Why to Carry Your Fat Bike on a Hitch Rack?

Why to Carry Your Fat Bike on a Hitch Rack?

Nothing is as dependable as fat bikes or fatties as they are commonly known when it comes to all-weather cycling. Fatties get their name from their oversized tires which are specially made for traversing varied terrains with ease.

When traveling, it is normal to want to have your fattie handy and especially if you plan to get down to some adventure. You can easily take care of this by investing in a good bike rack for your car. That said, there are enough reasons why you should use the hitch option of a fat tire bike rack. Hauling your fat bike, however, requires careful consideration as your normal bike rack won’t cut it. As we think it might be useful, here it is a Buying Guide to Fat-Tire Bike Carriers.

Put the following in mind:

  • Fat bikes will not fit into the standard wheel holders because of their fat tires width ranges from 3.7 in. to 5.2 in.
  • Fatties are heavier; they may require heavy lifting to load
  • Bike racks come with a recommended maximum weight
  • The bikes are large hence will require more space
  • Not all types of bike racks for SUV are suitable for fat bikes

 

Hitch-mounted racks come highly recommended for fat bikes compared to the roof-mounted and trunk-mounted types. Here’s why:

  • Easy to install – As the name suggests, these racks slide into the receiver of your vehicle’s trailer hitch, and once installed, you can load your fat bike as nothing more needs to be done.
  • Easier to load and unload the bike on a hitch rack – Because of the level of the bike rack, it does not require heavy lifting; hence anyone can mount or dismount the bike. This is an advantage with the extra weight of a fat bike and especially where there are more bikes. Also, you don’t need to dismantle any parts of your bike for it to fit.
  • They work with most vehicles – Most vehicles work well with a hitch rack as most come with a trailer hitch receiver anyway. For vehicles without one, it can be installed.
  • They leave the roof of your SUV free – This can help in several ways: one, you can load more gear up there. On the other hand, an empty roof will give you overhead clearance especially with garage doors or when driving under low objects. A hitch-mounted rack also keeps your bikes away from the wind, giving you more efficient aerodynamics.
  • Available in different models and styles – The hitch rack gives you the option of choosing a style best suited for your needs. Besides giving you several bike attachment options, you can buy adapters separately to convert the existing platform hitch racks to suit your fat bike. Also, you can opt for a rack that folds out of the way when not in use or one that swings to give access to the rear of your vehicle among other styles.
  • Less risk to your car’s paint – During mounting/ dismounting or when on transit, there is a reduced chance of scratching your car with the hitch rack.

 

Hauling your fat bike should be easy and convenient whether you are traveling alone or with company. The hitch-mounted bike rack ensures that you can install it, mount and dismount your bike, and travel with the confidence that nothing will stand between you and your biking adventures.

More resources

Saris Superclamp EX 4-Bike Hitch Rack Review

Saris Superclamp EX 4-Bike Hitch Rack Review

Saris Superclamp EX is a lightweight and versatile hitch platform rack. This tough steel construction can support 2 or 4 bikes. The rack is rated for types of bikes including eBikes, mountain bikes, electric bikes, fat bikes and even kid’s bikes.

read more
KAC K4 Sport Hitch Platform Bike Rack Review

KAC K4 Sport Hitch Platform Bike Rack Review

Made for most types of bike tires, KAC K4 2” overdrive carrier is a versatile toe hitch platform carrier. The rack is rated for Cars, Trucks, and SUVs with a patented anti-wobble system that ensures safety for your bikes and vehicle.

read more
Yakima FullSwing 4-bike Hitch Rack Review

Yakima FullSwing 4-bike Hitch Rack Review

Yakima FullSwing Hitch Rack is a heavy duty carrier that is designed to help transport your bikes in style. The rack can carry most traditional-frame bikes including fat bikes, kid bikes, and mountain bikes.

read more

Roof Racks for SUV: An Essential Guide in 2023

Roof Racks for SUV: An Essential Guide in 2023

The finest roof mounted bike racks you can get today.  Explore fork-mount, frame-mount and wheel-mount carriers that will transport your bicycles safely to destination.

What is a bike roof rack?

