(Part 2) Best bicycle car racks according to redditors

This makes storing the bikes so much easier! I'll remove the seats/seatposts to fit under the bed when that's finished. I used these full extension slides (https://amzn.to/35waFt5) and these angle brackets to mount to the floor (https://amzn.to/2VINDuQ). To secure the bikes I used this one for 100mm thru-axle (https://amzn.to/35qWaH6) and this one for the 135mm fork (https://amzn.to/2peSN5D) on my Tumbleweed Prospector.

I have a similar rack and we just hang my bike a bit inclined (I have a sloping top tube, not full step through). However, I know there's a frame adapter for these things, haven't used it personally https://www.amazon.com/Swagman-Bicycle-Carriers-64005-Adapter/dp/B000YZG8JS

HTH

A Saris Bones is an OK trunk rack. That's as good as a trunk rack gets. It can rub on your paint, and I don't like the way it holds the bikes by the top tube.

In general, trunk racks are garbage though. If you're going to use it regularly, do yourself a favor and invest in a towing receiver and proper hitch mounted rack. You can get a Curt hitch with free shipping from Amazon for around $130. I installed it myself with one friend and a socket wrench. It's super no-brainer 100% easy. Then get a wheels-on hitch rack like a Kuat Transfer or something similar. They contact the bike only on the tires/wheels and don't touch the frame at all. The bikes don't sway, the wheels don't turn. The rack doesn't contact your paint at all, and can be tipped out of the way so that the hatch can open even with 2 bikes loaded.

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But if you're rarely going to move bikes around, the Saris Bones is fine. Roof racks are a pain in the ass.

I was able to get this one for $215 from a warehouse deal. I like it, but you might want to keep an eye on the facebook market place and craiglist for a used mount. New will be expensive, used for a quality one will still be a bit but cheaper.

I this hitch and this rack for our CX-5

Yeah is a class III and overkill but you never know if you need to tow something.

This is a decent rack for the money, although in my case I had it for a month and ended up returning it for this one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01BMTTIPU/ref=sspa_mw_detail_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It’s been 100% worth the extra cost for me. Tilting the rack to open the trunk, built in locks, the way it folds up low and tight without blocking your backup camera, much sturdier construction, built in wheel straps all make a huge difference in day to day use.

I second the advice about not going too cheap on a rack as there are some features that make the whole loading/unloading routine so much quicker and easier.

I wish we only had 5 to fit into our tiny apartment. Not pictured: 1 commuter bike...

https://i.imgur.com/5Z8Ybpn.jpg

Racks: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009ZN0OTK/

I drive a Subaru Impreza and am able to fit my Transition Scout (Large, 27.5) in the back with the seats folded down, but just barely.

I ended up getting a Thule T2 Pro XT 2 rack, though, and absolutely love it.

I have this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0171A6MSU/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It opens with the door. Holds my bike fine, and has a cable lock. Leaves my receiver hitch for whatever, basket or trailer.

You can always get an adapter bar which should allow you to hang it level.

Something like this one. I'm not saying that one in particular as I have no idea if its good or not, just one like that one.

Here's a link to amazon where I ordered them:

RockyMounts LoBall Track quick release bike rack pick up truck https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019709IBU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_2TYaBbVCRKBA4

I'm not entirely sure about your question, to be honest. I am new to bikes. Based on some of the "questions answered" on Amazon, it sounds like it might not work for a thru axel bike, but they may sell an adapter or different mount for that.

Also now considering just slapping one of these rear tire mount ones on, locking the bike to the spare tire rack, and calling it a day.

https://www.amazon.com/Allen-Sports-Deluxe-2-Bike-Mounted/dp/B00XLKVLYU/


Edit: added forgotten link.

I agree with you that this is likely the cheapest route to go for universal fit. You could go another step up and get something like these Saris trunk racks below.

http://www.amazon.com/Saris-Bones-801-3-Bike-Trunk/dp/B000BT30RU/ref=sr_1_1?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1453816460&sr=1-1&keywords=saris

http://www.amazon.com/Saris-Bones-805-2-Bike-Trunk/dp/B000BT30RK/ref=sr_1_2?s=outdoor-recreation&ie=UTF8&qid=1453816460&sr=1-2&keywords=saris

Look into these, they work well

We have a couple [Delta Michelangelo 2 Rugged] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009ZN0OTK) stands and they work really well. The Michelangelo Canaletto looks to be about the same but quite a bit cheaper.

