One of the biggest attraction to cycling is the freedom it offers. You and your bike can go anywhere – but it’s likely that’ll you’ll come into some difficulty when trying to leave your front door if you don’t have a good hitch bike rack for cars. Having a good hitch bike rack will allow you to bring your bike with you on the road, without causing damage or chaos to your car.

Hitching your bike to your car is a great way to make cycling in new and exciting locations easy. You and the whole family can go on an outdoor bike ride in a variety of different locations, without causing damage to your bikes or the car. The best hitch bike racks will be easy to use, durable and secure.

See more bike accessories in our other review.

View The Best Hitch Bike Rack in 2022 Below

 

1. Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

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This hitch bike rack can hold two bikes and makes traveling with cycling equipment stress-free. Each bike will be secured to your car through both their wheels and the frame, so there is no risk of them coming loose or getting lost. The cushioned hooks on this hitch bike rack are adjustable to suit a range of bikes, meaning all of the family can come along on the adventure.

This bike rack features a built-in anti-wobble hitch device that keeps your bikes secure and safe on the road. The frame grip arms have been updated to be soft, preventing them from causing damage and protecting the paintwork.

Pros:
+ Two bikes hold
+ Secure and safe
+ Cushioned hooks
+ Anti-wobble
+ Prevents damage

Why We Liked It – This hitch bike rack can hold two bikes and is incredibly secure, protective and adjustable.


2. Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack

Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack

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This hitch bike rack has a tool-free locking SpeedKnob system that makes it quick to install and easy to use. This installation is secure and safe, making it suitable for a range of vehicles. The bikes are secured to this rack through the ZipStrips which are removable and feature anti-sway cradles to keep your bikes secure on the road.

The largely molded collars are gentle to your bikes paintwork and materials and they actively prevent damage. The rack arm mounts are solid and keep your bike tightly secured for a long period of time. The oversized diameter tubing and anti-rotation inserts offer great stability.

Pros:
+ Tool-free locking
+ Easy to use
+ Secure
+ Gentle on bikes
+ Anti-rotation inserts

Why We Liked It – This bike rack is incredibly secure and will keep your bikes in good condition when on the road.


3. Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

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The Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack is a two-bike device that is ideal for camping trips or other family vacations. It features a no-wobble bolt that keeps it secure on your car and ensures that your bikes are safe when on the road. The tie-down cradle system individually secures your bikes to the rack and keeps them protected. This is easy to use and is adjustable to suit a range of bike frame sizes and models.

The hitch bike rack tilts back which makes it easy to access the lift-gate access and to insert the bikes. This bike rack has a great capacity and is certain to make family cycling trips effortless.

Pros:
+ Two bikes
+ No-wobble bolt
+ Secure
+ Adjustable
+ Easy to use

Why We Liked It – This two-bike hitch rack is secure and incredibly easy to use, making it suitable for family vacations.


4. MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack

MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack

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This 4-bike hitch mount rack has been specially made for families or large cycling excursions as it can handle four bikes at one time. It is easy to use, with the swing down feature that makes securing the bikes to the rack simple and quick. This is suitable for most family cars, although it cannot be used on RVs.

This hitch bike rack is made from rigid steel that is durable and long-lasting. The bike cradle is adjustable with hook and loop straps which makes it suitable for bikes of all sizes. It is incredibly heavy-duty making it a great value bike rack.

Pros:
+ Great capacity
+ Adjustable closure
+ Easy to use
+ Durable bike rack
+ Good value

Why We Liked It – This bike rack is good for families as it has a great capacity and is durable.


5. MaxxHaul (70212) 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

MaxxHaul (70212) 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

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This hitch bike rack is a secure and safe to use model that conveniently carries two bikes at one time. The weight capacity is great meaning it can handle a range of bike models or brands. The swing down feature on this bike rack makes it incredibly quick and easy to use which is ideal for families that are always on the go.

