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Are you considering a hitch bike rack? There are quite a few variables that will affect your selection, and finding the perfect rack can be difficult. How will it interact with your vehicle, how easy will it be to use and store, and will it keep my bikes secure? We've invested years addressing these and other questions. Our team of bike enthusiasts tested 16 of the most compelling hitch racks on our cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs. We've hauled every type of bike, taken them on epic road trips, bumpy trail-finding missions, and driven them around town. We noted how easy or difficult it was to use them, what felt intuitive, and how well they worked, steadfast in our quest to discover the best hitch rack. To see how these hitch racks compare to roof-mounted options, see our all-encompassing best bike rack review.
Looking for more bike reviews to improve your riding experience? We've been testing bikes and publishing detailed reviews for 14 years. From the best trail mountain bikes to the top-rated bike helmets, we have recommendations on the bike gear you need to help you ride better and safer. After the ride, we have suggestions for the best bike storage options for your garage to keep you organized, as well as a full review of the top-ranked bike racks that cover all types of racks.
Editor's Note: On December 5th, 2023, we added some comparisons and an additional rack to this review.
When Kuat released the Piston Pro X, it set a new standard for hitch racks and also set a new high price point. Building on the solid construction and excellent design of their flagship hitch rack, they aimed to create a more affordable version of the rack, so they nixed the Kashima-coated pistons, fancy powder coat, and LED tail lights. The Piston Pro, like its inspiration, only touches your bike's tires and uses the simplest and most effective way to carry a bike - the tire-hold load arms. With its wide fitment, high weight limit, and easy adjustability, this rack offers loads of versatility. It is undoubtedly very expensive, but its top-notch security, excellent durability, and the easiest loading experience make it a clear winner. In fact, this rack is functionally superior to almost every other rack we've tested. Its all-metal construction and durable powder coat finish make it feel like a solid investment - one that you won't regret making.
Our initial gripe with this rack was its price, but after a few months of use, the premium we paid felt more than worth the expense. The powder-coating on Piston Pro is incredibly durable, but it also has a rougher surface, which helps it hold onto dirt and road grime; it cleans up fine but requires a bit of scrubbing. While testing snow bikes, we encountered an issue where the rack wouldn't latch due to ice in the ratchet arm, but a quick squirt of de-icer restored its function. So, should you be using the rack in the snow and ice, it may be helpful to keep some de-icer spray around. Other than these minor concerns, we enthusiastically recommend this rack.
The Thule T2 Pro XTR is our top pick for a hitch-mounted bike rack, and it's evolved to be better than ever. This rack has consistently ranked highest among competitors due to its ease of use and versatility. It can safely transport your bikes, from featherweight carbon fiber road bikes to heavy electric mountain bikes. Thule has paid attention to details, making features such as the approachable loading height and quick lock wheel clamps that close with one hand. The wheel trays are wide and accommodate tires and wheels of all sizes, including fat bikes. Thule has made accessing the rear of your vehicle even easier by relocating the tilt-release mechanism to the end of the main support arm. We highly recommend adding the 2-Bike Add-On to the T2 Pro, as it is the ideal option for transporting up to four bikes.
The T2 Pro XTR isn't cheap; it's also large and heavy, with a large storage footprint. We've previously tested the T2 Pro XT version; the T2 Pro XTR is the updated model, which is nearly identical except for two small wheels that aid in moving the rack around to store. This is one of the best hitch mount racks you can buy. The rack's performance and user-friendliness make it feel like a great value.
Long-Term Thoughts: We've had this rack on a number of vehicles since 2019 and still think it's fantastic. It has been a drama-free companion on countless expeditions and has not let us down. Lubricating the load arms and pivots each spring has helped ours maintain its smooth functionality.
Kuat went all out in building the Piston Pro X, and it's brilliant. While very expensive, you get a high-performance rack with features and technology that no other racks currently have. This tire-hold rack clamps the bike securely by the tires with no frame or rim contact with user-friendly piston-actuated ratcheting tire arms. Utilizing the clever FastFit wheel chock system, you can quickly load bikes with 18" to 29" wheels. The 67lb per bike weight limit means it can carry almost any e-bike on the market. Slick security features like a locking stainless steel hitch pin, integrated locking tool storage, and a flexible 12mm cable lock help keep the rack and bikes safe. Integrated LED lights help keep you safe by putting your brake lights on the back of the rack instead of being obscured by the bikes you're hauling. Durable powder coating, 99% metal construction, and Kashima-coated stanchions strive to make this rack pass the test of time.
