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Cycling is a fun sport. However, not all people are fortunate to live within the proximity of a picturesque and peaceful view suitable for biking.
When carrying your bike, most bike owners would place it in the truck bed. Some will strap their bikes on the roof of the vehicle. As a result, the bike gets damaged.
To prevent this issue, you can invest in a tuck bike bed rack. It protects the frame and prevents damage in the long run. This rack is designed to transport the bike using your car safely.
A truck bike bed rack is easy and convenient to use. It preserves the lifespan of your bike. Mounting your bike on a truck bike bed rack is a wise choice when carrying your bike anywhere you go.
Top 8 Best Truck Bike Bed Racks Review
A truck bike bed rack will allow you to take your bike anywhere. The worries of how you’re going to transport your bike will vanish. It can haul one or two bikes. That way, you don’t have to ride to the trail where you’d like to cycle.
This rack also serves as the protection of your bike. Instead of just placing your bike in the bed of your truck and risking the damage during the drive, you can secure it using the rack. You don’t need to worry if you accidentally hit the break or you make a swerve.
Your truck bike bed rack will make your biking experience smoother and hassle-free. Over 100,000 bike racks are sold every year. This speaks of its significance in the rack and how it is crucial to invest in one.
The number of racks in the market can be overwhelming. Hence, we’ve narrowed down the items for you. Here is a list of the top eight best truck bike bed racks in the market that you should consider. The following are ranked according to its durability, easiness of use, and price.
- Swagman Pickup Truck Bike Rack
- Pipeline Racks Truck Bed Bike Rack:
- INNO Truck Bed Bike Mount System
- Hollywood Racks T970 Fork Block 1 Bicycle Fork Mount
- Thule Bed Rider XTR
- Top Line UG2500-2 Uni-Grip Truck Bed Bike Rack for 2 Bike Carrier
- Apex TBBC-4 4-Bike Pickup Truck Bed Bicycle Rack
- Thule Insta-Gator Truck Mount
#1. Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack by Swagman – Best Truck Bed Bike Rack for Travelers
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Product Specifications:
- Weight: 13.23 pounds
- Capacity: 2 bikes
- Material: stainless steel
Swagman has built a good reputation in the bike industry, thanks to its high-quality and durable bike materials and accessories. Their truck bed bike rack is not an exception to their practical and adjustable racks.
At first look, you will not consider it as a bike rack. The adjustable bar is designed to fit inside the truck bed, regardless of its size. Since it’s adjustable, you will be able to fit the rack in your truck bed in no more than two minutes.
The mounted ends of the bar are coated with rubber. It is to protect your truck’s paint from getting chipped or damaged when you install the rack inside.
Thanks to its simple and practical design, the installation of the rack is a breeze. It comes with a quick-release handle that is simple to adjust. Now, you can slot the ends of the bar over the bed rail of your truck. It will clunk into place and be locked so that it cannot be easily removed. The bike is now secured when traveling.
This rack makes use of the fork style mount to maintain the stability of the bike even when driving in rough terrains. You only need to locate the fork blocks in its right position so you can slide the bike inside the truck. Using the quick-release skewers, you may now attach it to the fork blocks.
To secure the bike, you will need both the Swagman tool and the Allen key. It will help you to adjust the two fork locks. That way, you can haul up to two bikes.
One good thing about this rack is it needs no tools for the bike to fit. It will lock into position once you’ve installed the rack.
For durability, this rack is made of high-quality stainless steel that indicates service for years to come. Aside from that, the Swagman offers a lifetime warranty upon purchase of the product.
It is compatible with almost all trucks thanks to its adjustable design.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits even without a bed liner | Faulty locking mechanism |
| Easy to install and use | Lock pin keeps popping off |
| Great versatility | Metal easily rusts |
#2. Truck Bed Bike Rack by Pipeline Racks – Best Truck Bed Bike Rack for Pickup Owners
[amazon fields=”B00HUK1KRA” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “Truck Bed Bike Rack by Pipeline Racks” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications:
- Weight: 37 pounds
- Capacity: 2 bikes
- Material: Steel
For pickup truck owners, Pipeline Racks is a favorite brand. Their truck bed bike rack accommodates any pickup truck provided that it is 58.4-inches wide. While it may appear limited to pickup truck owners only, the degree of stability that it can offer is undefeatable. If you’re looking for a rack that will secure your bike along the bumpiest of terrains, this is what you’re looking for.
