For mountain bike enthusiasts and weekend adventurers, transporting bikes to trailheads efficiently and safely is paramount. While various bike racks exist, the Tailgate Pad For Bikes has emerged as a popular and practical solution, especially for pickup truck owners. These pads offer a simple yet effective way to carry multiple bikes over the tailgate of your truck, protecting both your bikes and your vehicle from damage. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of tailgate pads, reviewing some of the best options on the market and providing you with the essential knowledge to choose the perfect pad for your needs.
Best Overall Tailgate Pad
Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad
Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad for bikes showcasing its robust design
Bike Capacity: 5 (small/medium), 6 (large/extra large) | Outer Material: PVC Tarpaulin
REASONS TO BUY:
- Adjustable Handle Flap: Customize the tailgate opening for optimal handle and backup camera access.
- Lockable Security: Grommets allow you to secure the pad to your truck bed, deterring theft.
- Weatherproof Durability: PVC tarpaulin material withstands harsh weather, mud, and UV rays, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Enhanced Fit: Top edge adjustment straps conform to various tailgate shapes for a snug fit.
- Superior Bike Protection: Inner downtube bumpers and outer stanchion bumpers provide cushioned protection for your bikes during transport.
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Premium Price: It sits at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to other tailgate pads.
The Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad stands out as a top-tier option, building upon the success of its predecessor with significant upgrades. Constructed from heavy-duty PVC tarpaulin, this pad is engineered to endure the elements, resisting wear and tear from mud, dirt, and prolonged sun exposure. A standout feature is its ingeniously designed adjustable tailgate window. This allows you to fine-tune the opening to perfectly accommodate your truck’s tailgate handle and backup camera, ensuring full functionality while maintaining maximum tailgate coverage. Six strategically placed straps across the top of the pad offer further customization, allowing you to adjust the fit to match the specific contours and thickness of your tailgate.
Inside, raised bumpers are thoughtfully positioned to cradle your bike frames, minimizing movement and potential scratches. On the exterior, substantial pads provide robust protection for your fork stanchions, a crucial area for bike safety. The size S/M we tested comfortably accommodates up to 5 bikes (the L/XL size expands to 6 bikes), each secured with Velcro loops that are cleverly attached to the pad, preventing loss on windy days or during transit. For added security, large grommets are integrated into the pad, enabling you to lock it to your truck bed, providing peace of mind against theft.
The Race Face T2 excels in every critical aspect, making it the most refined and user-friendly tailgate pad we’ve evaluated. While it represents a significant investment, its exceptional quality, durable construction, and thoughtful features make it a worthwhile value for serious cyclists. If budget is a primary concern, the Fox Racing Tailgate Cover offers a more economical alternative without sacrificing essential functionality.
Tailgate pad loaded with bikes, secured and ready for transport.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Best Bang For Your Buck Tailgate Pad
Fox Racing Tailgate Cover
Fox Racing Tailgate Cover for bikes, showing its simple and functional design
Bike Capacity: 5 (small), 6 (large) | Outer Material: Coated/Padded
REASONS TO BUY:
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for money as one of the more budget-friendly options.
- Simple and Effective: No-frills design prioritizes functionality and ease of use.
- Adjustable Top-Tube Straps: Allows for secure and customizable bike fitment.
REASONS TO AVOID:
- No Bike Separation: Lacks individual bumpers to separate bikes, potentially leading to more bike-to-bike contact.
- Smaller Handle Flap: Tailgate handle access flap might be restrictive for some truck models.
- Basic Features: Minimalistic design may lack advanced features found in higher-end pads.
The Fox Racing Tailgate Cover prioritizes value, delivering reliable performance without unnecessary frills. This cover employs a traditional and straightforward feed-through buckle system with three robust straps, ensuring quick and effortless installation and removal. The small size we tested fit perfectly on a Toyota Tacoma and is well-suited for most small to mid-sized pickup trucks. The padded material is treated with a water-resistant coating, providing adequate protection against moisture and mud, making it suitable for various weather conditions. While the material may not feel as heavy-duty as some premium options, it offers sufficient durability for regular use.
Bike security is solid, with user-friendly straps that can be adjusted along a webbing loop, allowing for optimal positioning across diverse frame geometries and sizes. The tailgate handle opening, while somewhat compact, is designed to be compatible with the majority of truck models. For enhanced convenience, a Velcro patch allows users to roll up and secure the handle flap, ensuring unobstructed access to the tailgate handle.
