11 Best Non Hitch Bike Racks [2023]

So, you’ve bought the bike, and you can’t wait to go and ride on the trails, but how do you get there? Bike racks are a great solution, and there are many different types out there. But if your vehicle doesn’t have a hitch, then you’ll be looking for the best non hitch bike rack to transport your bike easily and securely.

There are many different non hitch bike racks available on the market today, so we’ve put together a list of our top 11 best non hitch bike racks to take some of the guesswork out of it for you. 

So, read on for our top picks, you’re bound to find one that fits your vehicle, your bike, and your budget.

Best Non Hitch Bike Racks For Sedans and SUVs This Year: Our Criteria and Results

If you’re looking for the best non hitch bike rack for your SUV, sedan, or station wagon, then you have 2 options available – roof bike racks or trunk mounted bike racks. Both types have their pros and cons, but neither is an option if you want to transport heavy fat bikes or e-bikes.

The best non hitch bike racks for SUVs or sedan vehicles should be easy to fit and easy to load and offload your bikes. However, the best non hitch bike rack for you will depend on how many bikes you intend to carry, plus the types of bikes you want to transport. 

If you have a mix of kids and adult bikes, you might have to fit adapters, but there will be a non hitch bike rack that works for you. The following table is a list of our top picks – we’re sure there’ll be one or more that suits your needs and your wallet. 

People Also Ask: Are Non Hitch Racks Good?

Bike racks have come a long way in recent years, and non hitch bike racks are no exception, so yes, non hitch bike racks are good. 

The best non hitch bike racks include roof mounted and trunk mounted racks. Many of the top brands make both types of non hitch bike racks, and most come with a warranty. So, as long as you follow the instructions and install your non hitch bike rack correctly, non hitch bike racks are a great solution.

Let’s dive in and take a look at our top non hitch bike racks for SUV or sedan vehicles.

BrandModelTop AdvantageTop DisadvantageLink To Check The Price
Our Top PickThule ProRide XT Universal Bike RackNo need to remove any wheels to load.Not ideal for tall vehicles.Click here to check the price.
Runner UpYakimaFullback Premium Trunk RackCan carry up to 3 bikes.Needs an adapter for sloping frames.Click here to check the price.
Also ConsiderHollywood RacksF4 Trunk Mount Bike RackCan carry up to 4 bikes.Compatibility issues with some vehicles.Click here to check the price.
4Tyger AutoTrunk Mount Bike RackThere are 1, 2 or 3 non hitch bike carrier options.Does not fit vehicles with rear spoilers. Click here to check the price.
5SwagmanUPRIGHT Roof Mount Bike RackVery affordable.Only carries 1 bike.Click here to check the price.
6AllenDeluxe Trunk Mount bike RackAvailable in 2, 3 or 4 bike carrying options.Metal hooks have no coating and may damage paintwork.Click here to check the price.
7SarisBones EXLightweight, secure and easy to use.There are reports of the straps breaking which are not covered by the warranty.Click here to check the price.
8ThuleOutway Trunk Mount Bike RackOne of the only trunk mount platform racks available.Expensive.Click here to check the price.
9SportRackSR4883 Upshift Roof Mount Upright Bike CarrierManufactured by Thule.Reports of the plastic clamp scratching a bike’s frame.Click here to check the price.
Avoid This OneSchwinnTrunk Bike RackThis rack comes with ratcheting straps.There are reports of damage to vehicles when using this rack.Click here to check the price.
Avoid This OneOxGord2 Bike Trunk Rack6 point Strap Securing System and soft rubber cradles for max security.Only holds 1 adult bike and 1 kids bike.Click here to check the price.

This table is a quick reference guide to the best non hitch bike racks available today. Keep on reading for our criteria about how we choose the best and for more detailed information about each of these non hitch bike racks.

How We Select The Best Non Hitch Bike Racks

When selecting the best non hitch bike racks, we take the following criteria into consideration:

Weight 

Weight refers to both the weight of the actual rack and the weight capacity of the non hitch bike rack. If you use a trunk mount bike rack, then you will be installing and removing it often. A lightweight trunk mount bike rack will make this easier.

