In this digital day and age, more and more people are choosing cycling to maintain their fitness and also turning it into a part of their healthy lifestyle.
If you want to go cycling to the trails or somewhere distant, you need to transport the bikes to the destination. Bike racks are the most convenient and easy-to-use tool to transport bikes from one place to another for example – Thule T2 Pro XT is a good rack to start your adventure with.
But choosing one that goes well with your car and is the right fit can be a crucial thing. For that reason, we have come up with a list of the twenty best bike racks for SUV in four different types.
In addition, we will assist you on how to choose a bike rack for your car. We will also address all your inquiries, FAQs and eliminate any confusion or doubt you may have. Let’s jump in!
What are the best bike racks for SUVs in 2022: Top 4 picks
- Click here to see comparison table for Hitch Mounted racks
- Click here to see comparison table for Strap Trunk Mount bike Rack
- Click here to see comparison table for Spare Tire Bike Rack
- Click here to see comparison table for Roof Rack for Bikes
4 Main Types of bike racks For SUV
There are tons of bike racks out there. We have clustered four types that are suitable for almost any kind of SUVs- hitch-mounted bike racks, trunk racks, spare tire racks, and roof racks. Usually, the bike racks are universal. However, you must be aware if the type of rack you are getting will be the best for your cause or not.
Hence, knowing the types of bike racks for SUV is the first step towards getting the perfect thing for your feat. If you want to go into details and learn all bout the types along with their advantages and disadvantages, then check this out – All types of car bike racks are explained.
FYI: Some of the most common SUV models are – Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, For explorer, Jeep Wrangler, Sabaru Outback, Sabaru Crosstrek, Hyundai Tucson, Honda Pilot, Chevrolet Tahoe, and others.
1 – Hitch-Mounted Racks
Hitch-mounted bike racks are a device that lets you carry a bike on the chassis of your car.
The first condition for a hitch bike rack is that you must have a hitch receiver already installed on your bike. Hitch receiver of your SUV usually comes in 4 sizes – 1-1/4″, 2″, 2-1/2″ and 3″; make sure you choose the right size when getting the rack for your car.
Most hitch racks offer the option to carry multiple bikes at a time. It is very helpful when you are traveling with your family or friends.
Swinging, tilting, and folding options are available to protect the rear door of the SUV and make it useful while the bikes are racked. To rack the bikes, Velcro straps or trays are given.
The hitch bike rack is the most popular one among other racks because of its versatility and easy operability. And the more delightful thing is that you get to have all these features without compromising the main body’s sturdiness.
So, when in confusion about getting your first bike rack then hitch mounted racks are our top suggestion for you.
Warning: Make sure you choose something that swings away if you want to operate the hatch or back door of your car even when bikes are racked up
Also, be extra aware about parking to avoid crash, because the back length of your car is going to significantly increase.
2 – Strap on trunk mount bike rack
Trunk-mounted bike racks are these versatile carriers that attach to the rear of your vehicle without the need for a trailer hitch or roof rails.
Typically, trunk-mounted racks are designed to fit almost any vehicle, whether you drive a tiny hatchback or a full-size SUV.
Remember that trunk bike racks might be damaged or broken when overloaded. So, if you want to take more than four bikes then look for a roof rack or a hitch rack rather than a trunk rack.
On another note, trunk bike racks tend to be a lot more inexpensive than the other types. So, if you are someone who is very much into occasional hikes then and now and want something that is highly portable then do check out trunk racks.
But don’t forget that if your trunk rack conceals your number plate then you might just end up with a fine ticket on your hand.
3 – Spare Tire Racks
A lot of the SUVs now have a spare tire on the rear deck. For that reason, you can get spare tire racks that are strapped on the tire by weighing your tire down.
Spare tire bike racks are pretty similar to the trunk ones, except with some models, you get the option to use your rear door while the bikes are hanging. These are very cost-efficient, and you can move around with them easily.
One of the drawbacks of using spare racks is that you have to remove tire covers. Also, there are some security concerns, and sometimes bikes get pretty swingy on bumpy roads.
There are also chances of the rearview mirror getting blocked depending on the bicycle size.
Apart from that, we think spare tire racks are a valuable product given the price.
4 – Roof Racks for bikes
Roof racks are devices that let you carry your bike on top of your vehicles. It is also a multipurpose carrier that will not only just transport bikes but also other baggage and boxes in your car. Mostly these roof racks are installed horizontally on the rooftop of your car.
