10 Best Bike Racks For Cars 2025 in the United States

The Thule Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a versatile rack designed to accommodate a wide range of bikes, including e-bikes, with a load capacity of 60 pounds per bike. It's an excellent choice for those who need to transport various types of bikes such as carbon frames, mountain, downhill, or fat bikes, due to its compatibility with 20 to 29-inch wheels and tires up to 5 inches wide without requiring adapters. One of its standout features is the tool-free installation through the AutoAttach system, making it user-friendly and convenient.

The rack's HitchSwitch lever allows for easy tilting to access the vehicle's trunk or to store the rack upright when not in use, adding to its practicality. Additionally, the integrated wheels make it easy to maneuver the rack when off the vehicle, which is a thoughtful touch for users who frequently detach the rack. Security is well addressed with integrated cable locks that secure the bikes to the rack and a locking knob that locks the rack to the hitch receiver. The 12.5-inch spacing between bikes and adjustable side-to-side positioning help prevent bike interference, ensuring your bikes remain secure and undamaged during transport.

It's worth noting that while the rack can carry up to 4 bikes with an additional add-on, this add-on is sold separately, which could be an extra expense for users needing to transport more than 2 bikes. The durability and build quality are robust, supported by Thule's reputation and a limited lifetime warranty. This rack combines ease of use, security, and flexibility, making it an excellent investment for bike enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile transport solution.

The Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack stands out as a strong and durable option for carrying bikes on your car. Weighing only 11 pounds, it has an arc-based design to keep bikes separated and secure, which enhances its capacity to hold up to three bikes (each up to 35 pounds). Its major strength lies in its compatibility, fitting 90% of the top vehicles sold, including those with spoilers. The unique dog leg design ensures it fits over most spoilers, making it versatile for various types of vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs.

This model is also made from 100% recyclable materials and is built in the USA, which might appeal to those supporting local manufacturing and sustainability. The injected-molded arms and legs make the rack strong and rust-free, contributing to its longevity. Additionally, the rubber feet protect your car’s paint, and the integrated strap management caps keep the setup looking clean and sleek.

While it has many strengths, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. The installation, while generally straightforward, might still require a bit of practice to get right, particularly if you’re not used to trunk racks. However, with its premium bike hold-downs and anti-sway straps, it offers good security for your bikes. If you need a versatile, durable, and well-designed bike rack that can handle multiple bikes and fit a variety of vehicles, the Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack is worth considering.

The Saris Bones Car Trunk Bicycle Rack Carrier is a popular option for transporting bikes, ideal for those who need to carry up to two bikes on a variety of vehicles. One of its main strengths is its universal compatibility. It fits most cars, including those with spoilers, making it versatile for different vehicle types. The rack's injection-molded arms and legs contribute to its outstanding durability, being rust-free and built to last, which is a significant plus for those concerned with longevity. Weighing in at just 11 pounds, its lightweight nature complements its arc-based design that smartly separates bikes on different levels to prevent any unwanted contact, which can save your bikes from potential scratches or damage during transit.

The installation process is notably straightforward, utilizing ratchet and spring-buckle straps that eliminate the need for awkward overhead lifting. This ease of use can be especially beneficial for those who prefer quick setups or have limited physical strength. Additionally, the rubberized feet and coated straps ensure that both the car and bikes remain protected from scratches, which adds to its security features.

However, the bike capacity is limited to two bikes, each with a maximum weight of 35 pounds. This could be a limitation for families or groups of cyclists who might need to transport more bikes. Also, while the anti-sway straps provide some stability, they may not fully eliminate movement on rough terrains. Moreover, the lack of a locking mechanism means that additional security measures might be necessary to deter theft if you leave the bikes unattended.

This rack is an excellent choice for those prioritizing durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, but not for those needing to transport more than two bikes or requiring high-end security features.