10 Best Bike Racks For Cars 2026 in the United States

The Thule Epos 3 bike rack is designed to offer a hassle-free experience for loading and unloading all types of bikes, including heavy e-bikes. It features patented telescopic bike arms with pivoting cradles and steel-reinforced straps, ensuring a secure attachment to the bike frame or rear wheel. With a high load capacity of 66lb per bike and a total maximum load capacity of 160lb, this rack can comfortably handle even the heaviest bikes.

The generous 9.8-inch spacing between bikes reduces the risk of damage due to bike-to-bike contact. Additionally, extra-long wheel holders make it easy to transport bikes with long wheelbases of up to 53 inches, and ratcheting pump buckles and wheel straps simplify tire fastening for tires up to 3.2 inches wide (or up to 5 inches with an additional accessory). The rack is built with durability in mind and comes in a sleek black/silver frame.

Some users might find the package weight of 27.17 kilograms (approximately 60 pounds) a bit cumbersome during installation. While the Thule Epos 3 bike rack ranks #130 in bicycle car racks, its ease of installation and robust security features make it a compelling choice for avid cyclists, especially those with e-bikes.

The Thule Pro XTR 2 Hitch Bike Rack is a versatile rack designed to accommodate a wide range of bikes, including e-bikes, with a load capacity of 60 pounds per bike. It's an excellent choice for those who need to transport various types of bikes such as carbon frames, mountain, downhill, or fat bikes, due to its compatibility with 20 to 29-inch wheels and tires up to 5 inches wide without requiring adapters. One of its standout features is the tool-free installation through the AutoAttach system, making it user-friendly and convenient.

The rack's HitchSwitch lever allows for easy tilting to access the vehicle's trunk or to store the rack upright when not in use, adding to its practicality. Additionally, the integrated wheels make it easy to maneuver the rack when off the vehicle, which is a thoughtful touch for users who frequently detach the rack. Security is well addressed with integrated cable locks that secure the bikes to the rack and a locking knob that locks the rack to the hitch receiver. The 12.5-inch spacing between bikes and adjustable side-to-side positioning help prevent bike interference, ensuring your bikes remain secure and undamaged during transport.

It's worth noting that while the rack can carry up to 4 bikes with an additional add-on, this add-on is sold separately, which could be an extra expense for users needing to transport more than 2 bikes. The durability and build quality are robust, supported by Thule's reputation and a limited lifetime warranty. This rack combines ease of use, security, and flexibility, making it an excellent investment for bike enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile transport solution.

The KUAT Sherpa 2.0 is a compact and lightweight hitch-mounted bike rack designed to carry two bikes, each weighing up to 40 pounds. Made from durable aluminum, it weighs just 35 pounds, which makes it easier to install and remove compared to heavier racks. The rack fits a standard 2-inch hitch and accommodates a wide range of bike sizes and tire widths, including fat tires up to 3 inches with an optional kit, making it versatile for various bike types.

One standout feature is the foot-assisted pivot system, which allows you to tilt the rack away from the vehicle with a simple tap of your foot, so you can easily access your trunk without taking the bikes off. The adjustable ratchet arm secures bikes by their tires rather than the frame, protecting your bike's paint from scratches and ensuring a stable fit. For security, the Sherpa 2.0 includes a built-in cable lock, which helps deter theft when you leave your bikes unattended. Its foldable tire cradles not only keep your bikes steady but also give the rack a sleek look when folded.

While the rack excels in being lightweight and user-friendly, it is limited to carrying only two bikes and may require additional adapters for smaller wheel sizes. This rack is an excellent option for casual riders or small groups seeking an easy-to-use, secure, and durable bike transport solution that doesn’t add much weight to their vehicle setup.