The steel construction is heavy duty and durable, meaning this rack will last you a long time. Although it is tough, this bike rack is gentle on your bikes and will not damage the paintwork. The bike cradle is adjustable and comes with a hook and loop system to make it even more secure.

Pros:
+ Secure and safe
+ Two bike capacity
+ Swing down closure
+ Heavy duty
+ Adjustable

Why We Liked It – This hitch bike rack has a great capacity and is easy to use, making it ideal for families on the go.


6. Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

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The Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack carries up to three bikes which makes it a brilliant option for busy families. It features of a soft rubber cradle that protects your bike’s finish and paintwork. This bike rack is adjustable and easy to use, making it suitable for almost all vehicles.

This hitch bike rack features four attachment straps that offer a secure fitting. It is easy to use as it comes fully assembled, meaning you can get out there without delay. This bike rack can fold flat for easy storage making it incredibly convenient for on the road adventures.

Pros:
+ Three bike capacity
+ Soft cradles
+ Adjustable
+ Attachment Straps
+ Easy storage

Why We Liked It – This hitch bike rack is convenient and easy to use making it a brilliant option for on the road.


7. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier

Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier

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This hitch bike rack is suitable for most dual-arm bikes and is suitable for a range of vehicles. This bike rack has a great capacity and can carry four bikes at once, making it suitable for family vacations or other large scale cycling trips. It is a sturdy and handy construction that features locking and safety straps.

This bike rack is incredibly convenient and has a tilt down feature with foldable carry arms when not in use, making it easy to store. The soft cradles and bar cushions are designed to keep your bikes secure without causing damage to the paintwork or frame.

Pros:
+ Suitable for most bikes
+ Great capacity
+ Sturdy construction
+ Convenient features
+ Secure

Why We Liked It – This hitch bike rack is incredibly convenient and has a great capacity making it suitable for all vacations.


8. Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

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This hitch bike rack has a quick installation and is suitable for most vehicles. It is incredibly easy to use with the quick-set carry arms that snap into place which can fold out of the way when not in use. The cradles feature a dual compound tie-down system and quick set straps that individually secures and protects your bikes.

The internal tilt-away release allows for easy lift gate access, ensuring that you can get on the road without hassle. This bike hatch features a padded spine shield that protects the bike’s paintwork during transport. This bike rack is incredibly secure and safe, making it ideal for a variety of cyclists.

Pros:
+ Quick installation
+ Easy to use
+ Compact storage
+ Secure
+ Protects bikes

Why We Liked It – This hitch bike rack is incredibly easy to install and use, as well as having a compact storage.


9. BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier for Car Truck SUV

BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier for Car Truck SUV

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This hitch bike rack can handle four bikes at one time, making it ideal for families or large groups of cyclists on the road. It is designed to be effortless as it has a tilt backward design that is easy to install the bikes on, without needed to detach the hitch first.

Each bike is secured onto the hitch with a three-point connection system, with two tray-style arms at the bottom and one vertical arm across the top. This prevents your bike from swinging or moving when in transit. This ensures that this bike rack is easy and safe to use for all occasions.

Pros:
+ Four bike capacity
+ Durable
+ Secure installation
+ Three-point connection
+ Keeps bikes steady

Why We Liked It – This hitch bike rack has a great capacity and has an incredibly secure installation process.


 

Hitch Bike Rack Buyers Guide

 

Having a bike is one of the best modern luxuries that almost anyone can afford. There is nothing better than going out and exploring with your bike – and thankfully they don’t have to come at a huge cost. However, when you decide to go further afield than your local neighborhood with your bike, then you may come into some difficulties. If you want to go further with your bike, then you will need a good quality hitch bike rack.

Hitch bike racks are designed to secure your bikes on the back of your car, making them incredibly easy to transport. In order to use a hitch bike rack, you need a rear hitch already installed. Hitches are commonly used with trailers, and some cars may already have an attachment available.

There are so many different kinds of bike racks on the market, making the decision of what is the best one for you quite complicated. Hitch bike racks have often been considered to be the best due to their versatility and security. If you do not know what you need from your hitch bike rack, then you may find it difficult to maneuver through this industry.

