Bikes are selling like crazy these days. While we were dealing with the sickness-that-shall-not-be-named, many of us dug out old bikes or bought new ones. (I know, I did it both!)
Personally, I find non-hitch bike racks for minivans convenient and user-friendly. In one area, non-hitch racks present a unique challenge: keeping them from hitting the garage gate or from falling off your minivan trunk.
Before buying bikes for my family for vacations, I had a heavy-duty hitch rack that supported my old 2-person e-bike – which I used to take my kid to his soccer game. Yet the thought of carrying our bikes on that big, hitch rack was laughable. I bought some pretty pricey bikes, and storing them on a low-riding minivan with a shaky hitch rack isn’t very smart.
The fact that I live right next to a bike rack shop gives me a unique advantage — I’m able to find just about any bike rack I want or need. So we brought our bikes to the shop to try these racks out. To get their impressions, I also talked to a few bikers who regularly use these racks. So here’s our best bike racks for minivans (no hitch).
Thule Bike Rack? Yakima Bike Rack? Allen Bike Rack? Which Brand Should I Go For?
Bicycle rack brands make products that make getting your bike around easier.
There are tons of companies that make these products, both bike carrier specialists like Hollywood Racks and rack makers like Thule. It’s always best to choose a well-reviewed, reliable manufacturer who makes high-quality products.
The first thing you should do is figure out your budget and what type of rack you need. You can then pick the company whose quality, designs, and reputation fit your needs.
Thule
Thule’s products are known for their high quality and durability, as well as their innovative design. Among their most innovative bicycle racks for cars, they make transporting your bike easy and safe.
Using a state-of-the-art facility for testing their products, Thule ensures the highest standards are met. A professional team also tests them in real life. Due to this testing, all of their racks come with a long warranty so you can be confident in them.
Yakima
From the US Pacific Northwest, Yakima specializes in racks of all kinds. Cycle racks are the company’s specialty, but they also design racks for other uses.
There’s a Yakima bicycle carrier for every need. They make bikes and vehicles for all types. Additionally, they consider your cargo situation and what kind of adventure you’re into.
Among their styles are tray racks, vertical racks, mast racks, trunk mounts, and roof mounts.
Allen Sports
Allen Sports has been specializing in bike carriers for over 50 years. Dick Allen, an Apollo program physicist turned entrepreneur, saw a need to solve a problem: carrying bikes on family vacations.
A variety of bar racks are available from Allen Sports, including hitch racks, trunk racks, spare tire racks, and compact racks. The Rack Finder tool on their website lets you find racks based on your exact vehicle model and year.
All racks come with a lifetime warranty, and great customer service makes sure you’re happy.
Saris
There aren’t many bike racks as good as Saris. Founded by cyclists and cycling advocates, this brand is based in the US.
The bicycle carrier rack is one of their biggest products. Their racks come in different styles to fit different cars and bikes. Saris tries to improve cyclists’ experiences by pushing the limits of what’s possible.
This is done by producing high-quality, durable racks that are easy to use. Aside from that, there’s a lot of versatility and compatibility in their products. They back this up with a limited lifetime warranty.
Hollywood Racks
One of the first rack-making companies in the USA, Hollywood Racks has been making racks for a long time.
During the 1990s, they expanded internationally with hitch racks and spare tire racks. As a result of their versatile, strong, and reliable products, they gained international recognition.
Because “everyone should be able to afford a bike rack,” one of the company’s key goals is to create affordable bike transportation solutions.
With excellent quality and superior stability, they continue to make the trunk, hitch, and spare tire versions. Due to their quality, versatility, and competitive prices, their racks are always in high demand, so they may be out of stock.
Best Bike Racks for Minivans Without Hitch: Our Top 7 Picks
What we listed down here are some of the best options out there for minivans. Some reviews say one non-hitch bike rack fits a minivan when it actually doesn’t. As a result, people spend money on useless racks they can’t get rid of.
Listed below are the best bike racks for vans (without hitch); complete with what we like (or dislike) about them, and a link to check the price.
| Ranking | Brand & Model | Bike Rack Type | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link to Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Thule ProRide XT | Roof Bike Rack | Quick and easy to get a bike in place | Not recommended for heavy bikes | Click to check price |
| Runner-up |   | Hollywood Rack F4 Heady Duty 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Has buckles for quickly tying down your bike | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price |
| Also consider |   | Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Good for 3 full size mountain bikes | Doesn’t come with a lock | Click to check price |
| 4 |   | Allen Sports Deluxe – 4 Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Straightforward installation | May scratch the paint on your minivan during rough rides | Click to check price |
| 5 |   | Tyger Auto TG – RK1B204B Deluxe Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Comes out of the box completely assembled | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price |
| 6 |   | Allen Sports Ultra-compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Very compact, and can be folded when not in use | Side straps must be used to secure the bikes. | Click to check price |
| Avoid this one |   | Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | It has Rubber straps with a quick-lock feature. | The clips that hold the rig together are made of bare metal and will easily scratch your car’s paint. | Click to check price |
Not a lot of options right? But they’re all tested and proven to work for minivans. Find out how we chose the best bike racks for vans without a hitch below.
