Best 2-Inch Hitch Bike Racks: A Buyer’s Guide

A 2-inch bike rack is a rack that requires a 2-inch trailer hitch in order to be installed. Moreover,  it’s normally made from high-quality material and can be installed in minutes without any tools. The 2-inch bike rack is perfect for those who live in urban areas and don’t have enough space to store their bikes inside the car.

Consider this before buying a 2-inch bike rack:

  • Be aware that there are five hitch classes. 2-inch trailer hitches can be Class 3, Class 4 or Class 5. Each has a different load and towing capacity so keep it in mind,
  • Bike types you need to carry. Not all 2-inch racks fit all bikes. Especially if you have e-bikes, fat-tire, lady’s or kids’ bikes, check the compatibility,
  • Most 2-inch racks are in the premium segment so be ready to spend $500 in most cases,
  • If you have carbon frame or other expensive bikes, I would highly recommend buying only a no-frame contact rack (which secures bikes bu the wheel). That way your bikes won’t get scratches and dents,
  • Hanging 2-inch racks can’t carry bikes heavier than 40 lb, whereas platform (tray) 2-inch racks can carry really heavy bikes (up to 60 lb).

As an Amazon Affiliate, I may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases if you click on my links (I would really appreciate it). Anyway, all ratings are not paid directly or not and are based on my personal experience. I hope you will enjoy the products. Thank you!

Best platform (tray) 2-inch hitch racks

Platform 2-inch racks are the best ones, in my opinion. They can carry really heavy bikes being sturdy at the same time. Also, they basically include the tilt function for easy trunk access with bikes mounted. Keep in mind that some racks from my ratings have two versions: 1.25-inch and 2-inch. Simply choose a 2-inch version and that’s it!

Yakima HoldUp EVO (2+2) – Zero frame contact universal hitch rack

  • Max number of bikes: 2 (+2 with add-on)
  • Max bike weight: 50 lb (22.7 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 100 lb (45.4 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): 20” to 29” (51 to 74 cm)
  • Max tire size (width): 4.8″ (fat-tire compatible)
  • Max wheelbase: 48″ (122 cm)
  • Empty rack weight: 51 lb (23 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ versions (class 2-4)
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes
  • No frame contact

Yakima HoldUp EVO is a bike rack that offers a hitch-mounted solution for carrying two bicycles or four bikes with the use of an add-on. This bicycle carrier is easy to install and offers quick one-handed release of bikes with its easy-to-use lever. The aluminum and plastic design provides an affordable rack that can be used with 1.25″ or 2″ receiver hitches.

Key Takeaways

  • Very well-made premium bike rack that is worth the money spent,
  • Both rack and bikes on the rack are very sturdy, very easy to install and load bikes on,
  • Easy trunk access with bikes mounted,
  • Excellent choice if you are planning to use it rather often,
  • This bike rack is truly universal in terms of diversity of bikes it can carry,
  • It is especially good for expensive bikes because of zero frame contact.

PROS

  • Premium materials
  • Super straightforward installation
  • Easy to mount bikes
  • No wobbling (both rack and bikes)
  • Can carry most bikes (fat-tire, e-bikes, women’s and so on)
  • Easy trunk access with bikes loaded
  • Rack-to-vehicle and bikes-to-rack locks
  • Enough clearance between bikes
  • No frame contact mounting system
  • Can’t damage your car
  • Comes in two hitch sizes (1.25″ and 2″)
  • Very compact when not in use

CONS

  • A bit pricey
  • Can’t carry really heavy bikes (up to 50 lb)
  • To carry more than 2 bikes you have to buy an add-on

Kuat NV Base 2.0 (2+2) – Best hitch rack for super heavy bikes

  • Max number of bikes: 2 (+2 with add-on)
  • Max bike weight: 60 lb (27.2 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 120 lb (54.4 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): 20” to 29” (51 to 74 cm)
  • Max tire size (width): 4.8″ (fat-tire compatible)
  • Max wheelbase: 48″ (122 cm)
  • Empty rack weight: 52 lb (23.6 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ versions (class 2-4)
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes
  • No frame contact

Looking for a bike rack that can handle anything? Look no further than Kuat NV Base 2.0! This bike rack is made of alloy steel and plastic, which means it can hold almost anything you throw at it. It also requires either a 1.25″ or 2″ hitch receiver to be installed, so you know you’ll be able to carry any bike without having to make any modifications or upgrades. It’s perfect for carrying fat-tire heavy bikes.