 

Is A Hitch Bike Rack For Me?

If you are a cyclist, then a hitch bike rack could be an essential purchase for you. Hitch bike racks can make all the difference to your hobby, but without this knowledge, you may be wondering whether this additional expense is worth it. However, if you are a serious cyclist and want to make the most of your sport, then you may seriously benefit from having a hitch bike rack.

A hitch bike rack is a device that slides onto the receiver of a trailer hitch on a car or van. As long as you can attach a hitch mount to your vehicle, then you can use a hitch bike rack. This versatile and accessibility, as they are suitable for a range of cars, is just one of the reasons why hitch bike racks are so popular.

There is also a range of other benefits to a hitch bike rack that may persuade you. If you are considering getting a bike rack of sorts for your car, a hitch bike rack may be the best option due to these features:

Can Carry Multiple Bikes

If you come from a family that is interested in cycling or perhaps you want to bring your friends on the road with you, then a hitch bike rack may be the best option for you. This kind of bike rack can carry multiple bikes at once. The most common capacity of a hitch bike rack it two bikes. This can be seen throughout this review. Racks such as the Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack can comfortably carry two bikes and keep them both secure when you’re traveling on the road.

If you want to bring your full family or a larger group on the road with you, then you may want to choose a bike rack such as the Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier. This bike rack has the largest capacity throughout this review and can carry four bikes at one time. All of your bikes will be equally secured to this hitch bike rack. This security can be heightened due to the additional straps and other adjustable features.

This kind of hitch bike rack is an excellent option for those in large groups who may be going on a cycling holiday or for those who want to get their friends or family more excited about the sport. There is a range of hitch bike racks that have varying capacities, meaning there is certain to be the best one out there for your needs.

Secure Fitting To Car

A lot of standard bike racks that may be secured to the roof of your car or the trunk often come with an abundance of straps. These straps are used by you to secure the bike rack to your car or minivan. However, this system comes with its own fair share of flaws as the bike rack will only be as secure as your knots are. This kind of bike rack can easily come loose and may cause damage to your vehicle or bikes if this occurs.

Hitch bike racks, however, have a better and more secure system that can be fitted onto almost any vehicle. They are installed by sliding onto a trailer hitch that has already been installed and secured onto your car. Although straps are used in hitch bike racks, this is typically used as additional support to your bikes rather than keeping the bike rack attached. Hitch bike racks are one of the most popular options for cyclists as they are so secure and easy to use.

More Room In The Car

Having your bikes secured to the back of your vehicle means that you have a lot more room in your car for your family and luggage when going on the road. Although other bike racks can do this also, such as roof bike racks, these often come with more maintenance. Roof bike racks, for example, require your vehicle to be in a certain position and can limit where you are able to drive.

Hitch bike racks, as they are secured on the back of your car, are brilliant at saving space and do not prevent driving in certain locations. They are incredibly safe to use and convenient, which is why they are one of the best.

Full Bikes Attached

Some bike racks may require you to take apart your bike or remove wheels in order to get them secured to your car. Hitch bikes racks, such as the Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack, are incredibly convenient and quick to use as they do not require you to pull apart your bike. Your full bike as it is can be secured to your vehicle so you can get on the road quickly.

Hitch bike racks are incredibly easy to use as you simply slide your bike onto the rack and then secure. There is no need for tools or maintenance at either end of the journey, which is why many families or busy people prefer hitch bike racks. You don’t want to have to wait to enjoy the freedom that cycling offers.

 

What To Look For In Hitch Bike Racks

In order to find the best hitch bike rack for your vehicle and needs, you should consider:

Style

There are three main kinds of hitch bike racks, all of which are secured onto the back of your vehicle. The style of a bike rack refers to how bikes can be secured onto your car. When looking for a hitch bike rack, you can choose from:

  • The platform, which is a tray that holds your bike
  • Hanging, where your bikes are suspended by their arms or frames
  • Wheel only, where the bikes are secured by their wheels

The best style will differ depending on your vehicle, how many bikes are needed to be taken on the road and what kind of bikes you have.

