Car Bike Racks are available in different sizes, shapes, and designs. They come in a wide range of colors, materials, and prices. In this article, we will go through the best affordable models that are currently available.
Things to keep in mind buying a budget bike rack:
- If you are looking for a really cheap rack, then grab a trunk rack. There are affordable hitch and roof racks on the market, but those require a trailer hitch and crossbars in order to be installed (respectively),
- Don’t expect cheap racks to be able to carry heavy bikes. There are no affordable racks on the market that can carry bikes heavier than 35 lb,
- How many bikes do you need to carry? For 3 bikes and less, all rack types are suitable (hitch, roof and trunk). For 4 bikes+, only roof and hitch racks will get the job done,
- Keep in mind that cheap trunk racks pose a significant risk of damaging your car (I am talking about scratches or even dents),
- Going for cheap bike racks if you need to transport expensive bikes might not be a good idea. Most cheap racks secure bikes by the frame which can result in scratches.
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 budget trunk bike racks for cars
In general, the trunk rack is the most affordable rack type. Not only they do not cost much by themself but, what’s is more important, trunk racks do not require a trailer hitch or crossbars in order to be installed. Those items can easily cost $300-$800, and with trunk racks, you don’t have to buy either of them.
Hollywood Express (2 or 3) – Very affordable trunk rack
- 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: 13 lb (5.9 kg)
- Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
- Bike-to-rack lock: No
- Number of straps: 6
Hollywood Express is a bike carrier that doesn’t require a hitch or crossbars. It is a lightweight bike carrier that can carry any type of bike up to 35 pounds. You must be very careful when lifting it, as it is installed directly to your car’s frame. The base plate adjusts to fit most cars and the two different versions are available to carry 2 or 3 bikes at a time.
Key Takeaways
- This rack is reasonably well made given the price,
- The rack itself is quite sturdy but bikes will wobble a bit,
- Relatively easy to use (both installation and bikes mounting),
- Can carry most bike types under 35 lb. Some rounded frame bikes might require an adapter,
- Not recommended for expensive bikes since your bikes will inevitably get scratches (or even may be dents).
PROS
- Very affordable
- Relatively easy to assemble and install
- Can carry most bike types under 35 lb
- Requires nothing to be installed (such as trailer or crossbars)
- Reasonable mileage reduction
CONS
- Bikes will hit each other on the road
- Can’t carry heavy bikes
- No trunk access with bikes loaded
- Super easy to steal
- Might leave scratches on your car
Tyger TG-RK3B203S (1, 2 or 3) – Super affordable trunk rack
- Max number of bikes: 1, 2 or 3 bikes versions
- Max bike weight: 33 lb (15 kg)
- Total load capacity: 99 lb (44.9 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
Tyger TG-RK3B203S is specially designed to fit on your vehicle, which can be installed directly on it and is made from alloy steel. There are three versions of this rack (can carry 1, 2 or 3 bikes). It can carry a maximum weight of 33 lbs each, which makes it suitable for carrying multiple bikes at a time.
Key Takeaways
- Very cheap rack that gets the job dome,
- Unfortunately, it is not as sturdy as we would like it to be,
- This rack is fairly easy in daily life use,
- The weight of a bike is the only thing you should keep in mind. Other than that it fits most bikes (an adapter might be needed),
- Highly not recommended for carrying expensive (especially carbon frame) bikes as bikes will scratch each other.
PROS
- The price is super low
- The installation is straightforward
- Fits fat-tire bikes
- requires nothing to be installed (no crossbars, etc.)
- Low mileage reduction
CONS
- Not sturdy enough
- Bikes will wobble hitting each other
- Can’t carry heavy bikes
- Block trunk access
- Super easy to steal
- Can damage your car
Allen Sports Deluxe (2, 3 or 4) – Affordable trunk rack that fits most cars
- Max number of bikes: 2, 3 or 4 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: 9 lb (4.1 kg)
- Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
- Bike-to-rack lock: No
- Number of straps: 6
Enjoy a safe, convenient and worry-free transport of your bikes. Mounting rack is installed directly on the car, can carry up to 4 bikes 35 lb each (there are 2,3 and 4-bikes versions), bikes get secured by the frame.
Key Takeaways
- Decent trunk rack given its price,
- This rack fits most sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs,
- Not that sturdy once installed. Moreover, bikes will wobble a bit,
- Relatively easy to use,
- Most bikes under 35 lb will fit out of the box,
- Not recommended for expensive bikes because bikes will be hitting each other which will result in scratches and dents.
PROS
- Affordable
- Easy to install
- Universal (including fat-tire bikes)
- Does not require additional equipment to be installed
- Decent aerodynamics
CONS
- Not 100% strudy
- Bikes will wobble
- Can’t carry heavy bikes
- Blocks trunk access with bikes mounted
- Easy to steal
- Bikes will scratch each other
- Risk of scratching your car
Best budget hitch bike racks for cars
Most hitch bike racks are in the premium segment and easily cost up to $800. It is true that there are budget models on the market (which will be listed below). However, you have to keep in mind that in order to be installed all hitch racks require a trailer hitch. It can easily add $300+ to the bill. So if you are really on a budget, then buy a trunk rack.
