We help you answer the age-old bike rack question – should I carry it up top or on the back? Watch and learn as we dive into different options for both and discuss what’s best for your bike, your vehicle, and your type of trip.
BIKE MOUNTS 101
BIKE MOUNTS 101
We help you answer the age-old bike rack question – should I carry it up top or on the back? Watch and learn as we dive into different options for both and discuss what’s best for your bike, your vehicle, and your type of trip.
Types of Bike Mounts
Hitch Tray
Easiest to load and stow.
Vertical
Can carry up to 6 mountain bikes.
Trunk
Easy to store when not in use
Hitch Mast
Can carry up to 5 bikes.
Roof Mount
Low profile, keeps hitch receiver open.
Two Bike Carrying Options
REAR OF CAR
Hitch bike racks mount on the trailer hitch of your vehicle and allow you to easily get your bikes. Make sure the rack you choose is compatible with your size hitch.
TOP OF CAR
A roof bike rack is a great choice for the serious cycler or outdoor enthusiast. Some roof rack styles let you keep both wheels others require you to take the front wheel off and secure at the fork
Bike Rack Comparison
Hitch Tray Rack
$$$
PROS
Pros
- No bike frame contact
- Fits a variety of bikes
- Quick loading and unloading
- Trunk access for tilt and swing models
CONS
Cons
- 2 bike maximum on light-duty hitches (1.25”)
- Increases overall vehicle length
- Not all models allow trunk access
- Vehicle hitch required
Hitch Mast Rack
$$
Pros
- Can carry up to 5 bikes
- Trunk access for tilt and swing models
Cons
- Bikes may have contact with each other
Roof Bike Rack
$$
Pros
- Securely mounts bikes by the fork or wheel
- Truck access not compromised
- Roof Bike Mounts can be easily swapped out seasonally with other mounts such as ski, water, or cargo
Cons
- Requires lifting bike overhead
- May not fit in low-clearance spaces
Trunk Bike Rack
$$
Pros
- Portable, can be removed and stored away
- Can be used on multiple vehicles
- Less expensive
Cons
- Interference with access to trunk or hatch
- Bikes may have contact with each other
- Many points of contact on vehicle
- Limited load capacity
Great for Family Trips
Hitch Mast
BackRoad is an inexpensive hitch mast option that works great for bike-family weekends. The BackRoad makes it easy to pack more bikes with a lot less hassle. Available in 2 Bike and 4 Bike capacity.
Go Vertical, Carry Up to Six Mountain Bikes
Vertical
Score big by going vertical. The HangOver vertical hitch mountain bike rack is the mastermind for shuttle runs and buddy rides. Just don’t get stuck in the driver’s seat; last one at the bottom buys the first round.
Fork Mount Or Wheel On
Roof Mounted
Mount a bike securely by the front wheel or fork, avoiding potential frame damage. Easily accommodates different wheel sizes.
Need More Help? Check Out Support Articles
Can I carry e-bikes?
Nulla et vehicula ligula. Curabitur fermentum turpis porttitor vulputate va.
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Can I carry e-bikes?
Nulla et vehicula ligula. Curabitur fermentum turpis porttitor vulputate va.
READ MORE >
Mountain Bike Racks
Vertical Bike Racks are a great option for mountain bikes. Securely supporting bikes by the fork crown. Tray style is another option, accommodating non-standard frame designs like full-suspension mountain bikes.
Road Bikes
Whether you have a racing, endurance, or touring bike, we have a bike rack for you. Roof mounted and hitch tray style bike racks give the safety and security your need. You have the option of mounting to the fork or the front wheel.
Family Friendly Bike Racks
When it comes to family road trips or heading out for a bike-friendly weekend, hitch mast styles are the go-to. They are safe, secure, and have high load capacities (up to 5 on particular models).