Best 6 Bike Rack Hitch Of 2024: Rankings And Tips For You

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
YAKIMA, Hangover Vertical Hitch Rack for Suspension Fork Bikes, 6 Bike
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: YAKIMA, Hangover Vertical Hitch Rack for Suspension Fork Bikes, 6 Bike

The Yakima Hangover vertical hitch rack is the perfect solution for carrying bikes and fat bikes. This heavy-duty rack supports and protects your bikes by the fork crown, and features soft padding to protect your bike's finish. The rotating wheel cup accommodates bikes with various wheelbases, and 3 mast height positions for improved ground clearance. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Allen Sports 5-Bike Hitch Racks for 2 in. Hitch

The Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick Release 5-Bike Carrier is great for hauling your bike in the back of a pickup truck or SUV. Securing your bike with a hitch-mounted rack has never been easier, and it's done quickly with the quick release feature. The arms fold out of the way when not in use, allowing you to get in and out of your vehicle fast. Read Review

3. Best Compact: YAKIMA, RidgeBack Tilt-Away Hitch Bike Rack, 5 Bike

The Yakima Ridgeback Tilt-Away Hitch Bike Rack is a car rack that holds up to five bikes. It's made from sturdy steel with an anti-sway cradle that eliminates bike-to-bike contact to keep your bikes safe and secure. The rack is designed for easy installation with no tools required and it's built tough enough to handle bicycles of all shapes and sizes. Read Review

4. Best Easy Setup: Hollywood Racks HR520 Road Runner 5-Bike Hitch Mount Rack

Hollywood Racks HR520 Road Runner 5-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is the perfect solution for carrying up to five bikes. The soft rubber anti-sway bike cradles hold your bikes firmly in place and tilts to allow easy access to your cargo. It features patented no wobble, no tools hitch tightening system and arms that fold down when not in use. Read Review

When you own a car, it’s natural to want to bring your bike along as well. Unfortunately, most cars do not have enough space in the trunk or under the hood to accommodate both a car and a bike. To solve this problem, many people opt to purchase an additional vehicle specifically for carrying bikes.

With this in mind, we have compiled a list of the best 6 bike hitch racks available today. We will be taking a look at the pros and cons of installing one of these products on your vehicle, as well as discussing the cost of purchasing one and where you can easily find one if you are interested in buying one. There are not many 6 bike hitch racks on the market right now, so, besides that, We would like to introduce some additional other models for your reference.

Our team had to focus on researching for 21 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, YAKIMA, Hangover Vertical Hitch Rack for Suspension Fork Bikes, 6 Bike is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

  • Convenient carrying: Foot-operated tilt mechanism changes rack position for easy loading and unloading; Tilts down and out of the way for easy rear-of-vehicle access with bikes unloaded
  • Supports and protects: Securely supports bikes and fat bikes by the fork crown (required for use); Soft padding protects the fork's finish; Rotating wheel cup accommodates bikes with various wheelbases
TOP Choice #2 Allen Sports 5-Bike Hitch Racks for 2 in. Hitch
Our Score:
9.5
Allen Sports
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • Locking hitch insert fits 2 inch Receiver hitches
  • Accommodates a wide range of bicycle frame designs
TOP Choice #3 YAKIMA, RidgeBack Tilt-Away Hitch Bike Rack, 5 Bike
Our Score:
9.3
YAKIMA
  • Easily access gear in your trunk with the tilt-away design (even with bikes loaded); The UpperHand lever lets you tilt the rack down and fold it flat for low-profile storage
  • Want more peace of mind? Lock your bikes to the rack with the HandCuff locking cable (sold separately) so you can adventure without worry
  • Protect your bikes from dents and scratches with the anti-sway cradle that eliminates bike-to-bike contact; Zero-hassle ZipStrips secure your bikes to the rack
  • Max Capacity: 35lbs per bike
  • Kids bikes and ladies frame bikes may require top tube adapter to fit on the rack
  • Tilts for easy cargo access; Arms fold when not in use
  • LENOX CAR BIKE RACK: Answering the call to adventure shouldn’t be the most difficult part of your cycling journey. Which is why we have designed our Lenox Car Rack 5–Bike Hitch to provide the convenience you need when looking to take on your next two-wheeled conquest.
  • WEIGHT LIMIT: Sturdy steel construction with reliable weight limits. 2-bike - 80lbs, 3-bike - 110lbs, 4-bike - 140lbs, 5-bike - 170lbs. Minor assembly required.
  • CLASS II OR IV 2” HITCH: The Lenox Car Hitch Mount Bike Rack is made to fit 2-inch trailer hitch. Vehicle must have a Class II or IV hitch to use this product.
  • REFLECTOR: The reflector is located at the end of the rack, which makes your trip much safer. Max Load : 15kg or 35 lbs Per Bike.
  • FLEXIBLE STRAP: Suit for any size of bike's top tube and provides perfect protection for your bicycle and car .Max Loading: 5 Bikes, Top Tube Compatible: 25mm to 40mm diameter.
  • ORDER NOW, WORRY FREE! We're so confident about our product quality that we can provide a life time warranty ! Made in Taiwan.
7 YAKIMA - FullTilt Tilting Hitch Rack
Our Score:
8.8
YAKIMA
  • Simple and secure: Fully padded arms for ultimate protection for your bikes; Zero-hassle ZipStrips secure your bikes to your rack; Max weight of 40 lbs. per bike (total max of 150 lbs.)
  • Carry any bike: FullTilt 4 is a hanging rack, which allows you to carry any type of bike with traditional frame geometry (bikes with slanted top tubes require TubeTop adapter, sold separately)
  • Hitch required: Compatible with both 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers right out of the box; Fully assembled out of the box
  • INTEGRATED SAFETY. This bike carrier hitch features integrated reflectors to enhance safety on your vehicle. It also comes with a support strap for improved stability (use of support strap is required)
  • VERSATILE FIT. For versatile use, this trailer hitch bike rack features tapered arms, allowing you to mount bikes with large or small frames. It's great for families with adult bikes and kids' bikes
  • SECURE TRAVEL. This hitch mount bike rack holds up to 5 bikes (225 lbs. max), keeping them secure for travel using adjustable rubber cradles. The rubber cradles fit multiple bike sizes and will not scratch the bike frames
  • PLEASE SCROLL DOWN AND BROWSE OUR A+ PAGES FOR MORE PRODUCT INFORMATION
  • Not for use on RV's, campers and fifth wheels
  • 🎄Easy Tilt-Down Access £ºConvenient access to rear of vehicle with easy-to-use tilt-down feature
  • 🎄Rigid All Steel Constructed Bike Hitch Rack: Long-lasting and durable all steel construction with protective powder paint finish

Several things a reader must do before buying best 6 bike rack hitch

Actually, best 6 bike rack hitch can be discovered by following these simple steps. Individuals should first understand their needs and the requirements which will guide their decision-making procedure.

Then they must investigate all options available to decide which product satisfies those needs and meet those criteria. After that, the buyer can narrow down their options based on factors such as cost and dependability. Let’s check the tips for better purchase:

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.

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.

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).

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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. ).

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.

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.

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.

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.

Conclusion

Before making a purchase decision, the reader should do the following. It's critical to keep these factors in mind when looking for the best 6 bike rack hitch since they can help to ensure that you discover what's worth the investment. If you need another option for best 6 bike rack hitch, you should look into 5 Bike Rack ,Bicycle Car Racks,Kranpop Heavy-Duty Bicycle Racks. Hope you have a nice shopping day!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio