There are many rack models on the market that are mounted on the rear of the car. They include hitch racks (platform and hanging) and trunk racks.
Things to consider buying a rear bike rack:
- All hitch racks require a hitch receiver to be installed. Trunk racks, on the other hand, are installed directly on a car so they require nothing,
- Trunk racks are much cheaper than hitch racks, but they can damage your car if improperly installed,
- Trunk racks are not suitable for heavy bikes (no more than 40 lb), whereas hitch racks can do it, no problem,
- Check the compatibility if you have non-standard bikes (e-bikes, fat-tire, lady’s, etc.),
- Keep in mind that all trunk racks block trunk access with bikes loaded. Most hitch racks go with the tilt-away function so you won’t have to remove bikes each time you need to open the trunk,
- Last but not least, racks that secure bikes by the frame can (and probably will) leave scratches. So for expensive bikes, I would recommend zero frame mounting racks.
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Best rear racks with a hitch
Hitch rear racks are installed on a hitch receiver which ensures extra sturdiness. That’s why this is the best rack type, in my humble opinion. Moreover, hitch rear racks are very easy to use since loading\unloading bikes will be a breeze. On top of that, most rear hitch racks (especially premium models) secure bikes by the wheel(s) so don’t have to worry about scratches on your bikes.
Saris SuperClamp EX (2 or 4) – Hitch rack for heavy bikes
- Max number of bikes: 2 or 4 bikes versions
- Max bike weight: 60 lb (27.2 kg)
- Total load capacity: 190 lb (54.4 kg)
- Wheel size (diameter): 20” to 29” (51 to 74 cm)
- Max tire size (width): 4″ (fat-tire compatible)
- Max wheelbase: 50″ (127 cm)
- Empty rack weight: 63 lb (28.6 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
Never deal with installation headaches again. This lightweight, no-frame contact mounting rack can be installed and removed in just seconds. With the Saris SuperClamp EX, you don’t have to worry about the weight of your bike causing the receiver to break or come off. Plus, it has a 2 or 4 bike capacity, so you can carry up to four bikes with ease.
Key Takeaways
- It is worth the money due to overall quality and features,
- This rack is sturdy in general but some wobbling has been reported,
- This rack is easy to install and load bikes on,
- This bike rack can carry very heavy bikes (up to 60lb),
- Also, due to zero frame mounting your expensive bikes won’t get scratched so it is recommended for such bikes.
PROS
- High quality overall
- Easy to install and mount bikes
- Bikes are secure on the rack
- Can carry very heavy bikes
- Can carry most bikes (at-tire, e-bikes, women’s, etc.)
- Trunk access with bikes loaded
- Rack-to-car and bikes-to-rack locks included
- No frame contact mounting
- Fits both receiver sizes (1.25″ and 2″) with an adapter
- No risk of damaging your car
- Reasonable mileage reduction
CONS
- A bit expensive
- Some wobbling of the rack has been reported
- Bikes will be close to each other
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 lightweight, easy to use, and strong bike rack that fits most bikes up to 50 lbs. With the innovative receiver hitch design, you can use this bike rack with either a 1.25″ or 2″ receiver. This bike rack fits bikes up to 4 bikes with the adapter.
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
Hollywood Sport Rider SE4 (4) – Great hitch rack for many bikes
- Max number of bikes: 4
- Max bike weight: 50 lb (22.7 kg)
- Total load capacity: 200 lb (90.7 kg)
- Wheel size (diameter): 20” to 29” (51 to 74 cm)
- Max tire size (width): 3″
- Max wheelbase: 60″ (152 cm)
- Empty rack weight: 91.5 lb (41.5 kg)
- Rack-to-vehicle lock: Yes
- Bike-to-rack lock: Yes
- Hitch receiver size: 2″ only (can’t use adapter)
- Tilt function (easy trunk access): Yes
The Hollywood Sport Rider SE4 is the answer to carrying 4 bikes with ease. Its sturdy design and alloy steel and aluminum construction make it suitable for tow vehicles, cars, SUVs or trucks. This hitch receiver can carry a maximum of 4 bikes weighing up to 50 lbs each. They will be mounted by the frame instead of by the wheel or fork.
Key Takeaways
- Worth the money if you need to carry many bikes,
- This rack is very sturdy so you won’t suffer any wobbling,
- Fairly easy to load bikes on,
- Good investment if you are planning to use it rather often,
- Even though this rack can carry rather heavy bikes, it won’t fit certain types of bikes, for example, some fat-tire bikes and rounded frame bikes,
- I would not recommend this rack for expensive and carbon frame bikes because of possible scratches due to frame mounting.
PROS
- The price is reasonable given that it can carry 4 bikes
- Good quality overall (no wobbling)
- Easy to install
- Can carry relatively heavy bikes
- Easy trunk access (tilt function)
- Locks included
- Won’t damage your car
- Low mileage reduction
- Folds up when not in use
CONS
- It is easy to load bikes but could be better
- Not all fat-tire bikes will fit
- Some rounded frame bikes won’t fit
- Frame contact mounting (risk of damaging bikes)
- You might need some help to install (91.5 lb empty)
- Only 2″ hitch receiver (can’t use an adapter)
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
With a quick-release ratcheting hitch receiver, the Yakima Ridgeback is an affordable family-friendly bike rack that can be installed in just a few minutes. The Ridgeback’s unique locking mechanism keeps bikes in place, and its four-point cradles make it easy to load.
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 bike rack is the perfect solution for carrying bikes on your car. This hitch rack will safely carry up to four bicycles with an adjustable bike mount system, and it has a tilt-out rear frame arm that can carry up to 35 pounds. With steel durability, you can rely on this rack to maintain your bikes.
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)
Best trunk-mount rear racks
The best thing about trunk-mount rear racks si that they are much more affordable in comparison to roof and hitch racks. This rack type requires neither a trailer hitch nor crossbars to be installed (those guys can easily cost a few hundred $). Moreover, most trunk racks are in the budget segment. However, it comes at a cost that the whole construction won’t be very sturdy and your car can get damaged if inproperly installed.
Yakima HalfBack (2 or 3) – Premium quality but quite affordable
- 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
Yakima HalfBack is a lightweight and easy to install bike carrier that allows you to load your bikes on the back of your car without any modification. Yakima HalfBack can carry 2 or 3 bikes, depending on the version you choose, up to 35 lb each. The installation is easy and requires no tools, so you can get riding faster!
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)
Saris Bones EX (2 or 3) – Trunk rack that fits most cars
- 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
Saris Bones EX is an easy-to-install, durable and lightweight bike rack that has a low profile. It can carry up to 3 bikes, with an extra rubber strap to secure the front wheel. This bike rack requires no trailer hitch or crossbars.
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
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
This bike rack is secure and safe. It can be fixed securely on the trunk of your car, it doesn’t require any tools, it can carry up to 4 bikes and has a maximum capacity of 35 lb each. With this bike rack you will forget about taking up precious space in the trunk for the time being, as with its wide platform this bike rack can fit all types of bicycles.
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