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Traveling with your bikes can be difficult if you don’t have a hitch rack. This rings true if you have more than two bikes. Putting it inside of your vehicle can take too much cargo space. Putting the bike on the roof of your car can damage both of them.
A 4-bike hitch rack is designed to cater up to four bikes securely while in transit. That way, you can travel easier with your bikes. It is highly recommended for families who like to bike together during the weekend. There’s no need to sacrifice your cargo space just to bring your bikes with you.
These racks work with cars that have an integrated hitch receiver. It is convenient and hassle-free. A 4-bike hitch rack is what you need for your next weekend trip with your family.
Top 9 Best 4-Bike Hitch Rack Review
Choosing the right 4-bike hitch rack is not easy. With hundreds of options in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right 4-bike hitch rack for your car. There are factors to consider, and a lot of trusted brands that you can choose from.
To make it easier, we’ve done our research and listed the top eight best 4-bike hitch racks in the market. This review list will narrow down your choices to the best racks that you can buy. The following items are ranked according to its security, stability, durability, and price.
- 9027 Apex Swing Away Bike Rack by Thule
- SwingDaddy Swing-Away Hitch Bike Rack by Yakima
- 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack by Schwinn
- Ridgeback Tilt-Away Hitch Bike Rack by Yakima
- T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack by Thule
- Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack by Allen Sports
- 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack by MaxxHaul
- Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier by Tyger Auto
- Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Hitch Rack with Stability by Bell
#1. 9027 Apex Swing Away Bike Rack by Thule – Best Hitch Bike Rack for Long Travels
[amazon fields=”B00653V3XY” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “9027 Apex Swing Away Bike Rack by Thule” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]
Product Specifications
- Weight: 42 pounds
- Carrying capacity: 140 pounds
- Type: Swing away hanging rack
When looking for bike racks, Thule is one of the reputable and trusted brands in the market. They are best known for their premium-quality transportation solutions. Also, rest assured that the build quality of this manufacturer is one that can serve you for years to come.
This sleek-looking bike rack features one vertical tube and a horizontal hanging rack atop. It has an exceptional swing-away design that allows you to fully swing the load away from your vehicle if you want to gain access to the rear. That way, it requires little to no effort in getting something from the rear.
To keep your bikes secured and undamaged on your next adventure, it has shock-absorbing cradles. This gives you the peace of mind that you need when traveling through bumpy roads, your bikes are safe at the rack.
These cradles function by suppressing shocks caused by the rough terrain. Save yourself from worries of replacing your vulnerable carbon fiber frames.
However, hoisting and mounting an adult bike into this rack is difficult. It has an incredibly tight fit. But rest assured that installation is a breeze, and you don’t have to use any tools, nor you need to be an expert just to install this bike rack.
It features a Snug-Tire receiver lock that will reduce the movement of hitch rack while in transit. It secures the rack in place, allowing you to maneuver it without difficulty.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple and tool-free installation | Not suitable for bikes without horizontal top tubes |
| Easy access to the vehicle rear | Low carrying capacity |
#2. SwingDaddy Swing-Away Hitch Bike Rack by Yakima – Best Hitch Bike Rack for Durability
[amazon fields=”B009SM5H2C” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “SwingDaddy Swing-Away Hitch Bike Rack by Yakima” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 50.6 pounds
- Carrying Capacity: 160 pounds
- Type: Swing-out hanging rack
If you are looking for a less expensive alternative of a sturdy and well-built bike rack, take a look at the Yakima SwingDaddy 4-bike Hitch Rack.
This rack is designed to provide access to the vehicle’s trunk with the use of a swing-out mechanism.
Installation of the bike rack is a breeze. You can attach it to your vehicle using a knob. This knob will allow you to adjust the tightness of the rack on your vehicle’s hitch. The bike is now secured with their frames.
The package also includes ZipStrips. We found that it is more appealing and powerful to use compared to the standard bike straps.
Mounting a kid’s bike can be a bit of a challenge. But worry not because Yakima offers TubeTops. This will allow you to mount bikes of all shapes and sizes without compromising the stability.