Despite its simplicity and affordability, the Fox Racing tailgate pad has areas for potential improvement. Notably, it lacks dedicated separation bumpers to keep bikes individually spaced, which could result in bikes shifting and potentially contacting each other, especially on rough terrain if not tightly strapped. Additionally, the downtube straps are not tethered to the pad, increasing the risk of them being misplaced if left open when not in use. We appreciated the camo color option of our test model, and the logo is prominent yet tastefully executed. It’s also available in black, and a Large size accommodates 6 bikes for full-size trucks. However, for those transporting high-value bikes and seeking maximum security, especially on challenging roads, a more feature-rich pad like the Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad might be a preferred choice.
Fox Racing Tailgate Cover in action, transporting bikes efficiently and economically.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Best for Durability
EVOC Tailgate Pad
EVOC Tailgate Pad for bikes highlighting its robust and durable construction
Bike Capacity: 6 | Outer Material: 600-weight Denier
REASONS TO BUY:
- High-Quality Construction: Built with premium materials for exceptional durability and longevity.
- Secure Bike Hold: Provides a stable and reliable hold for bikes during transport, minimizing movement.
- Weather and Mud Resistance: 600-denier material with PU coating excels in wet and muddy conditions.
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Bold Styling: Graphics and design may be too pronounced for some users’ preferences.
- Handle Flap Size: Smaller handle flap might not be universally compatible with all tailgate designs.
EVOC has consistently impressed with its meticulously engineered and high-quality products, and the simply named EVOC Tailgate Pad continues this tradition. Constructed from substantial 600-denier material with a PU coating, this pad exudes durability and is built to withstand the harshest conditions, especially in wet and muddy environments. While potentially a bit heavier than some competitors, its robust feel inspires confidence in its long-term resilience. Available in medium/large and extra-large sizes, the medium/large variant proved to be an ideal fit on our 2009 Toyota Tacoma test truck, a popular choice among mountain bikers.
Molded separation blocks work in conjunction with downtube straps to provide an exceptionally secure and stable hold for bikes. It’s important to note that the downtube straps are not secured to the pad itself. If left unfastened during transit, there’s a possibility they could detach or be lost, particularly at highway speeds.
The tailgate handle opening is more compact compared to some other pads. Depending on the positioning of your tailgate handle, alignment may not be perfect. Another minor peculiarity is the unique installation/removal system. The EVOC pad utilizes metal hooks at the strap ends that engage with loops on the lower part of the pad. While these hooks can be easier to manipulate in some aspects, threading the strap with the hook and buckle under the tailgate can be slightly more challenging. Aesthetically, the graphics are bolder and more prominent, which might not appeal to everyone. For those prioritizing easier tailgate handle access, the GateKeeper is worth considering.
EVOC Tailgate Pad in action, demonstrating its robust build quality and bike security.
We rallied to the trailhead and did loads of shuttle laps while examining the features and performance of these tailgate pads.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Best For Tailgate Handle Access
Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad
Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad for bikes, emphasizing its large tailgate handle opening
$179 at REI (before member cash back!)
Bike Capacity: 5 (medium), 6 (large) | Outer Material: Nylon
REASONS TO BUY:
- Unrestricted Handle Access: Extra-large tailgate handle opening ensures easy access for all truck models.
- Clean and Simple Design: Sleek styling with a focus on functionality and ease of use.
- Easy Installation: Broad webbing straps simplify the attachment process.
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Basic Feature Set: May lack some of the advanced features found on competing pads.
- Higher Price Point: Relatively expensive for its feature set compared to some competitors.
Since our initial testing, Yakima has enhanced the Gatekeeper with several upgrades, including hook and loop closures for bike security, a snap closure replacing the Velcro flap, and a metal loop for locking the pad to your truck bed. We are linking to this updated model here.
The Yakima GateKeeper prioritizes user-friendliness and simplicity. Loading bikes is straightforward, and the pad provides a secure hold. The medium size we tested accommodates five bikes, featuring molded downtube bumpers and padded straps permanently attached to the pad. The wider webbing straps used to secure the pad to the tailgate are notably easier to handle and less prone to twisting or flapping compared to thinner straps. A standout feature is the exceptionally large tailgate handle opening. This generously sized opening is designed to be universally compatible with virtually any tailgate handle placement, ensuring unobstructed access. The outer material is constructed from robust coated nylon that appears highly weather-resistant and durable.
Despite its excellent tailgate handle access and solid overall performance, the GateKeeper doesn’t necessarily surpass the competition in other areas. While the large handle flap is a definite advantage, it does leave a greater portion of the tailgate exposed when open. The pad’s design is very functional and business-like, lacking extra embellishments. Furthermore, it is among the more expensive pads we tested. For users willing to invest in a premium pad, the Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad might offer a more compelling value proposition with its broader range of user-friendly features.
Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad showcasing its large and accessible tailgate handle flap.
The Yakima GateKeeper has an enormous tailgate handle flap.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Best for Backup Cameras
Dakine DLX Pickup Pad
Dakine DLX Pickup Pad for bikes, highlighting its features for backup camera visibility
Bike Capacity: 5 (small), 7 (large) | Outer Material: 1000D Polyester w/ UV Coating
REASONS TO BUY:
- Durable and Weather-Resistant: 1000D polyester with UV coating ensures long-lasting performance in various conditions.
- Competitive Price: Offers a good balance of features and affordability.
- Backup Camera Hook: Integrated hook securely holds the handle flap open for unobstructed backup camera use.
- Anti-Theft Grommets: Metal grommets allow for locking the pad to the truck bed for added security.
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Basic Design: Functionality-focused design may lack some of the refined features of premium pads.
The Dakine DLX Pickup Pad is a practical and dependable option, particularly well-suited for owners of larger trucks who frequently transport multiple bikes. While the small size we tested accommodates five bikes, the large size expands capacity to an impressive seven bikes. For those with full-size trucks and a need to carry a significant number of bikes, the DLX large is a highly recommended choice. Beyond its high capacity, Dakine has delivered a robust and functional product. Installation is standard and straightforward, and loading bikes is uncomplicated. It forgoes padded slots or elaborate cradles, instead relying on top-tube straps to secure bikes in place. The hold is reliable, and our bikes remained stable even on bumpy and uneven roads. The straps are thoughtfully attached to the pad, preventing them from becoming loose or lost during travel, even at highway speeds. Dakine has also incorporated metal grommets on each side of the pad, providing the option to lock it to your truck using a cable lock for enhanced security.
Perhaps the most appreciated feature is the integrated hook on the handle flap. This simple yet effective addition allows you to easily secure the flap in the open position, ensuring a clear and unobstructed view for your backup camera, a crucial feature for modern trucks. The 1000 Denier fabric is exceptionally tough and features a durable coating that provides resistance to weather and UV damage. While not the flashiest or most feature-rich pad, the Dakine DLX excels in effectiveness and functionality. The Dakine DLX Pickup Pad is also available in a Curve version, specifically designed to better fit the thick, curved tailgates found on certain contemporary truck models. For trucks with thicker tailgates, the standard Dakine DLX Pickup Pad offers additional features such as storage pouches and separation blocks.
Dakine DLX Pickup Pad demonstrating its capability to accommodate multiple bikes and maintain backup camera visibility.Credit: Jeremy Benson
Best for Larger/Thicker Tailgates
Thule GateMate Pro
Thule GateMate Pro Tailgate Pad for bikes designed for larger tailgates, showcasing its sleek design
Bike Capacity: 6 (small), 7 (large) | Outer Material: Nylon
REASONS TO BUY:
- Understated Aesthetics: Clean styling with subtle graphics for a low-profile look.
- Integrated Storage: Features internal storage pockets for tools, gear, or accessories.
- Lateral Stability: “Knock Blocks” prevent bikes from shifting side-to-side during transport.
REASONS TO AVOID:
- Overly Long Straps: Top tube straps are excessively long, potentially requiring extra adjustment.
- Unsecured Straps: Bike straps are not attached to the pad and could be lost if left open.
- Large Pad Size: May be too bulky for smaller truck tailgates.
The Thule GateMate Pro boasts a refined and sleek aesthetic. Its styling is clean and understated, with subtle logo placement, appealing to users who prefer a more discreet look. Functionally, the GateMate Pro is a solid performer. It incorporates two internal storage pockets facing the truck bed, ideal for stowing essential items like multi-tools, rags, chain lube, or even wet shoes or empty cans – a thoughtful and practical addition. Four rows of “Knock Blocks” across the top act as separation blocks, providing front, top, and rear support for bikes, enhancing stability. The tailgate handle opening is adequately sized and can be folded down and left open, offering the option to use your backup camera.
However, the GateMate Pro has a few notable drawbacks. Firstly, the bike securing straps are excessively long. Even when used with standard carbon trail bikes with average top tube diameters, the straps were so long that the Velcro closures barely overlapped, even when looped around the top tube. Secondly, the straps are not attached to the pad itself, increasing the risk of them blowing away if left unfastened while driving. Thirdly, the pad is quite large overall. When testing the smaller size on the tailgate of our 2009 Tacoma, we tightened the straps to their maximum extent and ideally would have preferred a tighter fit. However, for trucks with taller or thicker tailgates, common in many modern pickups, this is less likely to be an issue. Owners of small or mid-size trucks may find the Fox Racing Tailgate Cover a more appropriately sized option.
