While electric bikes are an eco-friendly and neat way to get around town, their battery life means they do have a limit on distance. So if you’re thinking about riding trails that are a bit further afield, you will also need to think about how you’re going to get your e-bike there.
There is no shortage of bike racks around, but for an ebike you need to make sure it is suitable to carry the extra weight. Many bike racks have weight limitations of around 35 lbs, which is not going to work for heavy electric bikes that can easily weigh 50 lbs or more.
Another limitation is your SUV – not every bike rack fits an SUV. However, the best electric bike racks for SUVs, or indeed for any vehicle, are platform-style hitch mount bike racks. So if you don’t have one fitted already you will need to install a hitch.
In this article, we’ve put together a list of the best electric bike racks for SUVs. Each one has its pros and cons. So make sure you keep reading to find an electric bike rack that works best for you.
This Year: Our Criteria And Results
If you’re looking for the best bike racks for electric bikes the most important factor to look out for is the rack’s weight capacity. And this is why we don’t include any trunk or roof racks in our list as these racks are not suitable to handle the heavier weight.
In addition, there are many different hitch-style racks available, but even so, not all are capable of carrying e-bikes. So, in this article you can be sure that we have only reviewed towbar mounted bike carriers that can handle the extra weight of electric bikes.
The following table is a list of the best tow bar bike racks for electric bikes that meet all our criteria. Don’t forget to click on the links for the latest price.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Quick Links | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Thule | Easyfold XT2 | Features an integrated folding ramp for easy loading | Expensive | Click to check price |
| Best Value |   | Hollywood Racks | Sport Rider | Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 80 lbs each | No ramp included | Click to check price |
| Also Consider |   | Yakima | OnRamp | Features adjustable frame attachments to carry frames of all sizes | Needs adapters for wider tires | Click to check price |
| 4 |   | RockyMounts | BackStage | Only rack that swings out 180° giving full access to your trunk | Heavy at 59 lbs | Click to check price |
| 5 |   | Saris | Superclamp EX2 | One of the most lightweight hitch mount bike racks | Reports of ‘wobble’ when carrying 2 e-bikes | Click to check price |
| 6 |   | Kuat | NV 2 | Optional 2-bike add-on enables you to carry up to 4 bikes | One of the heaviest racks on this list | Click to check price |
| 7 |   | INNO | Tire Hold Racks | Comes in a 1 or 2 bike carrying option | Not compatible with bikes with fenders | Click to check price |
| 8 |   | KAC | KR Heavy Duty Sport Bike Rack | 2 or 4 bike models, capable of carrying 120 lbs or 240 lbs | 4 bike option is super heavy | Click to check price |
| One To Avoid |   | Allen | Premier Hitch Mount Tray Rack | Comes in 1, 2 or 3 bike versions | Max 40 lb per bike capacity so not suitable for most e-bikes | Click to check price |
This is a quick reference table only. For more detailed info about each rack and why it made the cut, keep reading for all the info about how we made this selection.
How We Select The Best Best Electric Bike Racks For SUVs
There are a few things to consider when looking for the best electric bike racks for SUVs. The weight capacity is the most important, but you also need to factor in other things like the style of bike you want to transport and indeed, how many bikes you intend to carry.
As a guideline, we take into consideration the following criteria:
- The maximum weight capacity per bike (we cannot stress this enough)
- How many electric bikes it can carry
- How easy it is to install
- How easy it is to load the bike and where the rack attaches to the bikes
- Is there a ramp included to make loading heavy e-bikes easier
- Are security features included
- Brand reputation
- User reviews from popular electric bike forums and websites
- Price
This list is by no means exhaustive, and you may have your own criteria, but it’s a good starting point of what to look out for.
Best Electric Bike Racks for SUVs [2023]
If you’re looking for the best electric bike racks for SUVs there is only one type of bike rack that is a viable option, and that is a platform-style hitch bike rack.
While platform-style hitch bike racks are more expensive than other style racks, they are the only ones that have the weight carrying capacity needed for transporting heavy electric bikes.
