Here are two scenarios for you. You are a biker who loves going on bike trips where the greens are lush. Or, you are a fitness-addict and want rocky terrains for the finest cycling exercise.
If you are either one or both, you may have encountered the paramount struggle of tethering your bicycle on the car rooftop. Or probably have frantically tried to stuff the poor thing in the back seat or the trunk.
Not only are you inflicting damage on the bike in this way, but also subjecting your car to dents and scratches.
It is time to make an investment for the future. It is time you got yourself the best truck bed bike rack because, honestly, you deserve it. Say ‘goodbye’ to your days of trial and get yourself a present for the coming days.
Best Rated Truck Bed Bike Rack Choices 2020
Of course, there is an abundance of suggestions for the right truck bed bike rack out there. You may need single, or multiple racks, one color or even in various colors.
To save you the time, we have compiled a string of choices that discuss all aspects of every user’s demands.
However, if you are new to the game, all the technical mumbo-jumbo may overwhelm you. Do not fret. If you keep reading this article, you will soon be able to make a more informed decision.
Best Bike Rack For Truck Bed Comparison Chart
Our 11 Picks For The Top Truck Bed Bike Rack
1. Heininger Automotive 2025 | Overall Best Truck Bed Bike Rack
The Heininger Automotive 2025 is an absolute beast when it comes to truck bed bike racks. With four bike holders, it has already set the bar high in the market. It fits like a glove with absolutely any truck model, thanks to the modifiable stabilizers made of rubber.
Installation is as easy as A-B-C. All you have to do is slide the bike rack in, position it well and it will almost all the time fit perfectly without having to use the stabilizers. In case it does not, you can use the rubber helpers included in the pack to fill in the gaps.
The inclusion of the soft cushioning ensures ultimate safety for the bike. You can rest assured knowing that the paint job is far from chipped and the tires are full and healthy. While most bike racks require you to dismantle the front tires of your bike before mounting it on, you can let out a sigh of relief with this one.
Heininger Automotive 2025 is a splendid tool, especially for families who spend most weekends biking across the country’s views. The added cables give you the boost of confidence you need to trust this amazing rack. You can lock your bikes with the rack and frolic away.
Bottom Line
The flaw is hardly anything if you consider the model of your truck before purchasing the Heininger Automotive 2025. Otherwise, this is a fine rack that’ll keep your bike whole and safe.
2. Thule Insta-Gator Truck Mount | Best Single-Bike Truck Bed Bike Rack
The Thule Insta-Gator, a dedicated bike rack, is the answer to all your bike’s woes. Fitting with rims of 20 inches to 29 inches width, your bike wheels will have never been in better care. The hook of the rack is a safeguard, holding the bike steady by the front tire.
There is no necessity to disassemble your bike or to take out the front wheel. Just slide it in, position it properly on the truck bed, and voila! It can stand on its own without any kickstands or clamps. In case you are looking for an addition to your garage floor, this is it.
The foremost feature of this equipment is the prong that easily cranks up and down, ensuring maximum stabilization for your bike. The wheel-frame is completely untouched from contact with the rack bars. The rubber padding brings assurance of cushioning the blow that may be inflicted on your tire.
At 50 lbs, it is quite lightweight. It is so light, that people sometimes consider buying two or three of these single bike racks to stack them up together side-by-side for multiple bikes. With its attractive looks and specifications, Thule Insta-Gator Truck Mount has been a biker’s favorite for a long time.
Bottom Line
Although it does not fit all tailgates, at least it fits some. The fact that it even considered this particular aspect is honestly quite commendable. This goes without saying, technology has truly outdone itself.
The Thule One-Key cylindrical lock has to be bought separately. However, this isn’t that bad! Usually, factory-provided additional tools are not good enough. This way you can choose a robust lock that’ll ensure better safety.
3. INNO Truck Bed Bike Mount | Best Compact Truck Bed Bike Rack
Here is something to think about, you are planning a biker themed wedding party for your dearest friend. You have a nice bike rack on to which you can easily load your bike. But alas! You have to carry decorations and many more essentials that the truck bed has no space for.
The INNO Truck Bed Bike Mount is the right device for situations like these. The mechanism lets you utilize 90% of the truck bed space by clamping it on the walls of the truck bed so that it is placed securely on the side.
With the availability of two sizes, standard and C-Channel, you can use whichever is more convenient for you and your truck. It comes in multiple attractive colors so that you have the freedom to stylize your truck bed with your gears.
Moreover, since it is compatible with all bikes regardless of the rim sizes, you can choose to go with a color that compliments your bike as well.
Speaking of which, the reason why it gels so well with every bike model is because of its ingenious addition of D-rings in the mix. They have sturdy straps that you can tighten or loosen in accordance with the bars on the bike. This will ensure that the wheels are far from any damage.
