Taking your bike to somewhere far from your home to enjoy a great time is something you may wish. Cycling means more freedom, enjoyment, and a great time. So, your front door is not the only option where you want to ride cycle.
But the struggle of carrying bikes is real and it is exhausting.
Well, a hitch-mount bike rack can save you from the struggles. If you pick the best bike rack for truck hitch, you won’t have to be worried about the struggles, safety, and security of your bike. You can easily carry the bikes to somewhere else and enjoy the freedom.
And that’s why I’m here. I love cycling. So, I know the advantages of having a quality bike rack with my truck. Watching my bike rack, some of my clients have asked for suggestions. But as their preferences and budgets were different, it was tough for me to suggest one.
So, I decided to do some research on it so that I can suggest the perfect one for them. So, I went through many bike racks for trucks, did some researches, took user feedbacks, and prepared a list of the top 10 hitch-mounted bike racks.
Now I’m going to share my list with you so that you can pick yours easily. I’ve also talked about a few more things after the reviews that will be helpful for you.
So, let’s start knowing about my recommended bike racks for truck hitch.
Top 3 Bike Rack Comparison Table
Vehicle Type: Bicycle, Trailer
Folding carry arms
Individual tie-down cradle
No-wobble hitch installation
Material: Alloy Steel
3 bike capacity with sturdy and handy construction.
Easy installation in minutes.
Free Hitch Lock & Cable Lock
Material: Alloy Steel
Fits Tires Up to 2.5” Wide
Easily transports up to 2 bikes
Fits Class 2 & 3 Hitch Receivers
Top 8 Best Bike Rack for Truck Hitch Reviews
1. Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks for 2 in. Hitch – Affordable for Groups
This bike hitch rack is one of the most preferred racks around the world. It offers strength, versatility, and dependability to the users within a budget. The basic version is great to support you, but you can also go for the advanced versions.
- Material
This 4-bike rack is made of quality steel with a black powder coating. The steel infrastructure makes it strong so that it can carry your bikes without any problem. The black powder coat outside keeps it free from rust and helps it to serve you for a long time.
- Compatibility
It is compatible with a Class III or Class IV 2-inch receiver hitch. So, you should have one of those installed in your truck to get the best benefit out of it. Also, you need to make sure that the hitch is installed professionally.
- Versatility
You can carry different frame sizes and designs with the help of this rack. So, from your kids’ small bike to your giant, you can carry those all.
- Security
For each bike, the carry arms come with two dedicated tie-down systems that ensure security. And the whole rack is secured with a no-wobble bolt to restrict the movement. So, you can depend on the rack without hesitation.
- User Comfort
You won’t face any problem while using this rack installed to your hitch. You can keep the carry arms folded when there is no bike. Also, you’ll get full access to the bed because you have the scope to tilt back the main mast.
- Variations
It comes with a few variations where mainly the locking system is improved and made more secure. I’ve talked about the Deluxe one. The other variations are- Deluxe Locking, Deluxe+ Locking, Premier, Premier Locking, and Premier Locking with Spare Tire.
- Installation Process
The installation process is really easy and simple. You need only three bolts that come with it to get the rack installed. Maybe 3-5 minutes is enough to install this Allen Sports hitch rack.
2. Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack – Best Hitch Bike Rack
To take your bike with you safely, you can depend on this hitch mount bike rack from Swagman. It can accommodate 2 bikes at a time with a weight capacity of 35 lbs. per bike.
- Material
Steel is used to build the bike rack. So, you’ll get enough strength to hold two bikes together. The grip arms come with a soft coating that keeps the bike’s finish protected.
- Compatibility
If your truck has a 1-1/4-inch or 2-inch receiver hitch, this bike rack is for you. Make sure that the hitch is installed properly.
- Versatility
It can accommodate bikes of different frame sizes because the upright ratchet arms are adjustable. However, the wheel size should be within 20-inch to 29-inch. So, you can see, you can carry a wide range of bikes with the help of it.
