11 Best Hitch Mount Bike Rack 2024 | Expert’s Guide

Bike riding can be great fun and rewarding for your body. However, if you want to take your pleasurable pastime to the next level, your car needs to be involved. That is why you need the best hitch mount bike rack but getting one may not be a stroll in the park.

When your car is involved in bike-riding fancy, you will definitely take it to the next level. You will have the opportunity of riding in new, exciting locations and without the best tow bar bike rack, this may not be achievable.

The good news here is that there are many bike racks in the market. However, making the right choice from this array of racks can be challenging, hence, the exigency of this article.

In this article, we are going to examine different types of bike racks on the market and their special features so that you will be able to make the right choice. Furthermore, some frequently asked questions that may be bothering your mind are treated.

11 Best Hitch Mount Bike Rack Comparison

Image	Product	Capacity	Max Load (Pounds)	Price
	Overdrive Sport Bike Rack (Editor’s Choice)	2 bikes	120	Check Price
	Allen Sports Hitch Racks	5 bikes	175	Check Price
	Thule Vertex Swing Away	4 bikes	140	Check Price
	BUZZRACK Hitch Rack	2-4 bikes	240	Check Price
	Swagman XC Cross-Country (Editor’s Choice)	2 bikes	120	Check Price
	Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B	4 bikes	240	Check Price
	BV Hitch Mount Rack	2 bikes	120
	Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR	2 bikes	500
	Swagman Chinook Hitch Rack	2 bikes	120
	Hollywood Racks Traveler	3 bikes	150
	Leader Hitch Mount Rack	2 bikes	80

Our 11 Picks of Best Hitch Mount Bike Rack

We will now take you through our best 11 picks of tow bar bike rack so that you will have the opportunity of making the best decision.

1. Overdrive Sport 2-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack – Perfect For Heavy Load Carriers

The Overdrive Sport 2-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack is a product of high quality with top features. It comes with additional powerful wheel holders as well as inwardly fortified frame in order to withstand heavy load. In fact, it carry two bikes with each bike weighing up to 60 pounds.

You will also find a keyed-locking hitch pin as well a keyed-locking knob so that the bikes can be held safely to the rack. There is also the patented anti-wobble system which ensures that the slack between the rack and receiver is eliminated thereby making your bikes safe and sturdy.

Furthermore, the Overdrive Sport 2-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack features a patented quick release lever which guarantees easy tilting of the rack so that you can get access to the cargo door without any hindrance. It can easily enfold flat across your car when you are not using it. However, it should not be used on towing vehicles, fifth wheels or trailers.

You can easily install it as majority of the parts are pre-assembled. Making adjustment to the rack is also as easy as ABC since there are padded clamps which are very helpful in securing the bikes as well as 5 inch wide powerful wheel holders which can be adjusted to fit your bikes. The rear reflector will provide an unprecedented safety while bikes that come with low Y-frame may need an adapter for an enhanced support.

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Bottom Line
This bike rack is recommended if you are so particular about load capacity.

2. Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack – Best For The Family

Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack is the best for you as well as your bikes. It comes with all the features that will give you the opportunity of exploiting your bike. It is a sturdy, high capability rack for an active family because it can withstand up to five bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 175 pounds.

It is easy to assemble with only three bolts and compatible with majority of standard Class III and IV 2” receiver hitches. In addition, it features fast lift-gate access, foldable carry arms as well as two-fold combination Spine Shield. There is also the internal tilt-away which ensures that there is easy access to the lift gate.

You will love this bike rack because it has no-wobble bolts which prevent the rack from moving in the hitch. With UV resistant, durable rubber-cradle straps, your bike will be adequately secured to place and the strap works with many tube sizes. There is a cushioned cradle bed which will serve as a full protection for your bikes while in transit.

Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack can boast of brisk tilt-away major mast. The rack is properly secured in place when using it through a sturdy internal mechanism. The mechanism gives you the opportunity to get access to the inner part of the vehicle through a single-handed tilt away.

