The Best 2 Bike Rack For Suv: Suggestions & Considerations

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Hollywood Racks Lightweight Platform Hitch Rack
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Hollywood Racks Lightweight Platform Hitch Rack

Hollywood Racks Lightweight Platform Hitch Rack is a lightweight, portable platform that securely transports up to two bikes (max load 35lbs per bike). Each bicycle sits in a movable wheel tray and uses ratchet straps to secure the wheels. It folds up flat against the car when not in use. Read Review

2. Best For The Price: Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack (2")

The Thule T2 Pro XT 2 hitch rack is designed for two bikes, with a easy-to-use auto attach system and distance between bikes of 12.5 inches. The Thule T2 Pro XT 2 is lightweight and compact, with a tool-free design that makes it easy to install and remove. The tilt down function lets you access the back of your vehicle, no matter what size it is. Read Review

3. Best Energy Efficient: Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Rack

With the Allen Sports 2 Bike rack, you can transport your bicycles with ease. The simple, sturdy design fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUV. The individual tie-downs secure and protect your bicycles. And padded lower frame protects the vehicle, while left and right side straps help stabilize bikes during transport. Read Review

4. Best Convenient: MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack Platform Style 2-Bike Rack

With the MaxxHaul 50027 Hitch Mount Bike Rack Platform Style 2-Bike Rack, you can easily and conveniently transport two bikes to your next adventure. This hitch mount bike rack includes two foam-padded hooks to secure and stabilize the bikes without scratching your bike’s finish. It also includes rubber straps which provide added stability, and quick knobs for adjusting the bicycle tire cradles along the horizontal bars for convenience. Read Review

If you are looking for the best 2 bike racks for SUVs, then check out these reviews. You can find some of the top 10 2 Bike Carriers that will suit your needs and be useful as well. These 2 Bike Carriers will have suitable compatibility with your vehicle, and at the same time, they won’t take up much space in your garage or driveway.

If you are concerned about keeping your vehicle neat and tidy throughout the year, then it's time to get organized! Organized means having an appropriate number of car storage spaces. And if you want to organize your car storage spaces in the right way, that also entails having separate spaces for each of your vehicles.

With Hollywood Racks Lightweight Platform Hitch Rack, you will have no difficulty finding anything to meet your needs! To help you find the best fit for your needs, we've put up a purchasing guide and also show other great options for you to consider.

Before finalizing your selection, our staff advises that you look into these additional important resources. They may help narrow down your selection and clarify things to locate the right fit. Look no further than Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack (2") since you're seeking the budget-friendly option. Our top models are equipped with features to meet every requirement. 

