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10 Best Tailgate Bike Pad 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bike, Tailgate Protection Pad with Tool Pockets, Fits Most Truck Carries Up to 5 Bikes

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,348
Size
Bike Capacity
Strap System

Most important from
1205 reviews

Size
Perfectly sized for mid-size trucks like the Tacoma or Maverick, the pad provides excellent protection for both bike and vehicle.
Bike Capacity
Keeps bikes secure on short drives to trails, handling up to 5 bikes without movement.
Strap System
Velcro straps might be short for e-bikes, but doubling them up creates a sufficient length.
Tailgate Access
The rear camera flap is a useful feature, though placement might require adjustment for some truck models.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward, just place the pad on the tailgate and secure with straps, no need for excessive tightening.

The Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bikes offers a robust and protective solution for transporting bikes on your truck. With a durable 600D PVC exterior and a soft flannelette interior, this pad ensures your truck and bikes remain undamaged during transit. The 3/4” foam padding adds extra protection against collisions.

Notably, it features two tool pockets with flip covers and zippers, which are handy for storing tools safely and keeping them dry. The design is thoughtful, including a large rear open window allowing access to the tailgate handle and backup camera, provided the camera isn't obstructed by bike components. This pad supports up to 5 bikes for compact and mid-sized trucks, making it highly versatile.

Installation is straightforward with two straps and high-quality web cinch straps for added stability. However, it does not fold, which might be a drawback for some users looking for more compact storage options. Additionally, potential buyers should consider the non-foldable design and lack of a warranty.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,348
Size
Bike Capacity
Strap System

Most important from
1205 reviews

Size
Perfectly sized for mid-size trucks like the Tacoma or Maverick, the pad provides excellent protection for both bike and vehicle.
Bike Capacity
Keeps bikes secure on short drives to trails, handling up to 5 bikes without movement.
Strap System
Velcro straps might be short for e-bikes, but doubling them up creates a sufficient length.
Tailgate Access
The rear camera flap is a useful feature, though placement might require adjustment for some truck models.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward, just place the pad on the tailgate and secure with straps, no need for excessive tightening.
#2

Send It. High Roller Tailgate Bike Pad V2 - Truck Accessories for Mountain Bikers, BMX, Ebikes & More (Full Size)

Rating
9.6
Size
Padding Thickness
Bike Capacity

Most important from
39 reviews

Size
This pad fits perfectly on my 2nd gen Nissan Frontier.
Padding Thickness
The padding is more than sufficient.
Bike Capacity
I can fit at least five 29er mountain bikes on it comfortably. They do not slide around and the tires do not touch any uncovered parts of my tailgate/rear end.
Strap System
The straps are sturdy.
Tailgate Access
The panel that slides to cover/uncover the backup camera is clutch.
Installation Ease
The ease of hooking the straps using gravity was a novel idea, making the installation process simpler.

The Send It High Roller Tailgate Bike Pad V2 is a solid choice for those looking to transport bikes using their truck's tailgate. This pad fits several full-size truck models like the Ford F150 and Toyota Tundra, making it versatile for various users. Its padded design protects both the bikes and the truck, preventing frame contact and scratches, which is a significant advantage for bike enthusiasts concerned about their equipment's condition. The unique accordion-style pad and microfiber fleece lining provide additional protection while ensuring durability against weather elements.

One of the standout features is the sliding window that allows easy access to the tailgate latch, making it user-friendly. The installation process is also simplified with gravity-fed straps, allowing one person to set it up quickly. With a capacity of up to six bikes, it suits larger groups or families looking to haul multiple bikes.

The pad's bulkiness may be difficult to manage for those with smaller trucks or limited storage space. Furthermore, the reliance on straps for mounting means that securing it tightly is crucial to prevent any movement during transportation. The Send It High Roller Tailgate Bike Pad V2 excels in providing protection and ease of use for transporting multiple bikes. Its strengths lie in its design and versatility, but prospective buyers should consider their specific vehicle and bike sizes to ensure compatibility.

Rating
9.6
Size
Padding Thickness
Bike Capacity

Most important from
39 reviews

Size
This pad fits perfectly on my 2nd gen Nissan Frontier.
Padding Thickness
The padding is more than sufficient.
Bike Capacity
I can fit at least five 29er mountain bikes on it comfortably. They do not slide around and the tires do not touch any uncovered parts of my tailgate/rear end.
Strap System
The straps are sturdy.
Tailgate Access
The panel that slides to cover/uncover the backup camera is clutch.
Installation Ease
The ease of hooking the straps using gravity was a novel idea, making the installation process simpler.
#3

YAKIMA, Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad for Full-Sized Truck Beds, Carries up to 5 Bikes, Black, Medium

Rating
9.4
Size
Padding Thickness
Material

Most important from
70 reviews

Size
Despite some fit issues on certain truck models, the pad effectively secures bikes without interfering with functionality.
Padding Thickness
High-quality padding and protective material ensure both the truck and bikes remain scratch-free.
Material
The durable materials promise long-lasting use, even with heavy usage over several years.
Bike Capacity
Holds bikes tight and stable, with aluminum G clips offering improved security over previous velcro models.
Strap System
Bikes load quickly and securely, thanks to the sturdy metal grommets and tie-down hooks for added protection.
Installation Ease
Setting up and removing the tailgate pad is incredibly easy, making it convenient to use only when needed.

