during transport.
The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2 is easy to install while taking into account the use of the trunk, which has great space between the trunk and the rack. This way, when I need to use the trunk, I don’t need to purposely disassemble the bike.
Rockymounts SplitRail LS ($579.95)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 60 lbs
- What we like about it: A platform bike frame that isn’t overly heavy and has not only an aesthetically rich look but also top-notch performance.
- What we don’t like about it: the tilt angle is only 30°, not convenient for using the trunk, and not for bikes equipped with fenders.
The Rockymounts SplitRail LS is very clean and tidy from the outside. Thanks to this, it has a frame that is not too heavy but very strong. Compared to the highly acclaimed Rockymounts BackStage of the same brand, the Rockymounts SplitRail LS is only compatible with a range of 3 inches. It also has a tilt angle of only 30°, unlike the 180° of the Rockymounts BackStage. This means that the Rockymounts SplitRail LS will be compatible with fewer bikes. It will also be limited in the use of the backstage.
But the Rockymounts SplitRail LS has all the benefits of a platform bike rack as a platform bike rack. For example, it is easy to load and unload bikes, and bikes do not collide with each other. So, ignoring its small compatibility range and the disadvantages of limited trunk use, the Rockymounts SplitRail LS is superior enough as a bike rack.
Yakima HangTight 4 ($848)
- Type: Vertical suspension
- Weight: 73 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 4
- Weight capacity per bike: 37.5 lbs
- What we like about it: The vertical rack with a large enough capacity has absolute stability as well as security to ensure that the bikes don’t crash into each other.
- What we don’t like about it: It’s more expensive and heavier.
Yakima HangTight 4 is a 4-capacity vertical hanging bike rack, and it has absolute consideration in terms of bike protection. First of all, the fully padded bracket supports the bike without causing any damage to the frame. At the same time, the double bracket fixing device can hold the bikes stably and make them not collide with each other. Secondly, the integrated locking ring design also greatly improves the safety of the bike. Finally, the Yakima HangTight 4 also has a wide enough range of bike size compatibility that you can use without having to worry about bike compatibility issues.
The higher price and heavier weight of 73 pounds do put some pressure on some people who want to buy one. But as a vertical hanging bike rack, I think the price and weight are within the acceptable range.
Suitable For Off-Road Bike Rack
1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY HITCH ($726.53)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 47 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 2
- Weight capacity per bike: 75 lbs
- What we like about it: easy to load and unload the bike and has a large range of compatibility and strong weight capacity.
- What we don’t like about it: The price is higher.
The 1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY HITCH is known for its absolutely wide range of compatibility. Its compatibility range can reach 16″- 29″ and its weight capacity can even reach 75 lbs. This means that it can accommodate almost any bike on the market.
And because the 1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY HITCH is suitable for off-road positioning. It has a built-in anti-sway system, so the 1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY HITCH is very stable. Its mechanical arm holds the tire securely but does not touch the frame, so you don’t have to worry about it causing damage to the frame. When you don’t need to use the frame, you can put it in the factory toolbox, which is more convenient for storage.
But the 1UP 2″ SUPER DUTY requires separate purchases of standard and overload add-ons, and it has a higher price tag.
Saris Freedom 4-bike ($649.99)
- Type: Platform
- Weight: 53 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 4
- Weight capacity per bike: 35-60 lbs
- What we like about it: A platform bike rack that allows for easy loading and unloading of bicycles safely.
- What we don’t like about it: Smaller range of compatibility.
The Saris Freedom 4-bike has a sturdy enough frame construction and is equipped with foot-operated tilt pedals. This makes it extremely convenient for trunk use. At the same time, its protective rubber mount and easily adjustable warp straps provide excellent protection for the bike during transport.
Although the Saris Freedom can carry four bikes, the four bikes it can carry have different weight limits. The two bikes closer to the car can weigh up to 60 pounds, while the other two can only reach 35 pounds. And even though the Saris Freedom claims in the product description that it can fit almost any bike on the market, we found in our review that the Saris Freedom’s compatibility is not as strong as it is advertised. For example, the e-bike will restrict the installation of a second bike after it is fixed. Therefore, compatibility needs to be considered by consumers.
Thule UpRide ($299.95)
- Type: Wheeled
- Weight: 17 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 1
- Weight capacity per bike: 44 lbs
- What we like about it: A roof-mounted frame that eliminates the need to remove the bike’s front wheel and ensures that the roof does not come into contact with the frame.
- What we don’t like about it: If you’re not used to using a roof-mounted bike rack, it can be difficult to load and unload your bike.
Thule UpRide has absolute stability when transporting bicycles. Not only does the front wheel of the bike not need to be disassembled, but it also ensures that the bike body and the roof do not collide. And the roof-mounted bike rack saves space in the trunk. This not only makes the body look more neat and beautiful but also has enough security.
And Thule UpRide fits almost all types of bikes on the market. Whether it’s a mountain bike or a fat bike, the Thule UpRide can handle it all very well. For those who haven’t used a roof-mounted bike rack before, you may feel that the roof-mounted rack will be difficult to load your bike. But once you get used to it enough, you’ll see how much of a space-saver the roof-mounted bike rack is. You can almost ignore the space it takes up.
Yakima HangOver ($798.95)
- Type: Vertical suspension
- Weight: 65 lbs
- Number of bicycles: 4
- Weight capacity per bike: 37.5 lbs
- What we like about it: Easy-to-operate high-capacity bike rack that raises and lowers the height of the stand for loading and unloading bikes.
- What we don’t like about it: the small range of compatible bikes and the need to change the fixing belt in time.
The liftable design of the Yakima HangOver makes it easy to load the bike, and the soft enough fixing belt protects the bike well. The foot-operated tilt mechanism not only facilitates bike loading and unloading but also makes it easier to use the trunk.
However, the Yakima HangOver, due to its construction, is only suitable for bikes with shock forks. So many bikes are not suitable for Yakima HangOver.
And because of the suspension design of the Yakima HangOver, this leads to a great deal of wear and tear on its fixed belt. So you need to check the wear and tear of the belt regularly in your daily life and consider whether to replace it.
At The End Of Article
Traveling by bicycle is a pleasant way to relax. But if you fail to choose the right bike rack, there is a high chance that you will have some mood-altering accidents during the trip. So, please make sure to choose the most matching bike rack according to your needs and the characteristics of your bike and car. A proper bike rack can bring you enough convenience and make your journey easier and more comfortable.
Finally, I hope you can find the most suitable bike rack that belongs to you. Then take it to more places and more adventures full of novelties.
In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!
