Trunk bike racks are a popular and affordable option for transporting bicycles on the back of a car. They offer a versatile and convenient solution for cyclists transporting their bikes to different locations. However, with so many available options, it can be challenging to determine which rack is the best for your needs.
Trunk bike racks are essential for cycling enthusiasts who own cars because they provide a safe and convenient way to transport their bikes to different locations. With one, cyclists can easily load and unload their bikes without disassembling them, saving time and hassle.
Editor’s Note – This list was updated on March 31, 2023, to add newly listed products and improve content relevance and usefulness.
Our Pick!
Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
The Allen Sports 2-bike rack is a versatile and affordable option for transporting bikes on short or long road trips. This trunk-mount rack is a compact and lightweight bike carrier.
Our Winners
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1. Allen Sports 102DN Trunk-Mount Bike Rack
Material:
Steel
Mounting Style:
Strap Trunk-Mounted
Dimensions:
23″ x 13.58″ x 3.94″
Foldable:
Yes
The Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a reliable and durable bike carrier that can transport up to two bikes, provided their combined weight does not exceed 70 pounds. This trunk-mount rack is designed to fit most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs, but customers should contact the manufacturer for specific fit information to ensure a secure installation.
The rack is available in three variations, including a trunk mount only, with bungee cords, or with a crossbar adapter, with each bundle progressively more expensive than the last. However, the price point of this rack is very affordable, making it a practical choice for those on a budget. The trunk mount option is easy to install and requires no assembly, allowing you to be ready to transport your bikes within seconds.
Mounting the bikes onto the rack is simple. The carry arms of the rack can be loaded horizontally, so the bike frame’s horizontal bar bears the weight. Tighten the straps and side straps to ensure stability, then tie them in a knot to prevent slipping. Additional bungee cords can be used to secure the bikes further if necessary. With its ease of use and dependable design, the Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is an excellent choice for transporting bikes.
Pros
Cons
2. Allen Sports 102DB Deluxe
Material:
Steel
Mounting Style:
Strap Trunk-Mount
Dimensions:
23 x 15 x 4
Foldable:
Yes
The Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Rack is a top-of-the-line bike rack that is perfect for those who want affordability, quality, and ease of use all rolled into one. This rack is made from sturdy tubular steel and powder-coated in black, ensuring it will last for years. It is also backed by a lifetime warranty from Allen Sports, a company with over 60 years of experience in the industry.
Designed to hold two bikes with a maximum weight of 70 pounds, this rack’s arms are spaced 11.5 inches apart to accommodate almost any frame. The 12-inch arms provide ample space to secure two bikes without handlebars getting in the way of each other. Additionally, the rack weighs just 8 pounds and measures 23 inches by 15 inches by 4 inches, making it easy to lift into position.
To secure the rack to your trunk, clip the top two straps over the top edge of the trunk lid and the lower two clips onto the bottom edge. Tighten the adjusters, and the rack will be locked securely in position, ready for you to load your bikes. Once you have lifted your bikes onto the rack and secured them with the included straps, adding a strap or bungee cord is a good idea to prevent any movement or rattling while you drive.
One of the most convenient features of this trunk bike rack is that it can be partially folded and easily stored in your trunk when not in use. The rack can also be refitted in just a few minutes, so you won’t have to worry about the inconvenience.
Female bikes with diagonal top bars can fit on this rack, although they may sit at an angle. Overall, the Allen Sports 2-Bike Trunk Rack is an exceptional product that delivers excellent value for the price, ease of use, and durability.
Pros
Cons
3. Saris Bones 805BL
Material:
Composite Material
Mounting Style:
Strap Trunk-Mount
Dimensions:
30″ x 8″ x 30″
Foldable:
No
The Saris Bones boasts a unique design featuring injection-molded arches that provide unparalleled strength and durability. The rack is constructed of lightweight composite materials, non-rusting materials, making it environmentally friendly and highly functional. Its arched design allows for a versatile fit on virtually any vehicle, including sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and more.
