by Joshua Thomas
The trunk bike rack is a secure and easy way to carry your bicycles on the trunk of your vehicle.
It is basically a lightweight rack that securely fits your vehicle trunk with the help of harnesses and allows you to stack multiple bicycles with ease.
Depending on the model you choose, a trunk bike rack can allow you to stack anywhere from one up to 3 bicycles for transportation.
Here is a quick overview that illustrates the main advantages of the trunk bike rack:
If you are fresh on the market for the best trunk mount bicycle rack, we have reviewed a few popular options below. Let's find out how well they perform!
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Allen Deluxe 102DB (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Hollywood Racks B3 Baja 3 |
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 | 3. Saris Bones 801 |
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 | 4. SportRack SR3161 |
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 | 5. Saris Bones 801BL |
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 | 6. Hollywood Racks F2 |
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 | 7. Allen Deluxe 104DB-R |
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The Allen Sports Deluxe is a popular trunk bike rack that comes in 3 different sizes. The most common one is the 2 bike style that has a maximum weight capacity of 70 lbs.
Installation of the trunk bike rack is equally easy as this model comes with a detailed manual instructing beginners how to do so. Moreover, despite lacking a dedicated anti-sway system, this unit makes up for it by providing you with side straps that will increase your stability, especially when the vehicle is negotiating corners.
Best of all, the Allen Sports Deluxe price is unbeatable especially considering the features, versatility, and build construction of the unit. If you have never owned this device before, this is a good trunk bike rack to consider.
The only caveat is that this model does not have an anti-sway system, but the tie-down system is secure and very easy to use. Moreover, they will be able to firmly hold your bicycle in position and does not cause any vibration while doing so.
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The Hollywood Racks Express is a simple and yet highly effective trunk bike rack that simply works. This model comes pre-assembled so it is extremely beginner friendly. You do not need any tool to install it and it can be done in a matter of seconds regardless of the type of vehicle you have.
In addition, you can purchase 2 different styles, one that will be able to hold up to 2 bikes and the other 3 bikes. Each model can hold 35 lbs of weight per bike, which is a little bit above the industry standard.
Furthermore, you will find a soft rubber cradle at the upper and lower part of the device so as not to scratch your vehicle paint and limit vibration. Also, when not in use, you will be able to quickly and easily fold this trunk bike rack so as to conserve space for storage.
If you require an easy to use trunk back rack that comes fully installed out of the box, this Hollywood Racks Express should be at the top of your list even if it lacks a dedicated anti-sway mechanism and not the best model for rough terrains.
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The Saris Bones has an odd U-shape. However, it is a top-rated trunk bike rack that is used by experts and beginners alike. You can purchase this model in no less than 6 different colors based on user preference.
Furthermore, this rack is equipped with an anti-sway mechanism which will prevent it from violently swaying from side to side, especially when the vehicle is negotiating sharp corners. You will also find straps for harnessing the trunk rack securely to your vehicle and prevent further sway.
In addition, this model has a tilting feature that will allow you to quickly and easily tilt the arm of the trunk rack so as to easily access your bicycles for loading or unloading.
Moreover, the arc shape of this trunk bike rack makes it very stable and easy to install, especially when installing on a vehicle like a sedan due to the tail shape. Just note that this model is not ideal for use in an SUV because of the shape of the arc.
Also, the weight capacity of 105 lbs means that this is a heavy-duty bike trunk rack that will be able to hold even the heaviest bicycles on the market. This model is definitely one of the best trunk bike rack for sedan you can get.
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This trunk bike rack is another simple and yet effective model from SportRack. Indeed, it is a minimalist model with an excellent build construction that makes it durable and long-lasting and able to carry up to 3 bicycles with ease. This model comes in only one size, unfortunately.
Moreover, you will find rubber cradles so as not to damage the paint job on your vehicle during installation and usage.
Best of all, for the price of this unit, it is also equipped with an anti-sway system which will prevent it from moving side to side and make carrying your bikes smoother and comfortable even when driving in rough roads.
The tie-down system is equally easy to use and the best aspect of it is that you can tie-down your bikes individually so this system provides you with more flexibility when compared to others.