In addition, it’s important to know the weight capacity of your bike rack, especially if you want to transport heavier mountain bikes or fat bikes. Every bike rack has a limit on its weight capacity, which you need to take note of and to stick to.

Modular Design

With modular design, we take into consideration the materials used, how well the non hitch bike rack has been put together, how sturdy it is, and whether it’s up to the task of transporting bikes safely.

Ease Of Installation

Some bike racks, especially roof bike racks, only need installing once, and then it can be left on your vehicle. However, trunk bike racks will need installing and removing every single time you want to use one. So it’s important to choose a trunk mount bike rack that is quick and easy to install, even if it takes a few attempts to get used to.

Brand Reputation

Brand reputation is more than just a name. Good brands inspire loyalty and trust in their products. So we look for brands that are known for their quality products and that have a reputation for giving great customer service. 

User Reviews

Who better to listen to than the people who have bought and tried and tested the products? While we include our personal experiences with each non hitch bike rack, we also look at user reviews over a number of the most popular websites and cycling forums.

Now we’ve given you our top tips about what to look for, let’s take a closer look at our top 11 best non hitch bike racks.

Best Thule Non Hitch Bike Rack

For the best Thule non hitch bike rack, we’re giving you two different options from this premium Swedish bike rack brand:

Thule ProRide XT Universal Bike Rack

Advantages:

  • No need to remove any wheels to load
  • Maximum load capacity is 44lbs

Disadvantages:

  • Not ideal for tall vehicles
  • This rack is lockable, but the locks must be purchased separately

If you don’t want the hassle of removing your bike’s wheels but still want to transport your bike on the roof, then this Thule ProRide XT roof mount bike rack is the way to go.

This rack has a generous maximum weight capacity of 44 lbs, which is more than enough when it comes to lifting bikes overhead. It uses padded claws and clamps so that your car’s paintwork and your bike’s frame is protected from any damage, plus the wheels are secured in wheel trays which automatically adjust when you are loading your bike.

Type:Roof
Weight:11 lbs
Weight Capacity:44 lbs
Number of bikes:1
Materials:Aluminum
Ease of InstallationEasy

This bike rack only carries one bike, but if you need to carry two bikes, then you can easily fit an extra rack onto the roof of your vehicle. We found this roof mount bike rack one of the quickest and easiest to load and features a control dial (unique to Thule) which indicates when you have secured your bike properly. 

However, ‘wheels-on’ roof bike racks are not the best non hitch bike racks for SUVs as they make an already tall vehicle even taller. So you will need to avoid or watch out for low bridges and underground parking areas – you wouldn’t be the first one to forget about your bike on the roof.

People Also Ask: Can you open the trunk with the Thule bike rack?

As this Thule non hitch bike rack is a roof mounted bike rack, yes you can open your trunk. This rack mounts onto the crossbars on the roof of your vehicle, so there is no obstruction to your trunk.

While the Thule ProRide XT is an affordable option from this premium Swedish brand, roof racks are not for everyone. So read on for more details about our other top picks.

Thule Outway Trunk Mount Bike Rack

Advantages:

  • One of the only trunk mount platform racks available
  • Locks for both your bikes and the rack are included

Disadvantages:

  • One of the most expensive non hitch bike racks featured
  • Does not fit all vehicles

The Thule Outway trunk mount bike rack is an exciting development from leading bike rack manufacturer Thule. This premium platform trunk mount carrier can carry 2 bikes on a raised platform which significantly improves your license plate and rear lights visibility. You won’t need to worry about getting a fine with this non hitch bike rack. Plus, unlike other trunk mount bike racks, with the Thule Outway, you can still access your trunk without any bikes loaded.

While this rack is not a universal fit on all brands or types of vehicles, it does fit very snugly and is quick and simple to install. It’s easy to load up the bikes onto the platforms, and 2 bikes fit very securely with wheel straps. Locks are included so you can lock your bikes to the rack and the rack to your vehicle.