Bottom Line
It truly is a shame that the INNO Truck Bed Bike Mount did not throw in a good, free cable lock in the package. Honestly, for the price, the exclusion of the cable lock almost makes it seem like the tool is not worth the extra bucks.
But, trust the users. The impeccable performance it has continued to give over the years is appreciated by a whole lot of satisfied bikers.
4. Top Line Uni-Grip UG2500-2 | Best Starter Truck Bed Bike Rack
The Top Line Uni-Grip UG2500-2 is a quick-fix if you are looking for an immediate solution to your bike storage problems. This device clamps onto the truck bed wall like the INNO Bike Mount but is very distinct from the latter in mechanism and design.
A bar protrudes from the liner and grabs the bike frame to grip it tight. While the INNO Truck Bed Bike Mount uses straps, this one literally holds out a helping hand. Installation takes as much as cooking instant noodles. Ready in 2 minutes, you can mount this right before a trip, no problem.
Interestingly, you would not find yourself reaching for the bedliner to install it. This goes on smoothly on to the sidewall with or without one. The fact that it extends outwards, it leaves space around the truck bed for you to load and unload things other than your bike.
If you are looking for a truck bed bike rack but are fully unaware of what might be the best one to start out with, you could really go for the Top Line Uni-Grip UG2500-2. The price and functions of this device allows room for error so you can figure out what works best for you eventually.
Bottom Line
The clamp screw is smaller than expected and may not fit all models of bicycles. It is recommended to measure out your bike frame dimensions before deciding on this one.
5. Swagman Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack | Best Truck Bed Bike Rack for Stability
The Swagman Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack is a unique and super savvy bike rack. At first glance, you might think, “Hey, where is everything?” Well, that’s the beauty of it – it takes up little space so that you can use more.
It is basically an adjustable horizontal bar that can be placed along the breadth of the truck and onto the bed walls. The modifiable ratcheting arm helps to match the appropriate width needed for your truck. This means that the Swagman Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack is compatible with every truck out there.
The ends of the bar have rubber pieces cushioning their impact on the bed rails. This way, it can guarantee you full protection from paint chipping inflicted on your truck and would also shield the rails from denting.
This two bike holder rack has an arching system in the middle that allows you to stabilize it to the max. The stainless steel construction does not require any sort of gadgets and gizmos to cement your bike in its intended position.
You do not even need a cable lock. Your bike will hardly move from position even in the harshest of turns.
Bottom Line
A lot of users do not prefer to bear the tedious task of disassembling the tire, mounting the frame on the rack and then putting the tire back on when need be.
However, if you like a compact, portable bike rack that can be installed under a minute, this one will be comforting for you.
6. Thule Xsporter Pro | Best Truck Bed Rack for Large Objects
The Thule Xsporter Pro features two elevated bars that must be attached to either end of the bedliner to load and unload your bike, ladder, surfboard, or tandem.
Not only that, but they also help carry freight items like canoes, construction materials, kayaks, and small boats as long as they are all under 450 lbs.
The rig installs without any supplementary aid from drill machines or bolts. Thus, your truck remains unexposed to damage caused by drilling and bolting. The height of the bars can be adjusted by turning a knob, which is made out of incredibly durable plastic.
The cranking is smooth so that you do not have to waste time and energy in jiggling it in case it gets stuck in the ridges. The advanced Wind Diffuser Technology is integrated into the rack that cuts through airflow to make sure the rack does not blow backward and bend.
There are two nifty sliders atop the bars that you can alter to fit the width of the load you want to be held in position. This means that you can secure cargo of any size. Four cylindrical One-Key locks are thrown in the mix to heighten the level of security that your belongings deserve.
Bottom Line
Shipping the product can be quite a hassle since a number of users have complained that the package came with missing components.
Make sure you get the right and whole package and if you do receive a faulty package regardless, contact the distributor immediately. They will be happy to replace the product.
7. BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack | Best Hitch Rack for Sports Bikes
The tray-style hitch mount rack has many specialties that set it apart. The BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack comes in two carriers – a two-bike holder and a four-bike holder.
This grants you more options in case you have a large number of bikes to load or you are someone who has different bikes for different occasions.
Both carriers have identical features. For starters, the rack tilts backward away from the trunk of the car to allow you space to open, load and unload, and close the trunk. You do not have to detach the system to use the trunk of your car.
Next, the entire system can be folded up neatly and stored away in a garage cabinet when you are not using it. This is great because it would be really awkward to lug around a bike-less bike rack on a Saturday night with a date. Just unlock the hitch pin and fold it up!
The hitch mount bike rack attached to the back of your car will most definitely obstruct your vision behind you. This can lead to unsavory events. The BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack has thus added reflectors for your safety. This will be the most helpful tool when you are driving with the rack when it is dark out.