The roof-mounted carrier allows you to easily transport one, two, or more bicycles using fork, frame, or wheel-mounted options. It is one of the most versatile and secure bike rack types but it will require having a base roof rack installed on the top of your vehicle. Rooftop bike racks are ideal for those who ride often, die-hard bikers, or those who want to go on a weekend trip.

Roof bike racks are a good option if you would like to carry mountain bikes, road bikes, bikes with step-through frames, children’s bikes, bikes with suspension, bikes with fiber frames, and even fat bicycles. Also, a good choice if you are willing to lift bicycles up to your vehicle’s roof and overhead clearance is not an issue.

Top Roof Bike Racks

The 10 best roof bike racks in 2023:

  1. Yakima Highroad
  2. RockyMounts TieRod
  3. Thule UpRide
  4. Yakima FrontLoader
  5. RockyMounts Tomahawk
  6. RockyMounts BrassKnuckles
  7. Yakima ForkLift
  8. Thule Pro Ride
  9. Kuat Trio
  10. RockyMounts Jetline

Find more details about each carrier mentioned above on our dedicated article, 10 Best Roof Bike Racks in 2020.

We spent a good amount of time researching and looking at the carriers from different angles. We did also look at how Amazon customers are rating each one of them. These roof-mounted bike carriers will adapt to almost any bike or vehicle, will not damage bicycles and you (and your bikes) will safely arrive at the destination. 

What is the best roof bike rack?

If you are in a hurry and want to see the headliners, we made it easy for you. RockyMounts, Yakima, and Thule are the three main roof rack manufacturers. Tomahawk carrier as an example from RockyMounts takes your attention since it’s ready for anything and provides extensive mounting options – fat bikes, road or mountain bikes, this roof rack will get you there no matter what you drive or ride. HighRoad carrier from Yakima is a premium upright bike mount that provides ultimate security and bike protection capable to carry a large variety of bicycles. UpRide from Thule is a universal upright carrier with no frame contact for maximum frame protection. 

Best Overall

Yakima HighRoad

The newest premium upright bike mount from Yakima. New wheel hoop fits 26” to 29” wheels and tires from 23mm to 4.0” with no adjustment needed. Sleek, low profile tray minimizes hatch interference. Carries any bike style.

Best For Fat Bikes

RockyMounts Tomahawk

Designed for fat bikes but capable for almost any bike, this roof rack carries up to 5.0” wide mountain bike tires, and diameters from 20” to 29”. Compatible with bicycles’ wheelbases from 34” and 48”. No frame contact.

Best for Expensive Bikes

Thule UpRide

Perfect roof rack for bikes with carbon frames. Versatile design accommodates bikes with non-traditional frame designs, rear suspension, and bottle cages. Fits most 20–29” wheel bicycles with tires up to 3″ wide. No frame contact.

Fork-Mount Roof Racks

Your bike will be secured by removing its front wheel, increasing the stability and clearance. The sway will be minimal, having a slightly lower profile than other roof-mounted systems. if you are concerned about the height or your SUV or car, then fork mount bike racks are a good choice. It is extremely easy to mount and remove bicycles and provides excellent stability and security. Just remove the front wheel from your bike, place the bicycle onto the carrier and secure it. A nice fit for high-end bikes with carbon fiber frames. However, fork-mounted option won’t work with some bicycles like those with thru-axles or disc brakes, so you need to reorient to frame or wheel mount racks.

Kuat Trio

A true fork-mount bike rack, Trio is capable to carry bicycles with any axle standard at the fork. It is durable and it has a lower profile than carriers that clamp the tire.  Works with 9-mm quick-release skewers.

RockyMounts TieRod

Carries road tires up to 2.7” wide mountain bike tires, and diameters from 20” to 29”. Compatible with bicycles’ wheelbases from 34” and 48”. Stainless steel mounting straps wrap around factory or elliptical crossbars.

RockyMounts JetLine

The most aerodynamic and low profile fork mount rack carries road tires up to 2.7” wide mountain bike tires, and diameters from 20” to 29”. Compatible with bicycles’ wheelbases from 34” to 48”. Carries 1 bike, up to 35 lbs.