Weight

The weight of a hitch bike rack is an important consideration due to the installation and removal that will have to happen at the end of each road trip. It is also important to consider the weight to see how suitable the bike rack will be for your vehicle, as too heavy of a bike rack could cause damage to your car.

The heaviest hitch bike rack throughout this review is the Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier which is 77-pounds. The lightest through this review is Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack at an incredible 5 pounds.

Bike Capacity

When looking for the best hitch bike rack you need to know how many bikes you want to take on the road with you. This is perhaps the most important thing to consider for all bike racks, as this is their purpose.

If you want to bring the whole family out on the road with you, then you should consider a bike rack like the Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack which can hold three bikes securely. Most hitch bike racks throughout this review are made to hold two bikes.

Storage

As a bike rack is only used for one specific purpose, how easy it is to store may be an important factor for you. A lot of hitch bike racks throughout this review, like the Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack, can be conveniently folded making them easy to store after use. If the bike rack is easy to store you can leave it in the trunk of your car until you next need it.

 

Hitch Bike Rack FAQs

What is A Hitch Bike Rack?

A hitch bike rack is a type of bike rack that slides onto the receiver of a trailer rack, which is secured onto the back of your car. This means that in order to use a hitch bike rack you need to have a trailer rack. This kind of bike rack is seen as more convenient than roof or trunk-mounted bike racks.

Hitch bike racks are incredibly secure and are often able to hold more bikes than any other models. They do not hinder your vehicle or the way you drive. As well as this, hitch bike racks are incredibly easy to use and install which is why they are popular with cycling families.

What Hitch Do I Need For My Bike Rack?

This will differ depending on the kind of hitch bike rack you have purchased. Most car hitches have a 2”x 2” or a 1 ¼” x 1 ¼” receiver. These are the dimensions that you need to pay attention too when purchasing a hitch bike rack in order to find the one that best fits your car.

 

Did You Know?

Hitch bike racks are more convenient than any other bike rack as they are easy to install, use and store.

 

Expert Tip

Use the dimensions of your car hitch to determine what hitch bike rack you need.

 

Key Specs
Hitch Bike Rack How Many Bikes? Weight Capacity Weight of Rack
Swagman XC Cross-Country 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack – B0001VO1YY 2 35 pounds per bike 5 pounds
Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack – B00FUHDNRU 2 35 pound 20.7 kg
Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack – B00TRTSRVE 2 70 pound 21 pounds
MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack – B00AK9YMIM 4 150 pound 26.1 pounds
MaxxHaul (70212) 2-Bike Hitch Mount Rack – B00AK9YMI2 2 100 pounds 13.89 pounds
Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack – B00T4BHS7E 3 35 pounds (for two bikes) 10 pounds
Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier – B01FNDCTQG 4 77 pounds
Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack – B00ASSOHH6 2 70 pounds 22 pounds
BV Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack Carrier for Car Truck SUV – B075MTH9NS 4 70 pounds 39.6 pounds

 

Amazon Recommends:

Bestseller No. 1
MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack For Cars, Trucks, SUV's,...
  • Enhanced Durability: This bike rack is equipped with a hitch adapter to fit...
  • Versatile Hitch Compatibility: Designed to be used on Class I, II, III, and...
  • Secure Bike Transportation: Transport up to 2 bikes securely with the...
Bestseller No. 2
MaxxHaul 70210 Hitch Mount Bike Rack 4-Bike Rack, Black For Cars...
  • Secure Bike Transportation: Safely transport up to 4 bikes with ease. The...
  • Convenient Swing-Down Feature: The swing-down feature provides effortless...
  • Easy Installation: Installing the MaxxHaul Towing Products 70210 Deluxe...
Bestseller No. 3
Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack (2-Inch Receiver) , Black
  • Hitch insert fits either 1 1/4 inch or 2 inch receiver hitches (2 and 3...
  • 22 inch long carry arms individually secure bicycles with Allen's patented...
  • Folding carry arms quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use....