And if you have an SUV, then roof racks would increase to the height of the roof, which is already high on most SUVs.
An inconvenience most people wouldn’t consider ending up in when they are on vacation in an unknown and unfamiliar place. A lot of roads and bridges have certain height restrictions, so find that out before taking your roof rack.
One downside of roof racks that seems worth mentioning is that they are a bit less secure than the other types of bike racks.
This risk might be pretty big to take for those that don’t want any kind of damage to their SUVs. Not only damage, but you can also end in concerning accidents when you don’t tightly fix your bike on the carrier.
But, if you are riding solo and want to go in style then go for a roof-mounted rack that fits your bike very smoothly with the SUV you are driving.
5 Best Hitch-mounted Bike Rack for SUV
1 – Allen Sports 4 Bike Hitch Racks : Best value for money 4 bike hitch rack for SUV
The 2-inch hitch perfectly fits with the receiver of an SUV. It takes only a few minutes to set the 3 bolts of the hitch rack and you’re ready to go. A no-wobble bolt is there to keep the rack steady and joined with the hitch so that the bikes are fully secured.
Top features:
The folding carry arms are the most impressive feature for the Allen deluxe hitch bike racks. You can easily fold them down and keep the rack mounted even when you are not carrying bikes. This makes it easier if you feel lazy about setting the rack again and again. Just leave it as it is.
Tiltable mast is another impressive feature that you can tilt the mast backward for more convenient use of the back door of your SUV. It’s a feature we took help from very often.
A stunning feature would be the lifetime limited warranty the company offers.
Who is it for:
This is for those that are looking for a valuable product that will give them a good time in the long run and won’t empty down your pockets. This is the best value for money hitch bike rack you can get for your SUV according to our test results.
Personal take:
The built quality on this rack is amazing and given how much of a good product you are getting in this price range then you won’t complain much. This is simply one of the best we have used and tried. But, the bike tends to rattle a bit when you are driving. Besides, some of the materials like the rubber grips, could have been better. But, for the price, we couldn’t complain.
Why We Like It
- Convenient and reliable.
- It can transport up to 4 bikes
- Folding arms offer compact storage and user convenience
- High level security and safety.
- Perfect fit for SUV hitch
- Comes from a renowned brand.
Keep Note
- Bikes may swing if you don’t tie them up properly with external rope
2 – YAKIMA FullSwing Hitch Mount Bike Rack: Best Swing away hitch bike rack for SUV
This hefty rack comes in swing-away design for times when you want to access the trunk even when you have loaded bikes. Except for the Dr. Tray rack you would need a 2 inch hitch receiver to install the rack. The Dr. Tray one requires 1-¼ inches of hitch receiver.
This bike rack can easily fit bikes that have the traditional geometry. But the HoldUp Evo and Dr. Trays need specifically sized tires that they can fit in. There’s also a budget-friendly version of this, the Yakima DoubleDown which is almost as good as this one.
Top features:
The best feature of the Yakima hitch mount bike is that it can swing away from the back of your car so that you can easily access the trunk. This is an impressive feature as many bike racks sit on the face of the trunk and block the way.
Once put on the rack, your bikes get fully-fledged protection. The fully padded arms with zip straps including locks for both the bike and racks offer full safety and protection. The same key lock system guarantees security for your beloved bike.
More to that, the bike rack is very easy to install and takes only a brief moment to set it up because of the autopin click system by Yakima.
Who is it for:
For those who want a premium bike rack with tons of features packed into it. Easy installation, 4 bike rack, and 5 bike rack version, integrated lock, padded arms, swing away mechanism, and more. Compared to the allen sports, this one has much superior built in every aspect.
Personal take:
It’s all great that it true, but the weight of the rack makes it not so easy to work with it. We needed two person to handle it. If you are someone with huge muscles, maybe you’ll take care of it by yourself.
Besides, it felt like that we were putting stress on the rack when we fully loaded it. Nonetheless, the pricing of this rack is something that really sells the product along with the features that actually are useful in a bike rack.
Why We Like It
- Fully swing able rack offers access to the trunk
- Ample protection and safety for the bikes
- Anti-theft mechanism
- It can transport up to 4 bikes
- Super Easy to install
Keep Note
- This thing weighs 56 lbs so you really need to be careful while handling it.
3 – Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack : Best 2-bike hitch rack for SUV
The metal steel body looks attractive and it’s very sturdy. It can simultaneously transport two of your bikes of 35 lbs weight. The solid built rack ensures full safety for your bikes. It secures both the bike’s frame and tires so that the bike is strongly joined with the rack.
