Hitch Mount Bike Rack - 6 Point Checklist to Help You Choose a Towbar Bike Carrier

I recently got myself a hitch mount bike rack called the Thule T2 and was super impressed with it.I decided to write an article about the hitch mount carrier since it was something I really researched before getting one. Here is a summary of my results that could help you, a person looking to buy a hitch mount bike rack.

1. How many bikes do you want to carry?
My research led me to understand that tow-hitch bike racks can carry from 1 to 5 racks, depending on which model you get. A lot of people recommended carrying up to 3 bikes on the hitch, especially if you are driving on rough ground. The extra weight on the back of the car might cause the hitch to scrape the ground, so make sure you have quite a high car.

2. Do you need to get in and out of the back of your car?
Some models are in a fixed position. This means that there is no way you can get in and out of the back of your car. Other models have a swing away function which means that you can swing the rack to one side (with the bike racks still loaded) allowing access to the back. Another model is designed so that you can fold it up and lower the rack to the ground. But you cannot do this with the bikes loaded.

3. Do you have a mix of men’s and ladies bike or even a child’s bike to carry?
Certain bike racks are best suited to the standard A-frame bike and cannot fit a ladies style bike (with that bar at the angle). Other bike racks are more versatile and can fit a variety of bikes.

My advice is if you find a bicycle carrier that fits almost all your needs except for this one thing, then check to see if it has any other accessories that will let you add on different bikes. You might also have to check if thicker wheels fit on the rack.

4. What sort of terrain are you planning on traveling on?
As was mentioned in point one, if you are traveling over rough terrain (if you are a 4x4 off roader and want to take your bikes along) make sure you check the strength of the bike rack.

It’s very important that they are loaded properly to reduce stress on the bike frames. Also make sure the wheels are high enough off the ground so they don't touch the road.

5. Do you mind taking the front tire off?
Most bike racks are designed for you to be able to keep the front tire on. I prefer this option (and any other which cuts down time!) But your bike tires just might not fit onto the rack - the Thule T2 for example the bikes fit onto a rack and I can imagine that fat tires will just not cut it.

6. Is security an issue?
Do you think your bikes might get stolen from the rack? If so, then go for a model that has more security features built in. I noticed that most of these so called safety locks are really just deterrents so don't bank on them.

You might just have to fit your own home made type lock in the end, anyway.

I highly recommend the hitch mount bike rack. I used to have a trunk mount bike rack, but just found that it really limited me from getting in and out of the back of the car. We finally decided to get a hitch receiver fitted and to get a hitch mount.

For more reading on these types of bike racks for cars, check out the hitch mount bike rack at bikeracks-forcars.com