 

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If you are in need of a way to transport multiple bikes at one time, you should think about investing in a 4 bike hitch rack. A multiple bike hitch rack enables you to move bikes around in a safe and convenient manner. There are many different styles of bike racks that you can choose from like roof racks or tow bar attachments, so you can find a hitch rack that suits you and your bicycle needs perfectly.

Use 4 bike hitch racks to transport bikes to races, for camping or for family holidays – they are so useful that you will wonder how you have ever coped without having one before. To help you choose the best bike hitch rack for you, we have compiled a list of what we consider to the best currently available.

View The Best 4 Bike Hitch Rack Below

1. Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

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An easy and quick to attach option is the Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack. It has a hitch insert that easily connects to any 2-inch hitch receiver and takes absolutely no time to set up. All you have to do is undertake a snapping action with the carry arms when you get the bike rack out of its box, and it’s ready to use. Use the double cradles to tie down and cradle your bikes while they are in transit, using the straps provided to keep them stable and protected as you travel.

The bike rack has no-wobble bolts so that neither the bike rack nor the bikes themselves move around when you are driving. A clever innovation with this bike rack is the internal tilt away release. This enables you to open the tailgate of your vehicle without removing the bikes or disassembling the bike rack. This makes the Allen Sports Premier bike rack a very convenient way of transporting bikes.

Pros:
+ Easy and quick attachment
+ 2-inch hitch receiver
+ Snapping action, double cradles
+ Tie downs, no-wobble bolts
+ Internal tilt away release

Why We Like It – We like the Allen Sports Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack because it is so easy to use, quick to attach and fast to use as soon as it has arrived at your home.


2. Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack

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If you have a 2-inch trailer hitch, then this could be a great option for you so that you can transport four bicycles, though you will require a Class III or IV 2 inch hitch to take advantage of it. It has very long carry arms that cater easily for carrying four bikes, as they are 22 inches long, and have individual tie-down systems to secure each bike you attach to the bike rack, through the use of Allen’s patented system.

Taking just a couple of minutes to install, this mounted bike rack also folds flat to your vehicle when you are not using it to avoid any damage or danger occurring. This is a very strong bike rack which has been finished with a black powder coat ensuring that it is rust and corrosion resistance so that you can rest assured that the only bike rack you will ever need to buy is this one – no replacement will ever be necessary.

Pros:
+ 2-inch trailer hitch
+ Four bikes carry arms
+ 22in arms, tie downs
+ Flat folds, damage protection
+ Rust and corrosion resistant

Why We Like It – We like the Allen Sports Deluxe Hitch Mounted Bike Rack because it so easily and safely transports four bikes, protects your vehicle, and is ideal for family outings or holidays.


3. MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack

MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack

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Looking for a strong, sturdy and stable bike rack? The MaxxHaul bike rack is able to hold four bikes easily, transporting them from one location to another with no issue, in a safe and accident-free manner. It fits quickly and simply into 2-inch receivers and has been created from steel so that it has increased strength.

Use its swing down feature so that you can access the tailgate easily without having to dismantle the bike rack or take all of the bikes off the bike rack, saving you time, energy and frustration. Though not ideal for bikes with slanted bars, this is a great transportation method for male bikes, unisex bikes, and teen bikes.

Pros:
+ Strong, stable and sturdy
+ Easily transports four bikes
+ Easy install, simple attach
+ 2in receivers, strong steel
+ Swing down bike rack

Why We Like It – We like the MaxxHaul (70210) 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack because it enables you to attach your bikes and transport them with such speed and ease that you will never consider it a hassle.


4. Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack

Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike Rack

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When DIY isn’t your thing or time’s limited, consider this Yakima bike rack. It requires absolutely no tools when you set it up as all it needs is the Speed Knob to lock it in to place when you have connected it to a 1.25 or 2-inch hitch receiver. Install this bike rack super quickly and get on with your journey with your bikes, too. Use the zip strips to ensure that your bikes are safe and secure as they travel with you and rely on the anti-sway cradles to protect your bikes from damaging each other, keeping them completely isolated and preventing contact.