In addition, electric bike hitch racks offer excellent stability while transporting your e-bikes, and they are almost always lower than other style racks, so they require less lifting to get your heavy bike onto the rack.
Our Best Electric Bike Rack For SUV Option: Thule Easyfold XT2
The Thule EasyFold XT2 ticks all the boxes for an electric bike rack for SUVs. Not only is this bike rack one of the best double e-bike racks, with a carrying capacity of up 65 lbs each, but this bike rack has some cool extra features.
Advantages:
- Features an integrated folding ramp for easy loading
- Locks included for both bikes and the rack
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Needs adapters for long wheel bases and fatter tires
This rack scores highly for ease of use with its fast and easy ‘no-tool’ installation and the included integrated loading ramp makes loading and off-loading heavy e-bikes a breeze. Plus securing your bikes is simple with the ratcheting wheel straps and integrated locks.
As the name suggests the Easyfold folds out of the way and can stay on your car when not in use. Alternatively, its fully foldable design includes transport wheels and a carry handle so you can easily store it in your garage.
One other feature worth mentioning is the tilt function which uses a pedal to tilt the rack so that you can still access your trunk with your bikes loaded.
Ticking all your boxes? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
A bit too pricey for your budget? Then read on for our best value option.
Best Value Electric Bike Rack For SUV Option: Hollywood Racks Sport Rider
Hollywood Racks has been making good quality bike racks since 1973. They have 4 racks specifically designed for transporting e-bikes, but the Sport Rider is their best value option. With a weight capacity of 80 lbs per bike, this rack has the highest weight capacity on our list.
Advantages:
- Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 80 lbs each
- Suitable for both e-bikes and standard bikes with tires up to 5” wide
Disadvantages:
- No ramp included
- Works with 2” hitches only
The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider might not include a ramp, but loading your bikes is a breeze.
Simply lift them onto the heavy duty wheel holders and secure them in place with the ratcheting straps. Plus there’s no need for adapters as this rack can accommodate wheels up to 5” wide.
Installing the rack is just as easy with the patented “No Wobble – No Tools” hitch tightening system, but be aware that due to its weight capacity, this rack works with 2” hitches only.
While this rack doesn’t have some of the extra features found on the Thule it does include a locking system, a tilting system and it folds flat against your vehicle when not in use.
Sound good? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
But don’t stop here – keep reading for some more great options.
Honorable Mention Electric Bike Rack for SUV: Yakima OnRamp
Yakima is a Washington-based company that has been making all kinds of racks for more than four decades. They have 4 racks that are e-bike rated but only one of them, the Yakima OnRamp has been specifically designed for electric bikes.
Advantages:
- Features adjustable frame attachments to carry frames of all sizes
- Integrated ramp for easy loading
Disadvantages:
- Needs adapters for wider tires
- Integrated ramp is narrow
While the other racks mentioned feature wheel trays and locks, the Yakima OnRamp takes this one step further – it has adjustable frame clamps which means it can accommodate bike frames of all different shapes and sizes, and even more securely.
As the name suggests, this rack features an integrated ramp for easy loading and it can accommodate 2 bikes weighing up to 66 lbs each. Plus the wheel trays are adjustable to reduce the risk of any bike contact.
At 44.6 lbs this rack is one of the lightest hitch mount racks for e-bikes which means it’s easy to store away when not in use. It also includes an integrated locking system and tilt system for easy access to your trunk.
Like the sound of this one? Then make sure you click on the link below for all the details.
Or keep reading for our next choice.
RockyMounts Backstage
RockyMounts is a Colorado based company that has been making solid, well-designed bike racks since 1993. Their e-bike rack option is one of the most versatile electric bike racks on the market.
Advantages:
- Only rack that swings out 180° giving full access to your trunk
- Carries 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each
Disadvantages:
- Heavy at 59 lbs
- Not for use with fender equipped bicycles
The RockyMounts Backstage is the only bike rack on the market that swings out 180° making it a versatile electric bike rack for SUVs. It gives full access to your trunk even if your trunk door opens sideways.
At 59 lbs this rack is heavy and can only be used with a 2” hitch, but it can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each.
