10 Best Tailgate Bike Pad 2025 in the United States

The Yakima Gatekeeper tailgate bike pad is designed for full-size trucks with tailgates 62 inches or wider, making it a good fit for larger trucks but not smaller models. It offers a generous capacity, holding up to six bikes, which is great for group rides or families. The pad’s material is durable tarpaulin-coated polyester that resists weather and abrasion, while the soft felt backing helps protect your truck’s paint from scratches. The padding thickness is enough to cushion your bike frames and prevent damage during transport.

The strap and tension lock system is thoughtful and secure, featuring reinforced webbing and an integrated strap management setup to keep the pad tight and stable. It also includes a lock grommet and cable lock loop for added bike security, giving peace of mind when you leave your truck unattended. The SitTight cradles keep bikes from rubbing against each other, reducing the chance of bike damage.

One convenient feature is the HindSight tuck-away cover, which allows continued access to your backup camera—a nice touch for safety and ease of use. However, installation and removal might require some effort due to the size and weight (over 6 pounds), which could be a consideration if you frequently load and unload the pad. The bright Cascade Blue color and reflective logo enhance visibility, especially in low light. This pad is best suited for truck owners who need to carry multiple bikes securely and want solid protection for both their bikes and truck paint. It may be less ideal for smaller trucks or those needing a lightweight, quick-install solution.

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.

The Fox Mission Tailgate Pad is designed to carry up to two bikes and offers partial tailgate coverage suitable for most trucks. It stands out with its thick downtube padding, which not only protects your bike frame but can also fold away to allow trucks with tonneau covers to close and lock properly, adding versatility beyond just bike transport. The ridged compression-molded foam pad securely holds the front forks, which is helpful for rough road conditions, minimizing bike movement and potential damage.

Its two-panel design is adjustable to fit different tailgate heights, making it flexible for a variety of truck models. The universal fit and strap system are straightforward to install, meaning most users should have little trouble setting it up. It supports two bikes and provides partial rather than full tailgate coverage, so some tailgate areas remain exposed to dirt or scratches.

The material quality, suggested by FOX Factory branding and foam padding, indicates durability and protection. For those seeking a simple, moderately padded tailgate bike carrier primarily for two bikes with features like tonneau cover compatibility, this pad is a reliable choice. Riders needing to transport more bikes or wanting full tailgate protection might want to explore other options.