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10 Best Mountain Bike Racks 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack Bicycle Carrier, Durable, Rust-Free, Anti-Sway Straps, Fits Most Vehicles, Made in USA, Arc-Based Design, 100% Recyclable Materials

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,251
Rack Type
Bike Capacity
Compatibility

Most important from
4386 reviews

Rack Type
The rack’s lightweight design and rust-free construction make it durable and easy to handle off the vehicle.
Bike Capacity
While it comfortably carries two bikes, fitting three requires careful positioning, especially with mixed bike sizes.
Compatibility
Compatibility is impressive, fitting about 90% of vehicles, including those with spoilers, which many racks struggle with.
Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward, but tightening the straps again shortly after beginning a trip is essential to maintain a secure fit.
Security Features
The best-in-class ratchet straps hold bikes firmly and reduce sway, improving safety on the road.
Durability
Long-term use shows no major durability issues, with consistent performance over many trips in varied weather conditions.
Weight
The maximum weight per bike is suitable for most mountain bikes, but heavier models or more than three bikes may exceed its limits.

The Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack is a solid choice if you need to carry up to three mountain bikes on the back of your vehicle. It's designed as a trunk-mounted rack, known for its lightweight frame at just about 11-12 pounds, which makes it easier to handle when not attached to the car. The rack is praised for its strong, rust-free construction thanks to injection-molded arms and legs, which help it last through many rides without damage or corrosion. Its arc-based design cleverly separates bikes on different levels to minimize bike-to-bike contact, which reduces scratches or dings during transport.

One of the biggest benefits is its wide compatibility—it fits about 90% of popular vehicles, including those with spoilers that often cause fitting issues with other racks. This makes it a versatile option for many car owners, whether you drive a sedan, hatchback, or SUV. Installation is fairly straightforward, and the best-in-class ratchet straps securely hold the bikes while hiding away excess strap for a cleaner look. These straps also help reduce bike sway, which improves safety on the road.

On the downside, the rack's bike capacity is limited to three bikes, each with a maximum weight of 35 pounds, which is usually sufficient for most mountain bikes but might be restrictive for heavier models or if you have more than three bikes to carry. Some users might find trunk racks a bit cumbersome to install and remove compared to hitch-mounted options, especially if they frequently load and unload their bikes. Also, while it protects the vehicle’s paint with rubber feet, careful handling during installation is still needed to avoid scratches. This rack is a durable, lightweight, and vehicle-friendly option for mountain bikers who want reliable, rust-free transport for up to three bikes. It's particularly well suited for those who prioritize compatibility with various car types and appreciate a neat, anti-sway setup without a heavy or bulky frame.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,251
Rack Type
Bike Capacity
Compatibility

Most important from
4386 reviews

Rack Type
The rack’s lightweight design and rust-free construction make it durable and easy to handle off the vehicle.
Bike Capacity
While it comfortably carries two bikes, fitting three requires careful positioning, especially with mixed bike sizes.
Compatibility
Compatibility is impressive, fitting about 90% of vehicles, including those with spoilers, which many racks struggle with.
Ease of Installation
Installation is straightforward, but tightening the straps again shortly after beginning a trip is essential to maintain a secure fit.
Security Features
The best-in-class ratchet straps hold bikes firmly and reduce sway, improving safety on the road.
Durability
Long-term use shows no major durability issues, with consistent performance over many trips in varied weather conditions.
Weight
The maximum weight per bike is suitable for most mountain bikes, but heavier models or more than three bikes may exceed its limits.
#2

Young Hitch Mount Bike Rack with Ramp, 200 lbs. Capacity for 2 E-Bikes, Fat Tire and Standard, fits Cars, SUVs, RVs, Trailers with 2 Inch Receiver

Rating
10.0
Rack Type
Bike Capacity
Ease of Installation

Most important from
553 reviews

Rack Type
The design accommodates step-through bikes without needing additional attachments, making it very sturdy.
Bike Capacity
The platform width is a tight fit for 4-inch fat tires, and adding a rougher surface can improve grip.
Ease of Installation
Instructions could be clearer and better translated; expect to figure some parts out on your own.
Security Features
The rack gives a secure feeling, preventing bikes from falling off the hitch, which was a concern with other racks.
Durability
Solid hardware with steel where needed and aluminum to reduce weight makes it very heavy-duty.
Weight
Despite the weight, it's manageable to lift from one vehicle to another.