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Bottom Line
With a 5-bike capacity, this can be your best bike rack deal.

3. Thule Vertex Swing Away Bike Rack – Good For All Bike Types

This premium bike rack solves the problem of inadequate access to your other stuffs as soon as your bikes are loaded. It is fully loaded with vertex swing-away with pivoting low arm so that the bikes can be kept on the rack while you access your other stuffs.

The vertex is uniquely designed in order to create more room ground clearance as well as space in-between your bikes which is an advantage over regular straight-bar racks. You will also find the innovative Anti-Sway Cages which prevent the moving around of the bikes. Also, the Hold-Fast Cradles ensure that your bikes are given a ride in secure, cushy and soft atmosphere.

No matter the type of road you are traveling on – potholed, dirty road or freeway – Thule Vertex Swing Away Bike Rack is specially designed to ensure that your bikes get to their landing-place without any dent or scratch. The rack can accommodate up to four bikes and adaptable to 1.25” as well as 2” hitch receivers.

The swing-away design gives your fully-loaded rack the opportunity to swing away so that you can have access to the rear of your vehicle. With a load capacity of 140 pounds, this is a perfect deal you have been looking for. The powerful, hide-away to integrated chain lock ensures that your bikes are perfectly locked in the rack when you are not using them.

However, if your bike comes with an uncommon frame, like full-suspension, child’s or woman’s bike, a frame adapter may be needed. The Hitch Switch Compact Fold that comes with Thule Vertex Swing Away Bike Rack gives you the opportunity to fold its arms when you are not using it.

The Hold Fast Cradles ensures that your bike is properly cushioned and provided with an optimum security. With a unique arc design, you can easily load your bike and achieve a high carrying performance. There is a snug-tite receiver lock, which is sold separately, and it guarantees that your bike does not move during transit.

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Bottom Line
Getting access to your other goods is easy with this bike rack. If you want to know more about a hitch for motorcycle, it’s available here.

4. BUZZRACK Express Platform Hitch Rack – Designed For Optimum Performance

The BUZZRACK Express Platform Hitch Rack is your best bet if you are want to take bike transport to the next level. It is available in 2-bike as well as 4-bike versions. It is adaptable to 1.25” and 2” hitch receivers for the 2-bike version rack. For the 4-bike version rack, its compatibility is only with the 2” receiver.

It comes with a lower platform which makes loading easy and eliminates wheel removal when loading bikes of any wheel size and frame design. The wheel trays are easily adjustable so that different types of bikes including kid’s, women’s, full suspension, mountain, 29er and road bikes can be accommodated.

When it comes to securing your bikes, there are the no-hassle vertical frame cradles and ratchet straps. The platform can easily fold up after your ride so that parking as well as storage will be made easier. The powerful powder-coated steel used for its production guarantees an optimum performance at all times.

However, it is very important for you to note that BUZZRACK Express Platform Hitch Rack is not appropriate for trailers, camping car’s, RVs and so on. It is also not recommended for fat tire bikes as well as models of Ford Flex with centrally located exhaust pipes because your bike tires and wheel supports can be burnt or melted.

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Bottom Line
The optimum performance of this bike rack is exceptional.

5. Swagman XC Cross-Country Hitch Mount – Good For Those Looking For Flexibility

If you want the best stress-free way to convey your bikes, the Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack should be considered. Each of your bikes will be secured at the two wheels as well as frame so that a safer and more stable ride will be realized.

In addition, there are adjustable, cushioned hooks for various sizes of bikes and this will ensure that a tightful fit is achieved. The arms that will grip the frames are coated with a finish that is friend to soft frame. You can fold up the rack for a compressed and effortless storage. There is an incorporated anti-wobble hitch tool so that your bike does not move aimlessly while in transit.

The Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is a flexible product that can conform with almost all types of bikes including BMX, full-suspension, cruiser, downhill, adult and children bikes. In fact, its compatibility with all these bike types ensures that you don’t remove wheels mounting them. It slides into a 2 inch receiver and has the capacity of carrying two bikes.

Furthermore, the rack is easily adjustable so that a wide range of bike frames can be accommodated. You only need to adjust the wheel hoops and you are good to go. The frame grip arms are specially coated with a soft finish that is frame friendly which guarantees durability. If you are not using the rack, you can fold it up with ease.

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Bottom Line
We recommend this bike rack for a safer and more stable ride.

6. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier Rack – Durability Guaranteed

This top class bike rack is compatible with all kinds of dual-arm bicycles. It works perfectly with hitch receivers of 1.25 or 2 inches. However, in some vehicles, you may need a hitch extender. It comes with the capacity for 4 bicycles and its construction is very powerful.

Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier Rack also features safety strap, hitch pin lock and cable lock so that optimum security will be achieved. It is properly coated with E-Coating technology so that an absolute resistance will be provided against rust.

In addition, the tilt-down design will give you the opportunity to get an easy access into your car and you can easily fold the rack when you are not using it. With bar cushion and soft cradles, your bikes will be individually secure and the frames adequately protected.

You can carry out the installation by yourself and within some minutes you are good to go. The user’s manual will guide you to carry out a perfect installation. However, it is very essential for you to avoid installing the rack on campers, RVs, trailers or any vehicle that has a length of more than 18 feet.

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Bottom Line
This is a top-class bike rack for guaranteed durability.

7. BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier – Perfect For Classy People

This is the rack of choice if you are looking for effortless way to convey your bikes. It comes with a tilt-back design so that you will be able to open the back gates without disconnecting the hitch rack.

The BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack also features a 3-point connection system – one upright arm at the top and 2 tray-style arms at the bottom. This helps to keep your bike in proper position while in transit.

It also comes with a fold-up design so that you can easily fold up your rack when you are not using it. This is a smart space saving idea. There is also a safety reflector at the back which guarantees additional visibility, especially when you are driving at night.

With the patented two-way, anti-swaying design, unnecessary swaying between the hitch and rack is eliminated. You will also find the tray-styled loops as well as padded arms which will hold your bike in proper place and ensures that it is protected from scratching.

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Bottom Line
This is a classy bike rack for an optimum performance.

8. Tow Tuff TTF-2762KR Steel Cargo Carrier with Bike Rack – Two-in-One Solution

This is a 2-in-1 product – a steel cargo carrier and bike rack. It is an ideal solution for various hauling endeavours with capacity for four bikes and weight capacity of 500 pounds.

It is multi functional and you can switch roles through the removal of pins so that the bike rack can be turned into a cargo conveyor. When being used as a bike rack, the adjustable tie-down holes and wheel holder ensures that the bike is secure in place.

It is compatible with all 2-inch receivers which makes mounting very easy. The powerful steel used in its production guarantees durability and there is a strap which can be used to secure your goods in place.

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Bottom Line
As a 2-in-1 product, you may not be able to get the best deal somewhere else.

9. Swagman Chinook Hitch Bike Rack – Perfect For Summer Biking

Swagman is a popular brand in the bike rack industry with reputation spanning many years. The Swagman Chinook Hitch Bike Rack is a lightweight product that is very easy to install. It comes with a tilt-down design which guarantees rear vehicle access even when the bicycles are fully loaded.

It has a capacity for 2 bikes and compatible with various frame styles, shapes and sizes. The wheel straps provide firm holding for the bikes and ensures that the wheels are secure. It can work with 1.25 inch and 2 inch hitch receiver. It is specially designed for durability as well as convenience and that is why it stands out among the rest.

For security purpose, there are two keys lock cylinders for locking the bike to the rack so that it will be safe. It is easily adjustable and you can fold it up against your vehicle when you are not using it.

