10 Best Bike Racks For Cars 2025 in the United States

The Yakima StageTwo Hitch Bike Rack for Car is a versatile and durable option for transporting bikes. Its adjustable 2-inch hitch design, with StrongArm hook cradles, accommodates various bike types, including fat-tire, mountain, road, hybrid, women’s specific, BMX, kids’ bikes, and E-bikes, holding up to 70 pounds each. This makes it a highly compatible choice for families and cycling enthusiasts with diverse bike collections.

The rack's tiered trays help reduce bike interference and enhance ground clearance, contributing to a smoother transport experience. A notable convenience feature is the remote tilt lever, which allows easy access to the rear of the car, and the tool-free locking SpeedKnob simplifies installation and removal. Integrated SKS locks provide robust security, ensuring that both the bikes and the rack remain securely attached to the vehicle.

While the Yakima StageTwo is praised for its build quality and user-friendly features, it does have some drawbacks. Its weight of 80 pounds might be cumbersome for some users, and the load capacity is somewhat lower than its advertised 70 pounds per bike, maxing out at 60 pounds per item. Additionally, the price point may be higher compared to other options in the market, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Ideal for those needing a sturdy and adaptable bike rack, the Yakima StageTwo presents a reliable solution for many cycling transport needs.

The Yakima 4-Bike Hitch Mount Carrier, also known as the DoubleDown 4, is a hitch-mounted bike rack that can carry up to 4 bikes, including mountain bikes. One of its key features is the anti-sway design, which ensures stable and damage-free transport. This rack's versatility is evident in its ability to fit both 1.25-inch and 2-inch hitches, making it compatible with a wide range of vehicles, from cars and SUVs to trucks and trailers.

The built-in tilting mechanism allows for easy access to the rear of your vehicle, even when the bikes are loaded, which adds to its convenience. Made from heavy-duty materials, the Yakima 4-Bike Hitch Mount Carrier is robust and designed to withstand the rigors of the road. It is also compatible with Yakima's optional DeadLock system, which can provide added security for both the bikes and the carrier itself.

On the downside, the rack weighs 31 pounds, which might make it a bit challenging for some users to install or remove by themselves. Additionally, while this model has been discontinued by the manufacturer, it remains a popular choice for bike enthusiasts who appreciate its high load capacity of 140 pounds and universal fit. The Yakima 4-Bike Hitch Mount Carrier could be an excellent choice for families or groups who need to transport multiple bikes securely and conveniently.

The Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack stands out as a strong and durable option for carrying bikes on your car. Weighing only 11 pounds, it has an arc-based design to keep bikes separated and secure, which enhances its capacity to hold up to three bikes (each up to 35 pounds). Its major strength lies in its compatibility, fitting 90% of the top vehicles sold, including those with spoilers. The unique dog leg design ensures it fits over most spoilers, making it versatile for various types of vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs.

This model is also made from 100% recyclable materials and is built in the USA, which might appeal to those supporting local manufacturing and sustainability. The injected-molded arms and legs make the rack strong and rust-free, contributing to its longevity. Additionally, the rubber feet protect your car’s paint, and the integrated strap management caps keep the setup looking clean and sleek.

While it has many strengths, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The installation, while generally straightforward, might still require a bit of practice to get right, particularly if you’re not used to trunk racks. However, with its premium bike hold-downs and anti-sway straps, it offers good security for your bikes. If you need a versatile, durable, and well-designed bike rack that can handle multiple bikes and fit a variety of vehicles, the Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack is worth considering.