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Hollywood Racks Lightweight Platform Hitch Rack
Our Score:
9.8
Hollywood Racks
  • Sport Type: Training
  • Fits both 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers. Includes 2" Hitch receiver Adapter. Not to be used on a trailer or towed vehicle.
  • Fit Type: Universal Fit
TOP Choice #2 Thule T2 Pro XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack (2")
Our Score:
9.6
Thule
  • Dimensions: 54 x 15 x 43 in | Folded dimensions: 54.7 x 22.5 x 33.8 inch
  • Secure bikes quickly without frame contact with the frame-free ratcheting arm. Distance between bikes: 12.5 inch
  • Rack tilts down for rear of vehicle access and folds up when not in use
TOP Choice #3 Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Rack
Our Score:
9.5
Allen Sports
  • Fully assembled, Installs in seconds
  • Individual tie-downs secure and protect bicycles
  • Includes bicycle adaptor bar for easy bicycle transport by adding top tube to suspension, step through, BMX, and women's style bicycles
  • Vertical post can be quickly removed for compact storage
  • Fits Class III and IV standard 2" hitch receivers. 80 lbs Maximum Capacity or up to 40 lbs per bike
  • Fit Type: Universal Fit.Patent Pending.PLEASE SCROLL DOWN AND BROWSE OUR A+ PAGES FOR MORE PRODUCT INFORMATION..Unique hook design adjustments using quick hitch pins assist in accommodating different size bike frame for safe and reliable transport.
  • Patent pending design fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans and SUV's consult manufacturer web site for specific vehicle fit information
  • Individual dual compound tie down cradles secure and protect bicycles; 2 patented sure strap lower straps keeps bottom hooks in place during use
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers. Padded lower frame protects vehicle, and left and right side straps for lateral stability
  • Integrated folding bike loading ramp
  • Fast and effortless tool-free installation
  • Fully foldable design with transport wheels and a carry handle
  • Built with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials
  • Injection -molded arms and legs are the strongest on the market
  • Built with 100% recyclable, non-rusting materials
8 Thule Camber 2 Hitch Bike Rack
Our Score:
8.7
Thule
  • Bike arms fold down when not in use | Load capacity: 75 lbs
  • 7" spacing between bikes
  • Superior bike stability and fit. Please note some frame styles may requrie a Thule Frame Adapter to securely attach to hanging bike racks.
  • 🚲【EASY TO ASSEMBLE & STORAGE】: Quickly assemble the bicycle carrier in just a few minutes on your car; it folds up easily for compact storage when not in use. Ideal for truck, trailer, suv or other style vehicles.
  • 🚲【QUALITY 2-BIKE CARRIER】: With high-quality powder-coated steel tubing structure and stable platform style you can tell from the pictures, this bicycle rack for car transports 2 bikes up to 65lbs each. Adjustable soft-foam padded clamp and rear tire base secure your valuable ebike and prevent it from scratching, when your SUV is bumping along the mountain road.
  • 🚲【SMART TILT FOR CARGO ACCESS】: Quick Release and Tilt design allows hitch mounted rack carrier to be swung down from the vehicle for rear cargo access while loaded, or folded up for storage when not in use.
  • Accommodates a wide range of bicycle frame designs
  • Arms fold out of the way when not in use and rack tilts back when needed
  • Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles

How Do You Know Which Among best 2 bike rack for suv Here Satisfies Your Tight Criteria?

Consumers are frequently hesitant to purchase best 2 bike rack for suv. Several factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with the best 2 bike rack for suv will assist you in making the right decisions.

Today's best 2 bike rack for suv has been substantially upgraded with greater functionality and offers more safety for users than older-generation devices.

Before deciding on a best 2 bike rack for suv for your life based on your desire or the product's qualities, there are a few things to consider. We hope the information provided here will assist you in locating the best option. Let's see what we can do.

Bike Weight

Maximum bike capacity
Maximum weight capacity for a bike
If you plan on transporting heavy downhill mountain bikes or e-bikes, fat, and/or cruiser bikes, make sure to check the rack's weight limit. Each design listing will indicate the bike's maximum weight. This amount may vary greatly. For comparison, standard road and mountain bikes weigh less than 35 pounds. E-bikes, however, can be up to 50 pounds. We recommend that you upgrade to a more robust model if your weight is close to or above the max. It's worth it to avoid breaking the rack or invalidating your warranty.

Mounting Systems

Two ways can you lock your bike on a mounting system are available. First and foremost is the strap system. The strap system is usually composed of an elastic or ratcheting strap that covers a portion of your bicycle. It's usually the frame in hanging racks, but it can also be used for platform racks to hold the wheels.
This is most commonly used in platform racks. It is an arm that extends from the platform to ratchet down on your bike's tires. They secure the bike to the platform. They are often reinforced with straps that run around the wheel's bottom to increase security.
The strap system is used in every hanging rack that we have seen. It's strong and reliable, but it can be damaged or broken by users. Many straps secure bikes with at least two straps at every attachment point. Your bike could fall off if the shepherd's hook is broken (which happens very rarely).

Bike Frame Compatibility

The shape of your top tube is important when hanging bicycle racks. To hang your bike, you'll need to have a triangular-shaped bike frame. This is the case for both traditional mountain bikes and hardtails.
Hanging racks may not work well if your bike is a mountain bike or step-through, as well as a smaller child's bike.