Bottom Line
This hitch mount bike rack is ideal for sleek bike frames. You can easily lock your bikes on to the rack, without any mess like the bikes toppling over. However, if you own a bike that is chunkier, it is advised not to opt for this. Conveniently, the Company has mentioned the compatible specs in the package.
8. Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks | Best Bike Rack for Truck Hitch
If you are a bike enthusiast or a pro bike who likes to switch it once in a while, then this rack is perfect for you. The Allen Sports DELUXE Hitch Mounted Bike Rack is a perfect four bike holder contraption for you to attach to the hitch of your vehicle, be it an SUV or a pickup truck.
Installation is a fairly quick process that can be done under 5 minutes. It comes with a 22 inches carry arms. The segment uses Allen’s patented technology to tie-down the bicycles securely.
The carry arms are foldable, thus the drops out when the rack is not being used. This leaves you ample amount of space to open your trunk, load items in and then close it back.
You can secure it back in position by pulling it back up like a lever and securing it with the latching pin. You don’t need to bring down the biked to use the back of your vehicle.
A no-wobble bolt prevent the rack from being unstable. As the rack is made of sturdy steel and coated with black powder to prevent rust, you can expect it to last for a long time.
Bottom Line
This is a convenient and durable bike rack. It comes with decent load capacity and can carry 4 bikes. As for the con, it’s not actually a problem if you do a simple trick. Just adjust the position of paddles and handles so that they can stand side-by-side without colliding with each other.
9. Yakima FourTimer Hitch Mount Tray | Best Convertible Hitch Rack
The Yakima FourTimer Hitch Mount Tray functions pretty much the same as BV Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack. However, it does not come with two carrier choices. It’s even better!
It is a convertible rack that can be transformed from a two-bike holder to a four-bike holder at your convenience. It works like a 2-in-1 bike rack. The rack sings in harmony with bikes of any size. Small, large, thin, fat – there are no models that it cannot accommodate.
If you want the rack for loading up your fat bicycles, there are appropriate straps to secure them in position that are sold by the manufacturers for your benefit.
The rack, when loaded, folds down from the car when the back of the vehicle needs to be accessed. Prop it back up when you are done. This makes the rack a great addition for your SUVs as it acts more like a part of the vehicle than an addition.
The trays are designed to be lower to help you access the rack easily. This makes loading and unloading ultra-simple, minimizing the strain you may experience from lifting your bikes over your head.
Bottom Line
Before you purchase this hitch mount rack, you must thoroughly measure out your hitch receiver and check if it fits the criteria for the rack. If you do not have the tools to measure on your own, consult a mechanic to figure it out.
10. Swagman XC Cross-Country Hitch Mount Rack | Durable Truck Bed Bike Rack
The Swagman XC Cross-Country Hitch Mount Rack is quite reputed in its field. This particular rack is largely a popular choice among users when it comes to hitching mount racks.
Making room for four bikes, this is a versatile hitch mount rack with unique features never seen before. The strong steel structure accommodates bicycles with varying dimensions. The incorporation of rubber pads ensures that your bike’s safety is maintained from all angles.
A neat trick well appreciated by users is that it is foldable. Hence, you can easily store it away to allow space for other things or even hide it to a safe and compact space away from envious guests.
The interlocking steel cables hold the bike wheels in position, discouraging any wobbling that may be caused by motion. The rubber harnesses assure this by limiting the movement of the wheels, drilling confidence in safety.
Bottom Line
This hitch mount bike rack is a little unsteady to begin with. Taking it out on the highway is not the best decision because it is not worth risking your bike’s life.
However, it works decently on freeways at moderate speeds. The build quality itself is quite strong so it’s expected to last for a long time.
11. EGO BIKE | Best Bike Rack For Women’s Bike
The EGO BIKE is yet another hitch mount bike rack for you that caters to the needs of your mountain bikes especially. With the capacity to carry two bikes, this bitch mount bike rack is perfect for your interchangeable needs from different bikes.
The variable wheel chocks are added to ensure that two different bike sizes, one for an adult and the other for a child, can be loaded when need be. Family picnics will be more fun than what it was before now that the father-daughter or brother-sister can enjoy a nice quality time riding their bikes together.
It attaches smoothly on any 2” hitch receivers. Installation is pretty much self-explanatory and you would not even need a guide. The rack ensures that there is enough room around it to protect the paint job of both the car and the bike.
The robust steel build makes for a heavy-duty bike rack that not only is durable but also delivers consistent performance. Most bike racks are usually not a good fit for women’s bikes because usually, they have a curved frame. However, this is not the case for the EGO BIKE.
