The Best Way to Transport Your Bikes: 5 Truck Bed Bike Racks
Truck bed bike racks (also sometimes refered to as truck bed bike stand) are trendy at the moment due to massive practicality, overall simplicity, and versatility. These products can be installed in a pickup truck bed and used for transporting bicycles. You can easily install one by yourself and use it for four or fewer bicycles. The next best thing is the overall safety. Your bikes will be perfectly safe and sound at all times. There are a lot of models of this kind out there, and we were able to find five that are stunning in the lack of a better word. Let’s meet them.
Best Bike Racks for Truck Beds Comparison
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Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack
The tested model (Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage Sportsrack Bedrack) is a masterpiece in the lack of a better word. You can install it yourself, and you won’t scratch the paint on your truck, thanks to rubber pads. Then we can see that the unit can be used for four bikes at the same time. You don’t have to remove the wheels, and you can store them safely within seconds. The bikes won’t move or fell from a truck even in the worst-case scenario. This is a really good pickup bike rack.
The assembly process is needed, but it is so simple and easy that you will need a couple of minutes. Once assembled, your new truck bike rack will be ready to be used. It is versatile, as well. The standard length is 54.5 inches, but you can expand it to the 66.5 inches. Add the extension bit, and the length is 72.5 inches. Assembling this bike rack is a simple task and won’t require more than a few minutes of your time.
We liked the fact you can use this rack on the ground without having a truck. Perhaps this sounds funny, but bike racks of this kind are convenient simply because they are used as storage or garage bike rack. The bike protection is at the highest level possible, and you can be positive that a bike won’t scratch ever. Additionally, we can add that dimensions are 31” by 27” by 6” and 22 pounds. The unit comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Strong construction
- Easy to install
- Can be used as a ground bike rack
- Up to 4 bikes
- Extendable
- Bike protection
Cons:
- Attention to detail
- Can’t be installed on trucks with bed liner
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Advantage SportsRack BedRack Truck 4 Bike Rack with 10 ft Cable Lock
Advantage SportsRack BedRack Truck 4 Bike Rack with 10 ft Cable Lock is another product on our list that deserved your full attention. It’s in essence a bike stand for truck bed. It also can be extended in length, starting from 54.56 inches to all away 72.5 inches with the extender. Without it, you can get the maximum length of up to 64 inches. The unit is well-made and robust in construction. It holds up to 4 bikes, and you don’t have to remove wheels, as you may know already.
Installation takes 5 minutes, and you can do it all by yourself. The process is straightforward and can be completed without any tools. Mount the rack, and it will be ready to be used. Now you can transport bikes as long as you want, and they will stay safe and protected at all times. Don’t forget that the bikes cannot be scratched thanks to the bike rack’s innovative design.
In the package, you also get a cable lock of 10 feet in length. It is used to make sure the bikes are protected from thieves while transporting. The overall impression this model has to offer is above average. It is one of the best and the most popular models of this kind we were able to find and the one that will put a smile on your face every single time you use it.
Pros:
- Installation
- Well-made
- Customer support
- Cable locks are included
- Extendable
Cons:
- Instructions are poorly written
- One-color only
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Top Line UG2500-2 Uni-Grip Truck Bed Bike Rack for 2 Bike Carrier
Top Line UG2500-2 Uni-Grip Truck Bed Bike Rack for 2 Bike Carrier is a bit different model than the ones we listed above. The main difference is in the capacity. Here you can transport 2 bikes at the same time. The installation is upgraded compared to the previous version, and now you don’t have to drill any holes or use power tools. The manufacturer claims that the installation process takes 2 minutes. We install it in 3 minutes so we can add that the claim is partially justified.
As you can see, the installation and the location of this bike track is different than the other models you may have come across. However, the functionality is still the same. There is no need to remove the front wheel, and you can attach the bikes almost instantly. You won’t need another bike rack if you get this one, and we know that you will be perfectly happy. It is a minimalistic model that still gets the job done correctly and without any issues or complications.
The dimensions are 11.5 x 21.8 x 2.8 inches while the weight is 4 pounds only. The model is suitable for smaller trucks with smaller beds. Also, you won’t need an additional bike hitch rack or anything similar. Once installed, you can keep it in the bed at all times or remove it when you need to transport something else. Keep in mind that bikes are transported in the upright position one next to another. The model is ideal for couples or families with 2 cyclists.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight
- Fast installation
- Appealing design
- Suitable for smaller trucks as well
Cons:
- Customer support
- Capacity may be an issue for some of you
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Swagman Bicycle Carriers Pick Up Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack
Swagman Bicycle Carriers Pick Up Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack is made by one of the industry’s best brands, and it has a lot to offer. First of all, this model is so small that you can keep it installed in the bed of a truck at all times, and you won’t lose any space at all. On the other hand, we can see that the unit is suitable for mid-size and large trucks, but it won’t be any complications with smaller trucks either. One of the essential advantages is installing and using this rack even when the bed liner is installed.
The racks come with the capacity for 2 bikes and an impressive mounting system that won’t scrape any paint or compromise your truck. You will appreciate this benefit if your truck is still new. Other than that, you get a compact model with all the benefits and advantages you will need and something even more. There are no issues or complications whatsoever, and there are no significant drawbacks to the product in question.
The entire unit weighs only 12 pounds. There is no need to tell you that the installation can be completed without another person’s help. All you will need is the time and a few necessary tools. Be free to find the best location in the bed for your new rack. Besides, the locks are safe and far more durable than some of you believe. This brand is well-known for the strength and the locks of its racks.
