Dreaming of hitting the open road with your trusty bicycle, but stuck wondering how to get it there without breaking the bank? You’re not alone! Many cyclists face the challenge of finding an affordable way to transport their bikes. It can feel overwhelming sifting through endless lists of bike racks, each promising the best deal. You want something that works, but you also don’t want to spend a fortune.
Choosing a cheap bike rack shouldn’t be a guessing game. You need to know what makes a good rack, even when the price tag is small. This post is here to help you navigate those choices. We’ll uncover some fantastic, budget-friendly options that will get your bike from point A to point B safely and securely. Get ready to discover the best value for your money and finally plan those bike adventures you’ve been looking forward to!
Our Top 5 Cheap Bike Rack For Car Recommendations at a Glance
| Image | Product | Rating | Links |
|---|---|---|---|
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Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | 9.0/10 | Check Price |
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Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
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MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack For Cars | 8.9/10 | Check Price |
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DOONARCES Car Bicycle Rack 3-Bike | 8.8/10 | Check Price |
Top 5 Cheap Bike Rack For Car Detailed Reviews
1. Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Rating: 9.0/10
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DN-R, Black is a fantastic way to carry your bikes. It attaches easily to the trunk of most cars. This rack lets you bring your bikes on trips or to your favorite trails without a hassle. It’s built to hold two bikes securely, so you can travel with a friend or family member.
What We Like:
- It’s super easy to put on and take off your car.
- The rack is made from strong materials, so it will last a long time.
- It doesn’t cost a lot of money, making it a great value.
- The padded arms protect your bike frames from scratches.
- It folds up pretty small for easy storage when you’re not using it.
What Could Be Improved:
- It might not fit on every single car model perfectly.
- For very heavy bikes, it could feel a little less sturdy.
- The straps that hold the bikes could be a bit longer for some bike types.
Overall, the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a solid choice for most people who want to transport their bikes. It’s a reliable and affordable option for your biking adventures.
2. Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Rating: 9.2/10
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model ZN102, Black is a fantastic way to transport your bikes without needing a roof rack. It’s designed to fit many different cars, making it a versatile choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Setting it up is quick and easy, so you can spend more time riding and less time fiddling with gear.
What We Like:
- It has a patented design that fits many cars like sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs.
- Side straps add extra stability, keeping your bikes secure.
- The simple, single-configuration design means no complicated setup.
- Individual tie-downs protect your bikes and keep them from moving.
- A padded lower frame keeps your bikes from scratching your car.
- It comes fully assembled and installs in just seconds.
- The 12-inch long and 11.5-inch wide carry arms fit many different bike types easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s important to check the manufacturer’s website to make sure it fits your specific vehicle before buying.
This rack makes bike transportation simple and secure. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to easily take their bikes on adventures.
3. Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Rating: 8.8/10
The Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model MT2-B is a fantastic solution for anyone who needs to transport their bikes easily and safely. Its super small folded size makes it a breeze to store and carry, perfect for quick trips to the trail or for your daily commute. You can trust that your bikes will be held securely thanks to the individual tie-downs, and the padded frame keeps your car’s paint looking its best.
What We Like:
- The ultra-compact folded design is the smallest on the market, making it incredibly easy to store.
- It’s a great choice for both travel and daily commuting.
- Safe and secure individual tie-downs protect each bicycle.
- The padded lower frame prevents your bicycles from scratching your vehicle.
- The patent-pending design fits a wide variety of vehicles, including sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it fits many vehicles, some users might find the adjustment process takes a bit of practice.
- For very heavy or specialized bikes, users might want to double-check weight limits.
This rack offers impressive versatility and convenience for transporting your bikes. It’s a smart pick for making your cycling adventures more accessible.
4. MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack For Cars
Rating: 9.2/10
Hit the road with your bikes using the MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2 Bike Rack. This rack is built tough to carry up to two bikes on your car, truck, SUV, or minivan. It fits most hitches, so you can easily take your bikes on your next adventure.
What We Like:
- It fits both 1-1/4″ and 2″ hitch receivers, making it super versatile for different vehicles.
- The rubber cradles and buckle straps hold your bikes firmly in place, so they won’t bounce around.
- A strong locking knob keeps the rack steady, reducing annoying wobbles while you drive.
- It can carry up to 100 lbs total, with a 50 lb limit for each bike, which is plenty for most bikes.
- It works with various hitch classes (I, II, III, and IV), giving you lots of options.
What Could Be Improved:
- This rack is made for bikes with a straight top bar. If your bike has a different frame, you might need an extra bar (not included).
- The pad color might be a little different than pictured.
- It’s not recommended for use on trailers or RVs because the distance from the bumper to the axle is different, which can cause extra bouncing and stress.
The MaxxHaul 50025 is a solid choice for safely transporting your bikes on many vehicles. Just be sure to check your bike frame style and vehicle type before you buy.
5. DOONARCES Car Bicycle Rack 3-Bike
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to hit the trails or head to the campsite with your bikes? The DOONARCES Car Bicycle Rack is your ticket to hassle-free bike transport. This sturdy trunk-mount rack securely holds up to three bikes, making it ideal for family adventures or trips with friends. Its smart design ensures your bikes travel safely without scratching your vehicle.
What We Like:
- Strong load capacity can carry up to 88lbs, perfect for two adult bikes and one child’s bike.
- Built with durable iron, ABS plastic, alloy, and rubber for a reliable and solid structure.
- Easy to install with groove hooks and rubber adjustment buckles; no complex tools needed.
- Folds down for compact storage when not in use.
- Universally fits most cars, sedans, and some SUVs, making it very versatile.
