Bike touring, road cycling in the countryside, riding with loved ones or solo? Whatever your vacation or summer weekend plans, get in your car, take your bike and live your dreams. But to do that, you need a bike rack and this comparison guide will help you choose one without making a mistake.
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"This Thule bike carrier is a great success with consumers, thanks to its locking, tilting and fixing systems. A pre-assembled equipment that will not complicate…"
"For light cars that are not equipped with a ball hitch or roof bars, choose this bike carrier on the tailgate equipped with 6 safety…"
"Go on vacation with 3 bikes thanks to this bike carrier by Eufab. The sturdiness and reliability attributed to German-made equipment is a pleasure to…"
"For trips or vacations with family or friends, attach this bike carrier to the hitch of your car. It can carry up to 4 bikes…"
"The Thule ProRide has a maximum load of 20 kg and is unbeatable value. Once attached, this bike carrier is very stable: it is ideal…"
This Thule bike carrier is a great success with consumers, thanks to its locking, tilting and fixing systems. A pre-assembled equipment that will not complicate your task!
296 £ on AmazonIf this Thule bike carrier is one of the best sellers of the moment, it's because it meets most of the consumers' expectations. Delivered pre-assembled, it installs quickly and easily on the hitch where it locks for added security. Even your two bikes placed on the device will be locked, the locks will be provided at the time of purchase.
Made of alloy steel, this car bike rack has plastic elements on the parts where the equipment comes in direct contact with the bike. No risk of scratches! You should also know that, thanks to its extendable wheel holders, this model is compatible with wide rims.
For light cars that are not equipped with a ball hitch or roof bars, choose this bike carrier on the tailgate equipped with 6 safety straps for a good support of two bikes.
44,72 £ on AmazonDesigned for occasional use, this hatchback bike carrier is recommended for vehicles that are not equipped with a hitch ball and roof rack. The device is compatible with most recent car models and brands. It can also accommodate any type of bicycle with a frame diameter between 2 and 7 cm.
Designed for 2 bikes, this equipment has a reliable fastening system. Indeed, 6 safety straps and 4 frame blocks guarantee a good support of your bikes. Note that the parts in direct contact with the bikes have a rubber coating to avoid scratches.
Go on vacation with 3 bikes thanks to this bike carrier by Eufab. The sturdiness and reliability attributed to German-made equipment is a pleasure to find.
565 £ on AmazonA metal alloy gives this bike rack a robustness that will attach to your hitch in a few minutes; in 60 seconds for the most skilful! Designed to support 3 bikes at the same time, it may seem imposing, except when it folds up and displays compact dimensions when you don't use it and store it in a suitcase.
Even on a long trip, your bikes will be safe thanks to a lock built into the device. If you need to access your trunk, simply press the pedal to tilt the bike rack slightly and expose the rear of your vehicle. Of course, your bikes will stay secure: the straps are there to make sure.
For trips or vacations with family or friends, attach this bike carrier to the hitch of your car. It can carry up to 4 bikes at a time!
319 £ on AmazonIf you share your passion for two-wheeled pedals with your friends and family, you can go on an adventure together with this bike carrier that can accommodate 4 bikes. Indeed, its maximum load capacity is 60 kg, which makes it suitable for all types of bikes. Moreover, the extendable wheel racks are wide enough to fit rims.
On the road, you can have peace of mind, because even if the bikes are mounted very quickly, the fixing arms and straps hold them firmly. In addition, they benefit from a lock mechanism to prevent theft; the bike carrier itself is locked to the hitch.
The Thule ProRide has a maximum load of 20 kg and is unbeatable value. Once attached, this bike carrier is very stable: it is ideal for all kinds of trips.
93,02 £ on AmazonConcerned about the safety and comfort of travelers and vacationers who love bicycles, Thule wanted to offer a bike carrier that is both robust and easy to assemble. This roof-mounted product can carry up to 20 kg. Thanks to its lightweight design material, it is easy to install on the vehicle. The mounting arms and wheel supports can be adjusted according to the bike to be transported.
Intelligent, this bike carrier emits a signal when the attachment is in place. The Thule ProRide is not only robust, but also complies with the current City Crash standards. Moreover, the assembly is very easy and does not require any tools. Your bike won't fall off thanks to the jaws that grip the wheels once the bike is perched on the roof of the vehicle.
Any specific needs?