Frame-Mount Upright Roof Racks

On frame-mount bike carriers, the bike is secured to its frame instead of its front wheel, so there is no need to remove the front wheel. Extremely easy to install, secure and remove. Just place the bike on the carrier and secure it. Nice fit for bikes with disk brakes, mountain, and downhill bikes.

Thule ProRide XT

Upright bike carrier for the quickest, most convenient mounting – for bikes up to 44 lbs. Improved mounting hardware fits most factory crossbar profiles. Stable wheels – firmly fixed in smartly designed wheel holders.

Yakima RaptorAero

 A great option for bikes with traditional frame geometry and bikes with fenders. Fits 1″ to 3″ diameter downtubes; Accommodates disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension; Carries 1 bike up to lbs. at minimum 16″ crossbar spread.

Swagman Upright

The minimalistic & sleek design looks great on any vehicle. It is made from sturdy plastic and steel and only weighs 5Ibs. Fits square, round and oval crossbars up to 3″ wide. Max weight capacity of 35Ibs. per bike.

Wheel-Mount Upright Roof Racks

For wheel-mount roof racks, the bike is secured at its front wheel in order to avoid the contact with its frame and you don’t have to remove the bike’s wheel. Just place the bicycle on the carrier and secure it. Upright bike mounts allow you to keep both wheels on and attach your bicycle by the frame or tire. Nice fit for carbon fiber bike frames, mountain and downhill bikes, and those with disk brakes.

RockyMounts BrassKnuckles

Carries 1 bike, up to 45 lbs, road tires up to 3.0” wide mountain bike tires, and diameters from 20” to 29”. Can fit up to 5” with an additional kit. No contact with frame, secures bicycle by front wheel; wheelbases from 34” to 48”.

Yakima FrontLoader

Fits any type of bike, including disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension. Fits 20″ to 29″ wheels and tires up to 3″. It holds your bike upright as you secure it. No frame contact. Fully assembled out of the box.

Venzo Roof Rack

Clamp is aero shaped and perfect to aero crossbars. Fit 24″ to 29″ RIM: The adjustable clamp allows any wheels from 24″ to 29″, and tire width max 2.3″. Built with high-quality aluminum and hardened steel and reinforced plastics.

Buying guide: How to Choose a Bike Roof Rack

Roof mount bike racks are a great option for vehicles with a low height profile but work on SUV as well, as long as you don’t have an issue with the clearance. If you do have a problem and want to look after alternatives, we suggest our Hitch Bike Rack Guide. It is recommended to look after the right crossbars – those from Thule or Yakima will do the job. If your car has crossbars already, make sure these will fit with the bike carrier.

If roof bike carrier looks like a good choice, consider asking yourself the following:

  • How frequently and how far do I need to carry bikes?
  • How many bikes will I be carrying?
  • What types of bikes do I have?
  • Which vehicle do I have?

These are the first four questions you need to ask before deciding to buy a bicycle roof rack. Roof bike carriers give you a full choice of different loading/unloading and mounting options, from fork mount bike racks (requires front wheel removal) to wheel mount or frame carriers (both wheels will stay on the bike).
It is generally a very stable and secure system that can work with different configurations and number of bikes – you can carry your mountain bike with the front wheel on or off.

Front-wheel removal (the case of fork-mount carriers) keeps the bike lower which is great for SUVs as it gives some clearance. It is the classic way of hauling bicycles up top and can be lighter and easier to load.

Roof mounted bike racks that keep both wheels on the bike are taller, can be less stable and cost more. Anyway, there will be a lock that will secure your bike to the rack. The rack needs to be locked to the bars and bars to your vehicle. Crossbars will let you carry not only bikes but also kayaks, cargo boxes, skis and more. Remember that mounting your bicycle on the roof of your car will entail lifting it above your head. Also, it is common to forget that your bikes are on the roof so you need to always be aware of your clearance in case of bridges or garage.

What is the best bike roof rack?

While there are many great options available, we found that those from RockyMounts and Thule are extremely well-built, sturdy and secure. Tomahawk carrier from RockyMounts, for example, carries 1 bike, up to 40 lbs, 35 lbs on factory crossbars and fit tires up to 5.0”. Check out our 10 best roof carriers selection to see more options. 

Are roof bike racks safe?