The Piston Pro X is not only expensive, but it is also quite large and hefty, making it difficult to move or store. Nonetheless, this is the absolute best hitch rack money can buy. This rack's safety, security, and features may make it worth the cost. Ensure you have the required 4-pin electrical connector to use the integrated brake lights, or you'll need to purchase an adapter. If you want this racks functionality at a lower cost, Kuat sells the Piston Pro, which lacks brake lights and Kashima coating but saves a few hundred dollars.
Long-Term Thoughts: We're completely spoiled from using this rack; its functionality and design are just about perfect. The loading process with this rack is superior to every rack we've tested. The only real downside of this rack is its price; if you agree, check out the Piston Pro above.
Some hitch racks are more affordable, but the RockyMounts MonoRail offers great value for its price. It is less expensive than the most expensive hitch racks but has comparable features and performance. The MonoRail supports the bike by the wheels without touching the frame, a common feature of good platform racks. It is versatile, with well-designed wheel trays and ladder strap extenders equipped to handle everything from slim road tires to 5-inch fat bike treads. Testers found this rack user-friendly, with a one-hand tilt release mechanism at the end of the main support arm that works with loaded bikes. It has a long noose-style cable lock and a hitch pin lock that secures rack and bikes.
The MonoRail is a well-built bike rack with a robust receiver arm, main support spine, and wheel trays. However, it also has some plastic components, like the folding front wheel and pivoting rear wheel trays, which might not be durable in the long run. The rack is attached to the vehicle's receiver using a standard threaded hitch pin, which may not be as easy to use as other brands' tool-free tightening and locking mechanisms. Despite these drawbacks, the MonoRail is a great buy that provides excellent performance and versatility at an affordable price. The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is a little more expensive but also an excellent rack to consider.
The 1Up USA 2" Heavy Duty Double is a hitch-mounted bike rack with a simple yet effective design. It has been gaining popularity due to its durability and functionality. This rack is built in the United States and features a sturdy tray-style hitch mount with two load-arm style tire clamps, which departs from the single clamp design commonly found in most other hitch racks. Its all-aluminum structure ensures long-term durability and solid performance. However, we found the rack moderately heavy despite its aluminum construction. The wheel trays fold to reduce their footprint for easy storage. Compared to other racks we tested, the design of the 1UP rack is not as user-friendly, and its lack of security features affected its score. Overall, this is a well-made and sturdy bike rack with a minimalist appearance, but its limited adjustability and difficult-to-use tilt mechanism detract from its overall rating.
1Up offers their products directly from the company's website. This rack is a good value should it be as durable and future-proof as it appears. Fat bikers can purchase wheel adapters, and since we reviewed this rack, 1Up has started to include a locking hitch pin with the rack.
Rack Updated — August 2023
North Shore tweaked the NSR 6-Bike since our testing period. Updates include revisions to the cradle design to make it easier to load heavy bikes onto the rack, and the finish is now less prone to scratching or corrosion.
If you're looking for a way to transport multiple mountain bikes, the North Shore NSR-6 is an excellent option. This rack can carry up to six bikes in a vertical/hanging orientation, making it ideal for larger SUVs or pickup trucks. The design of this rack is impressive, as it eliminates any potential interference between bikes. Even on rough terrain, there's no need to fret that your handlebars might be rubbing your saddle. Additionally, the rack offers excellent ground clearance, making it a great choice for shuttle laps or use on rough roads. With a maximum weight capacity of 360 pounds, you can confidently load downhill or electric mountain bikes without fear of overloading the rack. The sturdy rack is constructed entirely out of metal and has a durable feel. There are also two and 4-bike versions available for a lower cost than the 6-pack model we tested.
Unlike other racks, the NSR-6 is designed specifically for mountain bikers and may not be suitable for other types of bikes such as BMX, road, gravel, or hybrid bikes with rigid forks. It is important to note that this rack is only compatible with mountain bikes with suspension forks. While enduro and downhill mountain bikers will love it, this rack may pose some challenges for shorter riders when loading and unloading. Additionally, it is quite heavy and bulky, making it difficult to move and store when not in use.
