Electric bikes or e-bikes have become super popular in recent years. But if you’re jumping on the bandwagon and buying an electric bike you may also be wondering what’s the best way to transport it? That’s where the best hitch bike rack for electric bikes comes in.
With the average electric bike weighing 50 lbs or more, trunk and roof racks just don’t cut it. So, the best car racks for e-bikes are platform hitch-style bike racks.
In this article, we dive in to why platform hitch bike racks are the best for ebikes, and we give you our top picks. So read on to find out more.
Best Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes This Year: Our Criteria and Results
The best hitch bike rack for electric bikes needs to be strong and sturdy, and it must have a high weight carrying capacity to accommodate the heavier weight of e-bikes.
Electric bikes can weigh anything from 30 – 80 lbs as they need to carry the battery and an electric motor. That’s quite a bit heavier than your normal bike!
So let’s take a quick look at some of the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes that made it onto our list. Don’t forget to click on the quick links of the ones that interest you for the latest price.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Quick Links | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Yakima | OnRamp E-Bike Hitch Rack | Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 66 lbs each | Integrated loading ramp is quite narrow so it’s difficult to load bikes with wider tires | Click to check price |
| Runner Up |   | Saris | Superclamp EX2 | Lightweight and easy to use | Reports of the rack wobbling when carrying 2 bikes | Click to check price |
| Also Consider |   | Thule | EasyFold XT2 | Includes a folding bike ramp for easy loading | Expensive | Click to check price |
| 4 |   | Hollywood Racks | Sport Rider | Maximum weight capacity 80 lbs per bike | No ramp included and no option to buy one | Click to check price |
| 5 |   | Saris | Door County | Features a unique electric lifting system for heavy bikes | Needs a 7-pin bladed connection to power the lifting mechanism, brake lights and indicators | Click to check price |
| 6 |   | Yakima | StageTwo Premium Bike Rack | High weight capacity of 2 bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each | Heavy and bulky to store | Click to check price |
| 7 |   | Thule | T2 Pro XTR | Fits nearly all styles of bikes, weighing up to 60 lbs each with zero frame contact | Requires tools for initial assembly | Click to check price |
| 8 |   | Saris | Freedom | Comes in 2 or 4 bike carrying capacity | No access to the trunk with your bikes loaded | Click to check price |
| 9 |   | Thule | T2 Pro X | Ratcheting arm and wheel tray secure bikes quickly without frame contact | Locks not included | Click to check price |
| 10 |   | Hollywood Racks | Destination E | Includes a loading ramp that folds up | Needs some assembly before use | Click to check price |
| Avoid This One |   | Allen Sports | 2 Bike Hitch Rack | Can carry 2 bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 70 lbs each | While this is a hitch-style rack it is a hanging hitch rack and not a platform rack | Click to check price |
This is a quick reference table for our top picks. Keep reading below for a more detailed look at each of these top bike racks. But first let’s take a look at how we choose the best hitch bike racks for e-bikes.
How We Select The Best Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes
There are a whole bunch of hitch bike racks on the market today, but we’re looking specifically at hitch bike racks that can accommodate heavier e-bikes.
Every hitch bike rack on this list has to meet or even surpass the following criteria:
Weight Capacity
One of the most important features to look for when choosing the best hitch bike rack for e-bikes is the weight carrying capacity of the rack. Electric bikes are significantly heavier than regular bikes due to the battery and electric motor.
We look for hitch bike racks that can accommodate this extra weight. Plus maybe you want to carry more than 1 e-bike? Then weight and carrying capacity becomes even more important.
Modular Design & Ease Of Use
Here we look at the quality of the hitch bike racks, how well they have been put together and whether they are fit for carrying electric bikes.
In addition, we also look at how easy it is to mount the hitch bike rack, how easy it is to load your e-bike, where it holds your e-bike and how easy it is to store the hitch bike rack when it’s not in use.
Security
Electric bikes, and indeed platform-style hitch mount bike racks, don’t come cheap. So, we like to see hitch mount bike racks with additional security features like locks for both your ebike and your rack either included or as an option to buy.
Brand Reputation
There are many different brands of hitch bike racks available on the market today, but how do these brands measure up?
We take into consideration each brand’s reputation – the stronger the brand the more likely that people will trust their products and therefore, they are more likely to recommend them to others.