Today, bicycle roof racks are highly secure and versatile. Thule, Yakima, and RockyMounts have some great locking systems available that will not allow your bike to move or fall.

How many bikes can fit on a roof rack?

You can add up to 4 bicycles at once on the carrier which allows you to access the rear of the SUV and the number plate and lights will be visible. You might want to check the roof carrying limit of your bars and vehicle, though.

However, the hitch-mount option is better suited to carry more bikes and come with great features like tilting or swing-away which will provide rear access.

How to mount bike on roof rack?

The video below is self-explanatory and will show you how to do it. Note that in the video is shown a fork-mount type. 

How to secure bike to roof rack?

For this time in the video is use a wheel-mount roof rack. Have a look to see how easy it is to secure it, lock and unload the bicycle.

Disclaimer: bikerackforsuv.org is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs and may receive a commission if you purchase a product via a link on this page.

Hitch Mount Bike Racks: The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need

Hitch Bike Racks: The Only Guide You’ll Ever Need

The finest, crème de la crème trailer hitch bike racks you can get today. No matter of your bike style, SUV model, or nr. of bikes – these carriers will do the job.

What is a hitch bike rack?

A hitch-mounted bike carrier (or rack) is a type of bicycle rack that slides into the receiver of a trailer hitch on an SUV or car. This type of carrier is the most popular amongst all types and probably the most versatile, being available in a variety of styles while it can carry up to 5 bikes at once. It comes in two styles: platform (tray-style) which holds bikes by their wheels and hanging (arm-support) by hanging from their top tubes.

Hitch mount bike racks are ideal for families, for those who ride often, weekend trips, mountain bikes, carbon fiber frames, suspension or children’s bikes, non-traditional bikes like tandem, recumbent, electric, or fat bikes.

Outstanding Hitch Bike Racks

Best-rated hitch bike carriers in 2023:

  1. Thule T2 Pro XT
  2. Swagman Chinook
  3. Hollywood Racks Sport Rider
  4. Rocky Mounts Backstage
  5. Yakima Dr. Tray
  6. Yakima RidgeBack
  7. Kuat NV 2.0
  8. Yakima HoldUp
  9. Saris Freedom
  10. Kuat Sherpa

Find more details about each carrier mentioned above on our dedicated article, 10 Outstanding Hitch Bike Racks in 2021.

We spent many hours researching and looking at the carriers from different angles. We did also look at how Amazon customers are rating each one of them. These bike carriers will adapt to almost any bike or vehicle, will not damage bicycles and you (and your bikes) will safely arrive at the destination. The design is truly amazing and the features existing on each one make them the most durable and reliable trailer hitch racks. 

What is the best hitch bike rack?

If you are in a hurry and want to see the headliners, we made it easy for you. Pro XT from Thule is a premium platform hitch bike rack with a heavy-duty construction which offers maximum strength, Approach rack from BuzzRack is designed for e-bikes and fat bikes, a tiltable platform for tailgate access with bikes on, while Sport Rider from Hollywood Racks is the perfect choice for your fat e-bike. Worth mentioning that various manufacturers are adding more and more bike carriers for fat bikes on their offer.

Best for Fat Bikes

KAC K4

Platform hitch rack designed for standard, fat tire, and electric bicycles. Holds up to 60 lbs per bike. Patented anti-wobble system, tilt design for rear cargo access. Safe, durable, secure, fits 2-inch hitches only.

Best Seller

Thule T2 Pro XTR

Premium, platform hitch bike carrier which blends an extremely high level of strength, versatility, and user-friendliness. It simply outperforms not only hitch racks but almost all bike carriers. Load capacity: 120 lb.

Best for eBikes

Sport Rider

Sport Rider from Hollywood Racks features a 5-inches tire width, being excellent to transport 2 heavy electric bikes with max 80 lbs per bike. This high-quality platform hitch carrier is able to carry any fat tire bikes and will match a wide range of bike styles.

Types of Racks for Different Bike Styles

Wondering which type of bike carrier fits your specific bike? Quickly consult our short guide below to get the insights and information you need. Let’s remember there are two main hitch-mounted types which also come with some features (tilting, swing-away, folding arms, etc).

