Most vehicles these days will have a tough time trying to accommodate a bike without an aftermarket accessory. Thankfully, there are now plenty of bike racks available at a wide range of prices so you can easily transport your bike with your vehicle. From single bike carriers to racks that hold multiple bikes, options are plentiful if you’re needing a solution. Before we dig into some recommended bike racks however, it’s worth learning about the three main types you’ll find in the marketplace.
Trunk-mounted racks
If you own a sedan or compact car, trunk-mounted racks are probably on the top of your shopping list. Designed to be compact, these racks are the most popular choices for conventional vehicles, although they’ll limit how easily you an access your trunk.
Roof racks
If you need an accessible trunk, roof racks are more ideal. Roof racks are popular for compact cars, such as sedans and hatchbacks, and are often recommended for vehicles with a low center of gravity. That’s because they typically increase wind resistance, resulting in increased fuel consumption.
Hitch-mounted racks
For SUV and truck owners, hitch-mounted racks are most ideal. These racks sit your bike further away from your vehicle, reducing the chance of possible scratches to your car. But like trunk-mounted racks, they’ll limit access to the trunk while they’re mounted. Some racks however, feature a tilt-away design that makes it more convenient to use, allowing you to access your trunk without a whole lot of work.
We’ll now take a look at the top 10 bike racks currently available, with a mix across the three types. For more information about bike racks, refer to our table of contents.