Thule GateMate Pro Tailgate Pad mounted on a truck, highlighting its storage pockets and Knock Blocks.The GateMate Pro.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
How We Test Tailgate Pads
To provide a comprehensive and unbiased review, we rigorously tested a selection of six popular tailgate pads. Our primary test vehicle was a 2009 Toyota Tacoma, featuring a tailgate measuring 56.5 inches in width, 19.5 inches in height, and 2 inches in thickness at the top edge. Our testing methodology involved numerous trips to various local trailheads, including extensive shuttle runs with multiple bikes loaded on each pad. During each loading and unloading cycle, we meticulously evaluated the design and features of each pad, focusing on user-friendliness and bike protection. Our assessment encompassed all aspects, including pad attachment straps, tailgate handle flap design, padding quality, and bike securing straps, to determine overall performance.
Why Trust Us?
Review author Pat Donahue brings extensive experience to this review, having spent decades riding and testing mountain bikes. Prior to owning a bike shop in South Lake Tahoe, CA, Pat worked as a full-time mountain bike tester and reviewer. He possesses vast firsthand knowledge of transporting mountain bikes to trailheads and managing shuttle runs, having utilized numerous bike racks, tailgate pads, and other bike transport solutions. He prioritizes ease of use and reliability, seeking hassle-free options that ensure his bikes arrive safely. Pat collaborated with our Senior Mountain Bike Review Editor, Jeremy Benson, in conducting the tailgate pad tests. Jeremy, a long-time truck owner with over two decades of experience, dedicates his days to testing new mountain bikes. With daily trips to trailheads and frequent shuttle laps, he is constantly loading and unloading bikes using various bike racks and tailgate pads.
Testing tailgate pad top tube straps for effectiveness and ease of use.
Most of our test pads had decent top tube straps. The Thule GateMate is far too long.
What is a Tailgate Pad?
Tailgate pads for bikes are essentially large, padded covers designed to fold over and attach to the tailgate of a pickup truck. They create a protective barrier between your bikes and the truck’s tailgate, preventing direct contact and minimizing potential damage to both. Crucially, tailgate pads also secure bikes in place, reducing movement during transit and preventing unwanted bike-to-bike contact. This is particularly beneficial for maintaining the aesthetic condition and resale value of both your truck and your bikes.
Tailgate pad protecting bike and truck tailgate during transportation.
Tailgate pads secure your bikes over the tailgate of your truck while protecting both from damage.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Tailgate pads are especially popular among mountain bikers who frequently shuttle, as they facilitate quick and easy loading and unloading of multiple bikes for repeated runs on trails. They are also highly convenient for everyday bike transport, whether for local rides, trips to trailheads, or longer journeys.
How to Select a Tailgate Pad
While numerous bike transport options are available, tailgate pads for bikes offer a uniquely convenient solution for pickup truck owners. While improvising with blankets or towels might seem like a budget-friendly alternative, purpose-built tailgate pads provide significantly superior protection for both your bikes and your truck’s tailgate.
For pickup truck owners, tailgate pads for bikes are among the most economical methods for transporting multiple bikes. They typically cost considerably less than traditional bike racks and often offer a higher bike carrying capacity. The pads reviewed here are all reasonably priced and capable of carrying between five and seven bikes, making them a cost-effective solution for group rides and family outings.
Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad showcasing its features for secure bike transport and truck bed locking.
The Race Face T2 is loaded with features like downtube separation blocks, top edge adjustment straps, and grommets to lock the pad to the truck.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Key Features to Consider
While most tailgate pads for bikes share fundamental features, subtle variations can significantly impact their performance and user experience. Understanding these features will help you select the best pad for your specific needs.
Tailgate pad attachment straps and buckle system for securing the pad to the truck tailgate.
Most pads attach to the truck with webbing straps that feed under the tailgate and through a cam-locking buckle.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Attachment System
All tailgate pads for bikes utilize nylon webbing straps to secure to your truck’s tailgate. Most employ standard plastic ladder-lock buckles to cinch the webbing and ensure a firm attachment. This system generally works effectively, although threading the webbing under the tailgate can sometimes be a bit fiddly, and excess webbing can be left dangling in the truck bed or beneath the tailgate.
EVOC Tailgate Pad metal hook attachment system detail.