A versatile 1.25” – 2” hitch receiver offers you to attach the rack to different vehicles. Moreover, an inbuilt anti-wobble hitch device adds more to the safety of your bikes.
Top features:
Some of the top features that caught our attention are- the upright ratchet arms sets with any size of bikes, the foldable center arms offer access to the trunk, and also consume less storage space.
Who is it for:
If you’re looking for a mid-range rack that is simple but brings out the technician in you while you try to assemble it, then this is an amazing choice.
Personal take:
Overall, this is a good portable bike rack but unfortunately, you have to add in wheel straps to secure the bike with the racks. Other than that, the bike rack is pretty good for short trips and when you need to carry a bike or two urgently.
Why We Like It
- Highly durable, sturdy, and strong
- Looks attractive and well designed
- Offers to transport 2 bikes
- Demands less space when not in use
Keep Note
- While mounted with bikes, the rack may block the view of the rear mirror for sedans.
4 –Kuat Sherpa 2.0 “Best Overall bike rack for SUV”
The fully aluminium built body is lightweight and sturdy. The low bodyweight makes it easy and comfortable to install in your vehicle. The 1.25” and 2” hitch size offers room for versatile use. There’s a knob on the front middle part of the rack tray. It tightens the hitch receiver and eliminates any sort of wobbling.
Top features:
This Kuat bike rack has a smart feature that allows you to tilt down the rack and access the trunk area. You can release the lever with your hands or you can also use your foot to deploy the lever.
Kuat Sherpa 2.0 offers extra security with its cable lock system. The cable locks down the standing bikes with the rack’s body through a whole. The SKS (same key system) makes it more convenient and easy to use.
Who is it for:
The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is a premium product but you actually pay for the unique features of this rack. So, if you’re looking for an excellent and don’t care about the price then this is hands down the best.
Personal take:
This product really stays up to the claim we are making about being premium. You not only are getting the chic outlook but also top-notch built quality.
Why We Like It
- Lightweight aluminum built body
- Versatile hitch size
- Looks aesthetically pleasing and expensive
- Impressive security and protection for the bikes
- Easy to install and convenient to use
Keep Note
- Expensive expensive expensive! Nothing else.
5 –Thule T2 Pro XT : “Best Hitch mounted bike rack for SUV”
The tool-free Auto attach system connects the hitch to the receiver with one go and sets it in place automatically. An anti-wobble knob under the rack tightens the hitch and eliminates vertical or horizontal wobble.
Top features:
The foldable ratchet arms shrink the size when unloaded. These arms also secure the front tire of the bike and hold the cycle steadily. A 24” lock with the same key system secures the bike frame with the rack. The rear tire is safely locked with the bike using durable straps.
You can tilt the rack downwards even when It’s loaded. The lever situated below the rack makes it easy to tilt down the rack and get access to the trunk.
Who is it for:
Best choice for the fat-tire bike owners as the stands are spaced with ample room. You can put in two bikes without worrying about them clasping together.
Personal take:
To be honest, there are other options that have almost the same feature if not more but costs a lot less than this. But the brand will ensure you that you’re not getting a brittle or unstable rack.
Why We Like It
- Easy and straightforward installation
- The foldability makes it compact
- Ratcheting arms sturdily locks down the front and tight straps secure the rear tire
- The rack tilts downwards and offers ample room for the trunk to open
- It can safely carry 2 bikes with enough space in between.
- Option for 4 cycles is available as well.
- Inbuilt 24” cable lock secures the bike with the ratchet arm.
Keep Note
- High price
- The cable lock length may not be sufficient for fat tires
Reading suggestions: Best Bike Rack For Hyundai Tucson
5 Best Strap On Trunk Bike Rack for SUV Reviews
1 – Tyger Auto Bike Trunk Rack : “Best Strap on bike rack for SUV”
Your bike frame is secured with soft cradles and ratchet buckles. High quality black E-coating prevents rust build-up also protects your car paint. The rack can be folded and shrink in size when not in use.
Top features:
First thing we would say is that this bike comes in fully assembled. So, you don’t have to bring out your toolbox and be a mechanic. For security purposes, this thing comes with an extra safety strap to attach your bikes properly.
A stunning feature would be the rust resistance so you don’t have to worry even when the weather is not on your side.