If you enjoy traveling or have joined the “van life” trend to explore the world with your bike, you may face some challenges when transporting your bikes. Luckily, RockyMounts has designed the BackStage platform hitch rack to cater to the specific needs of modern camper vans or anyone who requires easier access to the rear of their vehicle. Unlike other hitch-mounted racks we tested, which interfere with using a van's rear doors, even when tilted down, the BackStage boasts an impressive tilt mechanism at the rear of the rack. However, the most remarkable feature is the arm that pivots out and away from the rear doors, moving both the bikes and the rack clear of the door's range. The rack is incredibly versatile, with a weight limit of 60 lbs per bike and wheel cradles that fit a wide range of bikes and tires up to 5 inches wide.
The BackStage is a convenient choice for people who need to easily access the back of their vehicle, even though it has some minor issues. Bikes with wide handlebars may have limited clearance on the tray, so they must go on the outer tray. Additionally, the rack is quite heavy and bulky, making it hard to maneuver. Nevertheless, compared to other brands that charge extra for swing-away accessories, the BackStage is a great value.
Accessing the rear of your SUV or truck, with the MonoRail can be quick and easy.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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Ergonomic and easy to use, this really is the best rack you can buy.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Why Trust GearLab
We have done real-world tests on various bike racks for the past seven years. Every year, we thoroughly research and purchase the latest, most innovative, and interesting racks to put through our rigorous, side-by-side comparisons. Our full-time bike testers use these racks for shuttle runs, rescue missions, and daily commutes. We install them on vehicles such as cars, trucks, vans, and SUVs and haul every type of bike they are designed to carry, including some questionable ones. We test them on long trips, off-roading, and in different weather conditions, from snowmelt to snowfall. We keep them on our vehicles folded to see how well they interact with our doors, tailgates, and hatchbacks. Finally, we store them in our garages and inspect their connections and mechanical bits to understand how they wear. Throughout our testing process, we take notes constantly to determine which products excel in which areas and how they can benefit specific user groups.
We test hitch racks using the following six performance metrics and the following weightings:
20 percent weighted to the Ease of Everyday Use
20 percent weighted to the Ease of Removal and Storage
20 percent weighted to Versatility
20 percent weighted to Security
10 percent weighted to the Ease of Assembly
10 percent weighted to Durability
Senior mountain bike review editor Joshua Hutchens and multi-discipline bike racer Curtis Smith supplied the experience and know-how behind this review. Doing considerable testing and hauling, Jeremy Benson who has authored multiple Tahoe guidebooks. Jeremy is a long-time Lake Tahoe resident who rides and races mountain and gravel bikes throughout the summer months. Curtis logs considerable hitch rack miles racing road, mountain, and cyclocross. Pat Donahue also provides his input to this review. He is an avid mountain biker with knowledge of various bike racks. He has a knack for breaking things, which makes him well-suited for testing durability.
The anti-wobble hitch cam is tightened with an 8mm security allen key. Not only does this keep the rack from wobbling around while driving, but it adds an extra layer of security.
load, drive, unload, repeat. we loaded bikes hundreds of times on each rack
We weigh and measure all of the racks we test.
Analysis and Test Results
We tested these bike racks on multiple vehicles, from little hatchbacks to big vans and everything else we were driving. The variety of vehicles is important because these racks can offer dramatically different performances based on the type of vehicle they're used with. We noted obvious characteristics and small details to evaluate these racks.
Value
Bike racks are crucial for transporting our bikes from one location to another. Some bike racks can be quite expensive, with prices that rival the cost of a bicycle. However, we don't evaluate products based solely on price. We understand that value is an important factor. When you purchase at a bike shop or online, you want to feel confident that you're getting a good deal you'll be happy with.
The RockyMounts MonoRail is the best value of all the hitch racks tested. It requires more assembly than other models, but you're rewarded with a solid rack with an easy-to-use tilt release and solid transport trays. For those who don't mind paying for the best, who can buy and appreciate the nuances of fine gear, look no further than the Kuat Piston Pro X. With exceptional ergonomics, built-in brake lights, and solid security features, you'll be hard-pressed to find a nicer bike transport experience.