  • Platform carrier (or wheel-mount/tray-style) which supports bikes by their wheels.
    • Wheel Clamp Style eliminates any contact with frames by holding bikes in place by their wheels (like Kuat NV 2.0 bike carrier).
    • Frame Clamp Style hook over your bicycle’s crossbar. holding the bike in place by the frame (like Swagman Chinook bike carrier).
  • Hanging carrier (or arm-support) which supports bicycles by their frames. A good option for standard frame bikes.
    • Single-Arm carriers support each bicycle on a single cradle.
    • Dual-Arm carriers have two arms for improved bike stability.

Platform Bike Racks (Tray-Style)

These tray hitch mount bike carriers support the weight of bicycles on a tray and secure them by clamping the front wheels. It can be extended to hold more bikes if needed and can carry almost any type of bike. The risk of bike-to-bike contact is minimized while the tray can be adjusted and eliminates sway issues. Hitch mount platform bike racks offer a higher weight limit than standard carriers. It can hold a large variety of bikes regardless of frame, suspension, size or wheel size. Fits 1.25-inch and 2-inch hitch receiver and makes the load and unload way easier compared with other styles.

The best platform hitch racks like Thule T2 Pro, Kuat NV 2.0, or Yakima HoldUp can accommodate road and mountain bikes, carbon fiber frames, suspension or fat bikes. Tray style bike racks that clamp onto wheels won’t compress your bicycle’s suspension. 4 bike platform racks are becoming more popular and there are some good options on Amazon.

Swagman Chinook

A platform hitch mount bike carrier that fits 1-1/4″ – 2″ hitch receiver, has a max bike load of 45 lbs, wheel size 12″-29″. Rack tilts down while bikes are loaded. Lightweight and easy to install, fits most bike frame sizes, shapes, and styles.

BuzzRack Express

Fits 1-1/4″ and 2″ receiver hitches and carries up to 2 bikes. Quickly adjust the wheel trays to accommodate women’s, kids’, road, mountain, full suspension and 29er bikes. Rack folds flat against vehicle when not in use.

Hollywood Racks HR1400

A very durable and flexible 4-bike platform carrier that folds up vertically and tilts down. Weight capacity per bike: 50 lbs. Fits most types of bikes including mountain, road, cruisers, ladies frames, kids bikes. Fat-tire kit available.

Hanging Bike Racks (Arm-Support)

Hanging bike racks have low loading height and support bikes by their frames so the bicycle hangs from its top tube. The disadvantage here is that the frame is the primary point of attachment and the support arms might not fit bikes with unusual frame shapes or full suspension mountain bikes. The alternative is some bicycle hanging racks that hold bikes by their wheels so the contact with the frame is eliminated. You might consider an adapter bar for bikes with alternative frame. Hanging style can hold up to 5 bikes and weigh less than platform bike racks. Fits 1.25-inch and 2-inch receiver hitch and require sway control to prevent bicycles from swaying.

The best hanging bike racks like Thule Apex Swing or Yakima RidgeBack can accommodate mountain and road bikes, children’s bikes, carbon fiber and step-through frames, and full suspension bikes.

The best platform hitch racks like Thule T2 Pro, Kuat NV 2.0, or Yakima HoldUp can accommodate road and mountain bikes, carbon fiber frames, suspension or fat bikes. Tray style bike racks that clamp onto wheels won’t compress your bicycle’s suspension. 4 bike platform racks are becoming more popular and there are some good options on Amazon.

Thule Helium

Super lightweight aluminum hitch hanging rack for 2 or 3 bikes. Industry-leading 7″ spacing between bikes. Superior stability. Max capacity per bike: 37.5 lb. Rack tilts down for rear of vehicle access and easily fold down bike arms.

Yakima LiteRider 3

One of the lightest (19 lbs) aluminum hanging bike carrier that fits 1.25″ or 2″ hitch receiver and carries 3 bikes at once.  Fits any bike with traditional geometry. Anti-sway cradle design minimizes bike-to-bike contact.

Saris Glide EX

Hanging hitch mount rack which carries 2-5 bicycles, up to 35 lbs each. Best-in-class ratchet straps and generous spacing between bikes. Features easy-to-load bike hold downs and complete integrated security.

