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We Know: How to Buy a Bike Rack
About Bike Racks
Before purchasing a bike rack, measure your vehicle where you intend to install the bike rack.
Most bike rack manufacturers have a fit and style guide that will help you find a bike rack that
will work for your vehicle.
Types of Bike Racks
There are many kinds of bike racks on the market today, and they include:
- Round and square bar. This is a base rack system using either square or round
crossbars. Prices range from around $125-$150.
- Factory crossbar. This type of bike rack attaches directly to the crossbars that came
with the vehicle and usually does not support more than two bikes. Price is around $130.
- Receiver hitch. Several manufacturers make this style of bike rack. This type of bike
rack can carry between two and five bikes, depending on the model, and comes with a variety of
options. Prices range from around $60-$300.
- Spare tire. This style of bike rack mounts onto an external spare tire. This is a
less expensive type of tire rack that carries one or two bikes at a time. Price is around $160.
- Truck bed. A truck bed bike rack means you can mount it directly onto the truck bed. This
type of bike rack may need holes drilled in the surface for mounting it, though some models can
be attached under the bed rail. Most truck bed racks handle up to three bikes at a time if an
additional bike mount is used. Prices range from around $20-$330
- Tandem-roof and rear. Several manufacturers sell these types of bike racks. They attach
to a base rack system or else mount to the vehicle's rear receiver hitch. Prices range from around
$140-$375
- Trunk mounted. This type of bike rack is a cheaper style than many of the others. It
is ideal for short driving trips. The downside to them is that they can scratch or rub against
the vehicle's surface. Most can handle up to three bikes at a time. Most trunk mounted models use
a six point contact strapping system for added security. Prices range from around $100-$150
Bike Rack Manufacturers
Several manufacturers sell bike racks and they include:
- Yakima.
- Thule.
- Sportworks.
- Rocky Mount.
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