The Piston Pro X is built to withstand the toughest conditions with its Tiger Dry-Lac powder coat finish.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Everyday Use
People are generally more likely to use something if it is easy to use. This also applies to bike racks, as an easy-to-use bike rack will save time and allow for more time spent riding. Ease of use boils down to two key factors: how easy it is to load bikes onto the rack and whether it blocks access to the vehicle (we will discuss security measures separately). In our evaluation of the loading process, we looked at the height of the load and the attachment method. Hitch racks may cause some obstruction to vehicle access, but some manufacturers offer swing-away or drop-down options, which we consider when scoring this metric.
After conducting multiple seasons of hitch rack testing, the Thule T2 Pro XTR has received the highest rating. This rack boasts a low loading height and well-designed front wheel clamps, making bike loading a breeze without any awkward balancing. Other models, such as the 1 Up USA 2" Heavy Duty Double, require a more coordinated approach to prevent bike teetering. The T2 Pro XTR's standout feature is the release lever located on the end of the rack, allowing for easy rack lowering or raising with just one hand. The Yakima StageTwo is also user-friendly, with its easy-to-use tilt-release handle for rack folding. Similarly, the MonoRail and BackStage racks from RockyMounts have user-friendly tilt release handles.
Some vertical hitch racks can hold up to six mountain bikes.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Need a bike rack that can hold a large number of bikes? The North Shore NSR-6 and Yakima HangOver 6 are great options. These racks allow bikes to be loaded vertically, accommodating up to six bikes while keeping them near the bumper. They are especially suitable for gravity and enduro enthusiasts but are limited to bikes with suspension forks. The NSR-6 is the more user-friendly option, with a higher payload capacity for e-bikes or downhill bikes. It also doesn't require awkward straps; a small rope tie secures the rear wheel. The HangOver 6 is slightly less user-friendly but has a better tilt mechanism.
One of the best features of the Thule EasyFold XT is the fact that it folds up small for storage. It also has 2 small wheels on its underside so you can roll it.
Credit: Laura Casner
E-bikes are becoming more popular, and transporting these heavy bicycles presents a challenge for more rack manufacturers to address. We find it difficult to lift a 50+ pound bike onto a tray-style hitch rack and think others will too. Both the Thule EasyFold XT 2 and Yakima OnRamp have 60+ lb per bike weight limits, and both come with a ramp system that allows you to roll the bike up onto the rack instead of having to perform a deadlift. These two racks are a little complicated in securing your bike to the rack, but the ramp feature has obvious appeal for those who find it difficult to lift heavy bikes into place on the rack. Of the two options, the Yakima OnRamp is a bit more user-friendly with a more confidence-inspiring hold. It's also less expensive. The Yakima StageTwo boasts an impressive 70 lbs per bike weight limit, and you can also purchase the optional RampUp ($99) loading ramp to roll bikes up onto the rack. This is a much sturdier option with a simpler loading process and more secure bike hold than the racks mentioned above. Kuat also offers aftermarket ramps that work with any of their NV or Piston racks. An inexpensive way of improving your rack's versatility is to add a loading ramp, especially for e-bike riders.
Having an OnRamp lets you simply roll your bike up to its travel position.
Credit: Laura Casner
Ease of Removal and Storage
Many people will install a hitch rack and leave it there permanently. Those of us with the rack on full-time want to know how it affects our vehicle usage, access to the rear, and fuel economy. How difficult it is to remove and store won't be a big concern, but for bikers who only occasionally use the rack, its ease of removal and storage are far more important. The difficulty of this process can vary depending on factors such as the rack's size, weight, and attachment method.
While it is heavy and large, the tool-free locking anti-wobble adjustment knob on the Yakima BackStage makes installation and removal of the rack quick and easy.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
While hitch-mounted racks are generally heavy to move around, their benefits and ease of use once mounted are abundant. Despite their weight and size, many higher-end models, like the Yakima StageTwo, Thule T2 Pro XTR, and Thule EasyFold XT, are quite easy to work with. They use a tool-free system to install/remove the rack from the hitch and lock it. Unlock a knob, turn it counterclockwise, and pull the rack off. These racks are somewhat heavy and large, so moving them around can be a chore, although the EasyFold XT folds into a neat little package, making it an exceptionally compact hitch rack. Likewise, the 1Up Heavy Duty Quik Rack folds down smaller than other similar racks for storage.