The Yakima Gatekeeper Truck Bed Tailgate Pad is designed to make transporting up to 5 bikes easy and secure. It fits mid-size and some older full-size trucks with tailgates between 53 to 61 inches wide. One of its standout features is the tension lock system, which is gentle on painted carbon bicycle frames, protecting them from scratches and damage. The durable tarpaulin-coated polyester material resists abrasion and weather damage, while the soft felt backing ensures your truck’s paint job remains unscathed.

For added security, the pad includes a lock grommet and built-in cable lock loop, making it less likely for your bikes to be stolen during transit. The SitTight cradles keep your bikes stable and prevent them from bumping into each other, which helps avoid potential damage. Furthermore, the HindSight tuckaway cover allows you to maintain access to your backup camera, and the silver reflective logo increases visibility during nighttime rides.

Some users may find the medium size limiting if they have a larger truck or need to transport more than 5 bikes. The Yakima Gatekeeper is user-friendly with an easy installation process, thanks to the reinforced webbing ends and integrated strap management system, ensuring a secure and tight fit on your tailgate. It is also lightweight and foldable for convenient storage.

Rating
9.4
Size
Padding Thickness
Material

Most important from
70 reviews

Size
Despite some fit issues on certain truck models, the pad effectively secures bikes without interfering with functionality.
Padding Thickness
High-quality padding and protective material ensure both the truck and bikes remain scratch-free.
Material
The durable materials promise long-lasting use, even with heavy usage over several years.
Bike Capacity
Holds bikes tight and stable, with aluminum G clips offering improved security over previous velcro models.
Strap System
Bikes load quickly and securely, thanks to the sturdy metal grommets and tie-down hooks for added protection.
Installation Ease
Setting up and removing the tailgate pad is incredibly easy, making it convenient to use only when needed.

Buying Guide for the Best Tailgate Bike Pad

Choosing the right tailgate bike pad is essential for safely and conveniently transporting your bikes using your truck. A good tailgate bike pad will protect both your vehicle and your bikes from damage during transit. When selecting a tailgate bike pad, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
SizeThe size of the tailgate bike pad is crucial because it needs to fit your truck's tailgate properly. Tailgate bike pads come in various sizes, typically small, medium, and large. Measure your tailgate's width and height to determine the correct size. A properly fitting pad will provide better protection and stability for your bikes. If you have a compact or mid-size truck, a small or medium pad might be suitable. For full-size trucks, a large pad is usually necessary.
Padding ThicknessPadding thickness is important as it determines the level of protection provided to both your bikes and your truck. Thicker padding offers better cushioning and protection against scratches and dents. Pads with thicker padding are ideal for frequent use or for transporting multiple bikes. If you only occasionally transport bikes or carry lighter bikes, a pad with moderate padding thickness may suffice.
MaterialThe material of the tailgate bike pad affects its durability and weather resistance. Common materials include heavy-duty nylon, polyester, and PVC. Look for a pad made from durable, weather-resistant material to ensure it can withstand various weather conditions and last longer. If you often ride in wet or muddy conditions, a waterproof or water-resistant material is essential to protect your truck and bikes.
Bike CapacityBike capacity refers to the number of bikes the pad can securely hold. Tailgate bike pads typically accommodate between 2 to 7 bikes. Consider how many bikes you need to transport regularly. If you often ride with a group or family, choose a pad with a higher bike capacity. For solo riders or couples, a pad with a lower capacity may be sufficient.
Strap SystemThe strap system is important for securing the bikes to the pad and ensuring they stay in place during transit. Look for a pad with adjustable, sturdy straps that can hold the bikes securely without causing damage. Some pads feature individual straps for each bike, while others have a single strap system. If you transport bikes of different sizes or shapes, individual straps may offer better security and flexibility.
Tailgate AccessTailgate access refers to the ability to open and close your truck's tailgate without removing the pad. Some pads have a flap or opening that allows you to access the tailgate handle. This feature is convenient if you need to access the truck bed frequently. If you often use your truck bed for other purposes, look for a pad that provides easy tailgate access.
Installation EaseEase of installation is an important factor, especially if you plan to frequently remove and reattach the pad. Look for a pad that is easy to install and remove, with clear instructions and minimal tools required. Quick-release buckles and simple strap systems can make installation and removal more convenient. If you are not very handy, choose a pad known for its user-friendly installation process.

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