Use the upper hand lever to tilt the rack so that you are able to access the rear of your vehicle and this bike rack has the added ability to be able to fold completely flat when it is not in use. This is also advantageous for storage purposes, even when your bike rack is not attached to your vehicle.

Pros:
+ No tool setup, foldable
+ 1.25-2in hitch receiver compatible
+ Quick install, zip strips
+ Anti-sway cradles, protective
+ Tilt for rear access

Why We Like It – We like the Yakima Products Ridgeback Hitch Bike because it is ideal for people who hate DIY or who do not have the time for assembling new pieces of kit.


5. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier

Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier

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A much more generic fitting bike rack, the Tyger Auto bike rack fits any vehicle with a 1.25 or 2-inch hitch receiver. Travel around with four bikes in tow with this strong and stable bike rack with its cable lock, hitch pin lock, and straps to enhance the safety of your bikes. Protecting from rust, the OE standard black color E-coating gives a high-spec finish, increasing the longevity of your bike rack.

Its fold-down feature allows access into the rear of your vehicle even when the bike rack is fully loaded, and the carry arms can be folded flat when the bike rack is not in use. Protect your bikes as they travel with the clever design of bar cushioning and soft cradles. Fit this bike rack to your car quickly and simply, with no fuss, inconvenience or interruption to your day.

Pros:
+ 1.25 – 2-inch hitch receiver
+ Holds four bikes, strong
+ Cable lock, hitch pin lock
+ Security straps, anti-rust
+ Foldable, cushioned, cradles, easy-use

Why We Like It – We like the Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier because it carries and protects four bikes so easily. No damage is caused to bikes or car thanks to the cushioning and cradles. Got an SUV? Check out these bike racks for SUVs.


6. Bell Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Hitch Rack with Stability

Bell Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Hitch Rack with Stability

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The popular Bell Hitchbiker bike rack is a stable and reliable way of transporting your bikes between locations with ease. It folds when it is not in use and keeps your bikes well-cradled, separated and secured as they travel. This bike rack fits into receivers of 1.25 and 2 inches thanks to its all-metal insert, which is one of a kind in the bike rack world – there is no other bike rack with the same kind of connector.

Completed with the powder e-coat for an enhanced finish, increased longevity and anti-rust protection, this bike rack can carry an impressive total of 140 pounds worth of bikes, ideal for a family trip.

Pros:
+ Sturdy, stable and reliable
+ Folds up, cradles, secure
+ Separates bikes, powder e-coat
+ 1.25-2 inch metal insert
+ Holds 140lbs, family fun

Why We Like It – We like the Bell Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Hitch Rack with Stability because you’re not limited by the amount of weight you’re able to carry when it comes to transporting four bikes safely.


7. Thule Apex Bike Hitch Rack

Thule Apex Bike Hitch Rack

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For a compact, sturdy and well-designed bike hitch rack, consider the Thule Apex as a viable option for transporting four bikes around safely. It uses soft rubber to cradle your bikes so that they arrive at their destination without a scratch. Your car is also protected, too. This bike rack has a tilt-away design enabling you to still access the rest of your vehicle without the hassle of having to dismount bikes.

It is created from steel so is very strong, reliable and safe in its construction and is compatible with your key system. Fitting tightly into your 2-inch receiver, it locks in place snugly, eradicating any movement even when the vehicle is moving at high speed. For increased security, there is the option to purchase the braided steel cable which, at 6 foot long, is able to fully protect your bikes and vehicle as you travel.

Pros:
+ Rubber cradle supports bikes
+ Compact design, steel made
+ Tilt away for rear access
+ Compatible with key system
+ Fits 2-inch receiver

Why We Like It – We like the Thule Apex Bike Hitch Rack because there are so many ways in which it protects both your bikes and your vehicle, even when traveling at speed or in challenging conditions.