- Security
Your bikes are secured in this rack because it comes with dedicated grip arms for each bike. The tire trays are strong enough to hold the weight. The anti-wobble hitch design keeps the rack in place when driving.
- User Comfort
It also ensures enough comfortable access to the truck bed. You can fold down the center arm to access the bed. So, you won’t have to uninstall it fully. Also, it ensures storing comfort because you can fold it easily and turn it into a smaller unit when not in use.
- Other Features
You can transport your fat bike too with the help of this rack. But for that, you’ll have to buy fat bike tire trays which are available in the market within a reasonable price range.
- Installation Process
It took a few minutes for me to install it. The parts come separately. The first assemble may take a bit long time. But after that, you can store it as a single unit and then install it within 2-3 minutes.
3. Kuat Racks NV 2.0 Bike Rack – Premium and Durable
This is undoubtedly one of the best hitch bike racks I’ve gone through. If you’re willing to spend bucks on an advanced bike rack, you should go for it. It may make you spend a good amount, it worth the bucks you spend. If budget is not a matter for you, it is the best bike rack for truck hitch you should pick.
- Capacity
This bike rack can help you transport 2 bikes at a time with a maximum weight of 60 lbs. each. If you have more bikes to carry, don’t worry. You can buy a 1-bike add-on or 2-bike add-on and carry up to 4 bikes.
- Compatibility
This rack is available for 1.25- inch and 2-inch receiver hitch. However, it is not compatible with RV. For truck hitch, this is perfect.
- Versatility
The rack can hold bikes with 20-inch to 29-inch wheel size. But for 20-inch to 24-inch, you’ll need an adapter. For any bike with up to a 48-inch wheelbase, this is a perfect hitch bike rack.
It allows you to carry fat bikes without any extension because it supports wheels of up to 5-inch width.
- Security
To keep the front tire secured, it comes with a cradle system platform. The rear tire is secured on the bar with a strong strap system that keeps the wheel in place firmly. The co-molded strap doesn’t scratch the tire or wheel.
The best thing is, the rear tire base comes with a long integrated cable lock. So, you can ensure that your bike is secured on the rack when you’re leaving your vehicle for a few minutes.
- User Comfort
NV 2.0 comes with a lot of comfortable facilities. If you have your bike in your hand and the rack is folded, you can use the foot-assisted pivot system to unfold it without the need of making your hands free.
You can access your truck bed with it installed, even with the bikes holding on the rack. This saves a lot of your energy and time.
- Other Features
You can adjust the front tire cradles in this rack. As a result, when you’re carrying multiple bikes, you won’t face problems with the handlebar and seat-post collision.
It comes with a handful of more features that allow you to get the best experience of using a bike rack.
- Variations
Kuat NV 2.0 comes in three different colors- Gray Metallic with Orange Anodize, Black Metallic with Silver Anodize, and Sandy Black with Black Anodize (base version only). So, you can pick according to your taste.
- Installation
You won’t need any tool to install the rack. The hand-tight hitch cam system allows you to perfectly tighten the rack without any risk of moving.
The heavy-duty rack is super-easy to assemble and install. However, you may need a helping hand because it weighs around 52 lbs.
4. MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack
If you’re looking for a bike rack with a carrying capacity of 4 within a budget, you can go for this one. It is strong enough and capable of holding 4 bikes at a time. Let’s see what it offers within a budget.
- Material
Quality steel is used to manufacture this rack. The all-steel construction has given it enough strength to handle a wide range of bikes. It can carry a sum of up to 150 lbs. A powder coating finish has brought a fine look besides saving it from rust.
- Compatibility
It is compatible with 2-inch Class III and Class IV hitch receivers. So, you’re getting fewer options available for you here. But as it is a common receiver type, I guess you have it installed.
However, it is not compatible with RV, fifth wheels, or campers.
- Security
It comes with a padded bike cradle for the security of the paint. You can securely hang your bike because there are two hook and strap locks for each bike. To ensure that the mast is stable and more secured, there is an added support bracket.
As a security feature, it comes with a built-in reflector.