The best car bike rack in 2021
The best entry-level car bike rack
The best high-end car bike rack
The best car bike rack for 4 bikes
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| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | HIGH END | FOR 4 BIKES | VERY GOOD | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
9/10 |
9/10 |
7/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Thule VeloCompact 2 7-pin
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HOMCOM Bike carrier on tailgate
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EUFAB 11522 Premium 3
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Peruzzo Pure Instinct
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Thule ProRide
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This Thule bike carrier is a great success with consumers, thanks to its locking, tilting and fixing systems. A pre-assembled equipment that will not complicate your task!
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For light cars that are not equipped with a ball hitch or roof bars, choose this bike carrier on the tailgate equipped with 6 safety straps for a good support of two bikes.
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Go on vacation with 3 bikes thanks to this bike carrier by Eufab. The sturdiness and reliability attributed to German-made equipment is a pleasure to find.
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For trips or vacations with family or friends, attach this bike carrier to the hitch of your car. It can carry up to 4 bikes at a time!
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The Thule ProRide has a maximum load of 20 kg and is unbeatable value. Once attached, this bike carrier is very stable: it is ideal for all kinds of trips.
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Material
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Alloy steel
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Metal
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Metal
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Alloy steel
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Aluminum
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Type of bike rack
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Hitching bike carrier
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Bike carrier on tailgate
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Bicycle hitch carrier
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Hitching bike carrier
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Roof bike carrier
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Number of bikes
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2 bikes
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2 bikes
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3 bikes
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4 bikes
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1 bike
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Locking system
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Lockable locks
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Lockable with locks
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Lockable with locks
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Locking with anti-theft device
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Installation
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Before making your purchase, you should look at the type of equipment on your car. Is your car equipped with roof racks, a hitch for towing or neither? You should know that there are 3 types adapted to each situation.
The number of bikes a bike rack can accommodate varies from one model to another: those that attach to the hitch ball generally have a larger capacity. If you're going away with family or friends, you'll want to invest in a bike rack that can accommodate more than one. Just remember to check the maximum weight that the hitch ball or roof rack can support.
Some bike racks are also designed for specific types of bikes. You can find equipment specifically designed for electric bikes or even for mountain bikes, mountain bikes or road bikes.
It's all about the lock of the bike rack on the car but also the lock of the bikes on the bike rack. First and foremost, you need to choose models that have sturdy fasteners and won't scratch your bike frame.
This way, you won't have to spend time adding mounting hardware such as straps. However, if your installation is not stable, you will need to add some additional fasteners, especially if you are traveling far away.
To avoid unpleasant surprises once you arrive at your destination, it is advisable to choose or buy an anti-theft device.
Whether you plan to go on regular weekends with your bike during the summer or just for the trip to and from your vacation, choose a bike rack with quick assembly and disassembly that requires little effort.
For occasional users, a few times a year, a trunk-mounted model is sufficient. For more regular users, opt for a bike rack on a ball hitch. The roof rack is recommended for very high end bikes or bikes with a fragile frame.
Before installation, make sure that the bike rack has the proper mounting system for your car. Also make sure your bikes are compatible with the rack. It would be a shame to install it only to find out that the bikes don't fit!
Attaching a bike rack to the hitch ball
Bike racks to be installed on the towball are either fixed or can be tilted to allow the trunk to be opened. In all cases, the fixing consists in placing the support of the bike carrier on the ball hitch by tightening well using a flat key. Then place the bikes one after the other on the rails and secure with the straps provided.
Installing a bike rack on the tailgate or trunk
If your car has a spare wheel in the back, the installation will be different. Attach the bike rack to the hoop ring, which is tightened over the nuts of the spare tire. If you have a trunk bike carrier, attach it to the metal parts of the body, especially the rear belt ring. Use the straps to stabilize the assembly.
Installing a roof rack
In the case of a roof bike rack, you will just have to fix the rails on the lateral sides of the 2 roof bars. A good manual tightening will be required to ensure the good maintenance of the equipment. Indeed, the bike + bike carrier assembly must resist to air friction. Then slide the bikes on the rails and fasten with the safety straps.
The anti-theft cable allows you to securely fasten bikes without the risk of losing them or having them accidentally come off. Buy one if it is not included with the bike rack. But the anti-theft system doesn't mean you don't have to keep an eye on the load! Also, keep your ears open while driving. If you hear any suspicious noises, stop and check that the bikes and the bike rack are secure.