EVOC’s metal hooks are easy to deal with, except when trying to feed them under the tailgate.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
EVOC distinguishes itself with a unique metal hook attachment system. These metal hooks are exceptionally easy to attach and detach, although maneuvering them under the tailgate can be slightly less convenient compared to standard webbing straps. The Yakima Gatekeeper also stands out for its user-friendly attachment. Instead of thinner nylon webbing, the Gatekeeper uses wider straps that are easier to handle, particularly beneficial if you frequently remove the pad.
Yakima GateKeeper Tailgate Pad bike securing straps detail.
All of the pads we tested have straps to secure your bike in position. The Yakima GateKeeper’s straps are fixed in position and padded.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Bike Securing Straps
All reviewed tailgate pads for bikes include loop straps to secure bikes to the pad. These straps prevent bike movement, minimizing contact and preventing bikes from swaying excessively on uneven roads. The Dakine DLX, Race Face T2, and Yakima GateKeeper feature bike straps that are either fixed to the pad or secured with Velcro tabs. This design prevents straps from detaching or getting lost, even when left unfastened. For the Fox Racing, Thule, and EVOC models, it’s advisable to fasten the bike straps when not in use to prevent them from falling off or blowing away during transit.
EVOC Tailgate Pad molded separation blocks detail for bike stability.
The molded separation blocks on the top pf the EVOC pad help to keep the bikes in place, even if you don’t strap them down.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Additional Padding and Bike Separation
Some tailgate pads for bikes incorporate molded foam bumpers or separation pads. These raised elements create channels for bike frames to rest, further reducing bike movement and potential contact. The EVOC, Thule, and Race Face T2 pads include these separation blocks. The Yakima GateKeeper features molded downtube pads designed to cushion the downtube. The Dakine DLX and Fox Racing pads rely on the general padding within the pad itself without additional separation features.
Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad adjustable handle opening detail for tailgate access and backup camera use.Race Face created an adjustable handle opening that allows you to position it where you need for handle access and use of the backup camera.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Tailgate Handle Flap
Access to the tailgate handle is essential when a tailgate pad for bikes is installed. Every model we tested includes a flap to provide handle access, but flap design varies in size, placement, and ease of use. The Dakine DLX Pickup Pad features an oversized flap that accommodates most tailgate handles and can be secured open for backup camera visibility. The Yakima pad also boasts a very large handle flap, ensuring compatibility with virtually all truck models. Race Face’s T2 Tailgate Pad features a unique adjustable handle opening, allowing for precise positioning for both handle access and backup camera use. Conversely, the Fox pad’s handle flap is smaller, working well with our Tacoma test truck but potentially less ideal for other models. Consider your truck’s tailgate handle location when evaluating different pad models.
EVOC Tailgate Pad weather-resistant coated material detail.
Our favorite pads, like the EVOC, have a coated finish that is water and weather-resistant, making it easy to blast off with a hose.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Materials
A common feature among all tested tailgate pads for bikes is a soft lining material on the underside, which contacts the truck’s tailgate paint. This soft material is designed to prevent abrasion or wear on the vehicle’s finish. Beyond this, pads are constructed from various durable materials to withstand weather exposure and regular use. While all pads appear robust, rubberized coatings like polyurethane and vinyl offer enhanced weather resistance.
Tailgate pad size comparison for different truck sizes.
Smaller trucks, like the Toyota Tacoma we used for testing, use the small or medium-sized pads, while full-sized trucks will use the large. Most pads come in sizes for both types of truck.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Sizes
Tailgate pads for bikes typically come in two sizes: small and large. Size selection depends on your truck’s tailgate width. Full-size trucks like Dodge Ram, Ford F-150, Nissan Titan, or Toyota Tundra require the larger size. Smaller sizes are designed for compact to mid-size trucks such as Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Ford Ranger. The Dakine DLX also offers a Curve version specifically designed for the thicker, curved tailgates found on many modern trucks.
Tailgate pad loaded with bikes, rearview mirror perspective for bike enthusiasts.
Good times are ahead when this is your view through the rearview mirror.
Credit: Jeremy Benson
Conclusion
While tailgate pads for bikes may appear similar at first glance and share many core features, subtle differences in design, performance, and user-friendliness exist. This detailed comparison aims to highlight these distinctions, enabling you to identify the ideal tailgate pad to meet your specific bike transport needs and preferences. Choosing the right tailgate pad is a smart investment for any truck-owning cyclist, ensuring safe, convenient, and damage-free bike transportation for all your two-wheeled adventures.