However, if you want to tighten the theft prevention of your precious bikes, you might want to invest in additional locking mechanisms. Despite its practical designs and features, this rack is not entirely theft-proof.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A less expensive alternative for bike racks | Swinging mechanism cannot handle the great load |
| Lightweight and easy to install | Not suitable for heavy-duty adult bikes |
| Includes hitch and bike locks | Security issues |
#3. 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack by Schwinn – Best Hitch Bike Rack for Convenience
[amazon fields=”B01HCS1IAS” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack by Schwinn” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 27.5 pounds
- Carrying Capacity: 120 pounds
- Type: Hanging
If you’re constantly attaching and removing the rack from your vehicle, you should consider investing in a lightweight rack. Take a look at the Schwinn 4-bike hitch mount rack. It is lightweight yet durable. Not to mention, an appealing option for customers on a tight budget.
Its simple and practical design is a great choice for weekend trips. You can install and remove the rack with little to no effort. Its speedy mounting also offers convenience. According to the manufacturer, mounting takes no more than five minutes.
You don’t need to burn a hole in your pocket just to have an efficient and decent 4-bike hitch rack. However, keep in mind that if you have a rear-mounted spare wheel on your car, it can be challenging to install the rack at first try.
This rack has a tilt feature for your convenience. It means when you need to access something into the rear of the car, you can tilt it up with the rack still on. But keep in mind that this feature may cause a bit of swaying, especially while in transit.
For seasonal riders who don’t need much and don’t want to invest in expensive products, this is a good buy.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Suitable for customers on a budget | Cannot accommodate heavy-duty bikes |
| Bikes are easy to mount on and off | Does not have a locking mechanism |
| Lightweight and easy to install | Unimpressive build quality |
#4. Ridgeback Tilt-Away Hitch Bike Rack by Yakima – Best Entry Level Hitch Bike Rack
[amazon fields=”B00FUHDNRU” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “Ridgeback Tilt-Away 4-Bike Hitch Rack by Yakima” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 31 pounds
- Carrying Capacity: 150 pounds
- Type: Hanging
The Yakima Ridgeback is an excellent choice for a starting rack. It can accommodate both adult and kid’s bikes, making it an ideal choice for family trips.
This bike is designed with practicality in mind. It is plain and simple, with no lavish features. There are levers that allow you to unlock the hinges when adjusting.
The rack remains still, and it is unmovable when you are carrying things around. However, if the rack is empty, you can fold it up to save some space.
For casual and seasonal riders, this is the most appropriate rack to buy. Its lightweight and compact design make this rack easier to mount on and off the car’s hitch receiver.
However, this rack may not be able to handle heavy-duty bikes for longer trips. It is not advisable to use this rack when you know you’re driving through rough terrains.
The ideal entry-level for occasional bikers, this rack is worth the value of your money. Albeit it’s not for pros, it’s a decent rack to get started without having to drain your bank. Not to mention that Yakima is offering a lifetime warranty upon purchase.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can accommodate both adult and kid’s bikes | Not designed for long-distance travel |
| Easy to install and lightweight | Not ideal for heavy-duty bikes |
| Budget-friendly price | Steel tubes easily bend |
#5. T2 Pro XT 2 Bike Rack by Thule – Best Hitch Bike Rack for Heavy-duty Use
[amazon fields=”B01N53XNOK” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “T2 Pro XT 4 Bike Rack by Thule” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 86 pounds
- Capacity: 140 pounds
- Type: Tilting Platform Rack
At first glance, this durable bike rack from Thule is originally designed to cater only to two bikes. However, you have the option of purchasing a two-bike add-on, allowing the rack to accommodate four bikes.
This sleek-looking and a heavy-duty bike rack is the perfect choice for bikers who take great pride in making sure that their bike remains undamaged while in transit. Thanks to its one-foot spacing between the bikes, rest assured that no matter how bumpy the roads are, you’ll be able to arrive with your bikes in good conditions.
The rack is engineered to accommodate cruisers, heavy-duty adult bikes, and fat bikes. It can carry bikes weighing up to 60 pounds each. But make sure that the bikes do not have large fenders. Otherwise, it’ll be challenging to mount the bikes with the wheel holders.
You also have the option of removing the bike’s fenders to fit it properly. While it may be time-consuming and oftentimes inconvenient, it secures your bike.
