Your next outdoor adventure may seem incomplete or boring with your favorite ride. The bicycle, aside from remaining the most efficient means of transport, is still preferred by many people for recreation purposes. However, sometimes the best routes to explore are miles away in which case you will have to transport your bicycle using a vehicle to these areas.

Well, if you had any traditional way to do this, then think again because nothing beats the bike rack. It is the most secure and easy way to move your bike without damaging either your vehicle or the bicycle itself. The market is however full of these models from different brands each boasting excellent performance. However, this article will help you find the best model for your particular needs so be sure to read on.

Top 6 Best Bike Rack in Review 2018

6: Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack

The 102DN Deluxe is quite versatile and pretty safe to use. The bike rack will fit a wide range of vehicles including minivans, SUVs, and Sedans. The rack features a patented individual tie-down system that sets up quickly in seconds. It is the best bike rack to transport your bicycle around town safely. The rack comes fully assembled and boasts durable, high-quality components that guarantee years of frequent use without breaking down.

This bike rack further features narrow set carry arms that can accommodate a wide range of bicycle frame sizes and styles. Besides, the two side straps together with the top and bottom straps ensure total stability for the rack when it is on your vehicle. With this model, you do not have to worry about your bike’s safety.

The rack further features a black powder coated finish that gives it a sleek design. This model is undoubtedly the best solution if you want to bring your bike along when traveling. It has a pretty reasonable price tag so no need to worry about your budget.

5: Thule 990XT Doubletrack Bike Rack

The 990XT model is a high-end bike rack available in one size and color but safe and versatile enough to transport at least two bikes every time you travel. It is pretty lightweight and comes with adjustable mast hooks to load and unload your bikes in a few seconds. To avoid bike to bike contact, the reinforced wheel trays slide independently along platforms while the included ratcheting wheel strap will quickly secure the wheels to the trays for improved conveniences.

Thule’s Doubletrack rack for bikes also features a hitch switch lever that folds to make it easy to store the bike rack when not in use. The item measures 11 by 23 by 51 inches and boasts a weight of only 46 pounds. This model might be too expensive for the budget-conscious person, but it is undoubtedly worth it given its versatile and durable nature.

4: Saris Superclamp EX 2-Bike Rack

Do not underestimate the lightweight nature of this bike rack. Much as it weighs only 35 lbs, it is still powerful enough to carry at least two bikes with a capacity of up to 60 pounds each. Thanks to the premium quality material, the Saris Superclamp EX is safe to use and durable to last for a long time without thinking about buying a replacement. Regardless of the type of bicycle you have, the Superclamp model will transport your bike safely anytime you travel but don’t want to leave it behind.

Its tilting feature still allows you access to the rear of the vehicle even when it is fully loaded. This equally allows it to fold up against the car for easy storage when not in use. Other great features of the Superclamp model include the built-in reflectors on the outside wheel trays to ensure full visibility when in low light environments. There is also a built-in bottle opener designed to make it easy to open your cool refreshments after a long day on the road. You will have to dig deeper into your pocket to get this model, but it is truly worth it given all these great features.

3: Hollywood Racks HR1400 Sport Rider

If you are tight on a budget but need to travel with at least four bicycles, then the HR1400 bike rack is the perfect model for you. It boasts a durable and sturdy nature that will hold up to four bikes weighing at least 50 lbs each. The model is pretty easy to adjust and will not damage your vehicle. The rack features a patented hitch tightening system, a locking pin, and 9-foot security cable to prevent it from swaying.

You can easily convert it from a 2-bike model to a 4-bike model. No need to worry about your bike type because this model will fit most bikes with tires up to 5 inches wide. Moreover, this rack can fold flat against the car when not in use and its tilting features allows easy access to the back of your vehicle without any hassle. It has a 43-inch length as a 4-bike rack and a length of 25 inches when converted to a 2-bike model.

2. Swagman XC Hitch Mount Rack

This is an affordable rack by Swagman that can carry up to two bikes on your vehicle when traveling. It is compatible with 1 1/4-inch, and 2-inch receiver hitch and also comes with a built-in anti-wobble hitch device making it 100 percent safe to use. The unit can support a maximum load capacity of only 35 lbs per bike. It is easy to assemble and can only fit 20-inch to 29-inch tire sizes.

The upper ratchet arms will adjust easily to fit different bike frame sizes making it quite versatile. When you buy this durable model, you do not have to worry about the safety of your bike. Besides, it folds down to allow access to the vehicle’s back without removing it. The lightweight nature of this unit makes it easy to handle while the sturdy steel material will give you peace of mind knowing that you will have it around for a long time. See more: Top Best 10 Electric Bike 2018

1. Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack

Allen Sports Deluxe model has excellent customer reviews, but this should come as no surprise. Boasting a beautiful design and sturdy nature, the Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack can hold up to four bikes and will fit vehicles with a 2-inch trailer hitch. The rack is easy to install and features a sturdy steel construction with black powder coat finish for complete durability. It has 22-inch long carry arms that can secure your bicycles with the patented tie-down system.

What’s more, these carry arms fold up to keep the rack out of the way when not in use. You will love the price tag of this model because it will not dent your wallet. If you want a stylish way to move your bikes around town, then this is the perfect model to consider. Besides, its durable nature guarantees years of use without buying a replacement.

Buying Guide to the Best Bike Rack on the Market

Before making a final buying decision, here are some things you need to consider:

 The Type of Bike Rack 

One important consideration is the type of bike rack you need. There are four types of bike racks, the roof-mounted bike rack, hitch mount bike rack, a platform bike rack and trunk mount bike rack. Rooftop racks keep the bicycle out of sight when driving. They can be great as a long-term option. Hitch mounts are perfect for carrying multiple bikes. Trunk mount bike racks are quite popular and equally convenient for carrying multiple bikes.

 Rack Size 

Most people buy bike racks to suit their current needs forgetting that their needs will change with time. A new cycling partner may want to come along. Buying a rack for at least two bicycles is important. Some models are flexible and can expand to carry more than one bike. If you need a family bike, then consider a 4-bike rack that is hitch mounted.

 Budget 

If you are working on a tight budget, you might want to consider a trunk mount carrier. Be warned however that cheaply made racks will cost you a lot of money in the long run. A good quality rack requires you to throw in a few extra dollars, but they are quite beneficial in the long run. The amount you set aside for a bike rack will help narrow your options to fit your budget making it an important consideration.

 Ease of use 

Hitch mounted racks are always easy to install on your vehicle. They are easier to load and unload as opposed to other models. If you find the roof-mounted carrier difficult to install, then you need to go for either the trunk mounted carrier or the hitch mounted rack. Hitch mounts are also very stable and will help your bikes to avoid damaging one another or the vehicle.