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10 Best Bike Hitch Racks 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

T2 Pro XTR 2 Bike (2 in) Black

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Bike Compatibility
Ease of Use
Security Features

Most important from
1055 reviews

Bike Compatibility
It accommodates different tire sizes, making it versatile for various types of bikes.
Ease of Use
The rack is easy to install and the bikes are secured well enough to feel confident on the road.
Security Features
Some users suggest lengthening the locking cables by a few inches for better security.

The Thule Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack stands out in the bike hitch rack category, especially for those who own multiple bikes, including e-bikes and various types like mountain or fat bikes. One of its significant strengths is its versatile design, accommodating bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each without making any frame contact, which is excellent for preserving the integrity of high-end bikes. The tool-free installation makes it user-friendly for anyone, even if you're not particularly handy. Additionally, the integrated wheels allow for easy maneuvering when the rack is detached, and the HitchSwitch lever provides convenient access to your vehicle's trunk.

Security is also a strong point, with integrated cable locks securing the bikes to the rack and a locking knob that fastens the rack to the hitch. There's generous spacing of 12.5 inches between bikes that minimizes interference, which is a thoughtful feature for those with larger bike frames.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. First, while it can hold up to four bikes with an additional add-on, that add-on is sold separately, which could increase costs for larger families or groups. The rack also requires a compatible 2” hitch receiver, so users need to double-check their vehicle's specifications. Some users may find the rack on the heavier side at nearly 29 kg, which might be cumbersome for smaller individuals. The Thule Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a solid choice for avid cyclists and families who need a reliable and secure way to transport multiple bikes, but potential buyers should be aware of the weight and compatibility requirements before purchasing.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,452
Bike Compatibility
Ease of Use
Security Features

Most important from
1055 reviews

Bike Compatibility
It accommodates different tire sizes, making it versatile for various types of bikes.
Ease of Use
The rack is easy to install and the bikes are secured well enough to feel confident on the road.
Security Features
Some users suggest lengthening the locking cables by a few inches for better security.
#2

Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack , Black

Rating
9.7
Bike Compatibility
Ease of Use
Security Features

Most important from
1102 reviews

Bike Compatibility
The wheel straps are customizable with a ratchet system, making it adaptable for different wheel sizes.
Ease of Use
Very easy to install and use. The rack doesn't move at all once it's in place.
Security Features
Security is top-notch; you can lock both the rack to the hitch and the bikes to the rack.

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a robust choice for those in need of a reliable bike transport solution, especially for heavy e-bikes and mountain bikes. It boasts a high load capacity of 130 lbs, allowing you to carry two bikes weighing up to 65 lbs each, which is a great advantage for avid cyclists. The built-in folding ramp makes loading bikes simple and convenient, making it user-friendly, particularly for those who may struggle with lifting heavier bikes.

This rack fits both 1.25" and 2" hitch receivers, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of vehicles. Installation is tool-free and quick, which is a big plus for those who prefer to avoid complicated setups. Additionally, the rack features a smart foot pedal tilt that allows easy trunk access, which is crucial for everyday usability.

Security isn't overlooked either, with locks included to secure both the bikes to the rack and the rack to the vehicle, offering peace of mind while on the road. However, it’s important to consider its weight of about 50 lbs, which could be cumbersome for some users to handle when mounting or dismounting it from the vehicle. While it includes features for heavy bikes, the optional fat bike wheel strap kit is sold separately, which could add to your investment if you need that specific capability. Its fully foldable nature with transport wheels and a carry handle makes it more manageable, but it might take up significant space in your garage or vehicle when not in use. This rack is tailored for cyclists who require a durable, easy-to-use solution for transporting heavier bikes, making it a worthwhile investment for serious bike enthusiasts.

Rating
9.7
Bike Compatibility
Ease of Use
Security Features

Most important from
1102 reviews

Bike Compatibility
The wheel straps are customizable with a ratchet system, making it adaptable for different wheel sizes.
Ease of Use
Very easy to install and use. The rack doesn't move at all once it's in place.
Security Features
Security is top-notch; you can lock both the rack to the hitch and the bikes to the rack.
#3

KUAT 2" Piston Pro X LED Dual Ratchet Hitch Rack - Secure Rugged Kashima-Coated Portable Foldable Easy-to-Use No Frame Contact 2-Bike Hauling Platform with 53" Max Wheelbase & 5" Max Tire Width

Rating
8.8
Bike Compatibility
Ease of Use
Security Features

Most important from
80 reviews

Bike Compatibility
There's no part of the rack that touches the bike itself, eliminating worries about scratches from straps or mounting arms.
Ease of Use
Loading and unloading bikes is a breeze, making it far more convenient than traditional methods.
Security Features
The Kuat Piston Pro X is rock solid and aesthetically pleasing, providing absolute confidence in the safety of bikes even on rough roads.