Type:Trunk mount platform rack
Weight:27.6 lbs
Weight Capacity:66 lbs
Number of bikes:2
Materials:Aluminum
Ease of InstallationEasy

This rack is not the cheapest available, but we think the price is worth it. It’s one of the only trunk mounted platform racks on the market, so you get the stability of a platform rack with the flexibility of a trunk mount rack. Because this rack secures the bikes by the wheels, It carries a wide range of bikes, up to 50” wheelbase and tires up to 3” wide. 

Each bike can be a maximum of 33 lbs which is more than enough for road bikes and most MTBs, but if you want to transport fat bikes or e-bikes then this rack is not for you. 

Best Yakima Non Hitch Bike Rack 

Yakima Fullback Premium Trunk Rack

Advantages:

  • Can carry up to 3 bikes
  • Includes a SKS (Same Key System) locking package that locks your bike to the rack and the rack to your vehicle 

Disadvantages:

  • Needs an adapter for sloping frames
  • Heavier than some other models

There are two models of the Yakima Fullback available, the Fullback 2 or the Fullback 3, which gives you the option of carrying up to 3 bikes. This premium trunk rack has a modern yet rugged design and is versatile enough to fit most vehicles, including SUVs.

The rack comes fully assembled and features a four strap attachment system and an interlocking HUB that aligns key adjustment points to make installation easier, although it does take a bit of practice.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:23 lbs
Weight Capacity:Max 3 bikes, up to 35 lbs each
Number of bikes:2 – 3
Materials:N/A
Ease of InstallationNeeds a bit of practice

Once you get the hang of it, this bike rack is fairly quick to install, and loading your bikes is pretty simple with the unique, ZipStrip cradle system, which fits snugly around the horizontal top tube of your bike. If your bike’s frame features a sloping top tube, you will need to purchase the tube adapter, which is sold separately.

While this versatile rack fits most vehicles, including station wagons and SUVs, it is not compatible with ALL vehicles, so make sure you check Yakima’s website for compatibility with the vehicle you want to use it on before you buy. Another consideration is the 35 lb per bike weight limit – while this is more than enough for most road or mountain bikes, this bike rack is not suitable for heavy e-bikes.

Best Hollywood Non Hitch Bike Rack

Hollywood Racks F4 Trunk Mount Bike Rack 

Advantages:

  • Can carry up to 4 bikes
  • Folds flat for easy storage in your trunk or garage

Disadvantages:

  • Compatibility issues with some vehicles
  • Some bikes may require a top tube adapter (sold separately)

If you’re looking for a budget friendly, family orientated bike rack, then this Hollywood Racks F4 trunk mount bike rack is a great option. It carries up to 4 bikes, weighing up to 35 lbs each. 

While the information available says it fits most vehicles, make sure you check the Hollywood Racks fit guide to ensure this rack will work with your vehicle.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:17 lbs
Weight Capacity:Max 4 bikes, up to 35 lbs each
Number of bikes:Up to 4
Materials:Alloy steel, aluminum
Ease of InstallationEasy

This firm family favorite bike rack has the ability to carry up to 4 bikes. The steel tubing and the strap and bumper system makes it fairly lightweight but extremely strong. The rack is easy to install, and the bikes are easy enough to load. You just need to fiddle a bit with the spacing and the straps to make sure the bikes don’t move and scratch each other when you’re driving.

For some kids and ladies bikes, you will need to buy a separate adapter otherwise, these bikes sit awkwardly on the rack. But overall, this rack does the job if you need 4 bike capacity and you don’t want to fork out for a hitch bike rack.

People Also Ask: Are Hollywood Bike racks any good?

Hollywood Racks has been in the business of making bike racks since 1973. You don’t get to stay in business for 50 years if you make bad products.

A Hollywood bike rack is a great option if you’re looking for good build quality at an affordable price. They might not be as fancy as some of the higher end brands of bike racks, but their strong, simple design will transport your bikes safely from A to B.

  1. Best Tyger Non Hitch Bike Rack

Tyger Auto Trunk Mount Bike Rack

Advantages:

  • There are 1, 2, or 3 non hitch bike carrier options
  • Has a padded lower frame to keep bikes away from your vehicle

Disadvantages:

  • Does not fit vehicles with rear spoilers
  • Warranty will be voided if the included Safety Strap is not installed

This lightweight Tyger Auto trunk mount bicycle rack, comes in 1, 2, and 3-bike versions and is extremely well made with a black E-coating that keeps the product rust-free. The steel frame feels extremely durable, and thanks to the clear instructions, the installation is easy and quick. 