- User comfort
You can fold down the expanding arm for storing comfort. Also, you can access the truck bed by swinging down the mast when there is no bike attached.
- Installation Process
Assembling and installing it is an easy task. With the help of quick release pins, you can quickly assemble the unit and install it at the back of your truck. It took around 5 minutes for me to assemble and install the whole unit.
5. Retrospec Lenox Car Bicycle Carrier Hitch-Mount
This is another inexpensive option for you if you’re on a budget. It is mainly designed for cars, but it is also compatible with trucks. So, if you’re looking for a cycle rack within a budget, you can give it a try.
- Material
Just like maximum bike racks, it is also made of quality and sturdy steel. The strong and efficient construction allows it to carry 2 bikes of up to 35 lbs. each or slightly more than that, which is good enough.
- Compatibility
If your car or truck has a 2-inch class III or IV receiver hitch, you can install this.
However, you can’t use it with hitch adaptors, RVs, or trailers. Also, carrying electric bikes is prohibited.
- Versatility
You can carry different types of bikes with the help of it because the carry arm comes with enough space and scope. However, you can’t carry girls’ bikes with this rack. For that, you need to purchase a top tube adaptor for each bike.
- Security
As far as I’ve checked, the tie-down cradles and straps are strong enough to firmly hold your bikes. For each bike, there are two of these. So, your bike is secured.
You’ll also find adapters to ensure the bikes are not wobbling while driving.
- User Comfort
Just like other racks, this rack allows you to comfortably access the truck bed. All you need to do is to remove a pin. Also, you can fold and store it conveniently in small places.
- Variety
Retrospec Lenox comes in a few varieties. Besides the 2-bike rack version, you’ll find 3-bike, 4-bike, and 5-bike racks available under this name. Each of those comes within a reasonable price range.
- Installation Process
Installing it needs minor assembly. The hardware needed is provided with the rack. So, don’t worry about that. This easy-to-install rack will need only a few minutes to assemble and install.
6. Tyger Auto TG-RK3B101S 3-Bike Hitch Mount Bicycle Carrier Rack
Looking for a bike rack for truck hitch will surely bring you to the Tyger Auto I’m talking about. This is one of my primary choices surely for its reasonable price, sturdiness, and performance. Let’s check what it offers.
- Material
It comes with a sturdy steel-made body to ensure strength. As a result, it can carry 3 bikes at a time with a maximum capacity of 99 lbs.
The steel construction has a black powder E-coating over it to ensure that it looks great and remains safe from rust.
- Compatibility
If your truck has a 1-1/4-inch or 2-inch hitch receiver, you can use this bike rack with your truck or car. You can use it to carry any size of dual-arm bike.
It is not compatible with any truck where the distance between the hitch center hole and the bumper edge is more than 6.5-inch. In that case, you’ll have to purchase a hitch extension.
- Security
Your bikes are secured because it comes with soft cradles and sturdy straps to keep your bikes stable. Also, your bikes will be safer because you’ll have two security straps for added safety.
Also, a Tyger cable lock is included to make sure that your bikes are not being stolen when you’re not there.
To ensure a secured and stable position, it comes with a Tyger hitch lock.
- User Comfort
For comfortable access to the bed, you can easily tilt the mast using the screw-in pin lock. Also, you can store it comfortably because it can be folded.
- Installation Process
I needed only a few minutes to install it in my truck. The process is very easy. You’ll get a guidebook that explains the process properly.
7. Thule T2 Pro XT Hitch Bike Rack
Another platform-style hitch bike rack on my list is T2 Pro from Thule. It comes with an expensive price tag but delivers benefits for the bucks you spend. If I could make a list of my personal favorite, this would be among the top 2.
- Material
Being made with Alloy, this platform-style bike rack comes with a total weight capacity of 120 lbs. where each bike weight should not be more than 60 lbs.
- Compatibility
If you have a 1-1/4-inch or 2-inch bike hitch receiver installed in your truck, you can use it. Also, it is compatible with a wide range of vehicles.
- Versatility
This is a versatile rack that allows you to carry almost all types of bikes with 20-inch to 29-inch wheels. Even you can carry e-bikes with the help of it. And most amazingly, the wheel cradle in this rack can handle 5-inch wide wheels too. So, you can put your fat bike on it and drive to the beach.
- Security
To keep your bike secured on the platform, it comes with a wide cradle for the front wheel and a tie-lock for the rear.
Besides, you’ll see a frame-free ratcheting arm that’ll prevent your bike from falling by securing the front tire. For added security, the ratchets come with an integrated 24-inch cable lock. With this, you can protect your bike from theft.
- User Comfort
You can tilt up the rack when it is not in use with the HitchSwitch lever. Also, to get access to the bed, you can tilt it down, even when the bikes are on it. So, it won’t be a hassle for you at all.
- Installation Process
Installation and removal are very simple and easy because it comes with AutoAttachknob. So, you won’t need any tool for the installation process. Also, the built-in lock cylinder has made the installation process hassle-free.
8. YAKIMA HoldUp Hitch Mount Tray Bike Rack – Good for Show Bikes
The last bike rack for truck hitch in my list is another platform or tray-style one from Yakima. The Yakima HoldUptray bike rack is on my list because it is one of the best-performing tray-style bike racks that comes within a reasonable price range. So, let’s check what it offers at a reasonable price.
- Material
Just like others in the list, it is made of strong steel material that can hold up to 120 lbs. weight. Each bike ramp is designed to handle up to 60 lbs. without any problem.
- Compatibility
You’ll find two versions of this bike rack. One is compatible with a 1-1/4-inch hitch and another is compatible with a 2-inch hitch receiver. If you want to add a 2-bike extension, you can do it for only the rack that is compatible with a 2-inch receiver.
- Versatility
As it is a platform-style rack and can hold up to 60 lbs. on each tray, you can easily carry your fat bike, girls’ bike, or e-bike on it. For being compatible with fat bike tires, the front wheel cradle is made to handle up to 4.8-inch width.
It can carry most other types of bikes too.
- Security
Your bike is secure on the trays with front-wheel cradles and a rear-wheel tie-strap. Also, the ratchet called Strong Arm hook holds the bike wheel and helps it to stay stable and safe. Integrated Same Key System lock adds more to the security.
The whole setup ensures minimum interference and touch between the bikes using adjustable trays, cradles, and other features. As a result, the paint on your bikes is safe.
- User Comfort
To ensure comfortable tilting up or down, the tilt mechanism is made easy to access. You’ll see a trademarked foot paddle called Kick Start to control the tilting. You can tilt it up when there is no bike on it, and tilt it down, even with bikes, to access the truck bed.
- Installation Process
A trademarked locking system called SpeedKnob ensures tool-free and hassle-free locking. So, you won’t need more than 10 minutes to assemble and install it. Removing it is way faster.
Best Bike Rack for Truck Hitch Buying Guide
Picking up the best hitch bike rack is a tough decision. If you don’t get the perfect one, you’ll always have to stay worried about the safety and security of the bikes. That’s why, to avoid worries, you need to research and keep eyes on a lot of things before selecting the most perfect bike rack for your truck hitch.
- Rack Type
Generally, you’ll find two main types of racks for hitch -platform-style and hanging racks. Hanging racks allow you to carry your bike hanging on arm-style hangers. Platform-style racks allow you to keep the bikes standing on a tray and secured by a ratchet hand.
Hanging racks come within a lower and reasonable price range. On the other hand, platform-style bikes are safer and probably the best way of carrying bikes. I prefer getting a platform-style rack. But if your budget is low, go for hanging racks.
- Hitch Size and Lock
Make sure that the rack fits the receiver hitch you’ve installed at the back of your truck. Otherwise, you may have to change the hitch.
Hitch locks are of different types. So, make sure that the rack comes with a secured lock. Locking systems differ in most premium racks. Examine carefully and make sure that the hitch size and lock are the perfect fit for your truck.