It is the cheapest solution on the market. It folds flat and can hold up to 3 bikes. Unlike the hitch ball and roof bars, the trunk bike rack uses adjustable straps for attachment. But you should know that you won't have access to the trunk and rear visibility will be more than limited.
There is a variant designed for the tailgate of 4×4 or SUV cars. This one suffers from a lack of reliability, simplicity and firmness. In both cases (trunk or hatchback), the installation may hide the license plate. You will then have to buy a light plate in addition to the bike carrier.
If you are used to making short trips, the trunk bike rack will surely please you. The same goes for occasional users. Don't forget to check the tightness regularly on the way!"
This is the most well-known type and also the oldest. We've all seen them on the stages of the Tour de France. It is a great way to carry all types of bikes, including road bikes. Even more so if the bikes in question are fragile and cost an arm and a leg! Be aware, however, that it does consume more fuel and the air friction can make noise.
Almost all models fit on all roof racks. Some can carry up to 3 bikes. In addition, the roof rack offers the best visibility to the rear and gives access to the trunk at will. But it is not suitable for electric bikes. You don't need to carry a 25 kg load on the roof of the car to realize that!
If you need to transport a bike with a fragile carbon or very high end frame, the roof bike carrier is the ideal equipment. Remember to remove the bike before entering the garage and avoid places lower than 2 m high.
Probably the most expensive, safest, most stable and most suitable for intensive use. Best if your car has a hitch ball. The hitching bike rack can hold 2 to 4 bikes and is available in 2 variants: the hitching bike rack and the platform bike rack.
The Hangon type bike carrier carries up to 3 bikes and is quickly attached. Its use implies the purchase of a plate support. With its integrated light plate, the platform bike rack is perfect for carrying up to 4 bikes. Note that both can tilt to one side to give access to the trunk.
If you have electric bikes and a car with a towball, this type of bike carrier is highly recommended. It is also suitable for long journeys and for transporting 3 or 4 bikes. But it is expensive!
What would be the best solution? To invest in a bike rack that will be installed on the roof or on the back of the car or to simply dismantle the bike and store it in the trunk until you reach your destination?
The advantage of the bike rack is that you do not have to dismantle your bike. At the very least, you will have to remove the motor from your electric bike. The bike rack is an ingenious device that can be attached to the roof bars, to the hitch ball usually used for towing or to the tailgate of your car.
What's more, depending on the number of bikes you need to carry, you can choose devices that can accommodate up to 4 bikes at a time! All this without compromising the capacity of the car boot which is already quite full with your personal travel belongings. And if you're worried about the safety of your two-wheeler, bike carriers come with a locking mechanism with locks; some even have anti-theft devices.
Another alternative is to disassemble the bike so that it can fit in the trunk of the car. This solution is suitable if you have a big enough trunk and are skilled in disassembling and assembling the bike, knowing that it can take time and many tools.
However, if you are travelling light and carrying a smaller bike, such as a child's bike, you can put it in the boot of your car by folding down the rear seats. Although this will restrict the number of seats available in the vehicle, it is still an alternative to consider.
Removing to re-mount the bike, folding down the rear seats to make room in the trunk; it's all time consuming and tiring. With a bike carrier, it only takes a few minutes to attach the device to your vehicle, a few more to attach and tighten the bikes and you can hit the road!
It is very practical
With a bike rack, you no longer have to dismantle your bike when you leave and reassemble it once you arrive at your destination. It saves you a lot of time and makes transport easier. In addition, it guarantees the integrity of your bike's frame because it will not be near objects or parts that could scratch it or even damage certain parts of your favorite bike.
It's a space-saving solution for your trips
A car bike rack is a space-saving piece of equipment that will make your trips very pleasant. Your bikes will not be in the way as they will be fixed in a bike rack to be installed on the towball, the roof or even the tailgate; therefore outside the car. You will keep all the space in your car and in your trunk!
Rest assured, however, that even when placed outside the vehicle, your bikes will be secured with straps and arms that will keep them in place throughout the trip. What's more, some bike carriers are equipped with good anti-theft devices that protect the device itself and your bikes as well.
It helps to save money
Think green and save a few bucks on gas the next time you travel with your bike. Once you arrive at your destination, you can leave the car behind and conquer the countryside by bike with your family, friends or alone. The bike rack allows you to decide where you want to put your bike. What's more, some models allow you to carry more than 4 bikes, which is great for the whole family.
