Top 9 Best Double And Single Hitch E-Bike/Mountain Bike Racks

Are you looking for a way to carry your electric bike with your car? A hitch bike rack is a great solution! These racks attach to the back of your vehicle and hold your bikes securely. Let’s explore how to choose the best one and look at some top picks.

1. Thule XT 2 Bike Rack
2. San Hima Electric Bike Rack.
3. Yakima OnRamp 2 Bicycle Capacity 2 Inch.
4. 7BLACKSMITHS Bike Carrier.
5. Buzzrack Approach 2-Bike Rack
6. KAC Bike Rack
7. Saris Bike Rack
8. Vibrelli Hitch Rack
9. Leader Bike Rack

How To Chose Best Racks

Choosing the best bike rack involves considering various criteria to ensure it meets your specific needs and preferences. Here are the some key factors you can consider:

• Check Your Vehicle’s Hitch Receiver: First, measure the size of your vehicle’s hitch receiver. The most common sizes are 1.25 inches and 2 inches. The hitch receiver size is critical because the hitch bike rack must match the receiver size for a secure fit. Check your vehicle’s manual or the hitch receiver itself for this measurement. Some racks come with adapters to fit both sizes, so consider those if you might switch vehicles in the future.
• Number of Bikes: Decide how many bikes you need to transport regularly. Hitch bike racks typically accommodate anywhere from 2 to 5 bikes. If you often go biking with family or friends, opt for a rack with a higher capacity. Ensure that the rack can hold the number of bikes you need without exceeding the weight limit.
• Bike Types: Consider the types of bikes you own. Different bikes have different frame styles, tire sizes, and weights. For instance, e-bikes are heavier than standard bikes, and some mountain bikes have larger tires. Ensure that the rack can accommodate various frame designs, such as step-through frames or full-suspension mountain bikes. Look for adjustable cradles or wheel trays to secure different bike sizes and styles.
• Installation and Removal: Ease of installation and removal is essential for convenience. Some racks feature tool-free installation, which makes it easier to attach or detach the rack from your vehicle. Consider how frequently you will need to install or remove the rack and choose a model that simplifies this process. Quick-release levers and user-friendly mounting systems are beneficial.
• Locks and Anti-Theft: Security features are crucial to prevent theft of your bikes and the rack itself. Look for hitch bike racks with built-in locks that secure the bikes to the rack and the rack to the vehicle. Some models come with cable locks integrated into the frame, while others may include lockable hitch pins. A secure locking system provides peace of mind, especially when parking in public areas.
• Tilt and Fold Features: Consider racks with tilt-away or swing-away features. These features allow you to access the trunk or rear hatch without removing the bikes. Tilting mechanisms let you tilt the rack down, while swing-away features enable the entire rack to pivot to the side. Additionally, folding capabilities allow the rack to be compacted for storage when not in use, saving space and making it easier to handle.
• Materials and Construction: Durability and build quality are vital for long-term use. High-quality hitch bike racks are usually made from robust materials like steel or high-quality aluminum. Check for corrosion-resistant finishes, especially if you live in a humid or coastal area. The build quality should withstand regular use, varying weather conditions, and the weight of your bikes without bending or breaking.
• Research Reviews: Reading user reviews and ratings provides insights into the real-world performance of the hitch bike rack. Look for reviews that mention the ease of installation, durability, security, and how well the rack handles different types of bikes. Pay attention to any recurring issues or common praises. Reviews on retail sites, cycling forums, and YouTube demonstrations can be particularly informative.
• Adjustability: Look for adjustable features that can accommodate different bike sizes and spacing between bikes. Some racks offer adjustable wheel trays, arms, and cradles, which can help secure bikes more effectively and prevent them from touching each other during transport. This feature is especially useful if you have a mix of bike types and sizes. Additionally, consider the aesthetic and functional fit of the rack on your vehicle, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct lights or license plates.

Number 1: Thule Easy Fold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack.

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a versatile and robust solution for transporting two bikes, including e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes, thanks to its 130-pound load capacity. Designed to fit both 2″ and 1.25″ receivers, it provides ample space with a 9-inch gap between bikes and accommodates bikes with a 48-inch wheelbase. The rack features secure wheel straps with adjustable pump buckles and a locking clamp mechanism for added theft protection. Its tilt feature allows easy access to the vehicle’s cargo area, whether it’s a tailgate, hatchback, or trunk. Additionally, the included bike ramp, stored in a dedicated cargo space, simplifies the loading and unloading of heavier bikes, making the Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack an excellent choice for both convenience and security.