The installation is tool-free and simple. This rack is compatible with cars that have an integrated 1-1/4 hitch receiver. But if you have the add-ons, it is recommended that you only use this bike with 2-inch hitches.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable all-steel construction | Cannot accommodate bikes with large fenders |
| Ideal for heavy-duty, fat bikes | Cable locks faulty design |
| Easy to install | Too heavy |
#6. Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack by Allen Sports – Best Hitch Bike Racks for Budget
[amazon fields=”B00ASSOHH6″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “Premier Hitch Mounted Bike Rack by Allen Sports” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 23.5 pounds
- Capacity: 140 pounds
- Type: Premier Locking Hitch Mount Rack
This hitch rack is specifically designed for vehicles with 2-inch trailer hitches. It can cater to four bikes. To make better use of this rack, a Class III hitch will do the trick.
It also features long carry arms that allow you to hoist your bikes into the rack quickly. These arms are 22 inches long and feature a tie-down system that secures the bike when attaching it to the rack. Thanks to the rack’s patented system, rest assured that your bikes are safe while in transit.
Installation may take a couple of minutes, but it is tool-free and convenient. You can fold this bike flat into the vehicle when not in use. Its durable construction with a black powder coat is an indication of years of service to come. It can also resist rust and corrosion in the long run.
This is the rack that requires no replacement for years and will allow you to travel long-distance places with all your four bikes.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rust and corrosion-resistant | The bikes mount too close together |
| Flats fold for easy storage | Requires extra bungee cords |
| Sold at a reasonable price | The rack is too heavy |
#7. 4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack by MaxxHaul – Best Practical Hitch Bike Rack
[amazon fields=”B00AK9YMIM” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “4-Bike Deluxe Hitch Mount Rack by MaxxHaul” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 27.6 pounds
- Capacity: 140 pounds
- Type: Swing-down Hitch Mount Rack
If you are looking for a strong bike rack without burning a hole in your pocket, take a look at the MaxxHaul 4-Bike Deluxe Mount Rack. This rack can cater to four bikes without difficulty.
The hitch rack can fit easily into 2-inch hitch receivers of a vehicle. Thanks to its all-steel construction, rest assured that this rack is durable and can last for years to come.
What’s noticeable about this rack is its swing-down feature. It allows you to access the car’s tailgate without having to disassemble the rack or take any of the bikes off. This saves your time and energy when you’re out in the road.
However, keep in mind that this rack is not ideal for bikes with slanted bars. Take a women’s bike, for example. It can only cater to male adult bikes and teen bikes.
Nevertheless, it’s a good choice of a rack if you’re looking for something that you can use for family outings.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable all-steel construction | Not ideal for Wrangler owners |
| Installation is a breeze | Rubber pads are uncovered |
| Excellent stability | Straps easily break |
#8. Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier by Tyger Auto – Best Hitch Bike Rack for Entire Family
[amazon fields=”B00TOLYY76″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “Deluxe 4-Bike Carrier by Tyger Auto” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 28.2 pounds
- Capacity: 140 pounds
- Type: Tilt-Down Hitch Mount Rack
This is a generic-fitting bike rack that can carry four bikes without difficulty. It is designed to fit a car with a 2-inch hitch receiver. The rack is designed to secure the bike for long-distance places, so rest assured that you’re getting the value of your money.
The package includes cable lock, straps, and hitch pin locks to increase the bike’s safety. It also works by protecting your bike from rust and corrosion. The OE standard black color E-coating will not only make your bike rack look sleek, but it also increases the lifespan of it.
Furthermore, it has a fold-down feature that allows you to access the car’s rear, even when the rack is fully loaded. There’s no need to dismantle it just to get something from the rear. This clever design helps you to save time while traveling.
When it comes to installation, rest assured that you’ll be able to install it without a fuss. Installation can only take a few minutes and requires no tools at all. The package includes a DIY instruction for your convenience.
To ensure that your bikes are undamaged when traveling through bumpy roads and rough terrains, this rack features soft cradles and bar cushioning. This is an easy-to-use rack that provides nothing but convenience and practicality. Simply attach it to your car’s rear and allow the rack to do the rest.