Installation of the bed bike rack involves no drilling or bolting. It will be securely placed inside the vehicle. Weighing only 37 pounds, storing the rack in the garage when not in use is convenient.
The package comes with a set of straps that you will use in securing the rack into the bed. A minor assembly is required to finish the installation, but it will take no more than an hour, even if you have no experience in installing bike racks before.
If you own a bike with full fenders, keep in mind that this bike rack is not compatible with it. Much more with children’s bikes. It is designed for modern mountain bikes and serious cyclers in mind.
For this model, you can haul up to two bikes. For normal drives downtown, rest assured that your bike is secured and fastened properly. But for bumpy roads, expect a little wobbling on the part of the frame. It can also accommodate all types of wheels as long as it does not exceed 2.8 inches.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple installation | Requires minor assembly |
| Easy to adjust | Rod keeps popping out |
#3. Velo Gripper Truck Bed Bike Rack by Inno – Best Truck Bed Bike Rack for a Single Bike Capacity
[amazon fields=”B002MZQTL0″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “Velo Gripper Truck Bed Bike Rack by Inno” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications:
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
- Capacity: 1 bike
- Material: Steel
There’s nothing like Inno to maximize the cargo space of your pickup truck while making sure that your bikes are securely strapped. Introducing this highly-economical and space-wise truck bed bike rack. This is the answer to pick up owners who are looking for the best truck bike bed rack for their vehicle.
The package includes two mounts, one for attaching the rack to the bed of the pickup. It also comes with ratcheting holders and several D-rings, allowing you to attach the tie-down straps. That way, you can secure your bike without sacrificing the cargo space of your pickup truck.
The installation of this product is a breeze. You can mount and never worry about removing it because of its space-wise design. Make sure that the top bolt is twisted tightly — the vibration of the vehicle when running can loosen the bolts.
This rack is designed to hold the bike solidly close to the side of the bed. That way, you can lift the bike over the side without difficulty. There’s no need to drop the tailgate or climb inside the vehicle to install the rack. It is easy and hassle-free.
Aside from securing your bike, this product offers other services, such as securing heavy loads inside the truck. It helps to prevent the items from sliding. This fantastic feature makes this product an appealing option for buyers who are looking for a cost-effective product.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Holds the bike securely to the edge of the bed | Removal of front wheels is necessary to mount the bike |
| Easy to install | Retaining arms are short in length |
| Easy to use | Faulty design of the hinged bottom |
#4. T970 Fork Block 1 Bicycle Fork Mount Hollywood Racks – Best Lightweight Truck Bike Bed Racks
[amazon fields=”B000QJC5F8″ value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “Fork Block 1 Bicycle Fork Mount Hollywood Racks” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications:
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Capacity: 1 bike
- Material: aluminum
When it comes to versatility and easiness of use, the Hollywood Racks T970 Fork Block tops the game. Its compact and practical design allows you to mount the bike into your truck easily. It is designed to easily adjust the bike in the truck bed mount, floor mount, wall mount, or an inside car rack.
The package comes pre-assembled. All there’s left to do is fix the surface of the car bed where you’re planning to install the bike rack. It can be mounted on any solid surface. Its heavy-duty setup makes it more durable—from the skewer, frame, and bolts.
Since the product is made of high-quality aluminum, it only weighs 12 ounces. It is lightweight and easy to store.
However, this rack also has a modest capacity. A one-piece rack can only hold a single bike. If you want to haul two or more bikes, you have to purchase multiple racks for it. Given its low price, this option is viable.
When it comes to mounting type, the T970 will grab your bike using the fork (9mm skewer). Mounting the bike requires the removal of the front wheel. Thanks to the good grip of the fork, rest assured that your bike is secured even if you travel through bumpy roads.