A long red extra strap is provided to add more safety to the bike and hold it together with the rack.
Who is it for:
If your car doesn’t have a rear spoiler then you can’t get a better choice than this rack.
Personal take:
For those that are searching up for an all-rounder rack that barely has any negative side, then you can’t get a better rack than this we bet!
Why We Like It
- Very easy and convenient to set up and remove
- Added protection and safety for both the bike and car paint
- Fits perfectly with most Sedans, SUVs, Hatchback, and Minivans
- Highly durable, sturdy, and steady
- It can be folded and take less space when not in use.
Keep Note
- Won’t fit if your car has a spoiler on the back.
2 – Allen Deluxe Trunk Rack “Best Budget bike rack for SUV”
The rack is powered with a separate tie-down system for each bike. Basically, a durable strap ties down the bike frame and secures it with the rack.
Top features:
Any sort of lateral movement is eliminated using straps on both sides. The straps go inward of the trunk and set the rack frame in position. The bicycles are kept at a safe distance from the trunk by using the middle frame of the rack. It protects both the cycle and car from hitting each other.
It can carry two bikes without any difficulty. Be it traditional cycle, woman’s cycle, or kids cycle, this rack can carry it all.
Allen Sports trunk bike rack fits Sedans, Hatchbacks, SUVs, and Minivans.
Who is it for:
It is an amazing trunk bike rack choice for any passionate cyclist, especially for those who have a tight budget.
Personal take:
The price tag on this thing is super affordable and you actually get wide profile feet to distribute the bike load equally.
Why We Like It
- Easy to set up.
- Fits with Sedans, Hatchbacks, SUVs, and Minivans.
- Individual tie-down safety system for each bike
- Side straps cancel lateral movement and perfectly set the rack in place
- It has a very reasonable price.
Keep Note
- Lacks ample security.
3 – Saris Bones Car Trunk Bike Rack : “Best 2-bike rack for SUV no hitch”
The unique arc design of the rack captivated most cyclists. However, it’s not only an eye-catching complement to your car but also a very useful tool to transport your bike.
The rack sets perfectly with the trunk using 3 strap hooks on the upper, lower, and side panel gaps of your vehicle. The hooks are coated in vinyl to protect your car paint.
The strongly built arc design arm increases the gap area between two bikes and keeps them at a safe distance.
Top features:
Saris bones rack offers to carry two bikes of 35 lbs/bike. However, the rack has another variant called Saris Bones EX that can carry up to 3 bikes. For attachment straps, these Saris racks have spring buckle straps that are of the ratchet type. You can fold the arms down and you even get a dedicated anti-sway feature.
Who is it for:
For those that trust the Saris brand and are well aware of their legacy in building a well-structured rack.
Personal take:
There’s no doubt that the Saris bones bike rack is an impressive product. However, there are two downsides to this rack. First, the rack blocks access to the trunk. Well, it’s the case for most trunk racks. They don’t allow access to the trunk. Second, the rack is not locked with your vehicle. So, there’s a possibility of theft if your car is parked in an unsafe area.
Why We Like It
- An unique design adds to the look of your vehicle
- It can carry up to three heavy bikes.
- Vinyl coater strap hooks are safe to use.
- The arc design offers more room to set each bike.
Keep Note
- Not the best feeling while changing and adjusting the bikes
4 –Hollywood Racks Over-The-Top Trunk Mounted Bike Rack “Best bike rack for SUV with spoiler”
Steel made sturdy body is assisted with black powder coating to make it long lasting and extra durable. The upper frame of the rack goes over the spoiler to hook the rack with the car. The other two hook straps go to the hatch, trunk and roof of the car. The hooks are made out of rubber so they don’t hamper your car.
Top features:
The cradles are made out of anti sway and durable rubber straps that secure the bike with the rack. Foam finish on the rack offers protection to your bike’s frame.
You can rotate and slide the arms to fit your bike in a safe position. The folding arms offer impressive support to the bikes and demand less space when not in use. Their over-the-top bike rack’s high rise feature brings something new to the table for people who are using spoilers on their SUV, Hatchbacks, and minivans.
Who is it for:
If you have a spoiler attached to your car, this might be the best trunk rack option for you.
Personal take:
An amazing 3-bike trunk rack in the price range that it is and Hollywood had tried to do something out of the box for their bike rack, and it’s good to say that they’ve been successful at it with this.