Customer Reviews
While the team at Mud Bike test as many of the hitch bike racks as we possibly can, we also include customer reviews as part of our evaluation. After all, who better to get the lowdown from than the very people who have bought, and tried and tested the bike racks themselves.
So there you have it, our criteria and some tips about what to look for in the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes. Now let’s take a closer look at the hitch bike racks for e-bikes that made it onto our top 11 list.
Best Yakima Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes
Yakima has been around in one form or another since 1973. What started as a machine shop in Washington State has grown to become one of the world leaders for designing and manufacturing innovative bike racks and other solutions for carrying your outdoor gear.
But which are the best Yakima hitch bike racks for transporting electric bikes? Keep reading for our top picks.
Best Yakima Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Top Pick – Yakima OnRamp
Advantages:
- Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 66 lbs each
- Comes with integrated ramp to make loading heavy bikes easier
Disadvantages:
- Integrated loading ramp is quite narrow so it’s difficult to load bikes with wider tires
- For bikes with wider tires you need to buy the FatStrap Kit (sold separately)
If you have a problem lifting heavy e-bikes, or indeed any heavy bikes, then the Yakima OnRamp is the best bike rack for you. With its integrated aluminum loading ramps you can easily push your bike onto the bike rack trays without having to do any heavy lifting.
This bike rack is amazingly versatile. Not only can it carry 2 e-bikes weighing up to 66 lbs each, but the adjustable frame attachments mean it can also accommodate just about any type of bike. These include standard MTBs, road bikes and most women and kids bikes too.
Other notable features include adjustable bike trays (to minimize any bike contact) and integrated SKS (Same Key System) locks which are included to secure your bikes to the rack and the rack to your vehicle receiver.
With a tilting mechanism that tilts forward with your bikes loaded so that you can easily access your trunk, we think Yakima really has thought about everything.
But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below to get all the details and the latest price.
Don’t stop here – read on for another great option from Yakima.
Best Yakima Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Runner-up – Yakima StageTwo Premium Bike Rack
Advantages:
- High weight capacity of 2 bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each
- Can fit virtually any style of bike
Disadvantages:
- Heavy and bulky to store
- Expensive
The Yakima StageTwo Premium Bike Rack is another good option for a hitch bike rack that can carry heavy e-bikes. This versatile, heavy duty rack can handle just about any bike, plus it’s one of the only racks that can be expanded to carry up to 4 e-bikes.
This rack is impressively easy to use with a simple attaching and loading process, plus there is the option to purchase a loading ramp to make loading heavy bikes even easier.
Included in the design, is a simple tilt function so you can access your trunk even with your bikes loaded. Plus the tiered adjustable bike trays keep your bikes clear from one another while adding much needed ground clearance.
The Yakima StageTwo bike rack has many more features, plus there are some optional accessories which all contribute to making this one of the best hitch bike racks for e-bikes on the market today.
Make sure you check the latest price and the full specs by clicking the link below.
But you don’t need to jump right in and buy the first brand we’ve mentioned, there’s much more to follow. So keep on reading for some more great options.
Best Allen Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
Allen Sports offer some of the most affordable bike racks on the market today and they’re very popular. Their innovative products are designed, manufactured and tested to the highest standards, which is earning them some great reviews.
But how do their e-bike offerings compare to the bigger brands? Read on to find out more.
Best Allen Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes – Allen Sports 2 Bike Hitch Rack
Advantages:
- Can carry 2 bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 70 lbs each
- Great quality at an affordable price
Disadvantages:
- This is a hitch-style hanging rack and not a platform rack
- Bikes sit close together so there is a high risk of damage
While Allen Sports is known for its quality racks, especially for people on a budget, if you’re looking for a heavy duty e-bike rack there are better options out there.
Firstly, Allen’s only electric bike rack offering is a hanging hitch-style rack and not a platform rack, which is most people’s preferred carrier for heavy e-bikes.
While hanging racks are lightweight and much more affordable than platform-style racks, they’re much more tricky to load, especially if you’re loading more than one bike and/or heavy bikes. It’s a bit like putting a jigsaw together, especially to limit contact between bikes.
In its favor, this is a lightweight and compact rack that is quick and easy to install and take off. Plus it can be easily stored in your trunk, ready for use any time.
While we have nothing against Allen per se, as this is a hanging hitch bike rack, we’re saying this is one to avoid. But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for all the details.