Pros:
- Compact size
- Doesn’t need any space in the bed
- Locks are durable and strong
- Strong construction
- Lightweight
- Soft pads on the rack
Cons:
- Two bikes only
- Requires adjusting
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Titan Ramps Pick Up Truck Bed Box Mounted Carrier Stand 1 2 3 4 Bike Rack Bicycle transport
The last model on our list is well-known as a common choice and has been with us for an extended time. It truly has a lot to offer, and it is a bit special. The first thing we will reveal is the overall strength of the rack system. It is one of the strongest and the most reliable bike racks available on the market and has been used for many users over time. It is strong, and it will keep all your bikes in place at all times. This is a very solid pickup truck bike rack.
This particular unit is suitable for transporting up to 4 bikes at the same time. You don’t have to remove any wheels, and the assembly requires no tools. The installation is also simple, as you would expect. The main advantage is the design of the rack that allows you to transport bikes of different sizes. The wheel’s maximum size compatible with the rack is 28 inches, which is more than enough. Of course, you can transport your child’s bike as well.
You can get the standard length, which is 54.5 inches, or expand the track up to 67 inches. Adding the spacer, you will get the ability to extend the rack up to 70 inches. The weight is slightly higher than we prefer. This unit, when fully assembled, has a total weight of 26 pounds. It is designed for large families and all kinds of trucks. Yes, you can install it in compact and full-size trucks within seconds. In a nutshell, we liked the strength, the versatility, and the practicality this model offers.
Pros:
- The Assembly process is simple
- Massive practicality
- Suitable for all trucks
- Transports up to 4 bikes at the same time
- Front-wheel doesn’t have to be removed
- Suits all bikes with the wheel size of 28 inches
Cons:
- Can’t be installed if the bed liner is installed already
- Poor instructions
Types of bike racks
Now is the right time to learn all about the different types of bike racks. There are several different types available, and each one is entirely different. You need to understand those differences to find a type that suits your needs the best and the most. In return, you will be able to transport all your bikes anywhere you want and to make sure you get the most comfortable option.
Roof racks
These racks are trendy at the moment. The main advantage is the low price. They are the cheapest of them all, and they can be installed easily if you have roof bars on the car. You will mount the bikes on the roof on the newly installed racks, and you can start driving. Most models are suitable for 2 or 4 units, and they are the ones that are the most popular at the moment. You get a lot of practicality, and the interior space in the car won’t be occupied as much as with 4 bikes inside.
There are a few drawbacks here. First of all, you need roof bars to install the racks in the first place. Without the roof bars, you cannot install the racks, and therefore you won’t be able to transport your bikes. This can be an expensive addition depending on your car and the make. You may also have to leave a car to a professional until the roof bars are installed, which will cause inconvenience.
Probably the most severe drawback is fitting the bikes to the roof of your car. It would be best if you raised them high from the ground, and you will have to have a lot of space all around the car. Some models that feature vertical fitment also cause drag while used and decrease fuel consumption.
Keep in mind that when using these racks, the car’s height will be significantly increased, so you must watch not to hit at something. It is another common drawback here and may force some of you to get a different type.
Hitch bike racks
This type is installed in the back on the hitch itself and can be a versatile addition to your car. You will like the added space, and you can transport bikes anywhere you like and want. They will stay safe and sound all the time, and you don’t have to lift them high like in the previous case. All of these mean that some of you will be more than just satisfied with this particular type.
There are some drawbacks here as well. First and foremost, the ground clearance of your car will be decreased. You will have problems parking, and you will have a hard time opening a trunk, or you won’t be able to open it in the first place. The rear visibility will be significantly compromised. Therefore this might not be the best option for new drivers. Yes, the racks of this type are popular, but they are also known to cause many issues over time.
See also our 10 best hitch bike racks review 2020.
Trunk clip bike racks
This type is installed on the rear of the car on the trunk itself, and you will use straps or holding arms to keep the bikes in place. There are many different models out there, and all of them are known for the available simplicity. You get the smallest bike rack system available in a nutshell, and you can install it within seconds. These systems are also very versatile and cheap.
The main drawback here is the fact the bikes won’t be firmly kept in place. They may wobble while driving, and they may damage the rear of the car. If you have an expensive rear trunk spoiler fitted, you won’t be able to use this type of bike racks. Still, the main drawback is the damages to the trunk from the bikes. This isn’t the type you will want to install on a new car or any vehicles you don’t want to get the scratches. Parking is better than in the previous case with hitch bike racks, but the rear visibility is also affected. As such, we don’t recommend this model for newbies and those who care about their cars.
Of course, the last type of bike racks is the truck bed bike rack, and this type won’t be explained here simply because the entire article is about them so you can get a clear idea about the pros and cons. All you have to remember is that these bike racks can be installed in trucks only, and they are the most advanced type of them all. They are the safest as well, and they will keep the bikes safe and sound at all times without causing any issue or a problem. The installation is so simple that you don’t need any additional tools or accessories to install and start using the new bike rack system.
Here is a video that shows how you can make a homemade do-it-yourself truck bed rack for very little money for those who have a meager budget.
Conclusion
Be free to take your time and find a truck bed bike rack for your truck that suits you the most. We tested 5 models that are currently the most popular on the market and the ones that are special in the lack of a better word. In the end, we helped you understand all the advantages and drawbacks of the different types of bike racks, and we hope now you can choose the type and then a model that suits you perfectly. See more about garage equipment.
Last update on 2023-12-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