Swing-Away Hitch Bike Racks

 

The swing-away feature allows you to gain some access to the rear of your vehicle or SUV. Basically the rack swings away from the vehicle while bicycles can remain on the rack. This feature exists on both platform and hanging hitch bike carrier style. We recommend below the most popular choices and best-sellers, but feel free to check our supreme swing-away bike carrier list.

Yakima Full-Swing

A 4-bike swing-away hitch carrier that fits all types of bikes with traditional frame geometry. 40 lbs. maximum weight per bike. Zero-hassle ZipStrips secure the bikes to the rack. Folds down when not in use. Included Same Key System locks.

RockyMounts Backstage

A swing-away platform hitch bike rack wich carries 2 bicycles, up to 60 lbs each. Carries road tires up to 5. 0” fat bike tires, and diameters from 20” to 29”. Folds flat against the vehicle, and tilts down 30 degrees to allow for hatch access.

Thule Apex XT

A premium 2-5 hanging hitch carrier that features swing-away design with bikes attached, compact fold. Ideal for a wide variety of bike sizes/frame styles. Max weight capacity per bike: 37.5 lb; distance between bikes: 7″.

Tilting Hitch Carriers

Tilting bike racks are extremely useful in case you want clearance to the rear hatch. Basically, the rack tilts down at the base of the rack. Keep in mind that for some carriers the bikes must be removed before tilting. Both hanging and platform styles have this option. In the case of tilting platform bike carriers, bicycles can remain on rack.

Yakima Holdup

A 2-bike tilting hitch carrier that offers excellent ergonomics, a low loading height, and a nice capacity to fit carbon road bikes as well as disc brakes, thru axles and full suspension bikes. Fits 20-29” wheels, 49 lbs per bike.

Yakima RidgeBack

One of the best 5-bike hitch racks that fold flat for easy storage and fit any bike with traditional geometry. Able to accommodate most bicycles and frame styles and features a nice ratcheting strap system to secure everything in place.

Saris Superclamp

A lightweight yet mighty 2-4 bikes hitch mount carrier with additional cargo option. Weighs only 35 lb and you can put bikes with 50 lb each. Tilting feature allows hatch access, even when fully loaded, and folds up when not in use.

Affordable Hitch Bicycle Racks

What we recommended until this point in the current guide is really the cream of bike carriers, the elite when it comes to bike security, versatility, and stability. However, if you are looking to buy a cheaper trailer hitch bike rack, there are options, rest assured. We will suggest 3 carriers for you to buy at a lower price, but keeping in mind security, bike, and car protection, tilting or other features. We will be looking at Allen Sports and Swagman.

Allen Sports Deluxe

Quick install hitch secures and tightens rack inside of the receiver hitch. Arms fold out of the way when not in use and rack tilts back when needed. 140 LB weight capacity.

Swagman XC2

Compatible with 1-1/4″ and 2″ receiver hitch. Fits 20″ -29″ wheel sizes. Capacity: 35 lbs per bike. Center arm folds down to allow access to the rear of SUV. Fat bike tire trays available separately.

Swagman XTC2

Platform hitch rack that secures bike wheels into wheel hoops with secured rubber straps. Folds up into a vertically compact unit. Maximum capacity: 35lbs per bike. Rack Weight: 29.7 lbs. 

Buying guide: How to Choose a Hitch Mount Carrier

Choosing the right bike rack for your SUV might be a bit overwhelming especially when you take into consideration bike and vehicle compatibility. You should consider the following questions:

  • Which type of bike or bikes do I have? There could be children’s, women’s, road or mountain bikes and so on.
  • How many bikes do I have?
  • What are the different kind of hitch mount bike racks?
  • What are the top-rated racks? What are the best sellers?
  • How can I determine which hitch bicycle racks will fit my vehicle?
  • What are the special features available?

Hitch mount bike carriers come in a variety of styles and can accommodate a large variety of bikes. If you have bikes with carbon fiber frames you will find that platform hitch bike racks with wheel clamps and hanging bike racks are a good fit – it’s important to find one that makes no contact with bike frames. For bikes with suspension, both hanging and hitch tray bike racks may do the job. Mountain bikes are very popular and you will want to get a secure and stable platform bike carrier like Thule T2 Pro XT. For children’s bicycles, the hanging bike carriers are the best. You may want to consider an adapter bar and check its length to make sure it will fit your bike.