- Capacity
You should look at three different capacities- bike capacity, weight capacity, and bike type capacity. Bike capacity means how many bikes the rack can handle. Normally you’ll find that most of the racks can carry 2-4 bikes.
Weight capacity means how much weight each tray or the rack can carry. Maximum hanging racks come with 30-35 lbs. capacity per bike. Platform-style racks come with more weight capacity.
Bike-type capacity means how many different types of bikes the rack can carry. Hanging racks can’t carry girls’ bikes, and maybe fat bikes and e-bikes sometimes. Platform-style racks carry almost all types of bikes.
- Frame and Wheelbase Compatibility
Bikes come with different types of frame designs. You should make sure that the bike rack you’re going to purchase is compatible with your bike frame. Typically, bike frame compatibility is an issue when you’re going to buy hanging bike racks.
For platform-style racks, the issue is wheelbase length. Many racks come with adjustable trays or cradles to fit a wide range of wheelbases.
- Safety of the Bike
Safety is the most important issue. So, how safely the rack can hold your bike matters. Besides common safety features, different racks have added their own safety features. You should keep your eyes on those too.
Also, make sure that the rack can keep the bike paint protected from scratches.
- User Comfort
User comfort is a thing you should check before you buy a rack. Make sure that the rack allows easy access to the truck bed. Also, if it can be tilted with the help of foot-pedal, this is a huge plus point. Features that ensure comfort are something that worth spending money on a rack.
Keeping your eyes on these factors, you can easily pick the best hitch-mount bike rack for you.
Problems with Hitch-Mount Bike Racks and the Solutions
Hitch-mount rack restricts the visibility of tail light
In most cases, visibility is hampered a bit by the hitch-mount racks. This is a serious concern. But in most cases, the police don’t bother you. But accidents may happen sometimes.
So, to stay safe, you can use reflectors with it. This is an effective solution to this problem. Some racks come with pre-installed reflectors.
Hitch-mount rack hampers the visibility of license plate
In some states, it is not a big issue. But in maximum states, this is a huge issue. Check the law of your state to know more about it.
If this is a big issue, you can do two things- Adding the license plate somewhere at the rear side of your truck that is more visible (preferably one side of the bumper) or adding an extra license plate holder where you can install the license plate and keep it open to see.
Hitch-mount bike rack wobbles while driving
In some cases, you’ll see racks coming with anti-wobbling locks. But if your one doesn’t come with an anti-wobbling lock and wobbles while driving, you have an inexpensive solution. You can purchase a hitch clamp and install it to stop wobbling. Also, there are a few anti-rattle hitch devices you can use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Bike Rack
Does hitch rack installation require a professional?
No, not at all. You can install your hitch-mount bike rack easily. All the racks come with an installation process manual. Also, you’ll find installation videos on the internet. Check those and you’ll be able to install by yourself. Depending on the weight of the rack, you may need a helping hand to handle the weight while installing.
Can I turn my 2-bike rack into a 3 or 4-bike rack?
It depends on the rack you have. Some racks come with the capability of adding extensions for carrying more bikes. And, the extension must be from the same manufacturer. I recommend picking a rack that offers the scope of expansion later. You don’t know when you’ll have to carry extra bikes.
Is picking a hitch-mount bike rack a good choice over getting a roof-mount rack?
According to my opinion- yes. When you have a hitch-mount bike rack, you can easily load or unload the bike. But it is tough when you have a roof-mount rack. So, I think hitch-mount racks have advantages over a roof-mount rack.
Final Verdict
My personal preference is always platform-style bike racks. So, if you want me to pick the best bike rack for truck hitch, I’ll pick Kuat NV 2.0. This is packed with a lot of user-friendly features.
However, depending on your budget, preference, and other factors, your preference may vary. But, the racks I’ve put in the list are some of the best racks guaranteed by the manufacturers, loved by the users, and suggested by enthusiasts.
So, you can choose one among these which matches your preferences. You won’t be disappointed, I’m sure.