With the ability to carry up to four bikes, this rack provides ample space for transporting multiple bicycles as long as the combined weight does not exceed 140 pounds. The Bones rack is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 10 pounds, making it easy to install and remove from your vehicle. The rack features three strapping points, ensuring your bikes remain securely in place during transport.
While the Saris Bones rack offers numerous advantages, it does suffer from one of the most common drawbacks of trunk bike racks: the potential to scratch your car’s paint job. However, an extra strap is included with your purchase to wrap around the metal clamps and secure them with rubber bands, minimizing any potential damage to your vehicle. Overall, the Saris Bones is a reliable and innovative choice for transporting multiple bikes with ease and style.
Pros
Cons
4. Hollywood Racks Express
Material:
Alloy Steel, Aluminum
Mounting Style:
Strap Trunk-Mount
Dimensions:
20.5″ x 5.4″ x 30.4″
Foldable:
No
The Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is a top-quality option with an easy installation process. It comes in two variations, 2-bike and 3-bike, with a maximum weight capacity of 70 pounds, as per the standard. The best part is that the rack comes fully assembled, so all you have to do is install it and ensure the straps are securely tightened.
After mounting your bikes, it is advisable to retighten the straps to ensure maximum safety. If you follow the instructions and use the A-type tie as recommended, the straps are designed to remain firmly in place even on longer drives (50+ miles).
The rack features excellent padding that protects your car’s paint job from scratches. However, it is still possible to damage the paint with pedals. You can prevent this by ensuring the pedal is positioned correctly, ideally beneath the license plate, or by covering it with a cloth or an old sock.
The Hollywood Racks Express Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is compatible with most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. However, checking the manufacturer’s site to confirm its compatibility with your vehicle model is advisable. The rack folds flat for easy storage and takes up minimal space in the trunk, making it a convenient option for bike enthusiasts.
Pros
Cons
5. Allen Sports S102 Premier
Material:
Steel
Mounting Style:
Strap Trunk-Mount
Dimensions:
23.6″ x 13.5″ x 4.7″
Foldable:
Yes
The Allen Sports Deluxe Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is an exceptional product from Allen Sports. This company has been in operation for 60 years and specializes in producing high-quality racks for all types of vehicles. Like other Allen Racks, this bike rack is versatile and easily used on hatchbacks, SUVs, and minivans. It is, without a doubt, one of the best trunk bike racks available on the market.
The deluxe edition of the bike rack comes at a higher price point but offers extra wide pads to cushion the force of the rack on the rear of your car. This helps to protect your vehicle and distribute the load of the bikes evenly. It is important to note that an additional 80 pounds on the back of your vehicle are a significant amount of weight.
The rack is made from high-quality powder-coated steel and weighs 11 pounds. The additional weight is due to the extra safety features and convenience built into this rack. It measures 4.9 inches by 13.7 inches by 24 inches and is available in options for two, three, or even four bikes. It can handle a total weight of 70 pounds, the three-bike option can hold up to 100 pounds, and the four-bike trunk bike rack can handle up to 140 pounds. It is crucial to ensure that your vehicle can support this additional weight.
The arms on the two bike racks are 12 inches long; on the three bike racks, they are 16 inches long, and on the four-bike rack, they are an impressive 21 inches long. The rack clips use the same patented style as the other offerings from Allen Sports, with six straps in total. The lower pads rest on the lip of your trunk/bumper, while the top pads are near or on your rear windscreen. This spreads the load evenly and prevents any damage to your vehicle.
The patented sure strap system ensures the straps do not loosen in transit, providing extra security for your bikes. The clamps rotate to allow you to get the best possible position for your frame. The rubber straps have multiple settings to accommodate almost any frame thickness. Adding a bungee cord to firmly clamp the bikes against the rack and prevent them from swinging during transit is always recommended, which can be annoying and damaging to your vehicle.
In conclusion, the Allen Sports Deluxe Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is a top-of-the-line product that offers exceptional convenience, durability, and security when transporting your bikes. Whether you opt for the two, three, or four-bike rack, you can rest assured that your bikes will be transported safely and securely.