Number 2: San Hima Electric Bike Rack.

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a versatile and robust solution for transporting two bikes, including e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes, thanks to its 130-pound load capacity. Designed to fit both 2″ and 1.25″ receivers, it provides ample space with a 9-inch gap between bikes and accommodates bikes with a 48-inch wheelbase. The rack features secure wheel straps with adjustable pump buckles and a locking clamp mechanism for added theft protection. Its tilt feature allows easy access to the vehicle’s cargo area, whether it’s a tailgate, hatchback, or trunk. Additionally, the included bike ramp, stored in a dedicated cargo space, simplifies the loading and unloading of heavier bikes, making the Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack an excellent choice for both convenience and security.

Number 3: Yakima OnRamp 2 Bicycle Capacity 2 Inch.

The Yakima OnRamp 2 Bicycle Capacity 2 Inch bike rack is an excellent choice for transporting a wide range of bikes securely and conveniently. Designed to support two bikes, each up to 66 pounds, it is compatible with the Yakima BackSwing and StraightShot for enhanced functionality. Its adjustable frame design accommodates e-bikes, mountain bikes, road bikes, hybrid bikes, women’s specific bikes, BMX bikes, and bikes with fenders, making it ideal for versatile outdoor use. With a heavy-duty capacity rated for off-road excursions and an RV rating of 40 pounds per bike, the rack can hold bikes with wheelbases up to 50 inches. Security is prioritized with integrated SKS locks for both bikes and the vehicle receiver, and adjustable hitch tire carrier trays minimize bike-to-bike interference. The rack also offers easy access to cargo with its ability to fit tires up to 29 by 3.25 inches, or even wider with the optional FatStrap Kit, and it conveniently tilts forward even when loaded, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Number 4: 7BLACKSMITHS Bike Carrier.

The 7BLACKSMITHS Bike Carrier is a robust and versatile solution for transporting motorcycles, dirt bikes, and scooters with ease. Designed for use with 2″ square receivers across Class II, III, IV, or V trailer hitches, it attaches conveniently to the back of your vehicle and allows loading from either side without space restrictions. While the trailer hitch is not included, the carrier’s overall dimensions are 76″(L) x 7″(W), with a loading ramp measuring 38.5″(L) x 4.75″(W), and a main hitch tube size of 18″(L). Made from heavy-duty steel, this carrier boasts a superior load capacity of up to 500 lbs, ensuring high-intensity outdoor use. Its unique ramp design facilitates easy loading, while the anti-tilt locking device prevents rocking during transport, keeping your bike secure even on bumpy roads. Although assembly instructions are not included, the carrier comes with all necessary hardware and can be stored in the trunk when not in use, making it a practical and reliable choice for bike transport.

Number 5: Buzzrack Approach 2-Bike Rack

The Buzzrack Approach 2-Bike Rack is a versatile and user-friendly solution for transporting bicycles, but it is not suitable for RVs, camping cars, trailers, or certain Ford Flex models with centrally positioned exhaust pipes due to the risk of damage from exhaust heat. It is ideal for e-bikes and fat tire bikes up to 4.6″ in width, thanks to its compatibility with an optional fat bike kit. The rack features movable wheel trays with quick-releasing ratchet straps and adjustable, padded frame clamps to secure bikes firmly. For added convenience, the rack’s platform tilts down, allowing access to the vehicle’s tailgate even with bikes loaded, and the wheel trays fold up for compact storage when not in use. Security is enhanced with a hitch bolt lock, while the adjustable arms with padded clamps and locking knobs offer 360° rotation for flexible installation. The quick-releasing straps provide a fast and secure wheel tightening experience, making the Buzzrack Approach 2-Bike Rack a practical and reliable choice for bike transport.

Number 6: KAC Bike Rack

The KAC Bike Rack is a versatile and sturdy choice for transporting 1 or 2 bikes, accommodating a total weight of 120 lbs. Designed to fit a 2-inch hitch receiver, this rack is compatible with a wide range of bikes, from lightweight road bikes to heavy electric bikes and fat tire bikes. It features tire and frame straps, along with locking adjustable padded frame hooks, to secure your bikes firmly. The locking anti-wobble hitch system ensures that your bikes remain stable and safe during transit, protecting them from bumps and theft. Assembly is quick and straightforward, with all necessary hardware and easy-to-follow instructions included. The quick-release tilt lever allows you to access your vehicle’s rear cargo area without having to remove the bikes, adding convenience to your travels. When not in use, the rack folds into a compact form for easy storage. The powder-coated finish adds durability, and the limited lifetime manufacturer warranty provides peace of mind that the KAC Bike Rack is built to last.