A lifetime warranty backs the product against all defects.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Forks are easily spread to slip | The quick-release is large and difficult to use |
| Easy and simple installation | Stem moves while mounting fork |
| Less expensive alternative | Cone nut will vibrate off |
#5. Bed Rider XTR by Thule – Best Lightweight Truck Bed Bike Rack
[amazon fields=”B019RNQC1Q” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “Bed Rider XTR by Thule” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 9.25 pounds
- Capacity: 2 bikes
- Material: Aluminum
Thule has always been on top of the game when it comes to bikes and accessories. This bed rider is no exception. With its sleek appearance and durability, it is a wise choice for every biker alike.
Durable yet lightweight, the rack is built with aluminum. It features a telescopic bar for maximum durability. To ensure that the rack is properly placed inside the truck, it comes with soft rubber feet. There’s no need to drill holes when installing the rack.
However, you’re running out of luck if you’re looking for a rack that is compatible with over-the-rail bed liners. It is not. To compensate, it comes with a 3 Thule one-key lock cylinder upon purchase. That way, you can lock the bike to the carrier and carry it to your truck. It can haul up to two bikes, equal to 70 pounds. But if you’re planning to mount two or more bikes, we recommend that you purchase the Thule locking bed-rider add-on block for optimal convenience.
When not in use, storage is not a problem. Since you can lock it in position, there’s no need to remove the rack from the truck bed after using it. Weighing only 9.6 pounds, carrying it to your truck, and storing it in your garage is not a problem.
To use the rack, you will need a thru-axle adapter, which is sold separately. Keep in mind that this rack is a fork mount carries. It means to mount the bike into the rack, removal of the front wheels is necessary. For bikers with large hubs such as 135mm, this rack will not be able to cater to the bike. It also cannot accommodate recumbent bikes, but it is compatible with most common bike types.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Axle-friendly fork mounts | Does not accommodate modern mountain bike axles |
| Easy to load and unload | Keyed locks are hard to operate |
| Easy installation | Frame is flimsy |
#6. TBBC-4 by Apex Rage Powersports – Best Truck Bike Bed Racks for Four Bikes
[amazon fields=”B0085ETJKK” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “TBBC-4 by Apex Rage Powersports” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Capacity: 4 bikes
- Material: steel tube
If you own two or more bikes, this rack is worth the consideration. It is an ideal choice for family use. However, take note that this rack is only recommended for truck beds that are at least 52.7 inches wide. The bed liner of the truck doesn’t matter when installing this rack.
When it comes to installation, drilling is no longer needed. The rack per se only weighs 31 pounds, making it easy for you to store it in the garage when not in use. The exact measurement of this rack is 15 x 15 x 25 inches, designed strategically with truck drivers in mind.
This rack is made of steel tube with a black coating. Rest assured that with proper use and maintenance, it can last for years to come.
The package includes adjustable stoppers and bolts. Simply unwind the stoppers until the rack rests against the side of your truck bed. Make sure that the rack is in the middle while in this process.
Four stoppers in total are included in the package. Two are for each side of the truck. This rack is designed to cater to up to four bikes. Notice the four sections of the rack where the front tires are designed to slide into. It comes with a foam padding to ensure that even if you drive the roughest of the terrains, the wheels of your bike are protected.
Furthermore, it features a clamp with a V-shaped bracket, slots located at the top of the tire to keep it still while traveling. It can accommodate bikes with wheels sizing up to 26 inches. Make sure that our bike’s wheels are suitable for this Apex rack.
For better security, you may consider the security of each of your bike. A tie-down strap can be used to secure all the rears of the bikes. It helps to keep the bike stable while in transit.
The manufacturer offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty upon purchase of the product.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Attaching and removing the bikes is easy | Rubber pads keep coming off |
| Less expensive alternative | Faulty locking mechanism |
| Easy to install | Weak security system |
#7. UG2500-2 Uni-Grip Truck Bed Bike Rack by Top Line – Best Truck Bike Bed Racks for Durability
[amazon fields=”B000MK5M7E” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “Uni-Grip Truck Bed Bike Rack by Top Line” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 4 pounds
- Capacity: 2 bikes
- Material: steel
If you want an easy installation, take a look at the uni-grip truck bed bike rack by the Top Line. It is designed to be mounted in just two minutes. This makes the product an appealing choice to buyers who frequently travel. Bed liners on the truck is not a problem with the installation. This rack is designed to be mounted in almost any truck.