Pros
Cons
6. Allen Sports MT-1 Ultra Compact
Material:
Steel
Mounting Style:
Strap Trunk-Mount
Dimensions:
14.3″ x 7.2″ x 3.5″
Foldable:
No
The Allen Sports S102 Premier is an exceptional product with its ultra-compact design and rugged build quality. This rack is made from high-quality steel, making it incredibly durable and perfect for carrying a single bike. Although a two-bike option is also available, this is specifically designed for carrying just one bike.
One of the most impressive features of this rack is its compact size. It can be folded to the size of your palm, which makes it incredibly easy to store and carry around. It also comes with a carry bag that ensures you can take it anywhere.
The Allen Sports S102 is lightweight, weighing just 6.5 pounds, and measures 7.3 inches by 3.5 inches by 14 inches. It can handle a bike up to 35 pounds and is compatible with virtually any vehicle, including mini cars and SUVs.
The design of this rack makes it very easy to lift your bike onto it and secure it in just a few moments. It has three padded legs that come into contact with your vehicle, two straps at the top clip over your trunk lid, and one at the bottom. With a quick pull of the locking buckles, you can tighten the rack into position and be ready to put your bike on.
The bike itself fits into the clamps on the two independent bars, which can be rotated to accommodate most styles and sizes of bikes. The red interlocking central structure also keeps your bike from touching your vehicle, ensuring that your vehicle remains scratch-free. Additionally, a bungee cord or strap will help ensure that the bike doesn’t swing while you’re driving.
It is important to note that the hooks used to secure this rack to your vehicle are coated with resin, which protects your vehicle’s paintwork. If you have a short trunk, you may need to attach the lower strap under your vehicle to ensure you can adjust it correctly and get enough tension on your rack.
In summary, the Allen Sports S102 Premier is an exceptional product that is perfect for anyone looking for a compact, lightweight bike rack that is easy to use and store. It has a lifetime warranty, and the resin-coated hooks ensure your vehicle’s paintwork remains scratch-free. It is a great-looking trunk rack that can be fitted in minutes and is compatible with most vehicles.
Pros
Cons
What Are the Different Types of Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks?
Trunk-mounted bike racks come in two main types: strap-on and frame-mounted racks. Both types have their advantages and disadvantages.
Strap-on Racks
Strap-on racks are the most common type of trunk-mounted bike rack. They are generally less expensive than frame-mounted racks and are designed to fit on the trunk or hatchback of most cars. They are also lightweight and easy to install and remove, which makes them a great option for people who need to transport their bikes infrequently.
One of the main advantages of strap-on racks is their versatility. They can be adjusted to fit a wide variety of different vehicles and can also be adjusted to carry different types of bikes, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and even fat tire bikes. Strap-on racks are also relatively lightweight, which makes them easy to move around and store when not in use.
However, strap-on racks also have some disadvantages. One of the biggest disadvantages is that they can be less secure than frame-mounted racks. Because they rely on straps to hold the bike in place, they can sometimes shift or wiggle while in transit, damaging the bike or the vehicle. Strap-on racks also have weight limits, which means they may be unable to accommodate larger or heavier bikes.
Frame-Mounted Racks
Frame-mounted racks are another type of trunk-mounted bike rack. Unlike strap-on racks, frame-mounted racks attach to the bike’s frame rather than the trunk or hatchback of the vehicle. This makes them more secure and less likely to shift or wobble during transit.
One of the main advantages of frame-mounted racks is their security. Because they attach to the bike’s frame, they are less likely to shift or wobble during transit, which means they are less likely to cause damage to the bike or the vehicle. They are also designed to accommodate various bike sizes and types, including road bikes, mountain bikes, and even e-bikes.
However, frame-mounted racks also have some disadvantages. They are generally more expensive than strap-on racks and can be more difficult to install and remove. They are also less versatile than strap-on racks, as they may only be able to accommodate certain types of vehicles. Additionally, frame-mounted racks are usually heavier than strap-on racks, making them more difficult to move around and store when not in use.
A Buyer’s Guide to Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks
If you’re looking for a way to transport your bike, a trunk rack can be a great option. These racks are designed to attach to the trunk of your car, SUV, or minivan and allow you to safely and securely transport one or more bikes to your destination.