Moreover, when not in use, you can quickly and easily fold this trunk rack as it folds flat. The only caveat is that the price could have been more competitive. Other than this, it is an excellent choice for anyone.
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The Saris Bones is yet another bike trunk rack that can hold a maximum of 2 bikes. This model is made exclusively for those that do not have a lot of bikes to carry. However, it still has a comfortable weight capacity of 70 lbs which is well above the industry standard.
Best of all, this model is made from a material that is 100% recyclable and will not rust so it is extremely environmentally friendly.
Moreover, we also note the presence of an anti-sway system on this bike trunk rack which will prevent your bikes from making contact or damaging your vehicle when negotiating corners or when driving on rough terrains.
Since this model is pre-installed, you will have absolutely no difficulty installing it, especially on a vehicle. Again, due to the arc shape of this model, it will be better suited on a car rather than an SUV. Also, the 2 bike limitation is a downer.
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This Hollywood rack is another popular and flexible option used by many seasoned bikers.
The reason is quite simple as this trunk bike rack allows you to make many adjustments like adjusting the straps and bike heights. It is also compatible with most vehicles and can easily be installed by absolute beginners.
Moreover, this unit can accommodate up to 3 bikes with ease especially considering that it has an excellent weight capacity of 105 lbs. Not the best, but still more than enough for most people. In addition, this unit comes pre-installed so installation is extremely easy for even absolute beginners.
Due to the shape of this trunk bike rack, will be able to fit both an SUV and a car with great ease.
You can even adjust the high rise frame so as not to damage your car spoilers. Talking about adjustments, there are many different types of adjustments in this trunk bike rack making it an extremely versatile model.
The only caveat we have with this Hollywoods trunk bike rack is its price as it is an expensive model. But other than that, it is near perfection.
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Allen is a popular manufacturer of trunk bike racks and we often see their products, especially in trunk bike rack review like this one. This particular Allen unit is rated as one of the best trunk mounted bike rack on the market mostly because of its ability to carry up to 4 bikes with ease.
Indeed, due to the long arm of this trunk bike rack, it will have no problem carrying 4 bikes which is an excellent choice for those who need to carry a lot of bikes on the go. In addition, the rubber pads will protect the device as well as your vehicle from scratches during transportation.
There is no dedicated anti-sway system on this model, but the ratcheting straps to the sides can be tightened into such a way that there is no play and vibrations when negotiating corners or driving on rough roads.
Best of all, this is a universal bike trunk rack that will fit any type of vehicle, from an SUV, a minivan up to a sedan.
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Before purchasing a trunk bike rack, there are some important aspects to take into account. Here are a few of the most important factors that you need to take into account:
First and foremost, it is important to ensure that your trunk bike rack is compatible with your type of vehicle.
Even if manufacturers usually make their bike racks compatible with virtually any type of vehicle on the market, there are still some models that require specific types of vehicles for installation. An example would be a trunk bike rack for SUV not adapted for a small car.
The tie-down system in a trunk bike rack is simply the method that the bike rack uses to attach the bicycles together. Since the trunk bike rack is made to accommodate multiple bicycles, it is important to go with a model that will tie-down each bicycle individually.
This makes it easier to unload the bicycles and is also generally safer since each bike has its own attachment point on the trunk bike rack.
Sway is always a problem when you drive a vehicle on the road. It normally happens when the vehicle is negotiating corners, driving on rough terrains, or during a windy day.
To compensate for sway, many trunk bike racks are equipped with an anti-sway mechanism that will prevent the trunk bike rack from swaying and thus, helps in keeping your bikes safe on the rack.
Essentially, the length of the carrying arm will dictate how many bikes you can carry with your trunk bike rack. In general, a 12-inch carry arm should be able to carry at least 2 bikes with ease and room to spare. If you need to carry more bikes, then choose a carry arm length that is greater than 12 inches.
Most of the safety associated with the trunk bike rack will be a result of multiple factors. It will result from the design of the trunk bike rack, the tie-down system, the type of vehicle that it is suited and the number of bicycles that it will be able to fit.