Weighing only four pounds, storing away the rack when not in use, will never be a problem. It has enough room to fit four bikes at a time. This rack can accommodate bikes of all sizes and wheel types. Removal of the wheel is not needed when mounting your bikes.
Also, you have the freedom to mount the bike rail system anywhere in the truck bed. That way, you can save cargo space. When mounting the second bike, you may lock it with the first bike using the solid bar. You may buy additional bars if you want to lock the third and fourth bikes. It will secure all the bikes behind the truck even when you travel through a bumpy road.
To make it more convenient, there’s no need to drill when installing the rack system in the truck bed. Access to the top and bottom of the rail is all you need to finish the installation. The supplier is kind enough to distribute multiple links of pdf that will teach you how to install the bike rack in your pickup truck properly. To prevent unwanted scratches, use the gasket before you fit the clamp.
The package also includes a locking cable. Some trucks may require a spacer when you fit the clamp. This is provided to those who have a vehicle that needs one.
Another extra yet useful accessory included is the nylon strap. It will secure the front wheel of your bike to ensure that it will not move while driving. However, keep in mind that it will not lock the bikes on the truck bed. It is still recommended that you check the bikes from time to time.
Lastly, it includes a plastic cap that covers the hole when the rack is not in use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and easy to install | The frame is not locked to the truck bed |
| Can be set up in two minutes | Not compatible with all bikes |
| Fits most trucks | The clamp is too small |
#8. 501 Insta-Gater Truck Bed Bike Rack by Thule – Best Truck Bed Bike Racks for Solo Travelers
[amazon fields=”B000GT2VYI” value=”thumb” image_size=“medium” image_align=”center” image_title =“truck bed bike racks” image_alt = “501 Insta-Gater Truck Bed Bike Rack by Thule” image_width=“250” image_height=“250”/]Product Specifications
- Weight: 9.9 pounds
- Capacity: 1 bike
- Material: steel
Thule lives up to its reputation of premium-quality bike accessories. Take a look at their 501 Insta-Gater Truck Bed Bike Racks. Durable and sold at a reasonable price.
This carrier can only accommodate up to three bikes. It weighs up to 50 pounds and sporting rims ranging in 20 to 29 inches. Since it’s a wheel mount model, removal of the bike’s front wheel is not necessary. Just make sure that the wheels of your bike are no more than three inches so you can secure it through the Thule proprietary Quick-load system.
Mounting the rack into your truck bed requires no drilling. All that’s left to do is put the carrier on the truck bed. The rubber tabs must be situated between the bed and the tailgate.
It also includes a lock that will protect your bike from thieves.
Make sure that your truck doesn’t have over the rail bed liners; otherwise, this rack won’t fit. It is not compatible with tandem bikes as well.
Thanks to the optimal protection that this rack offers, you can reduce the maintenance cost and repair bills in the long run.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable and built to last | There is no lock until tailgate is up |
| Solid frame system | Not ideal for short bed trucks |
| Easy to install | Weak security system |
Top Pick – Best Truck Bike Bed Rack
The convenient, easy to use, and an ultimate rack system for all of your needs – Swagman Adjustable Truck Bed Bike Rack. This rack can accommodate all types of bikes and can fit all types of trucks.
This excellent truck bike bed rack is our top pick. It is due to the high-grade materials, versatility, and durability that this product can offer. No matter how big or small your truck is, rest assured that you can use this product. This makes an appealing choice as it can be installed in any of your vehicles.
Also, Swagman is a respected name in the bike industry. They are known for their premium-quality products and excellent customer service. This product has garnered hundreds of positive reviews from its customers.
To make things more interesting, Swagman also offers a lifetime warranty of the product upon purchase.
