The best bicycle rack is an essential part of getting bikes safely into and out of your vehicle. But with so many options out there, choosing the right one for you can be confusing. You’ll need to consider how many bikes you want to carry, whether you prefer roof or trunk mount, and even speciality racks for things like pickup truck beds and tailgate pads.
Aside from price, the main consideration when buying a bike rack is how durable and user-friendly it will be. Most racks are constructed of steel, but the type of steel used varies widely. Tube is the most common, as it offers resistance to cutting and bending, and can be made into a wide variety of shapes at a low cost. Pipe, on the other hand, is stronger but more expensive.
Another factor to consider is whether the rack features any sort of security. While not always a priority for buyers, having some kind of security feature on your rack can help deter theft and protect your investment. Many racks have built-in lock cores, but others like the Kuat Piston and Yakima StageTwo use long rubber-coated cables that extend from the receiver arm to the bike trays, giving you a convenient place to attach a lock.
Finally, look at the finish of the rack. Galvanized steel is inexpensive and rust-resistant, though it can scratch more easily than other finishes. Powder coat is similar to galvanized and offers more color options, but it’s not as rust-resistant as stainless steel. Stainless steel is a great option for racks in salty environments and offers the most durability overall.