In addition this rack is compatible with wheel sizes from 20” to 29” and tires up to 5” wide without adapters, making it extremely adaptable for all types of bikes.
It is bulky and awkward to store, but the additional features make it worthwhile to check out.
But don’t take our word for it click on the link below for the full specs and the latest price.
Still not found the right one? Then keep reading for more options.
Saris Superclamp EX2
Saris has been around since 1989 and have come up with some innovative solutions to transporting heavy e-bikes, and the Saris Superclamp is no exception.
Advantages:
- One of the most lightweight hitch mount bike racks
- Universal hitch works with 1¼” and 2” hitch receivers
Disadvantages:
- Reports of ‘wobble’ when carrying 2 e-bikes
- Some reviews complain of poor quality
From one of the heaviest to one of the lightest e-bike racks, the Saris Superclamp EX2 weighs in at only 38 lbs but still has a weight capacity of 120 lbs, or 60 lbs per bike. And it has the added versatility of fitting smaller hitches.
Saris boasts that this is one of the fastest loading bike racks around, and we have to agree that it is pretty simple to install and quick to load.
Each bike uses 2 adjustable wheel trays and arms which means this rack will fit just about any bike with a wheelbase up to 50” long. Plus there’s the added bonus of no frame contact which means less chance of any damage to your precious cargo.
Make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for some more options.
Kuat NV2
Kuat is a relative newcomer to the bike rack market that is giving the top brands a run for their money. They have an excellent track record of producing high-quality, heavy-duty bike racks and their NV2 is no exception.
Advantages:
- Optional 2-bike add-on enables you to carry up to 4 bikes (2 e-bikes + 2 standard bikes)
- No-tool installation with hand tightening hitch cam system
Disadvantages:
- One of the heaviest racks on this list
- Reports of the locking system failing
This versatile rack comes in 1.25” and 2” receiver options but you will need a 2” hitch if you want to use the add-on option. Without the add-on this rack can easily carry 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each.
The Kuat NV2 does need some assembly before use, but once assembled it is super easy to install and loading bikes is quick and simple with front and rear wheel cradles and ratcheting arms for a snug and secure fit.
The rack is also user-friendly to load an assortment of different bikes, although you will need to buy adapters for smaller wheel sizes and/or fat tire bikes
This is Kuat’s premium bike rack, and with its sleek looks and premium build quality we can see why. So make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
Or keep reading for some more options.
INNO Tire Hold Racks
INNO have been designing and manufacturing high-quality, original and technologically advanced bike racks for more than three decades. Their Tire Hold racks are ideal for transporting heavy electric bikes.
Advantages:
- Comes in a 1, 2 or 4 bike carrying capacities
- No frame contact makes it great for carbon frames
Disadvantages:
- Not compatible with bikes with fenders
- Installation instructions are unclear
The INNO Tire Hold comes in 1 bike (INH110), 2 bike (INH120) and even a 4 bike (INH142) option that are rated to carry e-bikes with each tray able to carry up to 60 lbs each. Wow, that’s a lot of bikes!
The Tire Hold, as its name suggests, uses a different system as it secures each bike by its tires. Its clamping method is very secure, plus there is no frame, fork, or even rim contact making it ideal to carry expensive carbon e-bikes and most styles of bikes.
In addition, this versatile rack fits 1.25” and 2” hitches (adapter included), plus other features include foldable trays (when not in use), a tilt down function, and locks, keys and security cables are included for both the rack and your bikes.
Like this one? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
Don’t like this one? Then keep reading for our next option.
KAC KR Heavy Duty Sport Bike Rack
KAC is a company run by cyclists who saw a need for quality bike racks that won’t break your bank balance. Their e-bike rack options include another one of the few racks capable of carrying 4 electric bikes.
Advantages:
- 2 or 4 bike models, capable of carrying 120 lbs or a whopping 240 lbs
- Compatible with both electric and standard bikes
Disadvantages:
- 4 bike option is super heavy
- Needs 2 people to install and operate the tilting mechanism
These versatile bike racks from KAC feature universal wheel trays and straps that are designed to fit almost any type of bicycle which includes not only e-bikes, but also fat bikes and kids bikes. In fact, the only time you will need an adapter is for step through bike frames.