Why We Like It
- High rise feature allows the rack to fit with spoiler attached vehicle
- It can carry up to 3 heavy bikes
- The body is highly durable and long lasting
- Anti sway cradles
- Rubber hooks are safe for your car paint
- Foldable arms demand less space
Keep Note
- Adding more bikes than the capacity might not be handled well by the bike.
5 –Thule Gateway Pro Bike Rack “Best Trunk bike rack for SUV”
There is a 7” gap between each bike that prevents them from crashing and damaging the frame. Oversized molded pads on the rack protect the car paint from getting scratched. The 6 – strap tightening system ensures safety and reliability. Inherent FitDial with Quick-Fit lever offers you to perfectly adjust your bike to the rack.
Top features:
Theanti-sway cradles hold the bike tightly and resist friction between two bikes. Integrated cable lock system bolts down each bike with the rack and eliminates chances of theft. The fold down feature offers you compact storage when the rack is not in use.
Who is it for:
If you’re looking for durability, security, and protection, Thule Gateway Pro would be on top of the list.
Personal take:
Thule is a renowned and admirable brand in the cycling world. They have been serving passionate cyclists for a long time. Their products are reliable and worth the money. We don’t think Thule missed integrating any protective feature with this trunk bike rack.
Why We Like It
- Belongs to a renowned and reliable brand
- High level of safety and security
- Anti-sway cradles promises to protect the bike frame
- 6 straps tightening system locks the rack with the trunk
- It can hold up to 70 lbs of weight
- Cable lock system bolts down the bikes with the rack
- Enlarged molded pads protect your car paint.
Keep Note
- Doesn’t have an integrated lock system.
5 Best Spare Tire Bike Racks For SUV Reviews
1 – Yakima SpareRide Bike Rack “Best Spare tire bike rack for SUV”
Yakima bike rack is a pretty hefty product, weighing about 29 pounds, so it comes with ZipStrip cradles to ensure that your bike rack is safely locked up after installation. This sleek Yakima bike rack comes with quite a few components that help you DIY the rack all by yourself. If you’re worried about whether you can fit this rack on your tire or not, let me tell you that Yakima has proved its legacy once again by providing three different mount bracket sizes.
Top features:
You get a locking bike cable with it where SKS technology is pre-installed.Using the Allen key that comes with this bike rack, you can swap out the mounting tongue installed on the mounting plate and replace it with the one that suits your car.
The locking system lets you secure the rack with keys, so the knob moves around freely, and you can be carefree about your rack getting stolen. There’s also anti-swaying technology that makes sure your bike isn’t moving around or crashing when you’re traveling on rough terrains with two bikes.
Who is it for:
The three mounting tongues will accommodate most tires that you find on SUVs, including those bulky, oversized Jeep Wrangler tires. So, if you’ve got those big tires on your SUVs back then this is for you.
Personal take:
Overall, a solid, sturdy rack that guarantees not only the safety of your bike but also the bike rack.
Why We Like It
- Foldable arms
- Comes with removable ZipStrips cradle
- Can be installed in half an hour
- Reasonably priced.
Keep Note
- Doesn’t support full-suspension bikes.
2 – Hollywood SR1 “Best Portable bike rack for SUV”
Weighing a bit more than 20 pounds, the SR1 can be installed quickly as it already comes pre-assembled. To install the Hollywood SR1, you don’t need to take out your back camera or the tire. The rack can be installed directly on the spare tire.
Top features:
This stylish SR1 can accommodate two bikes easily because of the dual arms that position the bikes right at the center. Another best part about this rack is how you can fold the arms when you’re not carrying any bike.
The clamps and padded arms are also of very high quality that ensures your bikes will stay in place while you are on the go.
Although the incorporated straps are enough to secure the bike in place, you might need to use an adapter for heavier mountain bikes or alternative bike frames. Slipping a top tube adapter will let you bikes that don’t have a top bar, especially a women’s bike.
Who is it for:
The Hollywood SR1 is the perfect choice for those that want to carry two bikes without making their SUVs look unappealing.
Personal take:
Other than the fact that this lacks a locking system which raises security concerns, this rack can be an easy-to-use rack for the occasional vacationers. But you can also check out our next product if you have heavier bikes and want something more versatile.
Why We Like It
- Easy installation
- Adjustable arms for central positioning
- Dual arms for extra support
- Cradles are soft yet secured.
Keep Note
- Carrying capacity isn’t sufficient
- There is no locking feature integrated.