They're neat in that they lean against your wall; the weight of the bikes keeps them stable. You can tack them to the wall with an included nylon strap if need be, but we've never bothered to.

i ordered it today! I just have to figure out if i want a flush hitch for $200 more or just one that sits right under the fender.

i went with this one: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1GURYY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have a cheap folding bike rack that I previously bought for my Honda CRV. Cost $50 and works just fine. It does take some extra time to get the bikes on the rack vs the fancier (and expensive) racks. Also, it does set off the backup camera "alerts" however I can still see just fine. The real bonus is that it folds up into almost nothing so it's very easy to store (I actually keep it in the trunk when I'm not using it-- just in case). Quoted prices in my area are about $280 for a hitch + install and the nice bike racks are easily $400. I'd rather spend that money on other things. Here's the rack I have if anyone is interested:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00TRTS0JS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I just got this today. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00B1SI03Y/ref=redir_mdp_mobile?ref_=pe_385040_121528360_TE_dp_1

The top rack works great and I never had any issues with it. The only downsides are you can't see the bike when you're driving and you need to be careful you don't drive under something too low. I just needed a rack that could hold 2 bikes and already have a hitch on the car so I got that one.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MXQA1E/ref=wms_ohs_product_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Not currently available. I'm pretty sure they were less than 20 bucks shipped. I didn't know if I would like having panniers up front so I didn't want to spend a lot of money.

These had great reviews and I'm pretty dang impressed, especially since they were so inexpensive.

You can get the Saris Solo for about $65

http://www.amazon.com/Saris-Solo-Single-Bike-Rack/dp/B003COAZ7O

I bought this hitch Curt
And this Rack

They are working out great. There is an add on for the Thule racks to support up to 4 bikes just look at their site for more info. YouTube has plenty of videos for installing the hitch if you plan to do it yourself. That’s what I did and it was really very easy to do.

And the rack is actually called the Thule T1, not x-1.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075FMFXFZ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

SportRack 2-Bike Lock and Tilt Platform Hitch Rack - Granite Gray by SportRack http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B1SI03Y/ref=cm_sw_r_udp_awd_r7Petb1WZ8TBT

Looks like they have raised the price since I bought it but there are other similar models to choose from for a good price. Only thing is recommend with getting the hitch is to have it professionally installed since it requires drilling into the frame of the car and you will get a warranty for the work so your not screwed if you make any mistakes installing yourself.

I use the Malone versarails, they work extremely well. I have the 58 inch ones but they also sell a smaller and cheaper 50 inch.
Malone VersaRail Bare Roof Cross Rail System (50") https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01KH46TDU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.frrDbYZ5KA1Z

Don't have my S1 yet, but I am planning on this bike rack for transport since I don't have a truck/SUV. Ive seen at least one other person with it who says it works great. Hoping to catch it on sale.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075FMFXFZ/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_2?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1

I use this granted its for a much shorter rack but it allows you to use all the way to the front of the roof, then maybe you could get one of those trailer hitch goal post things.

I bought a Capstone which in made of steel and requires a 2" hitch so it is a bit heavy. I've put around a 1000 miles on with not a hint of trouble carrying 2 ebikes. They have fixed the swing down lock so it no longer self releases. My only minor issue is that you have to carry a ratchet wrench to remove the hitch, but it sure doesn't wobble.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01N1304WW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

There a few brands that sell similar styled racks. It looks most like this Capstone branded rack.
https://www.amazon.com/Capstone-Hitch-Mount-Bike-Carrier/dp/B01N1304WW?ref_=bl_dp_s_web_2586780011

I got a spare-tire mounted car rack (like this except mine was used) and bolted it to the wall in the garage with masonry anchors. I keep two steel tandems on it (and I have the other wall lined with half bikes.)

Lol, I wish they had the Uganda Style rack at the store when I went today. Unfortunately they were out of stock. I currently lease so damage to the top would not be ideal for the return, but I just struggle to have to shell out over $200 per bar. Any experiences with these...

https://www.amazon.com/MALONE-50-INCH-VERSARAIL-BARE-ROOF-CROSS-RAIL/dp/B01KH46TDU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1498521287&sr=8-1&keywords=bare+roof+racks

I have this on my Fiat 500 - Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TRTS0JS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_U6vyzbNMQPFSB

This is going to depend on the rack. I suggest using a rack that doesn't put a strut on the centerline of your vehicle; usually this results in a big heavy bar blocking the view through the camera.

This style tends to work better:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N1GURYY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_dp_T2_Tt4Ezb3QS677A

Also, consider getting roof-rails instead. You can easily find cross-rail adapters to carry your bikes. This approach is secure, and will not obstruct the view through the backup camera or access to your trunk. Just be sure to remove the bikes before parking in a garage.

You’d be better off just getting a small sit on top kayak and some Yakima easy top thingies [[link] ]

Cheaper and less of a headache. It’s completely possible to store a kayak on a balcony, if you have one

I've owned two Blackburn EX-1s. I foolishly sold one with the matching kid's seat, but the other has seen near daily commuting use for five years. I love everything about it, with one exception: it has no place to mount a rear tail light. It's light, made from bar stock rather than tubes, and despite constant heavy use, it has held up great. I've used it for a bit of bike-packing as well and have probably exceeded the 40lb max many times without issue.

