Choosing the right bike hitch carrier for your car is crucial for safely and conveniently transporting your bicycles. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend adventure, a trail ride, or simply need to bring your bike along, a reliable hitch rack is an essential accessory. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the world of bike hitch carriers, focusing on tray-style models, and helps you navigate the options to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Tray-Style Hitch Racks: An Overview
Tray-style hitch racks are a popular choice for cyclists due to their ease of use and stability. These racks secure bikes by their wheels, minimizing frame contact and making them suitable for a wide range of bike types, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and even e-bikes. Let’s explore some of the tray-style hitch rack models available, drawing insights from expert reviews.
Tray-Style Hitch Racks for Two to Four Bikes
For carrying multiple bikes, tray-style hitch racks offer a robust and user-friendly solution. Several models stand out in the market, each with its own set of features and benefits.
The Hollywood Racks Destination E-Bike Rack for Electric Bikes is presented as a more affordable option, especially for e-bikes.
Alt text: Hollywood Racks Destination E-Bike hitch carrier folded flat on a car, ready to transport electric bikes.
While it has the advantage of folding flat when not in use and includes a ramp for easier loading of heavier e-bikes, the review points out its drawbacks. Loading, unloading, and tilting this rack can be cumbersome, requiring multiple steps. Additionally, it needs more assembly compared to some competitors. For users willing to invest more in convenience and ease of use, the review suggests the Thule Epos as a superior alternative.
The Küat NV 2.0 is highlighted as a larger version of the Küat Sherpa 2.0, expandable to carry up to four bikes with an additional accessory.
Alt text: Kuat NV 2.0 tray-style bike hitch carrier showcasing its integrated work stand feature for bike maintenance on the go.
A notable feature of the NV 2.0 is its integrated work stand, a handy addition for on-the-go bike maintenance. However, it’s also noted to be heavier and more expensive than the Sherpa 2.0. The Küat NV Base 2.0, essentially the NV 2.0 without the work stand, offers a slightly lighter and less expensive option, but the review still favors the Sherpa 2.0 as a better overall value.
The Thule T2 Pro XT, now succeeded by the T2 Pro XTR, is mentioned as a heavier and pricier option in the non-motorized tray-style category. The newer T2 Pro XTR includes wheels for easier maneuverability, addressing some of the weight concerns, but it remains a heavy and expensive choice.
Alt text: Thule T2 Pro XTR bike hitch carrier mounted on a vehicle, demonstrating its robust tray design for secure bike transport.
Customer surveys cited in the original article indicate high ratings for the 1UP USA 2″ Heavy Duty Double. However, usability issues are noted, such as the clamping arm requiring two hands to operate, which can be inconvenient when loading or unloading bikes. The tilt release handle is also described as less accessible. 1UP USA also offers the Equip-D model in single and two-bike versions, but without significant advantages over the Heavy Duty Double.
The Yakima HoldUp EVO is compared to the Küat Sherpa 2.0, being heavier and perceived as less refined in its engineering. Reviewers noted more bike wobble and a less accessible tilt lever.
Alt text: Yakima HoldUp EVO bike hitch carrier highlighting its secure wheel cradles and robust construction for safe bike transportation.
The RockyMounts SplitRail LS is criticized for its challenging car mounting process, requiring a wrench for tightening. Its wide profile is also mentioned as unwieldy, and the included locks are described as short, potentially limiting their reach on bike frames.
The Küat Transfer v2 2-Bike, positioned as a more budget-friendly alternative to the Sherpa 2.0, is noted to be heavier, less user-friendly in installation, requiring more assembly, and lacking included locks. It’s also important to note the recall issued for certain batches of the Transfer v2 in June 2024 due to a potential pivot cam issue that could lead to bikes falling off. It is crucial to check for recalls before purchasing any bike rack, ensuring safe and reliable transport.
The Thule T2 Classic, an older iteration of the T2 Pro XT, is described as lacking features like a hitch receiver knob and the convenient pull-handle tilting system found in the Pro XT and SuperClamp EX. Heavier than comparable hitch racks and without bike locks included, it may not be the most compelling option in the current market.
While the four-bike Saris SuperClamp EX excels in the four-bike category, its two-bike version is considered less impressive. The thinner mounting bar is cited as contributing to more rack sway compared to other two-bike tray racks, which are generally more stable.
The Yakima HoldUp encountered issues with stripped threads on the hitch receiver bolt during testing. Additionally, despite its tilt-down feature, it didn’t provide sufficient clearance for opening the rear door of a Toyota 4Runner completely, as the handlebars interfered.
Finally, the RockyMounts BackStage, with its swing-away and tilt-down functionality for cargo access, is noted for its significant weight, being heavier than the top pick in the category.
Tray-Style Hitch Racks for Single Bikes
For solo riders or those needing a rack for a single bike, tray-style options are also available. The Küat Transfer v2 1-Bike was previously recommended for solo use and for RV or trailer compatibility. However, like its two-bike counterpart, it was also subject to the June 2024 recall.
The 1UP USA Quik Rack Single stands out for requiring no assembly.
Alt text: 1UP USA Quik Rack Single bike carrier showcasing its minimalist design and robust bike securing mechanism.
However, it’s noted to be less user-friendly than the Küat Transfer due to wheel hoops requiring two hands to operate, making bike loading and unloading slightly more challenging when managing the bike simultaneously.
The RockyMounts MonoRail Solo received negative feedback due to a safety concern with its tilt release handle. Testers reported the handle snapping back and pinching fingers, posing a potential injury risk. Safety and ease of use are paramount when choosing a bike hitch carrier, and such design flaws can be significant drawbacks.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Tray-Style Bike Hitch Carrier
Selecting the best bike hitch carrier depends on individual needs and priorities. Tray-style racks offer numerous advantages, including ease of loading, bike stability, and minimal frame contact. When considering models, factors such as ease of use, weight, features like integrated work stands or ramps, and of course, safety and reliability are crucial. Always check for product recalls and read recent reviews before making a purchase to ensure you choose a bike hitch carrier that will safely and conveniently transport your bikes for years to come. Investing in a quality bike hitch carrier enhances your cycling experience, making it easier to explore new trails and destinations with your bikes in tow.