But the versatility doesn’t stop there – the 2 bike rack converts into a single bike rack and the 4 bike rack converts into a 2 bike rack for extra convenience. So you actually get 2 racks for the price of 1!
While KAC might not be as well known as some of the premium brands, their racks pack a whole bunch of features that make their racks definitely worth a look.
But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for the full specs and the latest price.
Avoid This One: Allen Premier Hitch Mount Tray Rack
Allen Sports makes quality hitch and trunk mount racks that provide a safe and reliable way to transport a wide variety of bicycle types and sizes. The Allen Premier Hitch Mount Tray Rack is, as the name suggests, their premium offering.
Advantages:
- Comes in 1, 2 or 3 bike versions
- Quick and easy to install
Disadvantages:
- 40 lb per bike capacity so not suitable for most e-bikes
- Some reviews complain of poor quality
While Allen is known for its quality racks at an affordable price point the company is not really focusing on racks for electric bikes. Or not yet anyway.
The Allen Premier Hitch Mount Tray Rack is a versatile rack – the 1 or 2 bike versions fit both 1.25” and 2” hitches, whereas the 3 bike version fits 2” hitches only.
While it fits wheel sizes from 26” to 29” and tire widths of up to 3.5”, the weight capacity of each bike is only up to 40 lbs and that is why we say this is one to avoid if you are specifically looking to transport electric bikes.
Click on the link below for all the details and the latest price.
Still unsure which to pick? Then keep reading for our final results.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Best Electric Bike Racks for SUVs
So we’ve given you a good selection of the best bike racks available for electric bikes. But maybe you’re still feeling a bit confused? If you haven’t made your choice already, we’ve narrowed it down to our top 3.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Thule | Easyfold XT2 | Features an integrated folding ramp for easy loading, plus other extras | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Yakima | OnRamp | Features adjustable frame attachments to carry frames of all sizes | Click to check price |
| Best Value Option | | Hollywood Racks | Sport Rider | Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 80 lbs each | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of electric bike racks for SUVs available, but we’ve identified the best price points for each brand so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click the link on the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price, because it’s bound to be on sale at this time of the year.
People Also Ask
What type of bike rack is best for e-bikes?
The best type of rack for e-bikes is a platform-style hitch mount rack. They are the only style of racks that can accommodate the extra weight, plus if the rack doesn’t come with a ramp, you don’t have to lift your bike so high to load it.
How do I put an electric bike in my SUV?
If you really don’t want to install a hitch, then it is possible to put an electric bike inside your SUV. However, you will need to remove the front wheel and make sure you lie the bike down drive-train side up.
In addition, take care that any cables and control units are out of the way so they don’t get damaged in transit.
What bike rack is best for an SUV?
Trunk mount and hitch mount racks are best for an SUV. Try to avoid roof mount racks for SUVs as the height of the vehicle makes lifting bikes overhead a bit tricky.
But for the sake of this article, stick to platform-style hitch mount racks to accommodate the extra weight of heavy e-bikes.
Do electric bikes need special bike racks for SUVs?
Electric bike racks for SUVs need to be rated to carry the extra weight. While electric bikes do need special bike racks, all the racks listed here can be used on any vehicle with a tow bar or hitch, and not only SUVs.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Best Electric Bike Racks for SUVs
So we’ve given you a good selection of the best bike racks available for electric bikes. But maybe you’re still feeling a bit confused? If you haven’t made your choice already, we’ve narrowed it down to our top 3.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Thule | Easyfold XT2 | Features an integrated folding ramp for easy loading, plus other extras | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Yakima | OnRamp | Features adjustable frame attachments to carry frames of all sizes | Click to check price |
| Best Value Option | | Hollywood Racks | Sport Rider | Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 80 lbs each | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of electric bike racks for SUVs available, but we’ve identified the best price points for each brand so you don’t have to.
Make sure you click the link on the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price, because it’s bound to be on sale this time of the year.