In short, when looking for the best bike rack for car trunk there are no specific safety factors to look out for, but multiple factors to keep an eye out. In general, look for words like "safety" or "safe" to get a general idea of the safety features offered with your trunk bike rack.
You do not want a trunk bike rack that is difficult to install. But not only that, you also want the trunk back rack to be easy to load and unload as well.
For this, check the design of the trunk bike rack. If it is a simple design with an upper support bar, a lower support bar and long carry arms, it should be quite easy to install because it is standard design.
Additionally, if you have never installed a trunk bike rack before, ensure that the manufacturer also ships their product with a manual.
Firstly, press the upper support bars of the bike rack on top of your vehicle and the lower support bars under your license plate. The placement of the trunk bike rack will mostly depend on the shape of your vehicle trunk. You will need to refer to your installation manual to see the most appropriate installation placement for your vehicle.
Locate your trunk lid and harness the trunk bike rack firmly with the straps. The trunk lid will provide a stable point where you can attach your harnesses. Tighten the straps as tight as you can but don't overdo it.
The harnessing system will mostly depend on your trunk bike rack model. However, most models will have multiple positions where you will need to attach the harness to your trunk lid for safe harnessing.
Now that you have secured the trunk bike rack to the trunk lid, verify if it is solidly affixed to your vehicle. If you have followed the previous steps, then your trunk bike rack should now sit firmly in position. It is now ready to accommodate your various bikes.
Luckily, most modern-day trunk bike racks have a tie-down system that will allow you to individually harness each bike to the bike rack arm. They will do so without damaging or scratching your bike. Ensure that you have tied your bikes securely by tugging on the bike after strapping them.
There you go, installing your trunk bike rack couldn't be easier. Manufacturers make them so that they are compatible with virtually any vehicle type on the market. If you are having difficulty installing your trunk bike ride, then it is always a good idea to refer to your installation manual as most models will show you how to do it in quick and easy steps.
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DB, Black/ Silver, 23 x 15 x 4 - Walmart Link
Allen Sports Premier Locking Tray Rack - Walmart Link
Saris Bones Car Trunk Bike Rack, 2 and 3 Bike Options - Walmart Link
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DN-R, Black - Walmart Link
Saris Bones EX Trunk Bike Rack Carrier, Mount 3 Bikes, Black (803) - Walmart Link
Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Mount Bicycle Rack. (Compatible with Most - Walmart Link
Allen Sports Deluxe Trunk Mount 3-Bike Carrier, Model 103DN-R, Black, 28.6 x 14.2 x 4.5" - Walmart Link
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DB, Black/ Silver, 23 x 15 x 4 - eBay Link
Allen Sports Premier Locking Tray Rack - eBay Link
Saris Bones Car Trunk Bike Rack, 2 and 3 Bike Options - eBay Link
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack, Model 102DN-R, Black - eBay Link
Saris Bones EX Trunk Bike Rack Carrier, Mount 3 Bikes, Black (803) - eBay Link
Tyger Auto TG-RK3B203S Deluxe 3-Bike Trunk Mount Bicycle Rack. (Compatible with Most - eBay Link
Allen Sports Deluxe Trunk Mount 3-Bike Carrier, Model 103DN-R, Black, 28.6 x 14.2 x 4.5" - eBay Link
As we have seen, the trunk bike rack is a simple and yet effective way to carry multiple bicycles with great ease. If you need to carry your bicycle from point A to point B on your vehicle, then the trunk bike rack is an absolute must-have.
Best of all, this bicycle transportation device is also very affordable and extremely easy to use. Even if you have never owned a trunk bike rack before, you will have no problem installing it on your vehicle.
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About Joshua Thomas
Joshua Thomas just simply loves cars and willing to work on them whenever there's chance... sometimes for free.
He started CarCareTotal back in 2017 from the advices of total strangers who witnessed his amazing skills in car repairs here and there.
His goal with this creation is to help car owners better learn how to maintain and repair their cars; as such, the site would cover alot of areas: troubleshooting, product recommendations, tips & tricks.
Joshua received Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at San Diego State University.
Just Car Care