I also unfortunately own this POS. I bought it to replace the EX-1 I sold and it is not worth even half the $25 I paid for it. It's constructed from tubes instead of bar stock and has the wide, flat plate on top. As a result, it bangs and clangs with every single bump. It was on my wife's bike for a while, and she could sometimes be heard from half a block away. It also mounts using aluminum spacers, resulting in a less solid rack that can sway and jiggle (just a little) when loaded. The tubes are thick enough that some panniers aren't able to be mounted without modification. The only good thing about it is that I can mount a taillight to the little tab that hangs off the back.

For rear racks, the #1 thing I would look for is one constructed from bar stock. Tubes simply make too much noise. I would avoid the flat plate on top as well unless you're buying from a B&M store where you can bang your hand on the rack to see how much noise it makes. Mount points on the rear for a taillight would be a huge plus. If Blackburn made one like the EX-1 with a mount, I'd buy one in a heartbeat. Aluminum is obviously lighter than steel and perfectly OK for your uses; most of the steel ones are intended for long-haul touring where they can be welded if they break. Look for a rack that can mount without spacers for a more secure attachment.

I own this Nashbar front rack, which seems to be a clone of this Blackburn rack. For the price, it's worth it, but I had to modify mine to fit 35mm knobby tires. I also needed spacers to mount it, which the rack did not come with. My fork has mount points in the middle of the blades, so I can't comment on how well it mounts using the U clamps.

I've never used a front rack that holds the panniers up higher, but I'd be hesitant to buy one (unless it could be returned at no cost) without trying it first. The lower the load, the lower your center of gravity. Having a higher center of gravity can change your handling dramatically. I would also be extremely hesitant to buy a front rack that did not have a cross bar for stability (like this one). My first time out using the front rack, I put my floppier set of panniers up front, and my handling was so bad it was dangerous. I swapped them, learned my lesson, and wouldn't dare set out with any load in the front that could possibly sway.

I was thinking more along the lines of a mount that holds the bike by the axle in whatever you use to haul the bike now. If you haul the bike with the rear wheel on in a vehicle you probably have enough room to mount a fork block in the back to hold the bike upright. 3/4 PVC in a block of wood works great for 15mm axles, and is cheaper than RockyMounts

Obviously there are many reasons why this might not work, but it's the best idea I have.

The Saris Bones 3 is about $150 on amazon.
I had one on my ST (with plenty of Lamin-X protection film at the mounting points) and it was great.

Saris Bones 801 3-Bike Trunk Mount Rack (Gray) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BT30RU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_t6rAybEAKG11X

I'd recommend a hitch bike rack. Kind of something like this

Thule 9035XTB T2 Pro XT 2 Bike (1.25") Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N53XNOK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_yhG9BbGY0D796

It just comes down to what you drive to be honest and on how conveniente you want it to be. I personally have no experience with trunk racks. At times a hitch rack can get in the way if you're trying to get to the trunk but also depends on what you drive. I also have a "sea sucker" roof rack that works well but I'm not sure if they have adapters for fat bikes. Hope this helps!

I have a Saris Bones 3 and it gets the job done just fine. Saris has a trunk rack made for just one bike or two, I'd recommend the 2 since you're never going to need all three, but apparently the solo is not compatible with the miata, I haven't tried however. I believe it has a lifetime warranty and is made in the USA however you can often find them on Craigslist... I've be wary though, they're often stolen.

Just make sure you wrap the footies (contact points) in socks, they will rub and scratch the paint after a while, especially on the bumpers. I also recommend positioning the pedal closest to the car to not rub on the paint, because it will. I position it to be where the license plate is and its fine.

I prefer to take the front wheel off as well, as it hangs right behind the exhaust.

you could use something like this. https://www.amazon.com/RockyMounts-LoBall-Track-quick-release/dp/B019709IBU/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&keywords=locking+bicycle+fork+mount&qid=1571923924&sr=8-9

i have something similar for my fat bike and wife's bike with my utilitrack but i haven't upgraded to locking ones yet.

here is what my set up looks like https://i.imgur.com/mAO5R9R.jpg

Found it on Amazon guys! Thanks for the idea OP

I picked up a thule t2 pro xt for a heck of a deal. It's been perfect so far. Doesn't touch the frame, and holds my heavy bike over some severely rough roads.

If you're not in a hurry and have a REI store within reasonable distance, check out their garage sale dates. There were several at mine with 'missing hardware' or scratches. $500 rack for $49. Couldn't believe it.

https://www.amazon.com/Thule-T2-Pro-Bike-Rack/dp/B01N5QGW20

Budget friendly means something different to everyone, but a Saris Bones 2 bike rack is about $150, or you could go with a Saris Bones 3 bike rack for about $20 more, which has more room in the even that you would be taking two bikes, but they fit awkwardly. Yakima and Thule make racks close to the same price range, and they are solid as well. As others have said, ebay or craigslist may have used ones as well, but you just have to make sure the whole thing is there (not missing any pieces or parts).

To add to what everyone else is saying, you want to have one of these if your bike is going to be carried on anything but a tray-style rack. Full-suspension bikes with the shock mounted to the top tube do not play nice with hanging-style racks.