Keeps the interior of your car clean
Installing a bike rack on the roof or in the back of the trunk can quickly become beneficial if you're biking in muddy or dusty terrain. Accumulated dirt can quickly pollute the carpet of your car and disturb other passengers in the future. Plus, it saves you from having to do a deep cleaning of your car's interior, which can quickly become frustrating if you call in the professionals.
It's easy to install or remove
If bikes aren't the only thing in your life, there may be times when you need to remove your bike rack from your car. With a hitch mount, you don't have to awkwardly crawl across the roof of your car and mess with tools so close to your car's paint.
In our opinion, the best brands of car bike carrier in 2022 are :
The Swedish group founded in 1942 manufactures accessories for the automobile. You can find boxes, trailers, roof racks, ski racks and tents stamped Thule. Its bike racks are undoubtedly the best on the market.
This French group manufactures tools and equipment for the automotive, gardening, DIY and industrial sectors. Its bike racks are made in the UK and have a quality very similar to Thule. Mottez is an excellent alternative to the Swedish brand.
The universe of the Eufab brand revolves almost exclusively around bicycles. Among its products, one finds bike racks of course, but also wheel locks, anti-theft systems and a whole range of dedicated accessories. Its hitching bike racks rarely disappoint.
The TowCar brand is a specialist in transport solutions. Bike racks, motorcycle racks, TowBox luggage racks, dog carriers, ski racks or roof racks, it does it all. This brand can be a credible solution in the middle and top of the range.
You may not know it, but the Italian brand Fiamma is a leader in accessories for motor homes, caravans, vans and minivans. Its bike racks can be installed both on motorhomes and on the garage wall. A must-have for the holiday season.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
To properly install a car trunk bike rack
When installing a car bike rack, make sure the lower legs rest on the horizontal surface of the rear bumper. This way, the weight of the racks and bikes will be supported by the bumper, and only the minimum amount of tension needed will be applied to the hooks and tie-down straps.
To properly install a bike rack on a tailgate
First, attach the device to the intended location on the back of your car. Attach the bottom, top, and side straps, then check that the tailgate bike rack is stable and upright. Put the bike in the designated spot, tighten it with the straps so it doesn't move, and after you've checked that everything is secure, you can hit the road without fear.
To drive safely with a bicycle rack on the roof of the car
Many people forget they have their bikes on top of their cars and try to get into the garage or an underground parking lot. Don't get distracted, or you may crush your high-end bike and your car with it. Always check the height of the vehicle with a bike on the roof, as this will affect tolls and access to different locations.
To avoid damaging the bikes during the journey
If one or more bike wheels hang too close to the ground, they may bump and rub against the road. This is especially true on bumpy or steep roads. Worse, the contact of the wheels with the road can tear the rack, causing the bikes to fall off and even damage the car. To avoid this, install the bike rack and bikes properly: if the straps and arms are secure, you shouldn't have any problems.
To reduce the risk of incidents with a car bike rack
Make sure the bike rack actually supports the load it needs to carry. Also, make sure the bike rack and bikes are properly secured and fastened before you hit the road. If you are using a hatchback or hitch carrier, consider purchasing a plate and tail light system. Also, be careful, as rear visibility may be impaired.
The choice of a bike rack depends on the configuration of your car. Depending on whether the vehicle has roof racks, tow bars or neither, you will have to choose between different types of bike carriers: there are those that attach to the roof, others that sit on the tow bar and some that sit on the tailgate or trunk.
Theinstallation of the bike carrier on the car depends on the type of equipment. For a roof bike rack, you must attach the structure to the roof bars; if you have chosen a tow bar model, the bike rack will rest on the tow ball. Otherwise, it will simply be fixed to the boot or tailgate, but in this case you must provide a plate and rear light system.
Any towball can accommodate a bike carrier; in fact, this is the most practical and popular form of carrier. In fact, this type of car bike carrier can carry up to 4 bikes at the same time. The only rule to follow is to respect the maximum load supported by the hitch. This information is available on the characteristics of your towball.
Whether you choose a tailgate bike rack or not, always include ease of assembly and handling on the list of criteria to observe. In any case, to mount the equipment on the tailgate, you will have to secure the device and all the straps in the intended location. You test that it is stable before installing the bike and holding it with the straps.
Not all types of bike racks are suitable for all cars. It's true that sometimes you get lost in the convenience of this equipment, but at the risk of investing in a model that you won't be able to use, first answer a few questions about your car's configuration and choose according to the answer.
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