8. Overdrive Sport 4-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack

Overdrive Sport 4-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack

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The impressive, large Overdrive bike rack is very quick to install and is fully adjustable to fit your vehicle in a snug manner so that accidents are prevented. It has a patented anti-wobble design so that any gaps between the rack and the receiver are eradicated, helping to keep your bikes stable and protected as you transport them to your chosen destination.

Fold this bike rack flat when you are not using it to save space and tilt it downwards to enable rear access, easily, quickly and safely, even when four bikes are in situ. Use this bike rack on a 2-inch hitch for a safe and sturdy attachment. It comes with a locking hitch pin, locking knob and frame adapter.

An additional great facility is the reflector strips on this bike rack, increasing the visibility of your vehicle even when weather conditions are bad. This low, Y-frame bike rack has padded clamps ensuring your bikes do not encounter damage.

Pros:
+ Easy to install, adjustable
+ Snug fit, anti-wobble design
+ Rack-receiver gaps eradicated
+ Flat fold, tilt down
+ 2in hitch, Y-frame, reflectors

Why We Like It – We like the Overdrive Sports 4-Bike Hitch Mounted Rack because it allows rear access easily, folds flat when not in use and promotes safety when used in low visibility through its reflective strips.


9. Yakima DoubleDown 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

Yakima DoubleDown 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

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For enhanced security, the Yakima DoubleDown bike rack is a very viable option. With its deadlock to enhance the security of both the bike rack itself as well as your bikes, this Yakima bike rack is compatible with any 2 inch and 11/4 inch hitch receivers with little intervention required. Use the bike rack almost as soon as you have got it out of its box.

It has additional features such as the tilting ability for rear access, anti-sway cradles, bike protection, trigger finger technology so that you can easily fold the bike rack into a flat position when it is not in use, and its powder coat finish elongates the lifespan of the rack overall.

Pros:
+ Ultra secure, reliable, strong
+ Deadlock, no intervention required
+ 2in and 11/4in hitch receiver compatible
+ Tilts, cradles, anti-sway
+ Protective, foldable, powder coat finish

Why We Like It – We like the Yakima DoubleDown 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack because it is compatible with the majority of vehicles and requires very little human intervention in order to attach or use it.


10. Road-Max RMBR4 4 Bike Carrier

Road-Max RMBR4 4 Bike Carrier

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It’s light and compact, ideal for taking it with you on a traveling expedition or longer adventure, and can be easily stored in the rear of a vehicle because it can fold into a completely flat position so that it is not obtrusive at all. Fold the arms when it is attached to your car so that you are able to access the rear of your car without the hassle of dismantling your bike rack and use the additional safety features to ensure that your bikes, car, and passengers are all kept safe.

These safety features include wheel straps, soft pads for rims, zamack buckles and padded arm supports. This bike rack attaches easily on to any 2-inch receiver, holding four bikes with strength and stability.

Pros:
+ Lightweight, compact, foldable, flat
+ Foldable arms, safe
+ Rear access, wheel straps
+ Rim pads, buckles, supportive
+ 2in receiver holds four bikes

Why We Like It – We like the Road-Max RMBR4 4 Bike Carrier because it is so protective over your bikes and your vehicle, preventing damage, scratches, and dents in every possible way.


4 Bike Hitch Rack Buyers Guide

What to look for when buying 4 bike hitch rack?

Hitch receiver size

When looking at a new bike rack suitable for transporting four bikes from one place to another, it is essential to consider the size of the hitch receiver.  The majority of cars and SUVs have hitch receivers that fit either a 1.25 inch or 2-inch hitch receiver which is the most common size when it comes to bike racks.  But you must make sure that you have checked out what type of bike rack will fit on to your car.  Failure to do so will result in huge safety issues for you, your passengers, your bikes, your car, and other road users.  The hitch receiver is designed to attach the bike rack to your car in a safe, reliable and effective way, something you must be certain of before traveling with bikes.