Key Takeaways

  • Even though it is quite expensive rack you won’t regret,
  • It is super sturdy since it is designed for really heavy bikes,
  • It is easy to install but keep in mind that rack itself is pretty heavy (52 lb empty),
  • Easy to load bikes and access trunk with bikes loaded (thanks for tilt function),
  • This rack is definitely recommended for bike enthusiasts,
  • Designed to carry really heavy bikes. That’s why it is made from steel and rather heavy itself. For not too heavy bikes it might be an over-kill.

PROS

  • Top-notch quality materials
  • No assembly required
  • The most sturdy rack on the market
  • Can carry super heavy bikes and most bike types
  • Easy trunk access with bikes loaded
  • Rack-to-car and bikes-to-rack locks
  • Proper clearance between bikes and no frame contact
  • This rack won’t damage your car
  • Goes in two receiver size versions (1.25″ and 2″)
  • Compact when not in use
  • Negligible mileage reduction

CONS

  • Quite pricey
  • Keep in mind that this rack quite heavy (52 lb empty)
  • The hitch receiver must be either 1.25″ or 2″

Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR (2+2) – No frame contact hitch rack

  • Max number of bikes: 2 (+2 with add-on)
  • Max bike weight: 60 lb (27.2 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 120 lb (54.4 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): 29″ (74 cm)
  • Max tire size (width): 5″ (fat-tire compatible)
  • Max wheelbase: 50″ (127 cm)
  • Empty rack weight: 52 lb (23.6 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ different versions (class 2-4)
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes
  • No frame contact

The Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR is a premium bike rack that is made from aluminum and features premium plastic. The T2 Pro XTR also allows for the use of both 1.25″ and 2″ bike hitch receivers. The T2 Pro XT/XTR features a patented ratcheting arm which secures both bikes while preventing frame contact. It carries bikes up to 60 lbs each, meaning it can also handle 4 bikes with an add-on.

Key Takeaways

  • Definitely worth the money since it is really robust and well-made,
  • Bikes are very sturdy on the rack so you won’t experience any annoying wobbling,
  • Very easy to use and load bikes on, if you are planning to use this rack rather often then you won’t regret about the money spent,
  • This bike rack is awesome for fat-tire bikes because of a lot of space between bikes, for e-bikes because it can easily carry up to 60 lb and expensive bikes because of zero frame contact which guarantees your bikes won’t get damaged.

PROS

  • High quality materials
  • Easy to assemble and install
  • Very easy to load bikes
  • Bikes are very secure (no wobbling)
  • Can carry heavy and fat-tire bikes
  • Can carry different types of bikes (lady’s, kid’s, etc.)
  • Easy trunk access (tilt function)
  • Can’t damage your bikes
  • No frame contact
  • No risks of damaging your car
  • Both 1.25″ and 2″ hitches are available
  • Can carry up to 4 bikes with an adapter (only for 2″ version)

CONS

  • Rather expensive
  • Bike-to-rack locks are not reliable
  • Is not universal in terms of receiver size

Hollywood Destination (2 or 4) – Budget hitch rack for many bikes

  • Max number of bikes: 2 or 4 bikes versions
  • Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 140 lb (63.5 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): 20” to 29” (51 to 74 cm)
  • Max tire size (width): 3″
  • Max wheelbase: 48″ (122 cm)
  • Empty rack weight: 42 lb (19 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: No
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ (2″ only for 4 bikes version)
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): No

Hollywood Destination makes carrying and transporting your bikes a breeze! Whether you’re going on a long bike ride, to the gym, or just need to get from point A to B, our hitch rack’s design allows for easy access and maximum security. With the adjustable wheel holders, you’ll be able to carry 2 or 4 bikes.