Bottom Line
The limitation is off putting, that’s for sure. However, if you can accept and endure the con, you’ll get yourself a sturdy, durable, versatile bike rack. Since it can accommodate women’s bikes, any family person would find this rack convenient.
Truck Bed Bike Rack Buying Guide
Affordability
Truck bed bike racks come in different shapes and functionalities. Some may feature a 4 bike holding frame and others may hold only one. These features govern the price tag that goes with them.
Before you spend away on a bike rack, consider the kind of features you need. Do you have multiple bike racks to transport? Do you have just the one but extra security is appreciated?
If you work at a mechanic shop, you should consider the racks that hold three or four bikes. However, keep in mind that the more features you want, the higher the price will hike.
Frequent Use
If you are looking for a truck bed bike rack for just that one trip in the country, then maybe you should consider going for a cheap build. All you need is a way to carry your bike to your destination safe and sound anyway, right?
Think wisely before deciding to invest in the absolute finest and you will be saving a lot of money. You could even borrow it from a friend or brother. That way you do not have to bother searching for the affordable one, let alone the cheap one.
There are places that allow you to rent bike racks for a fee. Make sure to keep an eye out for such offers. Otherwise, if you are someone who needs to have the bike rack installed all the time, you are better off with a frame that carries all your bikes without any setbacks.
Locking System
While most bike racks lock themselves with the truck, there are bike racks that hold the bikes without any locks. Others lock the bikes to the rack but leave the rack unattended.
While it is suggested that you always go for a truck bed bike rack that comes with a designated lock, it depends on your usage. Of course, thieves do not come announced but if you always carry your bike and dismount it the moment you arrive at your destination, then one without a lock is not a bad idea.
There are DIY ways to lock a bike to the rack in case you cannot find a rack with a locking system or want to go for a cost-effective way of locking. You could fasten a cable around the rack and the bike frame to keep it secure. You could also use chain links and a sturdy lock.
Multi-Purpose
Not all bike racks are multi-purpose support objects but the added feature is always well appreciated. Although not ideal for securing anything other than bikes, you can use the bars in the racks to hold your things in place if you wish.
This raises the question, “Do you want a load-bearing bike rack?” If so, you have to understand that there is an issue of security.
If you plan to use it as a multitasker, you have to keep the rack embedded in the truck. Of course, this makes it an easy target for predators but that’s the kind of risk you need to consider.
Storage
When you are not using the truck bed bike rack, you can easily store it away for later use. All bike racks are usually easily removable. However, what if you do not have enough space in your garage?
You are most likely to come across a situation when you have to take out the bike racks. If you do not have a neat place to put it in, it tends to become very frustrating. Make sure you have enough room to store your bike rack or make room so that it does not bother you later.
There is also the issue of varying sizes in bike racks. Some take up a lot of space, while others fit in snugly on the back of your truck. Consider the space available on the truck bed and in your storage room before going with a bigger frame.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to Truck Bed Bike Rack
- Are All Bike Racks Multi-Purpose?
- Are Truck Bed Bike Racks Necessary?
- Are Truck Bed Bike Racks Modifiable?
- How To Know the Perfect Rack Size for My Truck?
- How To Clean Truck Bed Bike Racks?
Answer: Some of them are, yes. The bars on the rack can support and hold objects in place when in motion. However, there are no separate locks to hold items other than your bike. Hence, there is a risk of getting things stolen.
Answer: Imagine this, you need to get to your destination and you also need to use the restroom urgently. There are no gas stations or any superstores nearby.
Speedy driving will be your savior but that may inflict damage on your bike lying sideways on the truck bed. What do you do? Get a truck bed bike rack!
Answer: If, for instance, you want to modify a 3-bike truck bed bike rack into a 4-bike truck bed bike rack you most definitely could. However, in case of any damage that might result from the system, the original manufacturer of the 3-bike truck bed bike rack cannot help you out.
Answer: You have to measure the horizontal length and the height of the truck bed walls. You do not want your rack to stick out too far outside the bed walls. If you are unable to do so yourself, there are people in the bike rack shops who can do it for you.
Answer: It is easy – all you do is hose it down with some water and soap. You should dry it down properly in order to avoid rusting. Make sure to get the nooks and crannies and around the bolts for water trapped in these places may cause unprecedented rusting.
Final Words
The availability of so many products will likely confuse you. You need to determine exactly what it is that you are looking to solve. What is it that you think makes for the best truck bed bike rack for your purposes?
Once you answer these questions to yourself, the choices will narrow down automatically. Analyze and filter to bring it down to a list of 3-4 choices that you can compare easily to make a decision.
You should then check out real user feedbacks in order to know the pros and cons that are otherwise not mentioned in the label.
Now that you have all the information you need, it is time that you went on that well-deserved bike trip with your loved ones. Don’t look back!