Getting the Best Truck Bike Bed Racks – Ultimate Buyer’s Guide
Cycling to other scenery is a fun idea until you have to put your bike in the car and drive. To secure your precious bike, investing in a truck bed bike rack is crucial.
However, with hundreds of truck bike bed racks in the market, how do you know what’s best for you?
Here is the ultimate buyer’s guide that will help you to buy the best truck bike bed racks. The following are factors that you need to consider when buying this product.
Factors to Consider in Buying a Truck Bike Bed Rack
Budget
The price of the bike rack will vary according to the manufacturer, size, and capacity. Make sure that you buy the best rack according to your budget. However, a higher price doesn’t always mean higher quality. Getting the value out of your hard-earned money is vital.
Frequency of use
Frequency of use is an essential factor. To avoid wasting your money, consider first if how frequently you’ll be using the bike rack. For instance, if you’re only planning to use it once, then you should opt for the cheapest rack available in the market. Bike racks for rent is also a good option.
However, if you’re planning to use the truck bed bike rack every weekend to cycle, then make sure to invest a durable and sturdy rack.
Capacity
Most of the bike racks that are listed here can accommodate more than two bikes. Make sure to evaluate how many bikes you’re planning to use with the rack.
Bike racks with more than two capacities are more expensive. Some may require an additional bar to accommodate more bikes. Spell out the maximum number of bikes that you’re planning to carry before you buy one.
Security System
To make sure that your bike is safe from thieves, check the security system of the rack. Most bike racks can be locked in its mounted position. That way, your bike is secured from getting stolen.
The locking feature of the rack will prevent theft. It also helps to keep your bike stable to prevent damage when in transit. Make sure that you opt for bike racks that offer an excellent security system.
Manufacturer’s Reputation
When buying the best truck bike bed rack, it is vital to consider the manufacturer’s reputation. Established manufacturers with years of experience in the industry often have a good reputation. They also offer the best of aftersales and customer services. Ensure that your manufacture is reputable for providing premium-quality bike accessories before buying.
Conclusion
As a cycler, truck bike bed racks will make your life easier and more convenient. If you take your bike often to places when you cycle, it’s high time to buy the best truck bike bed rack.
Take a closer look at our top pick for this review. It might be the bike rack that will suit your needs. All items in this review are guaranteed to give you the best biking experience.
Protect both your bike and truck with the right truck bike bed rack. Cyclers, mountain bikers, and even people who occasionally drive with their bikes should consider investing a bike rack.
Now you can travel in peace knowing that your bike is secured at the back of your vehicle. Truck bike bed racks are the solution to your problems!
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
✅ Can a bike rack go through a carwash?
While mounting and dismounting your bike rack from your truck bed can seem a tedious task, make sure that you remove it when you’re planning to the carwash. A car wash can cause snags on the racks and damage. It also heightens the risks of exposing the metal parts of your rack, which results in rusting. If your bike racks have landing pads, it can be left to go through a car wash.
✅ Can I convert my rack to accommodate an additional bike?
The answer will depend on the design of your bike rack. But in most cases, you only need to attach an additional set of cradles or bars to accommodate one more bike. However, it is not advisable because when the attachment process causes damage to the rack, it voids the warranty.
Hence, when buying additional bars or cradles, make sure that you’re supplied directly from the manufacturer. Some designs are versatile that allows you to accommodate two or more bikes by adding bars. Make sure that modifying the product using legit materials from the manufacturer does not void the warranty to avoid problems in the near future.
✅ How to clean the truck bed bike racks?
Cleaning the bike racks is easy and does not take too much of your time. Hose the rack down with water and mild soap. Be careful with using strong detergent as it can damage the paint of the rack. Also, make sure that the rack is properly dried before using it again to avoid rusting.
After hosing the rack, check the nooks and the crannies. Make sure that there is no water trapped inside as it can cause the metal to rot. Dry the rack thoroughly before using it again.
For a quick cleanup, you can wipe the rack with a clean, damp cloth before you go. While waiting for the rack to try, make use of the time to inspect if there are parts that need to be replaced or damages that you haven’t noticed before. Fasteners should be tight, and if time permits, re-lube the rack for optimal convenience.