Let’s move along for some more premium platform-style hitch bike rack options.
Best Saris Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes
Saris is an American company that designs and manufactures both trunk and hitch mount bike racks. The company offers some of the most reliable and easy to use bike racks on the market today.
But what are Saris’ best hitch bike racks for electric bikes? Let’s take a closer look.
Best Saris Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Top Pick – Saris Superclamp EX2
Advantages:
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Maximum weight capacity is 2 bikes up to 60 lbs each
Disadvantages:
- Reports of the rack wobbling when carrying 2 bikes
- Poor quality plastic wheel trays that may break
The Saris Superclamp EX2 weighs in at only 38 lbs making this one of the lightest hitch bike racks available. But don’t let the lightweight fool you! This hitch bike rack is tough and capable of carrying 2 electric bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each.
In addition, Saris claims that this is one of the fastest loading bike racks around. It’s certainly easy to load with its dual wheel clamping hooks, which have the added bonus of no contact with your bikes’ frames, so less chance of any damage.
Other features include integrated locks and reflectors for improved visibility, day or night. Plus the cherry on the cake is the simple tilting feature which allows easy access to your trunk even with your bikes loaded.
This rack is one of the most affordable hitch mount racks available. But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for the latest price.
Keep reading for another great option from Saris.
Best Saris Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Runner-up – Saris Door County
Advantages:
- Features an electric lifting system for heavy bikes
- Folds for compact storage and features built-in wheels for easy maneuvering
Disadvantages:
- Needs a 7-pin bladed connection to power the lifting mechanism, brake lights and direction indicators
- Expensive
The new Saris Door County hitch bike rack is the next generation of specifically designed racks for carrying e-bikes. Saris has jumped on the electric vibe!
With this rack there is no more heavy lifting and no more messing about with ramps. You simply press a button to raise or lower the rack for easy loading or off-loading of your valuable electric bikes.
However, your vehicle will need a 7-pin blade connector to power the lifting mechanism, and the tail lights, rear brake lights and indicators. But with this rack you don’t need to worry about blocking your rear lights and risking a fine.
This rack also features integrated locks, plus it folds up for easy storage and has wheels to make wheeling it into your garage to store it away even easier. With this rack Saris has really thought about everything. The only downside is the price.
Click on the link below to see how big a hole this will make in your wallet. But for the extra features it may be worth it.
Too expensive for your budget? Then keep reading, Saris has another, more budget friendly option for electric bikes.
Best Saris Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Also Consider – Saris Freedom
Advantages:
- Comes in 2 or 4 bike carrying capacity
- Easy to install and load
Disadvantages:
- No access to the trunk with your bikes loaded with the 2-bike version
- Wheel trays need to be adjusted for different bikes
The Saris Freedom comes in at a fraction of the price of the Saris Door County, so, that of course, means less features. But if you’re looking for a simple and affordable hitch bike rack, this could tick your boxes.
The Saris Freedom has a unique carrying system that can carry a wide range of bikes. The bikes are lifted onto wheel trays and secured using a frame cradle and straps.
The 2-bike version can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each. While the 4-bike version can carry 2 inner bikes up to 60 lbs each, plus 2 outer bikes up to 35 lbs each (in total up to 190 lbs).
Once the Saris Freedom is assembled, it is quick and easy to install. Plus it’s low loading height means that you don’t have to lift heavy bikes very high to load. However, the wheel trays do need adjusting every time, which can become time consuming when you’re loading different bikes.
But make sure you click the link below, we’re sure the price will surprise you.
So now you have the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes from Saris, but don’t decide just yet. Read on to find out what iconic bike rack brand Thule has to offer.
Best Thule Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes
Thule entered into the car hitch bike rack market back in 1992. Today, this iconic company is known for their quality products and it’s one of the biggest bike rack brands in the world. But what about their hitch bike racks for electric bikes?
Let’s take a closer look at the e-bike rack options from Thule.
Best Thule Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Top Pick – Thule EasyFold XT2
Advantages:
- Includes a folding bike ramp for easy loading
- As the name suggests, it’s a fully foldable design for easy storage both on and off your vehicle
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Some reviews question its reliability
As you expect from top brand Thule, the Thule EasyFold XT2 ticks all the boxes for a hitch bike rack for electric bikes. Not only does this bike rack have a carrying capacity of two bikes weighing up to 130 lbs, but this bike rack has additional, well-thought out features.