Both of the vertical hitch mount racks we tested are heavy and bulky. They aren't that easy to move around and they take up a fair amount of storage space.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The two vertically oriented hitch racks did not score well in this metric; their footprints are huge and very heavy. The North Shore rack weighs 70 pounds, while the HangOver is even heavier at nearly 80 pounds. The weight and shape of these objects make them difficult to carry. After removing these racks from your hitch, you may struggle to navigate them through narrow spaces without causing damage. It's recommended to seek assistance when removing and storing these racks to avoid potential injury.
Versatility
We evaluated the adaptability of various bike racks by examining their ability to transport multiple kinds of bicycles. Factors such as wheel size, tire width, bicycle frame shape, and frame size can pose challenges for some racks. Racks that make contact with a bike's frame often struggle in this aspect, as various frame shapes and sizes are available in the market. On the other hand, racks that secure bikes using other methods, such as wheel-mounted trays, offer more adjustability and can accommodate various wheel sizes and tire widths.
If you're looking for a bike rack that can accommodate tires up to five inches wide, the Thule T2 Pro XTR, Rocky Mounts MonoRail, or Yakima StageTwo are all great options. These hitch-mounted tray-style racks have ratcheting arms that clamp onto the front wheel, providing versatility and avoiding any contact with the frame. The back wheel is secured with a sliding strap that can be adjusted to fit the bike's wheelbase, regardless of the frame's size or shape. While these tray-style hitch racks can carry two bikes, you can often purchase an extension to carry three or four bikes.
While it can carry a lot of bikes, the North Shore Rack is limited by its fork cradles that only work with bikes with suspension forks.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
The Yakima HangOver 6 and North Shore NSR-6, both vertical-style racks, are popular among mountain bike enthusiasts. These racks have limited versatility, only accomodating bikes with suspension forks. Bikes with rigid forks, such as road/gravel bikes, BMX bikes, rigid kids' bikes, or rigid hybrid bikes, will not fit due to the reduced clearance between the fork crown and tire. The North Shore NSR-6 is more desirable as it has a higher payload capacity of 360 lbs, making it suitable for E-bikes. In contrast, the Yakima HangOver 6 can only carry up to 37.5 lbs per bike, so it cannot transport electric mountain bikes or some downhill bikes.
Speaking of e-bikes, the Yakima OnRamp and Thule EasyFold XT are both reasonably versatile racks. They are rated to carry heavy e-bikes and work with most regular bicycles. They aren't the most user-friendly racks but offer a ramp system to load heavy e-bikes. This feature is attractive for anyone with difficulty loading heavy bikes onto a rack. The Yakima StageTwo is our favorite model for heavy bikes with a 70-pound per tray weight limit and the optional loading ramp (sold separately). The Hollywood Destination E-bike Rack can also hold 70 lbs per tray and includes a loading ramp.
Using a cable lock that secures to the end of the hitch pin, this rack offers convenient security.
Credit: Laura Casner
Security
Bike theft is a common issue these days, particularly when valuable bikes are left unattended on vehicles. Bike racks come with varying levels of security, some having no security measures while others have integrated locks that secure both the rack and the bikes to the car. However, even the most challenging security measures can be broken by a determined thief given enough time and the right tools.
In addition to the features included with each rack, we suggest purchasing an aftermarket bike lock to add an extra layer of security. Another factor to consider is the value of the racks itself, so use a locking hitch pin to prevent the rack, with or without bikes, from being taken.
Vertical hitch mount racks hold bikes vertically, hanging from the fork crown.
Credit: Jenna Ammerman
Conclusion
We hope that if you've made it this far in our article, you've created some opinions of your own, and you'll find the selection of a hitch rack a little less daunting. Hopefully, you'll also understand that we couldn't possibly test every vehicle with every rack, but seeing some of the issues we raised will give you a good idea of what to look out for when outfitting your vehicle. We hope our testing metrics and process will allow you to select a rack that works for your needs regardless of how it scored in our tests.