Swagman XC2 (2) – Budget hitch rack for not heavy bikes
- Max number of bikes: 2
- Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
- Total load capacity: 70 lb (31.8 kg)
- Wheel size (diameter): 20” to 29” (51 to 74 cm)
- Max tire size (width): 2.5″ (fat bike trays available)
- Max wheelbase: 50″ (127 cm)
- Empty rack weight: 28 lb (12.7 kg)
- Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
- Bike-to-rack lock: No
- Hitch receiver size: 1.25″ and 2″ (class 2-3)
- Tilt function (easy trunk access): No
The Swagman XC2 is a hitch-mounted bike carrier that can carry up to two bikes. The bikes are secured by the frame and do not require any additional locks. It has a flat, wide platform that makes it easier to load bikes.
Key Takeaways
- Decent quality rack given that it is much cheaper than most hitch models,
- This rack is quite robust overall,
- It is easy to get bikes mounted,
- A legit rack if you will be using it occasionally,
- This rack is designed to carry rather lightweight bikes (there are also limits to tires width and frame shape),
- I would not recommend it for carrying expensive and carbon frame bikes since it can leave scratches.
PROS
- Much cheaper than most hitch racks
- Easy to assemble, install and mount bikes
- Even it is cheap, it is quite sturdy
- Won’t damage your car
- Fits both 1.25″ and 2″ receivers (with an adapter)
- Moderate mileage reduction
CONS
- Mediocre quality of materials
- Can’t carry heavy bikes
- Some rounded frame bikes won’t fit
- Can’t access the trunk with bikes loaded
- Frame contact mounting (can scratch you bikes)
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 a rack that can hold up to 4 bikes. This bike rack is compatible with many different bike frames and has a capacity of a maximum of 35 pounds for each bike. The rack is made from alloy steel, which makes it strong and durable.
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)
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
The Hollywood Destination is a hitch-mounted bike carrier that’s built for city life. It has a hitch receiver with an adjustable pin that fits 1.25″ or 2″ receivers and comes standard with a 2-bike carrier and a 4-bike carrier. The two versions are the Base model which uses 1.25″ receiver comes in black and the Deluxe model which uses 2″ receiver comes in silver.
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 budget roof bike racks for cars
There are two really cheap roof models, but! As it takes place with hitch racks, all roof racks require something to be installed. I am talking about crossbars, and those guys are not cheap. If you don’t already have a crossbar system then be ready to pay $300+.
Swagman Standard – Budget roof rack for carrying not heavy bikes
- Type of mount: fork
- Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
- Wheel size (diameter): 29” (74 cm)
- Max tire size (width): 3″
- Max wheelbase: 48″ (122 cm)
- Empty rack weight: 6.6 lb (3 kg)
- Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
- Bike-to-rack lock: No
- No frame contact
The Swagman Standard bike rack is the simplest, most secure, and affordable way to carry your bike. Each rack fits on a standard crossbar and is easy to install – just snap it into place. No tools are required for installation or removal. To carry your bike, simply lift the fork of the bike over the top of the rack and lower it into the storage area.
Key Takeaways
- This rack gets the job done and does not cost all money in the world,
- Even it is rather cheap, it quite reliable and properly secures a bike,
- The installation is not that straightforward due to unclear instructions,
- This rack can carry most bikes under 35 lb. The width of the tire must not exceed 3″,
- Won’t scratch your bikes thanks to zero frame mounting.
PROS
- Very affordable
- Decent quality overall
- Quite sturdy
- Can carry most bikes
- Does not cover license plate and taillights
- Zero frame contact
- Low risk of damaging your car
- Fits most crossbars
CONS
- Not that easy to assemble
- Can’t carry heavy bikes
- No locks
- Be ready for 10-20% mileage reduction
- You have to remove the front wheel to load a bike
- A bit noisy
Swagman Upright – Affordable roof rack for not expensive bikes
- Type of mount: frame
- Max bike weight: 35 lb (15.9 kg)
- Wheel size (diameter): 29” (74 cm)
- Max tire size (width): 3″
- Max wheelbase: 54″ (137 cm)
- Empty rack weight: 5 lb (2.3 kg)
- Rack-to-vehicle lock: No
- Bike-to-rack lock: No
Swagman Upright is a bike rack that is perfect for the cyclist on a budget. Its lightweight, durable aluminum frame is meant to be installed over the crossbars of your bike, and it can handle bikes up to 35 pounds. The Swagman has a universal design, so it will fit most bikes you might need to carry.
Key Takeaways
- This is not the best rack on the planet but it is very cheap in comparison,
- To properly secure your bike you will probably need to use extra straps,
- It is fairly easy to load bikes on given that a bike can be heavier than 35 lb,
- This rack is quite universal as most bikes will fit,
- I would not recommend this rack for carrying expensive bikes (especially carbon frame) since it will scratch your bikes because of frame mounting.
PROS
- Very affordable
- Reasonable quality for a cheap rack
- Easy to install
- Can carry most bikes (including fat-tire)
- Does not obscure license frame and taillights
- Won’t damage your car (opposite to cheap trunk racks)
- Fits most crossbars
CONS
- A bike won’t be secure out of the box (you have to strap it)
- Can’t carry heavy bikes
- No locks
- Frame contact mounting (expect scratches)
- 10-20% mileage reduction
- A bit noisy