Best Acura RLX Bike Racks: A Buyer’s Guide

The Acura RLX is a sedan that features a height of 57.7 inches. The Acura RLX is designed to be a comfortable, luxurious and stylish vehicle with an emphasis on fuel efficiency and safety.

There are three rack types that can fit Acura RLX: hitch, roof and trunk (learn more about car bike rack types).

Things to consider buying an Acura RLX bike rack:

  • Hitch and roof racks are significantly more expensive than trunk racks since hitch racks require a trailer hitch and roof racks require crossbars to be installed,
  • If you already have a trailer hitch or crossbars installed, check the compatibility before then.
  • How many bikes do you need to carry? Most trunk racks can carry no more than 3 bikes whereas hitch and roof racks can fit up to 5 bikes,
  • Weight of bikes. Trunk racks can’t carry heavy bikes. Hitch racks are the best option for really heavy bikes,
  • If your bikes are expensive (especially carbon frame), then look for a rack with zero frame contact so that bikes won’t get scratches,
  • Last but not least, not all racks fit Acura RLX. However, I have checked the compatibility with Acura RLX so you have nothing to worry about.

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 Acura RLX hitch bike racks

Hitch racks are the best choice for Acura RLX. They are very easy to install, very easy to use (load\unload bikes), and, what is more important, there is no risk of damaging your car.

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

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • 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

The Kuat NV Base 2.0 is a hitch-mounted bike rack, perfect for anyone who bikes and drives! This carrier will carry almost all bikes (up to 60 lb each) as well as two bikes or four bikes with an add-on. Your bike is secured to the rack without contact to the frame, so it’s easy on your bike and your car!

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″

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

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • 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 designed to be the strongest, lightest, and most versatile bike rack on the market. No matter what kind of vehicle you have, you’re good to go with our one-size-fits-all solution. The HoldUp EVO is so easy to use because it features a tensioner bar that actually tightens the rack on your vehicle’s receiver. Once installed, it will stay put!

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

Yakima FullSwing (4) – Premium hanging hitch rack

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • 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

Let Yakima’s FullSwing hitch-mounted rack take the hard work out of your next bike-packing adventure. With enough space to carry 4 bikes up to 40 pounds each, this rack is perfect for car camping or a scenic family bike ride. The bikes are mounted by the frame, not the wheels, so they stay on securely and you can tilt the rack down without having to remove any of your gear!

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

Best Acura RLX roof bike racks

Roof racks are another elegant choice to transport your bikes outside your Acura RLX. Being a sedan, Acura RLX is not tall so it will be manageable to load bikes on the roof for most people.

Yakima HighRoad – Best roof rack overall (especially for fat-tire bikes)

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • Type of mount: wheel
  • Max bike weight: 45 lb (20.4 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): 26” to 29” (66 to 74 cm)
  • Max tire size (width): 4″
  • Max wheelbase: 48″ (122 cm)
  • Crossbar spread: between 18″ and 36″
  • Empty rack weight: 18 lb (8.2 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes (sold separately)
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • No frame contact

Yakima HighRoad is the most innovative bike rack to date! Yakima’s engineers have been hard at work to develop an all-new, state-of-the-art bike rack design that is easier than ever to install and use. With a weight limit of 45 pounds and a maximum wheel size of 29 inches, this bike rack can carry many different styles of bikes.

Key Takeaways

  • Definitely worth the money because of premium quality and useful features,
  • No wobbling at all as the whole construction is extremely sturdy,
  • Lifting a bike up might be challenging or impossible for some people,
  • This bike rack is highly recommended for expensive bikes because of no frame contact. As a result, your bikes won’t get scratches,
  • The best choice for fat-tire bikes (in comparison with other roof racks).

PROS

  • Premium quality overall
  • Straightforward installation
  • Both rack and bike are very robust
  • Can carry quite heavy bikes
  • Can carry most bikes (including fat-tire)
  • Does not block trunk access
  • Does not cover license frame and taillights
  • Locks are included
  • Won’t scratch your bikes (no frame mounting)
  • Won’t damage your car
  • Universal (compatible with most crossbars)
  • You don’t have to remove the wheel

CONS

  • The whole system is expensive (since it requires crossbars)
  • Keep in mind that loading a bike requires some muscles
  • 10-20% mileage reduction

Thule TopRide – Premium roof rack, super sturdy

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • Type of mount: fork
  • Max bike weight: 40 lb (18.1 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): 29” (74 cm)
  • Max tire size (width): 3″
  • Max wheelbase: 49.2″ (125 cm)
  • Empty rack weight: 7.7 lb (3.5 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes (sold separately)
  • Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
  • No frame contact

The Thule TopRide is perfect for anyone who wants to carry their bike with them on their car, SUV, or trunk. It’s been especially great for people in urban centers who are always looking for a parking spot. With a weight limit of 40 pounds and compatibility with almost any bike, the Thule TopRide is the most innovative rack on the market.