The TYGER offers a no-hassle limited lifetime warranty upon purchase.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple and easy installation | No quick-release to lower the rack |
| Excellent customer service | Plastic strap easily breaks |
| Sleek-looking appearance | Not good for cold weather |
#9. Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Hitch Rack with Stability by Bell – Best Hitch Bike Rack for Stability
[amazon fields=”B01LYRIUA0″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“4-bike hitch rack” image_alt = “Hitchbiker 4-Bike Hitch Rack by Bell” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 30.4 pounds
- Capacity: 140 pounds
- Type: Platform Hitch Rack
If stability is your main concern in buying bike racks, check out the Bell Hitchbiker bike rack. It allows you to transport your four bikes without difficulty.
The rack is foldable when not in use, saving you a lot of space. It is designed to keep the bikes separated and well-cradled. This is to avoid the bikes from bumping into each other and creating scratches.
You can fit this rack into a 2-inch hitch receiver with the use of its all-metal insert. This connector is exclusive for this product only, as you cannot see it in other bike racks.
To avoid rust and corrosion, the rack’s powder e-coat enhances its finishing. It also helps to increase the lifespan of the rack.
With an impressive carrying capacity of 140 pounds, this rack is the ideal choice for family outings and the like.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Finishing is durable to physical stress | The rack is hard to install and uninstall |
| Excellent security system | No lever for tilting the rack |
| Best fit guarantee | The arms are too stiff |
Our Top Pick – Best Hitch Bike Rack
After an in-depth deliberation, the Thule 9027 Apex Swing Away Bike Rack makes it to our top pick. This heavy-duty hitch bike rack is all you need when traveling to long-distance places with four racks.
What we like the most about this product is its durability. The rack is durable, and it is engineered to last for years to come. It is simple and easy to install, making it an ideal choice as your starting hitch bike rack.
Thule is also known as a reputable manufacturer of bike accessories. Whether it’s your first time buying or not, their company is worth the investment. Sold at a reasonable price, Thule also offers excellent customer service to assist you every step of the way.
Choosing the Best 4-Bike Hitch Rack – Complete Buyer’s Guide
Transporting your bicycles from one place to another can be challenging. It is an awkward piece to bring in the car, takes too much cargo space, and must remain undamaged throughout the transit.
This is where the 4-bike hitch rack enters the picture. It is the perfect choice for family outings and gatherings.
It is vital that you choose the right 4-bike hitch rack to buy. In this buying guide, we will help you choose the best 4-bike hitch rack to buy in the market.
Why Buy a Hitch Bike Rack?
If you are still reluctant in buying a hitch mount bike rack, here are the following benefits of a 4-bike hitch bike rack that you should consider:
- It can accommodate a number of bikes
This is the best bike rack to choose if you are looking for something that can transport four to five bikes. This type of rack is specifically designed for family outings and the like. Unlike standard bike racks that only caters to one or two bikes, this rack can accommodate multiple bikes at a time, and at different sizes and wheels. So, if you have an upcoming family trip and you’re looking forward to bringing the bikes of the entire family, purchasing a hitch mount bike rack is a good idea.
- Easy access to the rear
Another advantage of purchasing a hitch bike rack is its easy access to the rear. When you need to get something from the car’s rear, there is no need to remove the rack and the bikes. It is engineered in a way that allows you to open the rear with its innovative design. You are not required to remove a wheel just to mount the rack into the hitch receiver of your car.
- It lessens the risks of damaging your bike.
Using a hitch bike rack will lessen the risks of the damage that your bike might acquire while in transit. First, there are zero risks of running your bike into a drive-thru because it is hoisted at the rear of the car and not the roof. Sometimes, people forget that there are bikes atop their car roofs and risks into breaking the bikes when in a hurry going into the garage.
With the help of a hitch bike rack, you don’t have to worry about these things anymore. There are fewer chances of crashing your bikes unexpectedly.
Also, there is a small distance between your bikes to ensure that they don’t bump against each other and cause scratches. This is crucial, especially if you’re bringing four bikes at a time.
- Easily install and remove the rack
Using a hitch bike rack will allow you to install and remove it with ease. Noticeably, most of the items featured above are easy to install. There’s no need to awkwardly climb into the roof of your car to mount the bikes or the rack.
It also requires no tools. You don’t need to be mechanically expert to mount the bikes into the car’s rear. In just a few minutes, you’ll be able to set up your hitch bike rack.
Unlike other racks that once installed, it can never be taken away; this rack is easy to remove. It will not be a permanent feature in your car. You can remove it when not needed, and with ease. It is designed to save energy, time, and frustration in the long run.