The hook ratchets on the frame ensure that the bike is kept stable in transit. You can easily adjust the wheel trays to your desired position with the aid of a hand tight knob.

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Bottom Line
If you care about reputation, this is the bike rack that is perfect for you.

10. Hollywood Racks Traveler Hitch Mounted Bike Rack – For Those Seeking Touch of Class

Hollywood Racks Traveler Hitch Mounted Bike Rack is the perfect choice for you if you are looking for a rack with a touch of class. It comes with an Anti-Sway, soft-rubber cradles which ensure that he bikes are perfectly held in place.

It can comfortable hold three bikes and the maximum capacity for each bike is 35 pounds. It is also equipped with tilts so that you can get access to your cargo easily and you can fold it when you are not using it. It is also compatible with 1.25 inch and 2 inches hitches but cannot be used on a towed vehicle or trailer.

You may need an adapter for ladies’, kids and some mountain bikes. It is constructed with powerful materials so that it will be durable. With an Anti-Sway stabilizers, you are definitely going to enjoy transporting your bike to any location without any swaying.

The no-wobble hitch pin prevents scratches which can be caused by unnecessary swinging of the bikes while in transit. You can easily fold it when you are not using it.

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Bottom Line
This rack is recommended if you truly desire a touch of class.

11. Leader Accessories Hitch Mounted 2 Bike Rack – Powerful Product With Unrivalled Flexibility

If you are looking for a powerful bike rack that will deliver at an optimum level, you need the Leader Accessories Hitch Mounted 2 Bike Rack. It is has the capacity of withstanding load of up to 80 pounds.

In addition, it comes with tilt-down feature which is very easy to use. Its compatibility with 2-inch hitch receivers is one of the high points of the product. The arms of the rack can be easily folded when not in use so that an easy storage and compact conveyance can be achieved.

Leader Accessories Hitch Mounted 2 Bike Rack also features adjustable placement saddles and a dual-arm carrier so that frames of different shapes and sizes will be accommodated. The tie-down cradle is made of dual compound and ensures that your bike is adequately protected.

You will love the no-wobble bolts which prevents the rack from moving in the hitch. If you don’t want to use the bolts, you can use a ⅝-inch diameter pin so that wobbling can be prevented.

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Bottom Line
If you are looking for flexibility in a bike rack, this product is what you should go for.

How To Choose The Best Tow Bar Bike Rack

With many options in the market, choosing the best tow bar bike rack is not as easy as ABC. Your choice of a perfect bike rack is greatly dependent on the number of bikes you want to carry, their weight, height and your car type.

It is going to be difficult for you to lift a bike of any weight onto your car’s roof if you are of average height driving a big 4×4 or SUV. Usually, there are two places on your car for carrying bikes – on the roof of or behind it, either on a tow bar or strapped to the tailgate or boot.

Strap-on racks are no longer popular in today’s world because of the development of state-of-the-art car tailgates. In addition, there is a high risk of car damage with strap-on racks with no provision for theft-deterrence and they typically need a lighting board.

Tow bar rack are very popular in today’s world because their installation is very easy and can be loaded without much difficulty. They can accommodate between 2 to 4 bikes but this is dependent on the model of your car and that of the rack. Let us now different types of bike racks so that you will be able to make the best choice.

Towbar-mounted hang-on racks

These are heavy-duty racks with the capability of allowing you to tow a caravan or trailer. You can easily mount hikes, even those with big weights. In most cases, there is a lighting board and integrated number plate very much like platform racks. However, their downside is that they can be costly and it can be difficult to connect small bikes or those that come with parallel top tubes.

Towbar-mounted platform racks

Towbar-mounted platform racks are very secure and safe because they provide support for bikes through their wheels. In many instances, they come with a lighting board and integrated numberplate. The tow bar provides support for the bike’s weight instead of the bodywork of your car providing the support. A lot of models come with tilt-away or down features so that you can easily access the boot. However, they can be costly amd tow bars are not cheap to fit.