Firstly, it includes an integrated, folding bike ramp which makes loading and off-loading heavy bikes quick and easy. This ramp is wider but shorter than the Yakima ramp, making it easier to load wider tire bikes but it’s not long enough for high vehicles.
Other details include fast, tool-free installation, ratcheting wheel straps, integrated locks for both your bikes and the rack has an easy tilting function for access to your trunk even with your bikes loaded.
The other stand out feature is its foldability. When it’s not in use, you can leave it on your car as it can fold up out of the way. Otherwise, it folds up to the size of a suitcase and has wheels so that you can easily move it and store it in your garage.
As you expect from a premium brand it does have a premium price. But click on the link below, the price tag may surprise you.
Best Thule Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Runner-up – Thule T2 Pro XTR
Advantages:
- Fits nearly all styles of bikes, weighing up to 60 lbs each with zero frame contact
- Features an easy-to-use tilt release mechanism
Disadvantages:
- Requires tools for initial assembly
- Heavy and bulky to store away
The Thule T2 Pro XTR has long been a favorite hitch bike rack due to its user-friendly features.
While the XTR is an upgraded version of the ever-popular XT model, the main difference is the increased carrying capacity from 50 lbs to 60 lbs per bike, making it ideal for heavy e-bikes.
This is a very solid and dependable bike rack that, once assembled and set up, is super easy to use. It’s also a very versatile bike rack as it fits 20” to 29″ wheels and up to 5″ wide tires without the need for adapters.
The other difference between the XT and the upgraded XTR, is that Thule have added integrated wheels to the XTR to make maneuvering this rack between your car and your garage even easier.
Interested? Then click the link below for the latest price.
A bit too pricey for your budget? Then read on for a more affordable option from Thule.
Best Thule Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Also Consider – Thule T2 Pro X
Advantages:
- Ratcheting arm and wheel tray secure bikes quickly without frame contact
- More affordable than other Thule hitch bike racks
Disadvantages:
- Locks not included
- Only fits up to 3” tires, but fat tire adapter kits are sold separately
The Thule T2 Pro X is an older version of the Thule T2 Pro XTR but it’s still available to purchase from Thule today. The main difference is that the Pro X is a basic version of the same rack without all the upgraded features.
It’s made from steel (not aluminum), doesn’t include locks and only fits tires up to 3” wide. But if you’re looking for a more affordable bike rack for carrying your e-bikes then this Thule hitch bike rack ticks many boxes.
It’s perfect for carrying 2 electric bikes (or bikes with carbon frames or custom paint jobs) as the ratcheting arms and wheel trays secure your bikes quickly without any frame contact. Plus the trays adjust from side to side, so you can make enough space between your bikes.
While this rack might not have all the bells and whistles of the premium models there’s enough features to make it worth considering.
Check out all the specs and the latest price by clicking the link below.
That’s our selection of the best hitch bike carriers for e-bikes from Thule. Still haven’t found quite what you’re looking for? Then read on for some more great options.
Best Hollywood Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
While Hollywood Racks might not be as well-known as Thule or some of the other brands mentioned, this family-owned California-based company has been making quality bike racks since 1973.
But which are Hollywood Rack’s best hitch bike racks for electric bikes? Keep reading for our top picks.
Best Hollywood Hitch Bike Racks For Electric Bikes: Top Pick – Hollywood Racks Sport Rider
Advantages:
- Maximum weight capacity 80 lbs per bike, making it the highest weight capacity on this list
- The wheel cradles can accommodate up to 5″ wide tires with no adapters needed
Disadvantages:
- No ramp included and no option to buy one
- Step through frames will need a Bike Tube Adapter – available to purchase separately
Designed specifically with electric bikes in mind, the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider can carry 2 e-bikes weighing as much as 80 lbs each. That’s more than enough weight capacity to accommodate almost any e-bike!
While it doesn’t have as many fancy features as some of the other top brands, this heavy duty hitch bike rack is one of the most versatile and adjustable racks we’ve reviewed. And it packs a punch where it’s needed.
One of this rack’s main features is the patented “No Wobble-No Tools” hitch tightening system that works for 2” hitches for a smoother, wobble-free ride.
Other features include a smart tilting system for easy trunk access, even with your bikes loaded and a foldable design which means you can leave it on your car or store it neatly away. Plus the price is unbeatable when compared to some of the other brands.