Key Takeaways

  • This is a good bike rack given that it won’t break the bank,
  • The whole construction is quite sturdy,
  • It is easy to install and load bikes but you won’t be able to access the trunk with bikes loaded,
  • Perfect choice for those who are on budget and planning to use it rather occasionally,
  • This bike rack can’t carry most fat-tire or heavy bikes. This bike rack can’t carry some rounded frame bikes,
  • I don’t recommend this rack for carrying expensive or carbon frame bikes because it secures bikes by the frame which can result in scratches.

PROS

  • Very cheap in comparison with most hitch racks
  • Easy to install and mount bikes
  • Quite robust
  • No risk of damaging your car
  • Both 1.25″ and 2″ receiver size versions available
  • Good aerodynamics (low mileage reduction)

CONS

  • Can’t carry heavy bikes
  • Can’t carry most fat-tire bikes
  • Won’t fit some rounded frame bikes
  • Can’t access the trunk with bikes mounted
  • Frame contact mounting (can damage your bikes)

Best hanging 2-inch hitch racks

Hanging 2-inch racks are quite decent and get the job done fairly well. However, keep in mind that hanging racks are not designed to carry really heavy bikes. Moreover, bikes might be wobbling while you are on the road (hanging racks from my rating are the sturdiest ones).

Some racks below have two receiver sizes. Simply choose a 2-inch version.

Yakima FullSwing (4) – Premium hanging hitch rack

  • Max number of bikes: 4
  • Max bike weight: 40 lb (18.1 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 150 lb (68 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): any
  • Max tire size (width): any
  • Max wheelbase: any
  • Empty rack weight: 56 lb (25.4 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • Hitch receiver size: 2″
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes

Yakima FullSwing is a bicycle rack that typically replaces the need for traditional hitch racks and bike carriers. Made from aluminum and plastic, this rack requires 2″ hitch receiver, can carry up to 4 bikes 40 lb each, bikes are mounted by the frame with two ratchet straps.

Key Takeaways

  • This rack is rather pricey but it has innovative features and really well made,
  • The rack itself is very sturdy though bikes will be wobbling a bit,
  • Easy to load bikes and access the trunk with bikes mounted,
  • This bike rack can carry most bikes (except for heaviest models), but I would not recommend it for carrying expensive bikes because it will inevitably live scratches or even small dents.

PROS

  • High quality materials
  • Easy to assemble and install
  • The rack itself is very robust
  • Can carry fat-tire bikes
  • Easy trunk access with bikes mounted
  • Rack-to-vehicle and bikes-to-rack locks included
  • Can’t damage your car
  • Great aerodynamics (little mileage reduction)
  • Compact when not in use (folds up)

CONS

  • Quite expensive even though it is a premium brand
  • Bikes will be wobbling (tie them up)
  • Can’t carry really heavy bikes
  • Some mountain, women’s and kids’ bikes will require an adapter (sold separately)
  • No clearance between bikes (will be hitting each other)
  • Fits only 2″ receivers

Thule Apex XT (2, 4 or 5) – Hanging hitch rack for up to 5 bikes

  • Max number of bikes: 2, 4 or 5 bikes versions
  • Max bike weight: 37.5 lb (17 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 150 lb (68 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): any
  • Max tire size (width): any
  • Max wheelbase: any
  • Empty rack weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ compatible
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes

Thule Apex XT 2 bike hitch rack offers a quick and easy way to transport 5 bikes. Made from steel and plastic, the Thule Apex XT is compatible with 1.25″ or 2″ receiver hitches and can carry up to 37.5 lb bikes. A single lever locks both wheels in place and the rear wheel suspension lock keeps your bike secured at either the front or rear wheel while it’s on the rack.