3 – Allen Sports Deluxe 2 “Best Lightweight bike rack for SUV”
The Allen Sports Deluxe will let you carry two bikes but you can also go for up to 4 bikes, where you will have to alternately place the bikes. We prefer you go for the more capacity bikes so that they have a good gap in-between that will keep all the bikes unscratched.
Top features:
If you have heavier mountain bikes then this is the rack you should go for. Larger bikes are easier to carry on this rack because you can slide the larger frame horizontally along the arms. This will give more wiggle room when you stack your cycles.
Both for its low cost and user-friendliness, we strongly suggest this bike to those on a tight budget. But don’t forget to double-check that the rack is actually suitable to your vehicle.
Who is it for:
Allen Sports is our much-loved budget-friendly choice if you’ve been looking for the best quality rack that won’t bankrupt you.
Personal take:
Allen racks might not be as refined as the high-end competitors like Thule, Saris and Yakima. But we just know that you’ll be seriously impressed by the quality and functionality of their products at an insanely low price.
Why We Like It
- Super affordable
- Lightweight and compact
- Can support a range of bikes
- Great choice for short trips.
Keep Note
- Locking system isn’t very secure
- Might scratch the car when not positioned properly.
4 –Thule Spare Me “Best Heavy-duty bike rack for SUV”
The Thule SpareMe bike is the best heavy-duty bike rack in the price range that it is in. The anti-sway frames on the Stay-Put Cradles allow you to attach up to two bikes, preventing them from tilting back and forth and damaging your bike.This 75-pound carrying hanging bike rack can be used on both standard and bulky wheels, such as those seen on a Jeep.
Top features:
The thin metal covers are removable and can be used to protect this in one of 3 locations. Since our spare tire has been aligned with the car, we’ll be using the centered mounting process.
Two straps are included with the Spare Me spare tire bike rack. These nylon clips also help attach the bike and bike rack to the vehicle. The short straps are used to secure the bike by wrapping it across the bike and the bike rack. The long strap is used to lock the bike rack around the spare tire more tightly.
Who is it for:
If you are looking for the best heavy-duty bike rack out in the market then this is the one to go for.
Personal take:
In this bike, you get an integrated lock that comes with a master key. This ensures that you don’t have to worry about losing your much-anticipated bike on a mere vacation. So, we think it’s great for hardcore weekend lovers.
Why We Like It
- Anti-sway technology
- Locking system is already incorporated
- Uses a bolt system to mount
- Supports both regular and oversized tires.
Keep Note
- Cannot load ladies’ bikes directly on the rack
5 –Hollywood Racks Bolt-on : “Best bike rack for SUV without hitch”
The simplicity of this rack shows very well in its aesthetic design and architecture. As it is a bolt-on rack, you can bolt it straight through your tire using the included universal adaptor made to fit most lugs. As this carrier comes almost fully assembled, you don’t have to spend your precious time building the whole thing. You can just arrange all the pieces and you are good to go.
Top features:
The rack has tiny rubber hooks that rest against your vehicle’s spare tire. This ensures that neither your car nor your tire suffers any impact. Since the rack is angled far from the spare tire, your bikes will not collide with your vehicle.
You get the same old folding feature on the arms but the interesting part is that you get to adjust them too. So, you can use it on any kind of vehicle and not just SUVs.
Who is it for:
If your spare tire isn’t letting you get a trunk or hitch rack, then this might as well be the best accessory that you can adorn your tire with.
Personal take:
One turnoff that gets to most people is how this bike costs a bit more. But if you can afford a bit of luxury and want your SUV to carry that elegance well then splurge on this bike rack. We promise you won’t regret getting this.
Why We Like It
- Heavy-duty and well-made
- Low profile design giving access to tailgates
- Collapsible arms
- Comes with three extension brackets.
Keep Note
- Makes rattling noise even when bikes aren’t loaded.
5 Best Roof Bike Racks For SUV
1 – Inno Fork Lock 3 “Best Single-bike rack for SUV”
If you are bored with the typical cumbersome bike racks, we recommend checking out this tiny Fork Lock rack by Inno. You get a bomb service in such a slim, lightweight body that comes in fully assembled. You can mount in any type of bar from round to cross to a square.
Top features:
With the quick-release option, you can jump on a race with your friends anytime. And if you need to take a rest, then the anti-theft locking feature is going to be there to stop you from worrying.
The Inno Fork Lock III’s locking shield helps you to lock your bike to the rack and the rack to the crossbars. When the shield is closed, the skewer knob is concealed under it, and can’t be opened till the shield is opened. When the shield is closed, the whole front mounting still stays under the shield.