How We Select The Best No-hitch Bike Racks for Minivans
There are several factors to consider when choosing a high-quality bike rack for vans without hitch. Here are some things we considered when we chose our best minivan bike racks (without hitch) for this year:
Bike Attachment
You can usually put bike racks for minivans into two categories – roof racks and trunk racks. Bike frames are held in place by trunk racks that hang on to the back compartment of vehicles. roof bike racks attach to the roof of the van, either directly or clamped on to the cargo rack.
Number of Bikes
Do you have a lot of bikes to haul? Racks hold different numbers of bikes, so you’ll need one that fits your needs.
Locking Mechanism
Because bikes can be expensive, it’s worth considering whether the bike rack has a lock. Does it provide the lock, or do you have to install it? Choose a rack that fits your needs.
Build Quality and Material
There’s no doubt that quality varies from product to product. Protect your bikes with a bike rack that will last for years.
Brand Reputation
There are people that say brands are just names and don’t really matter to the quality of the products. It’s a lie. Every flagship bike rack brand has a long history, delivering top-performing racks that bike riders and professionals love.
Customer Reviews Over a Multitude of Sites
People who bought and tried minivan bike racks are the best people to get product feedback from.
There are a few bike racks here we have actual on-hand experience with. The rest, based on those factors.
Can a bike rack go on a van?
You can attach a bike rack to a van, but you’ll need to find the right one.
You can choose from a lot of bike racks. There are roof racks, hitch racks, and rear mount racks for vans.
Will a trunk bike rack work on a minivan?
Trunk-mounted bike racks attach to the back of your minivan using hooks, straps, and buckles. Since they don’t need extra equipment (like a hitch or crossbars), they’re the most economical way to transport bikes.
Best Bike Racks For Minivans (Without Hitch)
The number of hobbyist cyclists is on the rise, so no hitch bike racks for minivans are getting popular. With these bike racks, you can move your beloved bike while saving a lot of money.
Riddle me this. Want to ride your bike up the mountain without spending your whole paycheck? You don’t want to deal with hitch-related number crunching?
Your minivan needs the best bike rack without a hitch if the answer is YES. You’ll save 30% on your expenses and get the job done. You’ll have no problem transporting your bikes.
We’ve tested a lot of bike racks, but here are 7 that stood out to me. From budget hunters to premium pickers, every bike rack on this list is well-rounded and can meet everyone’s needs. Here’s what each bike rack offers. No worries. I’ll throw in any dirt I find.
Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack
Pros
- Fits 3 full-size bikes and secures them with easy-to-use tie-down straps
- High build quality
Cons
- Rubs on your minivan’s paint after long-term use
- Comes with extra obsolete velcro straps that have little to no use.
In addition to the practicality of previous models, the new Saris Bones EX offers some subtle tweaks to the classic Bones design. With a few upgrades, particularly the bike tie-downs, it’s one of the best three-bike rear-mounted carriers out there.
Saris Bones boot-mounted cycle carriers aren’t too overwhelming for anyone who’s used them before. Bones’ three-bike carriers aren’t all that different from previous models, but they have a unique dog-leg design with built-in strap guides, so they’ll fit on spoiler-equipped vehicles, along with some premium bike tie-downs. Despite that, Bones is a modern classic, so that’s not too bad.
It’s bound to be on sale right now, so click the link below to check the price.
If not, check out the next item below.
Tyger Auto TG – RK1B204B Deluxe Trunk Mount Bike Rack
Pros
- Sturdy and handy construction
- You can fold the carry arms when they’re not in use
Cons
- Not compatible with vehicles with rear spoilers
- An additional adaptor is needed for bikes with top frame bars
A bike rack designed to fit minivans, SUVs, and sedans, Tyger Auto TG – RK1B204B Deluxe Trunk Mount Bike Rack.
With this rack, you can carry 3 bikes, and each bike has its own soft cradle with ratchet buckle to protect the frame. It’s coated with OE black E-Coating to keep it from rusting. You can fold the carry arms when they’re not in use.
It’s made by a reputable brand, and it’s very durable.
Click the link below to check the price because it’s probably on sale.
If not, check out the next item below.
Allen Sports Ultra-compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
Pros
- When it’s not in use, it folds up
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Bikes must be secured with side straps
For simplicity and convenience, Allen’s ultra-compact MT-2 2-bike carrier combines full-featured bicycle carriers with their revolutionary folding design.
With its sturdy steel frame, the MT-2 is easy to transport and store. A dual compound tie-down cradle protects and secures bicycles. You can keep your bikes safe and secure with Allen’s unique individual tie-down system. Despite being fixed on the carry arm, the tie-downs can rotate to fit different types of bicycle frame.
If you like this bike rack, click the link below to check the price as it could likely be on sale right now.
If not, check out the next item below.
Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
Pros
- There’s a quick-lock feature on the rubber straps
- Easy to install
Cons
- It’s made of bare metal, so it’ll scratch your car’s paint easily
- Racks need to be installed right, so they don’t cause accidents
S-102 Premier Two-Bike Carrier by Allen Sports fits minivans, hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs.