Number 7: Saris Bike Rack

The Saris Bike Rack is designed to carry up to 4 bikes, supporting a total weight of 190 lbs. The outer bike slots can hold bikes up to 35 lbs each, while the inner slots can handle up to 60 lbs each, making it suitable for a variety of bikes, including electric bikes and fat tire bikes. This rack is equipped with a foot-operated tilt pedal that allows for easy access to your vehicle’s trunk without unloading the bikes. It also folds up compactly when not in use, saving space and improving vehicle maneuverability. The rack features protective rubber holders that adjust to fit different bike frames securely, while ratcheting straps add extra stability during transit. The proprietary Cuscino pads protect the bike frame from scratches and damage. Additionally, rugged injection-molded wheel trays provide superior stability on the road. Installation is user-friendly with clear instructions and all necessary hardware included. The Saris Bike Rack fits most 2-inch hitches, though a locking hitch lock is sold separately.

Number 8: Vibrelli Hitch Rack

The Vibrelli Hitch Rack is a robust and reliable option for transporting two bikes, each weighing up to 65 lbs, for a total load capacity of 130 lbs. This rack is ideal for various bike types, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and fat tire bikes with tires up to 5 inches wide. It is compatible with SUVs and cars equipped with a 2-inch hitch receiver. The rack features a quick-release pedal that allows it to tilt down, providing easy access to the vehicle’s trunk. It also folds up out of the way when not in use. The wheel cradles fit snugly around both narrow and wide tires, and ratchet straps hold the wheels securely in place without scratching the rims or damaging the tires. The Vibrelli Hitch Rack locks to your car hitch receiver to reduce movement and ensure a smooth, rattle-free journey. It boasts triple locking security mechanisms for extra safety and includes a safety strap for additional peace of mind. Backed by a 10-year manufacturer’s warranty, this rack offers long-term reliability against manufacturing defects.

Number 9: Vibrelli Hitch Rack

The Leader Bike Rack is designed to transport up to 2 bikes, with each bike having a maximum weight capacity of 70 lbs. This rack fits most bike frame sizes, shapes, and styles, including electric bikes and fat tire bikes. For bikes with a low Y-frame, a bike frame adapter might be necessary for better support. The rack features a quick-release handle, making it easy to fold up and down. The smart tilting construction allows users to tilt the rack backward for easy access to the vehicle’s rear gate without detaching the rack. When not in use, the rack can be folded up to save space. The no-wobble bolt is designed to eliminate movement of the rack inside the hitch, ensuring a stable and secure transport. Additionally, the rack is compatible with a 5/8″ normal pin or locking hitch pin if the no-wobble bolt is not used. Safety is enhanced with an extra safety reflector and tie-down strap, ensuring visibility and security during night driving. The Leader Bike Rack is compatible with 2-inch hitch receivers and is easy to operate and store.

FAQs

What is a hitch bike rack?

• A hitch bike rack is a device that attaches to the back of a car to carry bikes.

Can hitch bike racks hold electric bikes?

• Yes, many hitch bike racks are designed to hold the heavier weight of electric bikes.

How many bikes can these racks carry?

• Some racks can carry up to 2 bikes, while others can hold up to 4 bikes.

Do I need a special hitch for these racks?

• Most racks fit a standard 2-inch hitch receiver.

Are the bikes secure on these racks?

• Yes, these racks have features like straps, locks, and anti-wobble systems to keep bikes secure.

Can I access my car’s trunk with the bikes on the rack?

• Many racks have tilt functions that allow trunk access without removing the bikes.

Are these racks easy to install?

• Yes, they usually come with easy-to-follow instructions and necessary hardware.

Do these racks fold up when not in use?

• Yes, most of these racks fold up compactly to save space.

What kind of bikes can I carry on these racks?

• These racks can carry a variety of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and fat tire bikes.

Do these racks come with a warranty?

• Yes, most of these racks come with a warranty for added peace of mind.

Conclusion:

By following these detailed steps, you can systematically evaluate and choose the best hitch bike rack for your needs. Ensure the rack fits your vehicle, accommodates your bikes, offers ease of use and security, and fits within your budget. This approach will help you make an informed decision and find a reliable, durable, and convenient hitch bike rack.