10 Best Tailgate Bike Pad 2025 in the United States

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.

The Dakine Pickup Pad DLX in Large is designed to fit full-size and midsize truck tailgates, including models with backup cameras. It is particularly suitable for newer, curved tailgates found in late-model Ford and Dodge trucks. One of its standout features is its ability to accommodate up to seven bikes, making it a great option for group biking trips. The pad is made from high-quality materials, ensuring both your truck and bikes are protected from scratches and damage.

Installation is straightforward, thanks to stiffened webbing straps and cam-action buckles, plus a built-in security grommet for added safety. Users will appreciate the easy access to the tailgate handle and backup camera due to a specially designed opening with a Velcro strap to keep it in place. However, the large size of the pad may not be suitable for smaller or more compact vehicles, and some users might find the padding thickness insufficient for extremely rough terrains.

Weighing just 2 pounds, it is lightweight yet durable. The Dakine Pickup Pad DLX is an excellent choice for truck owners looking for a reliable solution to transport multiple bikes securely and conveniently.

The Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is designed specifically for mountain bikers looking for a secure and protective way to transport their bikes in pickup trucks. One of its standout features is the premium quality construction, utilizing a sturdy 600D PVC outer material that resists abrasions and weather damage, paired with a soft flannelette inner layer that protects the truck's tailgate. This pad can accommodate up to 7 bikes, which is a significant advantage for larger groups or families heading to trails together.

The thoughtful design includes two tool pockets with protective covers, perfect for storing essentials safely while on the road. It also offers a large rear open window for tailgate handle access, allowing for operation of the tailgate without removing the pad, which adds convenience.

Installation is straightforward; the pad fits most compact and mid-sized trucks with its 62-inch width. The included high-quality web cinch straps ensure the pad is securely in place, and the reinforced cinch straps enhance stability and durability during transport. This consideration for ease of use makes it a good choice for users who may not have extensive experience with such products. This tailgate pad is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable way to transport multiple bikes while protecting both their vehicles and their equipment.