Capacity
The first thing to consider is how many bikes you need to transport. Trunk racks are available in various capacities, from one to four bikes. Make sure you choose a rack to accommodate the number of bikes you need to transport.
Compatibility
Not all trunk bike racks are compatible with all vehicles. Before purchasing a rack, make sure to check that it is designed to fit your vehicle. Look for racks with adjustable straps or frames that fit various vehicle sizes.
Security
Your bike is a valuable investment, so you must securely attach it to the rack. Look for trunk racks that have lock mechanisms to prevent theft. Some racks also have additional straps or cables to secure your bike to the rack.
Ease of Use
The last thing you want is to struggle with a complicated rack when transporting your bike. Look for trunk racks that are easy to install and remove and allow you to load and unload your bike quickly and easily.
Durability
Trunk bike racks are exposed to the elements and can take a beating during transportation. Look for racks made from durable materials, such as steel or aluminum, and designed to withstand regular use.
Weight
The weight of the rack itself can be an important consideration, especially if you plan to remove it frequently. Look for lightweight models that are easy to lift and maneuver.
Cost
These racks vary in price, with basic models starting around $50 and high-end models costing several hundred dollars. Consider your budget when choosing a rack, but remember that a higher-priced rack may offer more features and greater durability.
How to Install a Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack: Step-By-Step Guide
Installing a trunk-mounted bike rack is a great way to transport your bike safely and conveniently. Depending on the type of trunk-mounted bike rack you have, the installation process may differ.
This step-by-step guide will cover how to install strap-on and bolt-on trunk-mounted bike racks.
Step-by-Step Guide for Strap-On Trunk Racks
- First, take out the rack from the box and identify the parts. Most strap-on trunk racks come with two or three main components: the main frame, the straps, and the hooks.
- Open your trunk and clear out any obstructions. This will give you a good view of the trunk and identify the best place to attach the straps.
- Position the main frame of the bike rack on the rear of your vehicle. Make sure the bottom of the frame is resting on the bumper.
- Take the straps and wrap them around the edges of the trunk lid. Ensure the straps are not twisted and the hooks are facing away from the trunk lid.
- Hook the straps onto the bottom edge of the trunk lid. Tighten the straps until they are snug but not overly tight. Make sure the frame of the bike rack is secure and stable.
- Attach the top straps by wrapping them around the top edge of the trunk lid and hooking them onto the bike rack. Tighten the straps until they are snug but not overly tight.
- Finally, attach the hooks to the sides of the trunk lid. Tighten the hooks until they are secure but not overly tight.
- Place your bike onto the rack and secure it with the straps.
Step-by-Step Guide for Bolt-On Trunk Racks
- Take out the rack from the box and identify the parts. Most bolt-on trunk racks come with two or three main components: the main frame, the bolts, and the brackets.
- Open your trunk and clear out any obstructions. This will give you a good view of the trunk and identify the best place to attach the brackets.
- Position the main frame of the bike rack on the rear of your vehicle. Make sure the bottom of the frame is resting on the bumper.
- Attach the brackets onto the edges of the trunk lid. Make sure the brackets are not twisted and that they are aligned with the pre-drilled holes on the main frame.
- Secure the brackets onto the trunk lid by tightening the bolts with the provided tools.
- Place your bike onto the rack and secure it with the straps.
Maintenance and Safety Tips for Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks
Proper maintenance and safety are essential when using trunk-mounted bike racks to ensure they function correctly and prevent accidents. Here are some maintenance and safety tips to keep in mind:
- Regularly check your bike rack for wear and tear: Over time, your trunk-mounted bike rack can experience wear and tear from regular use, exposure to the elements, and even accidents. Inspecting your bike rack regularly ensures it’s in good condition and has no broken parts that could compromise its integrity.
- Keep your bike rack clean: Dirt and debris can accumulate on it, making it difficult to use and even causing damage. Clean your bike rack regularly with soap and water to remove dirt, grime, or road salt.