What type of hitch do i need for bike rack?

Most SUVs or vehicles equipped with a hitch receiver accept a hitch mount. If the hitch receiver is missing, it can be installed afterward. Hitches are divided into classes, from Class I (fit any vehicle and tow up to 2,000 lbs) to Class V (fit only heavy-duty vehicles and tow up to 18,000 lbs) according to towing capacity. Class I hitches (1.25-inch openings) are designed for most small SUVs and cars. Class III hitches (2-inch openings) are found on truck-based SUVs. Depending on the number of bicycles you will be transporting, you should know that if you will carry more than 2 bikes, you need a Class III hitch, so a 2-inch receiver.

Bike racks for SUV without hitch

Do i need a hitch for a bike rack?

It depends on which type of bike rack you prefer. Trunk racks or roof racks don’t require a hitch installed but these are coming with pros and cons. Trunk carriers are not so expensive, are lightweight and easy to install and store. Roof carriers are versatile but add extra height to your SUV. However, if you opt for a hitch-mounted carrier you will earn at security and versatility. We expanded the topic in our Bike Racks Explained in 300 Words article.

Roof mount carriers are coming in 3 versions: Fork-mount, Frame-mount, and Wheel-mount. Rooftop bike racks allow you to easily transport one, two or more bikes, with or without the front wheel removed. Ideal for those who ride often, die-hard bikers or those who want to go on a weekend trip.

Trunk mount is one of the most effective ways to carry bikes and fit on most vehicles. It works by clamping into the vehicle with 4-6 rubber-dipped metal hooks. SUV trunk bike racks work best with mountain bikes and road bikes (standard-frame bikes) but are also compatible with women’s or kid’s bikes.

How to install a hitch rack?

Installing a hitch bike carrier isn’t that hard if you know how many bikes you want to transport and your receiver hitch class. Here is what you need to do:

  1. Determine your hitch receiver class
  2. Place the carrier hitch tube into your car’s receiver
  3. Adjust tire trays or supporting arms of the carrier
  4. Load the bikes onto carrier

We put together a quick step-by-step guide to install a hitch rack so you can save some money.  

How do I keep my hitch rack from swaying?

You may have noticed that sometimes the hitch is swaying and this is not something comfortable while driving with bikes on the carrier. What we recommend to stabilize the hitch is a u-bolt hitch tightener for 2″ and 1.25″ which is rust free and that will do the job. 

Disclaimer: bikerackforsuv.org is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate advertising programs and may receive a commission if you purchase a product via a link on this page.

Racks Explained in 300 Words

Bike Racks Explained in 300 Words

 

What is a bike rack?

A bicycle rack (also called bike carrier) is a type of device/accessory that attaches to a car or SUV allowing easily and safely transportation of bikes. It is, however, an ambiguous term that lately has been associated with the transportation of bicycles attached to a car. ‘Bike rack’ may also refer to bicycle parking rack –  a stationary stand to which bicycles can be secured or a luggage carrier – a device attached to a bike to facilitate carrying of loads. 

What are the different types of bike racks?

Car bike racks generally fall into three main categories, and the most popular ones: hitch-mount racks, roof-mount racks, and trunk racks. Each one is coming with pros and cons so you have to assess based on your car, bike type, and budget. That is why we believe there is no such thing as ‘best type of bike rack’. Of course, they differentiate based on user-friendliness, security or other features that will not let the bike carrier damage your SUV/car.

What are the best bike racks?

As we said above the best bike carrier is determined on your needs. However, there are some best-sellers out there who have great scores along with special features for specialty bikes. Taking some examples, one of the best overall hitch bike carriers is Thule Pro XT  as it fits with almost any bike and is extremely secure. Kuat Trio is one of the best roof bike racks while Thule Raceway Pro scores for the best overall trunk-mount rack. Buzz Rack Approach is specially designed for fat tire bike racks while Sport Rider from Hollywood Racks can carry two electric bikes, up to 5-inch wide tires. We invite you to learn more and get some good tips on our page dedicated to the best bike carriers.

