Best Bike Racks
We evaluate several different options for transporting bicycles, and come up with one clear winner
Just as with bicycles, the landscape for bike racks has changed considerably in recent years. There are now many choices available in roof-, trunk-, and hitch-mounted racks, with models spanning from low-priced to premium. And pickup truck owners have the option of utilizing what’s known as a tailgate pad. With so many options, it can be difficult to determine which is best for your bikes, vehicle, and budget.
Because we have several cycling enthusiasts at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center, we decided to take a deep dive into bike racks and carriers by purchasing several different models to evaluate. We researched the market, spoke to bike-store owners and riders, and gleaned information from major retailers and industry analysts.