- Saves cargo space and keeps cleanliness
Instead of storing your bike inside your car and squeezing everyone inside, save your precious cargo space to more important things. A hitch bike rack allows you to keep the insider of your car clutter-free and clean. If you have tried storing your bike inside your car before, you know the frustration of the mess that the bike leaves.
Aside from that, it also damages the upholstery of your car. The mud and the rough metal parts may ruin the car’s interior and, in turn, requires you a costly fix to bring your car back into its utmost condition.
Factors to Consider in Choosing the Best 4-Bike Hitch Rack
Here are the following factors to consider when buying a 4-bike hitch rack:
Security
Security is an important factor to consider. The time and money you invested in carefully choosing the bike rack to buy will be rendered useless if you’ll get four of your bikes stolen.
Hence, make sure to check the security system of the bike rack before purchasing it. Each rack has its own security system. It may be a hitch pin lock, a locking cable, or stronger security features that are integrated into the rack per se.
Some racks are cheaper without security features. This only works if you don’t leave your car for too long. However, since you cannot foresee the situation, it’s still highly recommended that you buy a hitch bike rack with a strong security system.
Stability
This is a crucial factor and must be taken into consideration, especially if you’re traveling through bumpy roads. Stability is not much of an issue if you’re only traveling with one or two bikes. But since you’re purchasing a 4-bike hitch mount bike rack, you might want to ensure that the rack you’re going to buy is solid rock and won’t wobble while on the road.
To ensure stability, take a closer look at the construction of the bike rack. Ideally, your bike rack should be made of steel with no plastic parts. This material can cater to four bikes and won’t wobble while in transit.
While this all-steel construction can be a bit heavy, rest assured that it can provide excellent stability to four of your bikes when traveling.
Compatibility
The last thing you want to experience is having to purchase a hitch-mount rack that doesn’t fit with your car. To make sure this will not happen, check the compatibility of your car. Some hitch mount racks will require a particular size of the hitch receiver before you can install it. Some will not work with particular car models.
Asking the manufacturer will help you to determine if the hitch mount rack is fit for your car. Or you can refer to the hitch receiver size guide for more information. Reviews from previous customers who have the same car model as you can also help.
Manufacturer Reputation
Whether it’s your first buy or not, it’s crucial that you buy from a reputable manufacturer. They offer premium-quality products, and you get the value of your money.
Also, rest assured that with a trusted brand also comes great customer service. Should you have any problems with mounting the rack into your vehicle, you’ll be able to contact them immediately for assistance. These manufacturers stand to their reputation and make sure that every customer is satisfied.
Conclusion
With a hitch bike rack, you’ll eliminate the problems of where to put your bike without compromising its security and safety while in transit. It is meant to transport and secure bikes.
Choosing the right hitch bike rack is not easy. Refer to our buying guide to help you choose the right hitch bike rack for you. Also, take a closer look at our top pick to determine if it is the most suitable bike rack for your vehicle and your needs.
Now you can go on endless weekend camping and adventures with the help of a hitch bike rack. Its durability, functionality, and reliability will make transporting bikes an easy task. It will give you a great, hassle-free ride in the long run.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
✅ How do I put a hitch on bike racks?
First, make sure that you fit the hitch tube into the hitch receiver of the car. Ensure this by correct fitting and sizing of the tube. Then you can adjust the supporting arms and its tire trays. Now, you can load the bikes into the rack. When traveling long trips, it’s vital to stop and check the bikes from time to time to make sure the attachment points are still intact.
✅ How can I remove the hitch from a bike rack?
You can do this by using a key to unlock your unit. Look for the black bar that serves as an attachment of the bike rack to the hitch receiver and then pull it away. By doing so, you will loosen the anti-rattle knob and will be able to remove the hitch from the rack easily.
✅ How to maintain a bike rack?
Maintenance of a bike rack isn’t demanding nor difficult. All you need to do is clean the contact points of the rack if there are dust, debris, or other microparticles that needs to be removed. Also, check your bike rack from time to time for damage. Contact your manufacturer immediately if you see some defect and ask for the best repair method. Most hitch bike racks are built to last and can withstand everyday abuse.
Read also our other article about Yakima RidgeBack 4-Bike Hitch Rack.