Mountain Biking in Moab: A World-Renowned Destination

There’s no place on earth quite like Moab, Utah. This area of southeast Utah is hailed as a haven for outdoor adventure: hiking, climbing, caving, and mountain biking are all extremely popular in the region. It’s one of the most exciting shared-use areas in the country, so don’t be surprised when you come across jeeps, ATVs, motorcycles, and other vehicles as well!

The Trail that Started It All

Image courtesy of Zach Dischner/ Flickr.com

Moab is home to one of the most well-known bike trails on the planet: Slickrock. The Slickrock Bike Trail offers 10 miles of twisting and turning fun over Navajo sandstone with enough steep climbs and descents to keep even the most experienced cyclists’ blood pumping. This is an intermediate to advanced trail, but you can always check out the Slickrock Practice Loop for a quick taste of the full ride.

Slickrock Bike Trail can be found in the Sand Flats Recreational Area, just east of town.

A Hundred Miles of Moab

If you’re looking to plan a multi-day trek – or a long day of riding – the 103-mile White Rim Trail might be just what you need. This loop of jeep roads cuts through Canyonlands National Park and is often completed as part of a vehicle-supported ride for those who wish to see it all in a day. If you’d like to ride the entire length and set up camps at night, be sure to obtain the necessary permits from Canyonlands National Park.

New and Improved!

Image courtesy of TRAILSOURCE.COM/ Flickr.com

Okay, so the Amasa Back Trail System isn’t really new – it’s actually a Moab classic – but it has been expanded and improved to keep up with growing demand for new sights and challenges. The system is quite technical in places, with plenty to offer experienced riders. This is not a trail system to be taken casually, so stay alert for drops, ledges, and loose rock.

The Whole Enchilada

Image courtesy of Stanislav Sedov/ Flickr.com

Yeah, that’s really the name. The Whole Enchilada Trail System is so named for good reason. This trail offers it all, including some of the most technical and endurance-based challenges a cyclist can face in Moab. This trail is 33 miles long, and the elevation changes are eye-popping: a whopping 2500ft gain and 8000ft drop.

You will need to take a shuttle to Geyser Pass, and from there you will head up to Burro Pass where you can find an awesome view of the San Juan Mountains if the conditions are right. The following descent is steep – prepare for an adrenaline rush – and will take you to the Hazard County Trail. Kokopelli is next, followed by the UPS and LPS singletracks. Next, you’ll find yourself on the challenging and awe-inspiring Porcupine Rim Trail, a classic Moab trail in itself. This final leg is recommended for advanced riders with lots of technical skill.

Like Nature’s BMX Park

Bartlett Wash is a playground of slickrock, worn and polished into amazing shapes that make for excellent riding. Who would have thought that nature would so aptly provide ramps, drops, and winding slopes – so much topography that a rider could easily spend all day playing around.

Great Views from the Singletrack

Image courtesy of snackariah/ Flickr.com

While Moab offers a variety of singletrack trails, Fisher Mesa offers spectacular views and some intermediate-to-advanced level technical. Just remember that the ride out is the easy part! Conserve some of that energy for the uphill trudge back to the trailhead.

Be Safe and Have Fun!

Moab can be a harsh territory to explore. Be absolutely sure to prepare for your adventure with navigation gear, safety equipment, and lots of water. When mountain biking, you’ll want good tires, effective brakes, and replacement parts for common failures.

Be especially cautious when preparing for The Whole Enchilada. This is a real trek, not to be underestimated. If you think you have enough food and water, you should probably pack more. Be prepared for a trail that wants to tear up your bike – the right tools and spares are essential.

And a final safety lesson that has been reinforced famously by this region: always tell someone where you’re planning to ride. While it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of hitting the trail, you should never venture into the wilderness without a backup plan and people who can alert the authorities if you get lost or injured.

Moab really is mountain biking heaven. There are few places in the world that can boast an adventure for riders of all skill levels and continue offering a challenge to veteran riders and local regulars. No second thought is required; if you’re interested in beautiful vistas, outdoor excitement, and an unforgettable ride, you need to head to Moab, stat!