The rear strap is completely adjustable. Regardless of the type of bike we have, we can shift it all the way in or all the way out, and it can also crackdown on both sides for a good snug fit.
Who is it for:
If you’re looking for a single store rack at the cheapest price possible, then you should probably get this one.
Personal take:
Overall, it is a tiny but packed bike rack that will deliver you fully when you go for a weekend getaway once in a while from your chaotic life.
Why We Like It
- Asymmetrical modern design
- Powder coat finish
- Anti-theft system pre-installed
- Easy mounting.
Keep Note
- Only works with bikes with a disc brake.
2 – Yakima Forklift “Best Easy to assemble bike rack for SUV”
This is a great everyday use accessory that doesn’t seem to weigh your SUVs roof down. With the versatility that the ForkLift provides, you can install the rack on different vehicles without spending money on buying extra crossbars.
Top features:
It can securely hold any bike with a 9mm fast release fork, and with the addition of adapters, it can also handle other fork standards. Many kinds of crossbars are compatible with this clamp that you can attach.
Taking away the bicycle from such a locked fork brace necessitates the use of electrical appliances or a significant amount of time.
The back wheel is unlocked and therefore prone to robbery, although this is counteracted by the use of a cable lock. Whenever the rack is not being used, the quick release may be secured to the car.
Who is it for:
If you’re searching for something like a fork mount roof rack to go along with your car’s factory-installed crossbars, this is a wise option to dig into.
Personal take:
The Yakima ForkLift is a top-quality roof rack that stands out from the competition in terms of convenient usability and flexibility. But you might need to purchase adapters to fit with several modern bikes.
Why We Like It
- Shows versatility well
- Any crossbar can be clamped
- Super easy assembly
- Comes at an affordable price.
Keep Note
- Adapter is needed for alternative bike frames.
3 – Thule Upride “Best Electric bike rack for SUV”
The Thule UpRide is a roof-mounted bike carrier that just carries the tires of a bicycle. Since there is no chance of crushing damage or scratching paintwork, this type of rack is suitable for carrying bikes with carbon frameworks or external cords.
The UpRide tends to be a complicated bike rack on the first glimpse. The front-wheel mount is highly distinctive, and there seems to be a lot of stuff going on out there.
Top features:
The UpRide, like every other roof rack, allows the rider to raise their bike to a level of the roof in order to load it, so it would be best for SUVs with low roof height and lightweight bikes.
There are some security features on the UpRide, but you’ll need to buy a package of lock cores to use those. A locking cable runs from the back of the tray on the shelf.
While this cord provides a layer of protection, it would be reasonably easy for an experienced thief to cut through it, so it acts more as an impediment.
Who is it for:
If a perfect choice for users with smaller vehicles and lightweight bicycles.
Personal take:
Even though the Thule Upride is hella pricey, the sturdy structure and frame will ensure you longevity of the rack and safety of the bike while it is loaded.
Why We Like It
- No frame contact
- Bike mounts can be flipped on both sides
- No fork contact
- Pretty good security system.
Keep Note
- Creaks because of the flexible construction
- Pricey if compared to the other racks.
4 –Yakima Frontloader “Best Roof-mounted bike rack for SUV”
The Yakima FrontLoader is a roof bike rack that does not include the removal of the main wheel. It grips bikes similarly to most hitch mount bike racks, but only collides with the wheels and tires of the bike, shielding your valuable trip from injury. Its structure enables it to carry almost any bike, regardless of axle size.
Top features:
The FrontLoader just keeps the bike in place by its tires. The front tire is wedged by a two-part belt, which holds the bike straight. For enhanced protection, the back wheel is strapped in position.
This rack type has the advantage of being able to hold any bike, regardless of material, frame structure, axle style, or intricate paintwork.
If the rack isn’t in action, the back wheel bracket makes creaking noises when you start and stop the vehicle.
Who is it for:
For those that are into collecting luxurious products along with the robust build quality.
Personal take:
Overall, we would say that this might not be the best product from Yakima but it surely worth giving a try because of the price range within just 200 dollars. To avoid theft, we suggest detaching the wheel tray while not in service, which is simple to do with the retention clip that doesn’t require any tool.
Why We Like It
- Installation is easy
- Fits with any crossbars easily
- Not compatible with mountain bikes.
- There’s no locking system integrated.