Fast and easy to set up, it transports your bicycles safely around town or across the country. Two side belts provide excellent stability in your car.
Unique tie-down technology secures and protects your bikes. Allen Premier Racks install in seconds. A one-handed fold makes the Rack easy to store when not in use.
Various bicycle frame sizes and designs can be accommodated by the S-102’s carry arms. The Rack fits most adult bikes and most women’s and kids’ bikes.
To check the price, click the link below. It might be on sale right now.
Otherwise, check out the next category below.
Best Roof Bike Rack For Minivans [Without Hitch]: Put It All On The Roof!
There’s more versatility and customization with roof-mounted bike racks than hitch-mount or trunk-mount bikes.
Roof carriers give you more stability, more storage, easier access to doors and trunks, and a better view behind you than hitch-mounted carriers. Roof racks are great for low-height vehicles (like vans). Several models use suction cups, while others clamp onto crossbars.
Best Roof Bike Rack for Minivans: Thule ProRide XT
Pros
- Securely holds your bike
- It’s quick and easy to put a bike up
Cons
- Mounting the bike can be tricky with tire straps
- Fitting it requires roof bars
Putting your bike in the boot is just as easy as using this rack.
The rack is reassuringly solid, unlike some boot mounts, and doesn’t encroach on parking like tow bar mounts. You can leave it in place when not in use without it affecting the performance of your car.
There’s a control dial that lets you know when the bike is safely mounted, plus padded claws that protect your car. The unit can also be locked, but you’ll need to buy the locks separately.
Here’s a link to check out the price. It’s probably on sale right now, so click it to find out.
Otherwise, check out the next category below.
Best 4 Bike Racks For Minivans [Without Hitch]: Fit 4 The Whole Squad
Nothing beats a minivan joyride with the whole squad (or family). What if everyone’s a biker? The thought of driving a hundred miles to the bike park with drinks, food, camping gear, and four bikes in the trunk might not be appealing.
This is why you need a 4-bike rack for your minivan. Here are a few recommendations you might want to check out.
Best Hollywood Racks Bike Rack [4 Bikes] for Minivans: Hollywood Racks F4
Pros
- Tubes and hardware made of extra-heavy steel
- It folds flat for easy storage
Cons
- It’s too heavy to install on a plastic hatchback
- Rack doesn’t swing away, so you can’t open your rear door without removing it
Among the best heavy-duty bike racks is the Hollywood F4.
With its heavy-duty steel tubing and fittings, it can transport up to four bikes. Personalized trunk/bumper fit with dual positioning (no spoiler).
Straps and buckles with high strength ensure a snug fit for heavyweights. The whole thing folds flat for easy storage. With its unique dual-positioning trunk/bumper system, this rack fits most Minivans, SUVs, and Sedans. With extra-heavy-duty steel tubing and fasteners, this rack can carry up to four bikes, and a tie-down strap makes it even more secure.
If you like this bike rack, click the link below to check the price as it could likely be on sale right now.
If not, check out the next item below.
Best Allen Bike Rack [4 Bikes] for Minivans: Allen Sports Deluxe – 4
Pros
- Two side straps make it super stable
- The clear arch preserves the paint on the top and bottom
Cons
- To prevent scratching on the car, fix the two side straps
- Not recommended for vehicles with rear spoilers
Designed to fit most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs, the Allen 104D Deluxe 4 Bike Trunk Mount Rack makes transporting bicycles easy.
Each bike is secured and protected by a revolutionary tie-down system. With its simplified, one-configuration design, the rack’s 22-inch carry arms can hold up to four bicycles and are operated by a single pop-up pin when not in use. Installation is quick and easy.
Several spare tires can be installed outside using the rack’s extra-long receiver post. Durable UV-resistant polyester powder coating makes it look beautiful and last a long time.
You can check the price of this bike rack by clicking the link below. It is likely to be on sale right now.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Bike Racks For Minivans Without Hitch Per Section
If you’re a cyclist, a no-hitch minivan bike rack makes heavy lugging easy. A non-hitch rack is easy to install and provides secure and safe transportation for your favorite ride with tons of different designs, and bike-capacities to choose from.
Grab one of these well-tested bike racks for minivans (without hitch). If you can’t decide between our 7 bike racks, why not try one of our top 3? You can check them out below.
| Top Pick | | Thule ProRide XT | Roof Bike Rack | Quick and easy to get a bike in place | Not recommended for heavy bikes | Click to check price |
| Runner-up |   | Hollywood Rack F4 Heady Duty 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Has buckles for quickly tying down your bike | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price |
| Also consider |   | Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Good for 3 full size mountain bikes | Doesn’t come with a lock | Click to check price |
There are a lot of minivan bike racks without hitches out there, but we’ve compared them to find the most competitive price. If you’re interested in a certain bike rack, click the link to see the price because it’s bound to be on sale now.
Anyways, we’ve been talking about non hitch bike racks for minivans, but when it comes to other vehicles, Can You Have a Bike Rack Without a Tow Bar? Read the article to find out.
