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10 Best Tailgate Bike Pad 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thule Gate Mate Pro Compact- Pickup Truck Tailgate Bike pad- Fits a Wide Range of Trucks- Opening for Latch & Backup Camera

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,471
Size
Padding Thickness
Material

Most important from
175 reviews

Size
The pad fits snugly even on smaller tailgates like the 2018 Honda Ridgeline, though careful adjustment is needed to get it just right.
Padding Thickness
Heavy-duty padding provides excellent protection, ensuring bikes remain stable without any movement during long trips.
Material
Durable construction and thoughtful design reflect the high quality expected from a top brand like Thule.
Bike Capacity
The design allows easy access to tailgate features while securely holding up to seven bikes, making it ideal for group rides.
Strap System
Integrated Velcro straps work well when supplemented with additional ratchet straps for maximum security.
Tailgate Access
The design allows easy access to tailgate features while securely holding up to seven bikes, making it ideal for group rides.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward and the pad adapts well to different truck models, including newer pickups like the 2023 Colorado.

The Thule Gate Mate Pro Compact is a versatile tailgate bike pad designed to fit a wide range of pickup trucks. Its flexible padding and large handle opening make it easy to access the tailgate latch and backup camera, which is a big plus for drivers who need quick and safe access to their truck. The pad is made from heavy-duty polyester with protective vinyl, providing good durability and protection for both your bikes and truck during transport. It can hold up to 7 bikes, depending on how you arrange them and your truck’s size, which is excellent for group rides or family outings.

The integrated bike separation and multiple strap anchors help keep bikes securely in place, reducing the chance of damage or shifting while driving. The inside mesh pockets add convenience by allowing you to store gear safely even on the go. Installation is generally straightforward thanks to the adjustable straps and padding, though the one-size design might not perfectly fit every truck model.

Some users might find the pad a bit bulky when not in use, and while it covers many truck types, those with very small or uniquely shaped tailgates should double-check compatibility. The limited lifetime warranty adds confidence in the product’s quality. For those who often transport multiple bikes and want a reliable, padded solution that protects gear and truck without blocking essential tailgate functions, the Thule Gate Mate Pro Compact makes a strong option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,471
Size
Padding Thickness
Material

Most important from
175 reviews

Size
The pad fits snugly even on smaller tailgates like the 2018 Honda Ridgeline, though careful adjustment is needed to get it just right.
Padding Thickness
Heavy-duty padding provides excellent protection, ensuring bikes remain stable without any movement during long trips.
Material
Durable construction and thoughtful design reflect the high quality expected from a top brand like Thule.
Bike Capacity
The design allows easy access to tailgate features while securely holding up to seven bikes, making it ideal for group rides.
Strap System
Integrated Velcro straps work well when supplemented with additional ratchet straps for maximum security.
Tailgate Access
The design allows easy access to tailgate features while securely holding up to seven bikes, making it ideal for group rides.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward and the pad adapts well to different truck models, including newer pickups like the 2023 Colorado.
#2

Fox Racing Premium Mountain Bike Tailgate Cover, Black Camo, Small

Rating
9.1
Material
Padding Thickness
Bike Capacity

Most important from
8 reviews

Material
Durable polyester material ensures long-lasting protection against wear and tear during outdoor use.
Padding Thickness
Substantial padding effectively safeguards both the truck tailgate and bikes from damage in transit.
Bike Capacity
Five webbing straps securely hold up to five bikes, ideal for group rides or family outings.
Tailgate Access
The folding flap design allows easy access to the rearview camera and tailgate handle without removing the cover.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward and user-friendly, even for those with limited DIY experience.
Size
Compact size fits most small to mid-size trucks, providing a snug and reliable fit.

The Fox Racing Premium Mountain Bike Tailgate Cover in Black Camo offers several strengths for someone looking to transport their mountain bikes securely. With dimensions of 33.5 L x 54 W x 16 H inches, it's a small-sized cover that should fit most compact and mid-size trucks. This tailgate pad is made of durable polyester material, which is known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear, suitable for outdoor use. It features substantial padding to protect both your truck and your bikes from damage during transport.

The cover includes five webbing straps, providing a secure attachment system to hold up to five bikes, which is convenient for group rides or family trips. Ease of access is a highlight, with a folding flap that allows use of the rearview camera and tailgate handle without removing the cover. This feature is particularly useful for maintaining visibility and access to the truck bed.

Installation seems straightforward with the included straps, making it user-friendly even for those who are not very handy. However, being a small size, it may not be suitable for larger trucks or for those needing to carry more than five bikes. Despite these points, the cover's practical design and high-quality material make it a promising choice for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for reliable tailgate protection.

Rating
9.1
Material
Padding Thickness
Bike Capacity

Most important from
8 reviews

Material
Durable polyester material ensures long-lasting protection against wear and tear during outdoor use.
Padding Thickness
Substantial padding effectively safeguards both the truck tailgate and bikes from damage in transit.
Bike Capacity
Five webbing straps securely hold up to five bikes, ideal for group rides or family outings.
Tailgate Access
The folding flap design allows easy access to the rearview camera and tailgate handle without removing the cover.
Installation Ease
Installation is straightforward and user-friendly, even for those with limited DIY experience.
Size
Compact size fits most small to mid-size trucks, providing a snug and reliable fit.
#3

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

Rating
9.1
Size
Padding Thickness
Bike Capacity

Most important from
58 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
9.1
Size
Padding Thickness
Bike Capacity

Most important from
58 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.

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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