Using a good quality hitch bike rack is the perfect way to take your bike on the go for cycling activities. It’s a safe and secure way to transport a bike from one place to another and as such, it’s important to make sure you find the right bike rack for your bike. But what is a hitch bike rack?
A hitch bike rack is a device attached to the back or side of a vehicle, which is used to carry a bike or multiple bikes securely and safely. Hitch bike racks are installed on the back of your vehicle’s trailer hitch, which is the opening located underneath the bumper where a trailer or other accessory can be hooked up. Hitch bike racks are usually available in several sizes and styles to accommodate different types of bikes.
Hitch bike racks are becoming increasingly popular among cyclists and other outdoor sport enthusiasts. They provide a convenient way to transport bikes widely and quickly. The various types of hitch bike racks available in the market include the Thule Vertex XT, Yakima FourTimer, Yakima RidgeBack, Kuat NV 2.0, Kuat Beta 2, Hollywood Racks Express, BV 2 Bike, Swagman XC2, Tyger Auto Deluxe, and Allen Sports Deluxe 3.
Below is the list of Best Hitch Bike Racks that you can buy.
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Types of Hitch Bike Racks
Hitch bike racks are broadly classified into three major types: Platform Hitch racks, Hanging Hitch racks and Tray Hitch racks. Platform hitch racks such as the Thule Vertex XT and Kuat NV 2.0 are great for the bulky and heavy bikes such as mountain bikes etc. They provide an easy and secure loading and unloading of the bike. The second type, hanging bike racks such as the Yakima FourTimer and Kuat Beta 2, are great for lighter bikes as they are easy to use and provide a secure loading. The last type of hitch bike rack is the tray hitch rack, like the Swagman XC2 or Allen Sports Deluxe 3, which provide the most convenient and secure way to transport them.
Benefits of Hitch Bike Racks
Hitch bike racks provide several advantages over traditional trunk-mounted racks.
They are more stable and secure than trunk-mounted racks and can be used for transporting heavier bikes like mountain bikes or any bike with an extra large or heavy frame. As they operate independently from the vehicle’s body, the vehicle’s paint job won’t be affected and it also makes it easier to access the trunk during transit. Installing a hitch bike rack is also much easier compared to a trunk-mounted one.
Most hitch bike racks are compatible with both 1.25” and 2” hitch receivers, so they can be used for a variety of vehicles including cars, SUVs and RVs.
Different Hitch Bike Racks
Thule Vertex XT Bike Hitch Rack
The Thule Vertex XT bike hitch rack is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a sturdy and easy to use bike rack.
The Vertex XT is equipped with a rear wheel carrier that makes it easy to securely load and unload heavy bikes, including mountain bikes. It also features a locking knob located on the top of the rack, which makes it easy to secure the bike to the rack.
The Vertex XT is made of lightweight aluminum and is strong enough to hold two bikes of up to a combined weight of 140 lbs. It can also be folded down to provide easier access to the rear of the vehicle, even when bikes are loaded.
Yakima FourTimer Bike Hitch Rack
The Yakima FourTimer is a great option for cyclists looking to transport up to four bikes. It features an adjustable wheel tray with a ratcheting anti-sway system that provides a secure and stable ride for heavier bicycles.
The FourTimer is also equipped with a locking cable that attaches to the rack and fully secures the bike. The height of the frame tray can be easily adjusted with the ratchet lever. The wheel tray can accommodate tires up to 3 inches wide and the arms are also capable of carrying bike racks with disc brakes. With its heavy-duty construction, the Yakima FourTimer can hold a combined weight of up to 140 lbs.
Yakima RidgeBack Hitch Bike Rack
The Yakima RidgeBack Hitch Bike Rack is the ideal hitch rack for cyclists with limited space. It is equipped with an adjustable wheel tray that can accommodate up to two bikes up to a total weight of 70 lbs. It has a locking cable system that holds the bike firmly in place and also includes a locking knob for extra security.
The adjustable wheel tray lets you easily move the bikes out of the way to provide access to the rear of the vehicle. The rack also comes with an integrated ramp that makes loading bikes a breeze. The RidgeBack features a super strong and corrosion-resistant construction that will last for years and won’t be affected by weather conditions.
Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Bike Rack
The Küat NV 2.0 Hitch Bike Rack is a great option for cyclists looking to transport up to 4 bikes. It is equipped with patented ZipStrips for easy loading and unloading, and it features an adjustable wheel tray with extra long arms for a secure fit. It can accommodate tire widths up to 3 inches and can hold a combined weight of up to 140 lbs.
The rack also includes a locking cable and includes the same locking knob on the top of the rack featured on the Thule Vertex XT. The NV 2.0 is constructed of lightweight aluminum making it strong, rust resistant and suitable for all types of weather.
Kuat Beta 2 Bike Hitch Rack
The Kuat Beta 2 Bike Hitch Rack is a great, lightweight option for cyclists looking for an easy to use and secure bike rack. It features an adjustable wheel tray that can fit up to 2 bikes with a combined weight of 70 lbs. The wheel tray is equipped with patented ZipStrips for simple loading and unloading and includes a locking knob for extra security.
The Beta 2 also features extra long arms which allow the tray to fit a variety of bike sizes, including those with disc brakes. The rack is made of lightweight aluminum and is extremely durable, as it is resistant to corrosion and rust.
