


Loading is simple and secure, and almost any size of bike will fit. Your bike tires sit in trays and most racks have arms that secure your wheels. Platform racks tend to be heavier and more expensive, but they’re also typically easier to use and accommodate more styles of bikes. Hitch racks break down into two basic categories platform racks where the wheels of the bike sit on a tray and an arm clamps down on the tire or frame, and hanging racks, where the bike hangs from an arm by the frame or fork. What to Consider When Buying A Bike Hitch Rack Style of Hitch Rack You even need to think about your future (will your kid soon be joining you on rides?). Some racks work well with road bikes but can’t handle fat bikes or even full-suspension bikes, and vice versa. You need to consider every aspect of your cycling and lifestyle, from the number, weight, and types of bikes you want to carry to the material in the frame of those bikes (avoid using racks that clamp onto the frame if you have a carbon bike, as the stress could damage the frame). And of all the many styles of bike racks to consider, the hitch bike rack is often the easiest, most convenient way to transport bikes.īut not all hitch racks are created equal, and not all cyclists need the same kind of hitch rack. But hitches are particularly useful if you’re looking to carry bikes, especially if you need to haul more than one whip. I have hitch racks for my vehicles that serve as extra trunk space, allow me to carry full-sized grills, even act as hammock stands. Having a hitch on the back of your vehicle, whether you drive a Prius or a Ram, instantly maximizes its usefulness by adding the ability to tote extra gear.