Bike protection

Bikes can cost a considerable amount of money, especially when we are talking about bikes plural.  If you can avoid there being any unintentional damage, you obviously would want to do so.  Many bike racks come with additional bike protection features to help you to stop unwanted damage from occurring.

Depending on what type of bike rack you buy depends on what damage control techniques are available to you, though there are some which are more common than others.  For example, there is the bike cradle which prevents bikes from making contact with each other even when traveling in groups, over long distances, and in stronger weather conditions.

There are other protection methods you could look out for too, such as padding, straps, wheel straps, bar cushions, rim pads, and buckles.  When you are transporting certain types of bikes, like racing bikes, even small damages or scratches can be incredibly detrimental to race performance, and repairs can be hugely expensive.

Rear access

If you are going on a long journey with your bikes, the chances are that you will probably have a fair amount of luggage, kit or even dogs in the rear of your car.  It can feel like it has taken forever for you to pack everything up and to be able to leave your home to final set out on your journey to reach your destination, wherever that might be.

The last thing you want to do when this is the case is getting a few miles down the road, stop at a service station and realize that something you need for the journey is in the rear space.  Do you really want to have to take all of the bikes off the bike rack has just made sure that they are safe and secure, and then dismantle the bike rack itself?  There is a way of getting around this issue by looking for a bike rack that has a tilt away from or swings action.

This enables you to move the bike rack in its entirety away from the car with the bikes still in situ so that you can access the tailgate whenever you require.  Take the stress out of traveling with a full car, with children or dogs by taking the rear access into consideration before you purchase your new 4 bike hitch rack.

Storage

You won’t want your bike hitch rack attached to your vehicle on a permanent basis and therefore thinking about storage methods prior to purchase is beneficial.  If you are able to find a bike rack that folds flat, then it will be a much less obtrusive piece of kit to have around your home.  It will also be easier to store, carry and move around.

There are some 4 bike hitch racks that are so lightweight, compact and flat, that they can actually be stored within the car itself.  This way, your bike rack is always to hand, is never in the wrong place at the wrong time and you will never be prevented from taking the bikes anywhere because the bike rack is in a difficult to get to the place.

Questions

My bike rack obscures my number plate, what shall I do?

Many bike hitch racks obscure the view of your license plate.  When this is the case, you must take measures to make sure that your license plate can be seen otherwise you will be driving illegally.  You can do this by getting another copy of your license plate printed and attaching it to your bike rack or to the most prominent bike.  It is not safe to drive if your license plate is not visible.  This is also the same for your lights and indicator signals.  Thinking ahead like this will keep you and other road users safe.

Why is a hitch rack better than a roof rack?

A hitch rack is often preferred over a roof rack for many different reasons.  Firstly, hitch racks are generally easier to fit, assemble and secure.  Secondly, you do not have to rely on upper body strength to attach a bike to a hitch bike rack.  Thirdly, on smaller cars, there may not be room to transport four bikes around on the roof.

Fourthly, roof rack bike racks increase the aerodynamic drag which has an adverse effect on the driving performance and increases the amount of fuel consumed on every journey when the bikes are in place.  Lastly, hitch racks allow you to have full access to the rear space of your car without having to take all of the bikes off or dismantle the bike rack itself to do so, unlike a roof rack bike rack.

I want to take my bikes and my dogs on holiday, is this possible?

Yes, this is easily possible.  All you need to do is look for a bike hitch rack that has a swing or tilt away action.  By purchasing a bike rack with this capability, you are making life a great deal easier for yourself.  You can access the rear of your vehicle without having to take all four of your bikes off the bike rack or dismantling the bike rack.  Simply move the bike rack to one side or pull it forward and a clear access route has been created.

This is ideal if you are travelling with dogs on long journeys who will need to be let out of the trunk for exercise, toilet breaks or feeding, as well as young children who require an enormous amount of things to travel with, meaning that you can access diaper bags, food, and distraction methods really easily, with no stress and no hassle.

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