Security

Two main vulnerabilities of bike racks are theft. The bikes can be taken off the rack and the rack can be taken down. It doesn't matter if the bikes are there; racks can also be valuable items to potential thieves.
It only takes seconds for someone to steal your bicycle from the rack, whether you are going to a shop or just to get you home at night.
Your entire rack can be taken if someone is equipped with the right tools. If you don’t own a garage, this can pose a problem.

Hitch Receiver Size

Most hitches come in a 1.25-inch or 2-inch size. Before purchasing a bicycle rack, it is important to verify the size of your vehicle.
If you intend to transport several heavy ebikes, the 2-inch larger hitch will be able to hold heavier loads. You'll also find adapters for most racks to accommodate both sizes.

Wheel Size And Tire Width Compatibility

While tire size and wheel width don't matter when selecting a hang rack, those who choose the platform design will need to ensure that their bikes fit into the provided trays. The good news? Most road or mountain bikers will not have any problems. Every platform rack in our collection can accommodate 26-to-29-inch wheels, and 3 to 4 inches under tires. Problems can arise when you go to extremes with fat bikes and kids bikes that are 12- to 24 inches in diameter or have 4- to 5-inch tires.

Durability

Hitching racks are very durable. As they transport loads on rough roads, the single attachment point places a great deal of stress on racks. They are usually made of sturdy materials like steel so breaks rarely happen at their attachment point.

Ease Of Use

You've likely had to lift a mountain bike with full suspension onto a hanger rack. Or, if you have tried to Tetris on four bikes from a rack that was poorly made, then you understand the importance of ease-of-use.
Hanging racks are a great option for a common bicycle, the diamond-frame. You can lift the bike and slide it on the rack. Once it is secured, you can bungee it to the front wheel. It also gives you the opportunity to do some bicep curls before going on your ride.
A platform rack is a better choice for bikes with heavier frames or unique designs. It is easier to transport the bike because it has a lower frame. Once you get it on you won't need to move it around to make adjustments. It can be difficult to hang a bike on a rack.
The ramp is often the most cost-effective option, but it's also the most convenient. You can simply place your bike on the platform rack using this feature. This feature is great for riders with heavy bikes such as e-bikes and cruisers.

Bike Wheelbase Compatibility

The wheelbases of mountain bikes are getting longer, with longer design trends. There may be compatibility problems with certain platforms racks. This won't affect most people, but it will be of concern to larger downhill riders who use large, uphill-oriented mountain bikes. You can check your bike online by searching for a diagram. Bike manufacturers almost always include the wheelbase. You can also measure the distance between the rear and front axles to check your bike's wheelbase. This number can be used to compare your bike's wheelbase with the maximum spec of the rack that you are interested in buying.

Tilting Feature

A tilt-feature hitch rack is a good choice if you are like many cyclists and plan on keeping your rack attached to your car for extended time periods or want access to your rear cargo space. With the exception of a few very inexpensive options, almost all bike racks with a hitch mount have this feature. Tilting racks are able to be tilted over using a lever. This allows you to lift the rear hatch of the vehicle or open its tailgate. Tilting is possible on platform and hanging racks. However, platform racks can be tilted with bikes loaded. Hanging racks must first unload bikes. It's another reason why we like the platform rack design.

Bike Capacity

Generally speaking, platform racks are capable of holding anywhere between one and four bikes (if an extension is purchased), while hanging racks hold up to five bikes. The 1UP Recon Rack 6 can hold six bikes vertically and is a notable exception. Most riders prefer the 2-bike model, however families and those who plan to take their bikes on group rides may want to consider a hanging model with a larger capacity or one of these platform add-ons.

FAQs

Why Are Bike Racks So Expensive?

A high-quality bike rack is essential if you are to keep your bicycle safe. Racks made of durable materials will last for years, protecting your investment. A cheap rack will cause damage to your bike or vehicle.

What Is The Easiest Bike Rack To Use?

Each type of rack has its advantages. Hanging racks can be used if you don't have to lift your bike. You can secure your bike by placing it on the arms. Then tie the straps and bungee your front wheel.
The platform racks are easier to use than the cradles, but they require less muscle. They do require a little more effort to secure the bike. Swing-away racks make it easy to reach the rear of your bike. If you have a lot to carry (for example, camping trips), one of these racks might be a good choice. ).