- Lubricate moving parts: Moving parts like hinges and clasps can benefit from occasional lubrication to keep them working smoothly. Use a spray lubricant like WD-40 to keep your bike rack functioning correctly.
- Properly load your bike: Properly loading your bike onto your trunk-mounted bike rack is crucial for safety. Ensure that your bike is secured correctly with straps or clasps and that it’s balanced on the rack.
- Check the security of the rack: After loading your bike, double-check that the rack is firmly attached to your vehicle and that all straps or bolts are tightened correctly.
- Be mindful of weight limits: Trunk-mounted bike racks have weight limits, which can vary depending on the model. Ensure you don’t exceed the weight limit, as this can cause damage to your bike rack and your vehicle.
- Watch for clearance: Be mindful of the clearance of your bike rack and bike from other objects, such as trees or buildings, when driving.
- Remove the bike rack when not in use: When not in use, it’s a good idea to remove the bike rack from your vehicle to prevent damage from exposure to the elements and to prevent theft.
Following these maintenance and safety tips ensures that your trunk-mounted bike rack stays in good condition and safely transports your bike to your destination.
What Are The Alternatives to a Trunk Mounted Bike Rack?
Several alternatives to a trunk-mounted bike rack exist, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common options:
- Hitch-mounted bike rack: Hitch-mounted bike racks are designed to attach to a trailer hitch receiver on the rear of your vehicle. They are generally more stable and secure than trunk-mounted bike racks and can accommodate more bikes. However, they can be more expensive and require a compatible trailer hitch.
- Roof-mounted bike rack: Roof-mounted bike racks attach to the roof of your vehicle and hold the bike securely in place. They are generally very stable and can accommodate multiple bikes, but they can be more difficult to install and require a compatible roof rack system.
- Truck bed bike rack: A truck bed bike rack may be a good option if you have a pickup truck. These racks are designed to hold the bike securely in the bed of your truck and can accommodate multiple bikes. They are generally very stable but may limit the cargo you can carry in your truck bed.
- Spare tire bike rack: If you care about your vehicle as much as your bikes, you ideally want a spare tire bike rack mounted onto your vehicle’s spare tire.
Ultimately, the best alternative to a trunk-mounted bike rack depends on your needs, budget, and vehicle type. Consider your options carefully and choose the bike rack that best fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks Compatible With All Types of Vehicles?
Trunk-mounted bike racks are generally compatible with most vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and minivans. However, checking the rack’s specifications and the vehicle’s compatibility is important before purchasing.
Can Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks Hold Multiple Bikes?
Yes, trunk-mounted bike racks are available in different sizes and can hold one or multiple bikes. The number of bikes a rack can hold will depend on the model’s specifications.
Can Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks Damage My Vehicle?
If not installed correctly, trunk-mounted bike racks can potentially damage your vehicle. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure that the rack is securely attached and does not come into contact with any part of the vehicle that could be scratched or dented.
How Do I Secure My Bike to a Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack?
Most trunk-mounted bike racks have straps and hooks attached to the bike frame. It is important to ensure that the straps and hooks are securely fastened and that the bike is stable and does not wobble during transport.
Can I Open My Trunk With a Bike on a Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack?
It depends on the model and the placement of the rack. Some trunk-mounted bike racks are designed to allow access to the trunk even with the bikes attached, while others may require the bikes to be removed before accessing the trunk.
Can I Still Use My Rear Windshield Wiper With a Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack?
If the bike rack is installed in a way that blocks the rear windshield wiper, it may not be possible to use it. However, some models are designed to allow access to the rear windshield wiper, even with the bikes attached.
Are Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks Easy to Install?
Trunk-mounted bike racks are generally easy to install and do not require any special tools or equipment. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and ensure that the rack is securely attached before using it.
Update History
- Update product listing, added supplementary content for user helpfullness.
Timo is an outdoor enthusiast and gear specialist who is constantly exploring. As an avid hiker, he has completed the ADK 46ers, South Beyond 6000, GA4000, and the Colorado 14ers. He's ice climbed Mt. Hood, hiked up half a dozen mountains in the Alps, and spent three consecutive summers constructing a sustainable trail through the Colorado high country.