The KUAT 2" Piston Pro X LED Dual Ratchet Hitch Rack is a high-end bike transport solution designed to cater to serious cyclists. It offers a robust construction with stainless steel and metal, accommodating bikes with wheelbases up to 53 inches and tire widths up to 5 inches, making it suitable for heavy e-bikes and mountain bikes. With a load capacity of 67 lbs per tray, it provides ample support for transporting two bikes securely.

One of its standout features is the innovative OneTap technology, which simplifies the loading process by allowing you to open the cradle arms with a single touch. This makes securing your bikes quick and effortless. Additionally, the rack boasts a sleek design with a Galaxy Gray finish and Kashima-coated struts, integrating both functionality and aesthetics. Security is also a priority with an integrated cable lock system that ensures your bikes stay safe during transit. The built-in LED taillights enhance visibility during night drives, connecting easily to your vehicle via a flat 4-pin connector.

While it is expandable and RV-ready, allowing for additional capacity and use with RVs, it does come with some drawbacks. The rack is relatively heavy at 64 pounds, which may make installation and handling more cumbersome. It also has a higher price point, which might not be suitable for casual cyclists or those on a budget. Despite these cons, its durability, ease of use, and advanced features make it a strong contender for cyclists seeking a reliable and secure bike-hitch-rack.

Rating
8.8
Bike Compatibility
Ease of Use
Security Features

Most important from
80 reviews

Bike Compatibility
There's no part of the rack that touches the bike itself, eliminating worries about scratches from straps or mounting arms.
Ease of Use
Loading and unloading bikes is a breeze, making it far more convenient than traditional methods.
Security Features
The Kuat Piston Pro X is rock solid and aesthetically pleasing, providing absolute confidence in the safety of bikes even on rough roads.

Buying Guide for the Best Bike Hitch Racks

Choosing the right bike hitch rack can make transporting your bike easier and more secure. The right rack will depend on your vehicle, the type of bikes you have, and how often you plan to use it. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a bike hitch rack to ensure it meets your needs and preferences.
CapacityCapacity refers to the number of bikes a hitch rack can carry. This is important because it determines how many bikes you can transport at once. Hitch racks typically come in capacities ranging from 1 to 5 bikes. If you usually ride alone or with one other person, a rack with a capacity of 1-2 bikes should suffice. For families or groups, a rack that can hold 3-5 bikes would be more appropriate.
Hitch Receiver SizeThe hitch 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 hitch receiver size of the rack to your vehicle's hitch receiver. If you have a smaller vehicle, you likely have a 1.25-inch receiver, while larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs typically have a 2-inch receiver. Ensure compatibility to avoid any installation issues.
Rack TypeThere are two main types of hitch racks: platform (tray) and hanging (mast). Platform racks support bikes by their wheels, making them more stable and easier to load, especially for heavier bikes. Hanging racks support bikes by their frames, which can be lighter and more compact but may require more effort to secure the bikes. Choose a platform rack if you have heavy or expensive bikes, or a hanging rack if you need a more compact solution.
Bike CompatibilityBike compatibility refers to the types of bikes a rack can accommodate. Some racks are designed to fit specific bike frame styles, wheel sizes, or tire widths. This is important to ensure your bikes fit securely on the rack. If you have a variety of bike types (e.g., road bikes, mountain bikes, fat bikes), look for a rack with adjustable features or one that explicitly states it can handle different bike styles.
Ease of UseEase of use encompasses how simple it is to install the rack on your vehicle, load and unload bikes, and store the rack when not in use. This is important for convenience and efficiency. Look for racks with user-friendly features like tool-free installation, tilt mechanisms for rear vehicle access, and foldable designs for easy storage. If you plan to use the rack frequently, these features can save you time and effort.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and anti-theft mechanisms that protect your bikes and the rack itself. This is crucial for preventing theft when your vehicle is unattended. Some racks come with integrated locks for both the bikes and the hitch, while others may require you to purchase locks separately. If you often leave your bikes on the rack in public places, prioritize racks with robust security features.
WeightThe weight of the hitch rack itself can affect how easy it is to install and remove from your vehicle. This is important for handling and storage. Lighter racks are easier to manage but may have lower capacities or fewer features. Heavier racks can be more durable and offer more features but may require more effort to handle. Consider your physical strength and how often you'll need to install or remove the rack when choosing the weight.

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