Keep Note
- Doesn’t support electric bikes.
5 –Swagman Standard : “Best Value for money bike rack for SUV”
The Swagman Roof Rack can hold only one bicycle. The rear wheels are protected using the included tie-down straps. For shorter riders, particularly those riding heavy bikes, this rack can be difficult to use. The loading method necessitates the use of two hands: one to keep the bike upright and the other to tighten the knob.
Top features:
The Swagman has an amazing tilt mechanism that can be reached from the back of the rack, but the show-stopper is the arm that articulates out and away from the back doors, bringing both the bikes and the rack out of the range of the doors.
With a weight limit of 60 pounds per bike and wheel cradles that can accommodate a wide variety of bikes and tires up to 5-inches wide, this rack is really great.
Who is it for:
For the great value product hunters, this is an absolute top-notch choice without any doubt.
Personal take:
This rack is very versatile and even though it is the last product is definitely not the least in terms of stability, sturdiness, and an integrated locking system. You get the exact features that you are paying for. Once you figure out the installation process, we are sure that you will be able to enjoy this top contender for the best roof rack.
Why We Like It
- Can fit any kind of crossbar
- Quick-release and tie-down straps for the bride
- Assembly without any tool.
Keep Note
- Unclear assembly instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to carry a bike on an SUV?
The best way to carry a bike on an SUV is to use bike racks. Bike racks come in 4 different shapes and sizes. However, using a hitch bike rack is optimal to transport your bike on an SUV.
The hitch bike rack is easy and fast to install in an SUV and It also ensures protection and safety for your bikes.
What should I look for in a bike rack for an SUV?
Here are the main things you should look for in a hike bike rack for SUV:
- Does it fit your SUV model
- Number of bike carrying capacity
- Weight capacity
- Integrated lock
- Anti-sway protection.
Which is the best bike rack for SUVs?
In our opinion, the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is the best bike rack for SUV because of how well built and valuable it is. Not only does it look good, but it also comes with the best features you can get on a bike rack. Starting from a built-in locking system to versatility and easy installation, the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 won’t disappoint you at all.
Will a bike rack damage my car?
Bike racks would not damage your car if you handle them carefully. A bike rack is usually made of steel/metal and may have sharp edges. That’s why it has the potential to damage the car paint. However, the chance is low if you stay careful while using it.
Is it legal to drive with a bike rack?
It’s legal to drive with a bike rack attached to your car. However, there’s a catch. The rack is not allowed to hide or obstruct the view of your license plate. Although many states don’t mind this issue that much but few states are very strict with it.
Which one to buy: Kuat Sherpa 2.0 vs Kuat NV 2.0?
The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 and the Kuat NV 2.0 are both extremely good quality products. The NV 2.0 version comes with a wheel cradle for big-tired bikes which is why it weighs a bit more than the Kuat Sherpa 2.0,
Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is the one you should go for because of the price point and efficiency unless your bike has big wheels that need more foundation to rely on, then go for the Kuat NV 2.0.
What is the easiest bike rack to use?
Thule T2 Pro XT is the easiest bike rack to use. The rack is powered with a tool-free auto attach system that automatically sets the rack with the vehicle. All you need to do is lift the rack with your hands and connect it to the hitch.
How expensive or what is the price of a bike rack?
Bike rack prices start from $30 and go up to $700. We advise cyclists to invest somewhere from $60-250 on a bike rack. A bike rack is definitely a worthy long term investment. Trust us, you don’t want to save a few bucks and be paranoid carrying your favorite bicycle on a cheap low quality bike rack.
Are bike racks safe?
Bike racks are definitely safe to use. Every day thousands of cyclists use bike racks to transport their bikes from one place to another. It’s a very useful tool to have in your garage. However, you can not expect the best service from a cheap, low-quality bike rack. You don’t have to worry about safety and security if you put your money on a high-quality bike rack.
Final Words
A bike rack is a long-term investment, so don’t hesitate to put in some extra cash on it. Make sure to check if the rack would fit your vehicle prior to making the payment as that will complete your process of getting the best bike rack for SUV.
Another important suggestion that’s worth repeating is that don’t try to overload your bike by using all the bike slots. Try to leave at least one bike slot free so that there’s enough room between the bikes.
Lastly, the only thing that’s left is for you to do is to get a bike, and if you’re still in confusion about what bike you want to go for then, go for the Kuat Sherpa 2.0. This checks out all the boxes that you would consider while buying your first rack.