Rear-mounted strap-on racks

These are usually cheap and requires no particular fittings on your car. You can remove them when you don’t need them and it is not difficult to mount or remove bikes. One of the drawbacks of these racks is that they are not adaptable to some tailgate/boot designs. In addition, they don’t give you easy access to the boot and you may require a separate lighting board and number plate.

Roof-mounted racks

Roof-mounted racks are also popular because they don’t block the rear tailgate. Also, they well clear of the car’s light as well as number plates. They are reasonably priced and do not prevent means of entry to the boot. However, it can be very difficult to carry the bike and mount it on top of the car. In addition, the car’s fuel consumption is increased and roof bars are required to be fitted to your car.

Frequently Asked Questions

When you are considering buying a bike rack, there are so many questions that will come to your mind. Your ability to get answers to these questions will go a long way in helping you to get a perfect product. Some of these questions are answered below.

Which Is The Best Bike Rack?

The frequency at which you carry your bike will determine the best rack for you. If your intention is that you want to use the rack once in a while, then you can go for a rear mounted rack. On the other hand if it will be used more frequently, for example during the summer holiday, a tow bar mounted bike rack will be your best bet because it offers secure locking as well as easy access to the boot of your car.

In addition, if you want something that can be fixed and removed easily at any point in time, a tow bar mounted bike rack should be your favourite. If you don’t want your rack to block your visibility at the back of your car, you can go for a roof mounted bike rack.

Are Bike Racks Safe?

If you buy a bike rack from reputable brands and it is properly installed, it is very safe. Bike racks are properly tested so that you can travel at your desired speed. However, the only indisputable risk with bike racks has to do with inadequate visibility from the back window.

If you purchase rear-mounted racks, visibility through the rear window can be very difficult which will reduce your road awareness. You can consider towbar mounted and roof mounted racks in order to avoid this visibility problem.

Which Racks Will Fit My Vehicle?

Tow bar and roof mounted racks are compatible with almost all models of vehicles. They are specifically designed to fit your tow bar or roof. However, if you will be buying rear mounted racks, you will need to find one that can fit your car model because they come in different sizes and shapes.

Can I Fit A Bike Rack Myself?

Majority of bike racks are very easy to install and remove. With the aid of the manual that accompanies your product, you can get the installation done within some minutes.

Should I Consider Carrying Capacity Before Buying A Bike Rack?

It is very essential for you to know the maximum load capacity of a bike rack before buying it. This will give you the opportunity to know the right product to go for. However, you should avoid overloading your rack so that you don’t invalidate your warranty.

Should I Consider Security Before Buying A Bike Rack?

An ideal bike rack should have a locking key which will be used to lock it to the tow bar. Some products also come with lockable arms which get attached to your bike’s frame.

Should I Consider Lighting Board and Number Plates Before Buying A Bike Rack?

If the bike rack will interfere with your rear light and the number plates, it is legally important for you to make replacements. As a result of this, a lot of tow bar mounted racks come with a lighting board which gives you the opportunity to attach your number plate. You really need to consider this before purchasing a product.

Should I Consider Bike Storage Before Buying A Bike Rack?

Some racks can be easily folded so that they can be stored indoors. This will reduce their exposure to damp conditions for a long time.

Should I Consider Provision Against Theft Before Buying A Bike Rack?

An ideal rack should have locks that will guard it against theft. It should also be easily detachable so that you can remove it when you are not using it for a long period.

Can Fitting A Bike Rack Affect My Insurance?

Fixing a bike rack on you car can be seen as a modification and this can affect your insurance. As a result of this, it is very important for you to get your insurance provider notified when you are about to make any change to your car. This will prevent invalidation of your insurance policy.

Wrapping Up

Getting the best tow bar bike rack for your car will give you the opportunity to get the best from bike riding. However, you need to carry out an extensive research before making a purchase so that you will be able to get a first-class product.