10 Best Tailgate Bike Pad 2025 in the United States

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 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 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.