What Is The Best Bike Rack For Four Bikes?

There are versions of both platform and hanging racks that can accommodate four bikes. The hanging racks are more difficult to protect your bikes as they attach from the top. The bikes can swing or hit each other while traveling thanks to this.
It is possible to space out fewer bikes, which reduces risk. Space is constrained with only four bikes. Make sure that your cradles are sufficiently spaced so the bikes don't collide, even with minimal swings.
Platform racks make this less problematic as bikes can be locked in place by both wheels. This adds stability and strength. Because the platform racks are lower, it's easier to place the bikes onto them.

Are Hitch Bike Racks Better?

Hitch racks can be a good option if your car has that capability. Mounts that attach to the hitch receiver are better than trunk racks and roof racks. They also protect your vehicle's finish.
These racks are also easier to set up than any other option. This is great news for those who don't need a rack in their car all day. It's attached with a steel pin so it takes only one step to attach it to a trailer hitch and then one to take it off when it's time to go.

Do All Bike Racks Fill All Cars?

Although most bikes racks can be adjusted, they are not universally compatible. There are simply too many shapes and sizes of bikes to make this possible.
You need to know the dimensions of your rear bumper if you are thinking of buying one. There are different rear racks that work well with various cars, such as saloons and hatchbacks. You can find the manufacturer's website to check which racks will fit your vehicle.
A roof rack that is not compatible with the current roof bars may also be incompatible. There are two types: the traditional square-profile or more modern, oval aero bars. Oval bars cut through air and reduce drag. They also produce less wind noise. Make sure your roof rack will fit with any shape of roof bar you choose.

How Do You Transport A Bike Without A Rack?

Some bikes can be put in the trunk, back or under the vehicle. However, it may not work if the front wheel is removed. You may not be able to accommodate some bikes in your vehicle. A friend who has a van can help you to transport your bicycle.

Do Bike Racks Damage Your Car?

A hitch-mounted rack has a greater chance of being preferred to a trunk-mounted one. This is because the hitch does not have contact with the vehicle's body. It reduces rubbing on the paint. This keeps the rack from contacting any parts of the body where it could damage or dent.
No matter how careful a company takes when creating a rack system, human error is always possible. If the rack is not on the car, opening the hatchback can cause the rack to be lifted off the vehicle.
It can damage the rack and cause scratching. When you reach the back of your car, make sure that the rack is not in the way.
If you aren't careful, bikes can contact your car. Sometimes platform racks are used to transport the bike near a car's rear window. If the road is particularly bumpy, this can make it more likely that the handlebar will pass through the window.
This can be solved by moving the cradles closer to the windows. The front tire can hang unsupported, which could lead to it bumping into your car.
Although it's not as serious as breaking windows, the damage to the finish can be severe over time. This is a simple fix. To solve the problem, secure the wheel using a strap and bungee rope.

Which Car Bike Rack Is Best?

Each person will have their own opinion on the best bike rack for them. It's almost impossible to pick the right bike rack for each situation because there are so many factors.
It is best to determine your requirements and then choose the rack that best suits you. A good hang rack will allow you to easily transport your bicycle around the house.
A platform rack can be a great choice if you are concerned about keeping your bike clean and safe. People who have difficulty lifting their bikes from the platform rack are also able to use it.
You get more features the higher your price. Racks with high-end features include security levers and buttons, which makes them more user-friendly. You can also access the trunk with these racks without having to remove your bikes.
Consider the things you can live without, and what you really need. You'll be able to find the right rack by balancing your needs and spending budget.

Can You Put A Bike Rack On Any Car?

You should find the right bike rack for your vehicle amongst many options. For some styles, you will need to attach a hitch or crossbars/tracks to the roof. Before you make a purchase, be sure to check the specifications on the rack.

There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a best 2 bike rack for suv, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.

Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the best 2 bike rack for suv? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

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