What Could Be Improved:
- Not suitable for sports cars, cars without beams, tuner cars, special cars, off-road vehicles, or fastbacks.
- Cannot be used on cars with large rear spoilers.
- Bicycles without a top tube (beam) cannot be properly secured.
This DOONARCES bike rack offers a robust and user-friendly solution for bringing your bicycles along on your journeys. It’s a great option for many vehicle types, just be sure to check compatibility before you buy.
Your Wallet-Friendly Guide to the Best Cheap Bike Racks for Your Car
Want to hit the trails or cruise around town with your bike but don’t want to spend a fortune on a rack? You’re in the right place! Finding a good, cheap bike rack means you can enjoy your cycling adventures without breaking the bank.
Why You Need a Bike Rack
A bike rack lets you safely and easily transport your bicycle with your car. It keeps your bike from rolling around inside your vehicle, which can cause damage. Plus, it frees up space inside your car for other gear or passengers.
Key Features to Look For
1. Bike Capacity: How Many Bikes Can It Hold?
Most cheap racks carry one or two bikes. If you usually ride solo or with a friend, a one or two-bike rack is perfect. Need to carry more? You might need to look at slightly more expensive options or consider multiple smaller racks.
2. Mounting Style: Where Does It Attach?
There are a few common ways bike racks attach to cars:
- Hitch Mount: These slide into a hitch receiver on the back of your car. They are usually very sturdy and easy to load bikes onto.
- Trunk Mount: These use straps to hook onto the trunk lid or rear of your car. They are often the cheapest and most versatile for different car types.
- Roof Mount: These attach to your car’s roof rack. They keep your bike out of the way but can be harder to load, especially for taller people or heavier bikes.
3. Ease of Use: How Simple Is It to Load?
A good rack makes loading and unloading your bike a breeze. Look for racks with simple clamping mechanisms or cradles that hold your bike securely without a lot of fuss. Some racks even tilt down, giving you easier access to your trunk.
4. Security: Will My Bike Stay Put?
Even on a budget, you want a rack that holds your bike firmly. Check for strong straps, sturdy frame holders, and a design that prevents your bike from swaying too much while you drive.
Important Materials
Most affordable bike racks are made from strong, lightweight materials. You’ll often find:
- Steel: Steel is very strong and durable. It can be a bit heavier, but it holds up well under stress.
- Aluminum: Aluminum is lighter than steel and won’t rust. It’s a great choice for keeping the rack’s weight down.
- Plastic: High-quality plastics are used for parts like cradles and straps. They need to be tough and weather-resistant.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Rack Better:
- Strong Straps: Thick, durable straps that don’t stretch easily keep your bike safe.
- Well-Designed Cradles: These are the parts that hold your bike’s frame. Good cradles prevent scratches and keep the bike from moving.
- Rust-Resistant Coating: A good coating on metal parts helps the rack last longer, especially if you ride in wet weather.
- Easy Adjustments: Racks that are easy to adjust to fit different bike sizes and car shapes are more user-friendly.
What Can Make a Rack Less Ideal:
- Flimsy Straps: Thin, stretchy straps might not hold your bike securely.
- Poorly Made Clamps: Clamps that don’t grip tightly can let your bike shift.
- Rusting Parts: If the metal isn’t protected, it can rust quickly, weakening the rack.
- Difficult Assembly: Some cheap racks can be tricky to put together.
User Experience and Use Cases
A cheap bike rack is perfect for casual cyclists, weekend warriors, or anyone who doesn’t need to transport bikes every single day. They are great for:
- Getting your bike to a local park or trail.
- Taking your bike on vacation.
- Transporting a bike for a friend.
- Commuting to a different part of town for a ride.
When choosing, think about how often you’ll use it and what kind of bikes you have. A simple trunk rack might be perfect for a basic road bike, while a hitch rack might be better for a heavier mountain bike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are cheap bike racks safe?
A: Yes, many cheap bike racks are safe if they are installed correctly and you follow the weight limits. Always double-check that your bike is secured before you drive.
Q: Will a cheap bike rack fit my car?
A: It depends on the type of rack. Trunk racks are designed to fit most cars with a trunk lid. Hitch racks need a hitch receiver. Roof racks require a roof rack system already on your car.
Q: How do I install a trunk mount bike rack?
A: Trunk racks use straps that you hook onto the edges of your trunk. You then tighten the straps to secure the rack to your car. Instructions usually come with the rack.
Q: Can I use a cheap bike rack for an electric bike?
A: Electric bikes are often heavier. Make sure the rack you choose can handle the weight of your e-bike. Some cheaper racks may not be strong enough.
Q: How do I prevent my bike from scratching the car with a rack?
A: Many racks have rubber or foam padding to protect your car. You can also use extra padding or towels where the rack might touch your car.
Q: What’s the difference between a bike rack and a bike carrier?
A: They are often used to mean the same thing – something that holds bikes on a car. Sometimes “carrier” can refer to a larger system.
Q: Do I need any special tools to install a bike rack?
A: Most trunk and hitch racks don’t require special tools. Some might need a wrench for tightening. Roof racks can sometimes need specific tools.
Q: How often should I check my bike rack?
A: It’s a good idea to check the straps and connections before each trip to make sure everything is tight and secure.
Q: Can I open my car’s trunk with a trunk mount bike rack attached?
A: Some trunk racks allow you to open the trunk partially. Others need to be removed or tilted down to access the trunk fully.
Q: Where is the best place to buy a cheap bike rack?
A: You can find good deals at online retailers, sporting goods stores, and sometimes even at big box stores.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.