So make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
Still not quite what you’re looking for? Then read on for our final pick.
Best Hollywood Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes: Runner-up – Hollywood Destination E
Advantages:
- Includes a loading ramp that folds up
- Specifically designed to carry 2 e-bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each
Disadvantages:
- Needs some assembly before use
- Heavy
The Destination E for Electric Bikes is Hollywood Rack’s newest hitch-style bike rack that has been specifically designed to carry heavy electric bikes. In addition, it’s a versatile rack that can accommodate any size wheels with tires up to 4.5″ wide.
This new hitch bike rack has a sleek and modern design which can carry up to two electric bikes or two standard bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each. It comes with an expandable, wide aluminum ramp so you can easily load and unload your heavy bikes.
The Destination E hitch bike rack folds flat against your car when not in use, and despite its weight it can be easily stored away. In addition, it features a simple balanced tilting system which allows for easy trunk access even with your bikes loaded.
Other features include adjustable locking frame and seat post clamps (making it ideal for step through frames) as well as Hollywood Rack’s patented “No Wobble-No Tools” hitch tightening system.
This is a durable sturdy rack that can easily compete with the premium brands, but at a more affordable price point. So click on the link below to get the latest price!
So there you have it, our top 11 picks for the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes. While there’s many more to choose from, we’ve selected some of the top brands with proven and tested designs and with different price tags.
Still unsure which to pick? Then read on for a summary of our top picks.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
Each of the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes listed in this article have their pros and cons and different price tags. If you’re still unsure which to pick, we’ve narrowed it down even further for you and put together a summary of our top three.
Check out our final selection in the table below and make sure you click on the links for the latest price.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Thule | T2 Pro XTR | Fits nearly all styles of bikes, weighing up to 60 lbs each with zero frame contact | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Yakima | OnRamp E-Bike Hitch Rack | Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 66 lbs each | Click to check price |
| Best Budget Option | | Saris | Superclamp EX2 | Lightweight and easy to use | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of hitch bike racks in the market, but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to.
Click the link on each of the bike racks that you’re most interested in to check the price, because, you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
People Also Ask
Do electric bikes need special bike racks?
Yes, electric bikes do need special bike racks. This is due to their heavier weight. All bike racks have a weight limit with the most common being around 35 lbs per bike which is not enough for e-bikes.
The average electric bike weighs around 50 lbs or more, so if you’re looking for a bike rack specifically to transport e-bikes, make sure the weight capacity of the rack is up to the task.
What type of bike rack is best for e-bikes?
Generally speaking, if you want to transport electric bikes, the best type of rack for e-bikes are hitch-style platform racks that can accommodate heavier bikes.
In addition, platform racks are almost always lower than other style racks, and so they require less lifting to get your bike onto the rack.
Can you get a bike rack for electric bikes?
Yes, you can get a bike rack for electric bikes. Any of the bike racks listed in this article are rated and capable of carrying the weight needed to carry e-bikes.
How do you transport a heavy electric bike?
An electric bike’s range is limited by its battery. So, if you want to go and ride along a beach front or on trails far from home then you will need to transport your heavy electric bike.
Of course, you can remove the wheels and try and fit it into the back of your car, but there are better options available, such as the bike racks listed in this article.
Any of the bike racks listed can transport your bike and we’re sure there’s one that will fit your car and your budget. However, if you don’t already have one, you will need to have a hitch fitted to your vehicle.
Top tip: we suggest removing your battery when transporting your electric bike. Not only will this make your bike lighter, but it will also protect your battery from the elements.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Hitch Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
Each of the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes listed in this article have their pros and cons and different price tags. If you’re still unsure which to pick, we’ve narrowed it down even further for you and put together a summary of our top three.
Check out our final selection in the below table and click on the links for the latest price.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Thule | T2 Pro XTR | Fits nearly all styles of bikes, weighing up to 60 lbs each with zero frame contact | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Yakima | OnRamp E-Bike Hitch Rack | Can carry 2 bikes weighing up to 66 lbs each | Click to check price |
| Best Budget Option | | Saris | Superclamp EX2 | Lightweight and easy to use | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of hitch bike racks in the market, but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to.
Click the link on each of the bike racks that you’re most interested in to check the price, because, you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
Also read: Which Is Better: Roof Rack or Hitch Racks?