The Young Hitch Mount Bike Rack with Ramp is designed to provide a robust solution for transporting up to two electric bikes or standard bikes, with a total load capacity of 200 lbs. Constructed with reinforced steel and aluminum, it offers durability and strength, making it suitable for heavier e-bikes. The design includes a secure 2-arm fix and patent-secure wheel cradles to prevent wobbling during transit, ensuring the safety of your bikes.

Additionally, the anti-wobble structure helps maintain stability and prevents the bikes from knocking against the vehicle, which is particularly valuable during long trips. This rack is RV approved, indicating it’s tailored for compatibility with RVs, making it ideal for motorhome adventures. The inclusion of a ramp aids in the easy loading and unloading of bikes, which is a thoughtful feature for users with heavier bikes.

It fits vehicles with 2-inch receivers and comes partially pre-assembled, which simplifies the installation process. However, at 66.1 pounds, the rack is relatively heavy, which might be a concern for some users when handling or installing it. Moreover, it only fits 2-inch hitch receivers, limiting its compatibility with vehicles that have different hitch sizes. This bike rack is best suited for users looking for a durable, secure, and RV-compatible solution for transporting heavier bicycles, especially e-bikes.

Rating
10.0
Rack Type
Bike Capacity
Ease of Installation

Most important from
553 reviews

Rack Type
The design accommodates step-through bikes without needing additional attachments, making it very sturdy.
Bike Capacity
The platform width is a tight fit for 4-inch fat tires, and adding a rougher surface can improve grip.
Ease of Installation
Instructions could be clearer and better translated; expect to figure some parts out on your own.
Security Features
The rack gives a secure feeling, preventing bikes from falling off the hitch, which was a concern with other racks.
Durability
Solid hardware with steel where needed and aluminum to reduce weight makes it very heavy-duty.
Weight
Despite the weight, it's manageable to lift from one vehicle to another.

Buying Guide for the Best Mountain Bike Racks

Choosing the right mountain bike rack is essential for safely transporting your bike to various trails and locations. The right rack will ensure your bike is secure, easy to load and unload, and compatible with your vehicle. To make an informed decision, consider the following key specifications and how they align with your needs.
Rack TypeRack type refers to the design and mounting method of the bike rack. Common types include hitch-mounted, trunk-mounted, and roof-mounted racks. Hitch-mounted racks are generally easier to load and unload and can carry multiple bikes, making them ideal for frequent riders or families. Trunk-mounted racks are more affordable and versatile but may obstruct rear visibility and access to the trunk. Roof-mounted racks keep the bike out of the way but require lifting the bike overhead, which can be challenging. Choose a rack type based on your vehicle compatibility, ease of use, and how often you plan to transport your bike.
Bike CapacityBike capacity indicates the number of bikes a rack can hold. Racks typically range from single-bike carriers to those that can hold up to four or more bikes. If you often ride solo, a single-bike rack may suffice. For family outings or group rides, consider a rack with higher capacity. Ensure the rack can accommodate the weight and size of your bikes without compromising stability.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to how well the rack fits with your vehicle and bike. Check if the rack is compatible with your vehicle's hitch size, trunk design, or roof type. Additionally, ensure the rack can accommodate your bike's frame size, wheel size, and tire width. Some racks are designed specifically for mountain bikes, offering better support and security for rugged frames and larger tires.
Ease of InstallationEase of installation is crucial for convenience and safety. Look for racks that offer straightforward installation processes, ideally without the need for additional tools. Quick-release mechanisms and adjustable features can make mounting and dismounting the rack easier. If you plan to frequently remove and reattach the rack, prioritize models that offer hassle-free installation.
Security FeaturesSecurity features are important to protect your bike from theft and damage during transport. Look for racks with integrated locks for both the rack itself and the bikes. Anti-sway cradles and sturdy straps can prevent bikes from moving or colliding during transit. Consider racks with additional security measures if you often leave your bike unattended on the rack.
DurabilityDurability refers to the rack's ability to withstand regular use and exposure to the elements. High-quality materials like steel or aluminum can offer better longevity and resistance to rust and corrosion. If you frequently travel in harsh weather conditions or on rough terrain, prioritize racks with robust construction and weather-resistant finishes.
WeightWeight of the rack can affect ease of handling and installation. Lighter racks are easier to mount and remove but may compromise on durability. Heavier racks, while more robust, can be challenging to install and may require more effort to handle. Balance the weight of the rack with your ability to manage it and the frequency of use.

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