Hollywood Racks Express Trunk-Mount Bike Rack
The Hollywood Racks Express Trunk-Mount Bike Rack is a great bike rack for cyclists looking for a secure and simple way to transport their bike. It is lightweight and features adjustable wheel trays and padded wheel cradles to support the bike during transit. The frame is constructed of heavy duty steel and can hold up to two bikes with a combined weight of 70 lbs.
The Express is quick and easy to install and can be used with most vehicles, including hatchbacks, station wagons, sedans, and SUVs. It also features a locking knob for extra security and has a corrosion-resistant finish.
BV 2-Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack
The BV 2-Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack is a great bike rack for cyclists looking for a secure and convenient way to transport their bike. It features an adjustable wheel tray with padded wheel cradles for a secure fit, as well as a locking cable system that locks the bike to the rack. It’s also equipped with a folding design, which allows you to easily access the rear of the vehicle even when the bike is loaded.
The BV is made of heavy-duty steel and is designed to hold two bikes with a combined weight of 70 lbs. The corrosion-resistant finish makes it suitable for all types of weather and it can also be used with cars, SUVs, and RVs.
Swagman XC2 Hitch Bike Rack
The Swagman XC2 Hitch Bike Rack is an excellent option for cyclists looking for an easy to use and secure bike rack. It features an adjustable wheel tray with extra long arms for a secure fit and the arms come with soft, foam protective covers to protect your bike during transit.
The XC2 is constructed of heavy-duty steel and can hold up to two bikes with a combined weight of 70 lbs. The corrosion-resistant finish makes it suitable for all types of weather and will last for years. The rack is also equipped with a locking cable system that locks the bike to the rack.
Tyger Auto Deluxe Hitch Mount Bike Rack
The Tyger Auto Deluxe Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a great bike rack for cyclists looking for a secure and convenient way to transport their bike. It can hold two bikes with a combined weight of 70 lbs and features adjustable wheel trays and padded wheel cradles for a secure fit. The Deluxe is also constructed of heavy-duty steel and is designed to fit both 1.25” and 2” hitch receivers. The corrosion-resistant finish makes it suitable for all types of weather.
The Deluxe is also equipped with a locking cable system that locks the bike to the rack and the frame is adjustable to provide easier loading and unloading.
Allen Sports Deluxe 3-Bike Hitch Rack
The Allen Sports Deluxe 3-Bike Hitch Rack is a great option for cyclists looking to transport up to three bikes. It features an adjustable wheel tray with extra-long arms for secure fit and padded wheel cradles for safe transportation of bikes. The rack is constructed of heavy single-piece steel and can hold up to three bikes with a combined weight of 105 lbs.
The Deluxe 3 also features a folding design that allows it to be easily moved when not in use and it is also equipped with a locking cable system. The frame is adjustable to provide easier loading and unloading and the corrosion-resistant finish makes it suitable for all types of weather.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Hitch Bike Rack
When choosing a hitch bike rack, there are several factors you should consider. These include:
Installation
Installing a hitch bike rack is relatively simple and requires no tools. Installing a hitch receiver to the vehicle is simple but requires that you have the right tools and that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Weight Capacity
The weight capacity of a hitch bike rack is important to consider. Most models are capable of carrying two or three bikes with a combined weight of around 70 to 140 lbs. but some can handle more or less, so make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications.
Size of The Rack
Size and design are also important factors. Make sure the rack is suitable for your vehicle size and that it can accommodate your type of bike, including any accessories.
Level of Security
You want to make sure that your bike is secured to the rack at all times, so consider the level of security provided by the rack. Most models come with a locking cable system and a locking knob located on the top of the rack.
Maintenance
Most hitch bike racks are designed for easy maintenance. However, it’s still important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper cleaning and maintenance of the rack.
Installation Difficulty
Different models may require different levels of skill and expertise when it comes to installation. Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and if in doubt, ask a professional to help you with the installation.
FAQs
What’s the Best Hitch Bike Rack for My Bike?
The best hitch bike rack for your bike depends on several factors including your bike type and size, the weight capacity of the rack, the level of security offered by the rack, and your budget. It’s important to compare different models and read reviews before making a decision.
Do Hitch Bike Racks Damage My Bike?
No, hitch bike racks won’t damage your bike as long as they are installed correctly and are of a good quality. However, it’s important to inspect the rack and make sure it is secure before each use.
How Do I Install a Hitch Bike Rack?
Installing a hitch bike rack is relatively simple. It requires no tools and can usually be done in less than 30 minutes. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and to make sure that the rack is securely mounted before use.
Do I Need to Balance the Load?
It’s important to make sure that the weight of the bikes is evenly distributed on the frame when they are loaded onto the rack. This will help ensure that the rack is stable and secure during transport.
How Do I Secure My Hitch Bike Rack?
Most hitch bike racks are equipped with a locking cable system and a locking knob for extra security. It’s important to use the locking system to ensure that your bikes are securely fastened to the rack.
Conclusion
Hitch bike racks are a great option for cyclists looking to transport their bikes safely and securely. They are easy to install and use and can accommodate a variety of bike sizes and styles. When choosing a hitch bike rack, it’s important to consider factors such as weight capacity, size, level of security, maintenance and the installation difficulty. With the right hitch bike rack, you can ensure that your bike will get to its destination safely and securely.