Key Takeaways

  • Premium fork-mounted rack with nice design,
  • A bike will super sturdy on the rack since it will me secured by the fork,
  • Quite easy to load a bike on. The only thing you will ave to do is to remove the front wheel,
  • This rack is perfect for basically all bikes (fat-tire, women’s, kid’s, etc.). Expensive or carbon frame bikes won’t get scratched.

PROS

  • Very well made
  • Easy to assemble and install
  • A bike will be super sturdy on the rack
  • Universal (fits most bikes)
  • Does not block trunk access
  • Does not obscure license plate and taillights
  • Locks included
  • Won’t damage your car
  • Looks good
  • Won’t scratch your bikes (no frame mounting)

CONS

  • Quite pricey as it requires crossbars to be installed
  • You have to remove the front wheel each time
  • Can’t carry really heavy bikes
  • 10-20% mileage reduction

Best Acura RLX trunk bike racks

You have to use trunk racks carefully, especially when we are talking about premium cars such as Acura RLX. This rack type can scratch your car if it was installed improperly. However, there are some models on the market that are safer than others. Go for on them and you are probably going to be fine.

Saris Bones EX (2 or 3) – Trunk rack that fits most cars

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • Max number of bikes: 2 or 3 bikes versions
  • Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 105 lb (47.6 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): any
  • Max tire size (width): any
  • Max wheelbase: any
  • Empty rack weight: 11 lb (5 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
  • Bike-to-rack lock: No
  • Number of straps: 6

Get rid of the hassle and expense of a trailer by installing your Saris Bike Carrier directly on your car! The Saris Bones EX is strong enough to carry up to 35 lb bikes, and won’t require any hitch or crossbars that you might not have in order to carry your bikes. It comes in both 2-bike and 3-bike versions, and can be installed on most cars with the included installation kit.

Key Takeaways

  • Best-seller trunk rack with a good reason for that (fits most cars and decent quality overall),
  • Don’t expect it to be very sturdy (some wobbling is inevitable),
  • Quite easy to easy overall, but keep in mind that trunk access will be blocked,
  • Fits most bikes under 35 lb (an adapter will help with kid’s and women’s bikes),
  • I would not recommend it for carrying expensive bikes (especially carbon frame) since it will cause scratches.

PROS

  • Reasonable price
  • Easy to install
  • Fits most bikes (including fat-tire)
  • Compatible with most cars (universal)
  • Quite compact
  • Won’t affect mileage much

CONS

  • Don’t expect it to be super sturdy
  • Can’t carry heavy bikes
  • Blocks trunk access
  • Very easy to steal (both rack and bikes)
  • Bikes will be hitting each other (expect scratches)
  • There is some risk of damaging your car

Yakima HalfBack (2 or 3) – Premium quality but quite affordable

  • Acura RLX compatible: Yes
  • Max number of bikes: 2 or 3 bikes versions
  • Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
  • Total load capacity: 105 lb (47.6 kg)
  • Wheel size (diameter): any
  • Max tire size (width): any
  • Max wheelbase: any
  • Empty rack weight: 22 lb (10 kg)
  • Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
  • Bike-to-rack lock: No
  • Number of straps: 4

The Yakima HalfBack is one of the best bike racks for cars that lets you carry two or three bikes. It’s easy to install, space-saving, and doesn’t require a trailer hitch or crossbars. It can carry up to three bikes, with a maximum weight of 35 lb each. The HalfBack is made from a rugged alloy steel, which will never rust and can be used in all weather conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • Worth every penny due to really high quality and affordable price,
  • Super sturdy once installed (rather uncharacteristic for trunk racks),
  • Fairly easy to use overall, but you have to remove bikes each time you would like to open the trunk,
  • This rack is recommended for carrying lightweight bikes of most designs and shapes,
  • Not suitable for carrying expensive bikes since bikes will inevitably scratch each other.

PROS

  • Good price for a premium rack
  • Goes assembled, fairly easy to install
  • The rack is sturdy
  • Relatively easy to load bikes on
  • Most bikes will fit including fat-tire (kid’s and women’s bikes require an adapter)
  • Does not require anything to be installed
  • Negligible mileage reduction
  • Folds up when not in use

CONS

  • Bikes will wobble a bit (any trunk rack has this problem)
  • Can’t carry heavy bikes
  • Can’t access the trunk with bikes loaded
  • Very easy to steal
  • Bikes will scratch each other
  • Some risk of scratching your car (true for all trunk racks)