Key Takeaways

  • Premium quality rack for a reasonable price given that it can carry up to 5 bikes,
  • The rack itself is quite sturdy though bikes will wobble a bit,
  • Relatively easy to install and load bikes,
  • A good choice if you need to transport bikes rather occasionally,
  • This rack can not carry heavy bikes, and it is not recommended for expensive bikes, because bikes will be hitting each other. For ordinary bikes this rack will get the job done.

PROS

  • Reasonable price for 4-5 bikes carrier
  • Fairly easy to assemble and install
  • The rack itself is sturdy
  • Can carry fat-tire bikes
  • Easy trunk access (tilt function)
  • Rack-to-car and bikes-to-rack locks
  • No rick of damaging your car
  • Both receiver sizes compatible (1.25″ and 2″)
  • Good aerodynamics (low mileage reduction)

CONS

  • Bikes will wobble (the same is true for any other hanging rack)
  • Can’t carry heavy bikes
  • Be ready for scratches on your bikes

Yakima RidgeBack (2, 4 or 5) – Premium hanging hitch rack

  • Max number of bikes: 2, 4 or 5 bikes versions
  • Max bike weight: 40 lb (18.1 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 160 lb (72.6 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): any
  • Max tire size (width): any
  • Max wheelbase: any
  • Empty rack weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ compatible
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes

If you are looking for a functional rack to carry your bikes on your car, Yakima has the solution. Its patented design is made up of aluminum and plastic and can support up to 5 bikes at a time.

Key Takeaways

  • This is a very high quality hanging hitch rack,
  • The rack itself is very robust but bikes will wobble a bit,
  • It is relatively easy to load bikes, you can access the trunk with bikes loaded,
  • This bike rack is a good choice for rather occasional cyclists,
  • This bike rack can not carry really heavy bikes,
  • You might need an adapter for some rounded frame bikes,
  • This rack is not recommended for expensive bikes since it will probably leave scratches.

PROS

  • Reasonable price for premium brand
  • Easy installation (goes assembled)
  • The rack itself is sturdy
  • Can carry most bikes (including fat-tire)
  • Easy trunk access with bikes loaded
  • No risk of damaging you car
  • Comes with locks
  • Both 1.25″ and 2″ receivers compatible
  • Good aerodynamics (moderate mileage reduction)
  • Won’t tale much space (foldable)

CONS

  • Bikes will wobble on the rack
  • You will have to tie bikes up each trip
  • Can’t carry very heavy bikes
  • No clearance between bikes (expect scratches)
  • Some mountain, women’s and kids’ bikes require an adapter

Tyger TG-RK4B102B (3 or 4) – Perfect budget rack for budget bikes

  • Max number of bikes: 3 or 4 bikes versions
  • Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 140 lb (63.5 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): any
  • Max tire size (width): any
  • Max wheelbase: any
  • Empty rack weight: 28.2 lb (12.8 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
  • Bike-to-rack lock: No
  • Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ compatible
  • Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes

The Tyger TG-RK4B102B is made from alloy steel, just like your hitch receiver, so it will look great and last a long time. It’s got three bike capacity without any bike rack arms on top and four bike capacity with the arms on top of the unit. The bikes will be secured by the frame.

Key Takeaways

  • This rack is amazing given how cheap it is,
  • The rack itself is sturdy though bikes will wobble a bit,
  • You will have to perform some lifting to load bikes on the rack,
  • Great choice for those who need transport bikes rather occasionally
  • If you need to transport rather lightweight and not expensive bikes, then this rack will get the job done. However, you have to be ready that bikes will be hitting each other due to the design of hanging hitch racks.

PROS

  • Super cheap in comparison with other hitch racks
  • Easy to assemble, install and mount bikes on
  • The rack itself is sturdy
  • Can carry fat-tire bikes
  • Tilt function provides easy trunk access
  • Rack-to-car and bikes-to-rack locks
  • Won’t damage your car
  • Fits both 1.25″ and 2″ hitch receivers
  • Won’t affect mileage much
  • Foldable

CONS

  • Bikes will wobble
  • Most likely you will have to tie bikes up each time
  • Can’t carry heavy bikes
  • No clearance between bikes (bikes can get scratched)