With its affordable price, you can’t go wrong with this bike rack.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:8 lbs
Weight Capacity:1 bike up to 55 lbs; 2 – 3 bikes, up to 33 lbs each
Number of bikes:1 – 3
Materials:Steel, plastic, rubber
Ease of InstallationEasy

This very affordable rack comes fully assembled, so you don’t have to do any crazy DIY before you install it. It’s easy and quick to install and just as quick and easy to load your bikes. We tested the 3 bike version with only 2 bikes, but there was more than enough room for a third. The bikes felt very secure when driving, plus there is an extra Safety Strap included, which helps to stabilize the bikes and prevent them from moving.

The rack features padded cradles to protect your bikes’ frames, plus a padded lower frame to stop your bikes coming into contact with your vehicle. It doesn’t fit cars with spoilers, but the manufacturer does say that it fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs.

Best Swagman Non Hitch Bike Rack

Swagman UPRIGHT Roof Mount Bike racks

Advantages:

  • It’s a very affordable bike rack
  • Fits a variety of bikes from 29” MTBs to 16” kids bikes

Disadvantages:

  • Only carries one bike
  • Entry level bike rack – not recommended for high-end bikes

Swagman makes budget-friendly bike racks in all different styles, but the Swagman UPRIGHT roof mount bike rack is one of their most popular. This aluminum bike rack is super lightweight, weighing in at only 5 lbs, but can accommodate a variety of different bikes, from 29” MTBs to 16” kids bikes. It’s also compatible with most brands of rooftop crossbars and even the factory fitted ones. Overall it’s a versatile bike rack at a great price.

Type:Roof mount
Weight:5 lbs
Weight Capacity:35 lbs
Number of bikes:
Materials:Aluminum
Ease of InstallationEasy

This Swagman UPRIGHT roof mount bike rack is super easy to install, in fact, we managed it in a matter of minutes, and it was compatible with the factory fitted cross bars on our SUV. It is a roof mount bike rack, so you do have to lift your bike overhead to load, so if you’re short like me, you will need some assistance to load bikes on taller vehicles. 

It does only carry one bike, but at this price, you can afford to buy more than 1, and you can fit 2 or 3 to your roof, depending on the width of your vehicle. There are some reports of wobble when driving at high speeds, but an extra strap (or driving slower) seems to cure this problem.

People Also Ask: Are roof mount bike racks any good?

Roof mount bike racks are a tried and tested way of transporting bikes and are good for both frequent and casual riders. They will fit to most factory fitted cross bars, and if you don’t already have them, then it’s easy to purchase and fit crossbars onto almost any vehicle.

Although you have to lift your bike overhead to load, the added advantage of a roof mount bike rack is that they don’t block your access to your trunk, and as it has a low profile, you can leave it on your vehicle when not in use.

We’ve already included a wide selection of the best non hitch bike racks for SUVs and sedans, but if you still haven’t found what you’re looking for, keep on reading for some more of the best options. 

Best Allen Sports Non Hitch Bike Rack

Allen DeluxeTrunk Mounted Bike Rack

Advantages:

  • Available in 2, 3, or 4 bike carrying options
  • Comes fully assembled and installs in seconds

Disadvantages:

  • Metal hooks have no coating and may damage paintwork
  • Does not accommodate heavy bikes

The Allen Deluxe trunk mounted bike rack is one of the only brands that offer 2, 3, and even 4 bike carrying capacity. It’s a number 1 best seller on Amazon and has over 40,000 reviews, most, if not all of them are positive.

With its patented design, Allen claims that it fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. However, it’s best to consult the manufacturer’s website for specific vehicle fit information before you make that purchase.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:From 7.5 lbs – 18 lbs
Weight Capacity:35 lbs per bike
Number of bikes:2, 3 or 4
Materials:Alloy Steel
Ease of InstallationEasy

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly bike rack that can carry 2 or more bikes then this Allen Deluxe trunk mounted bike rack is a good choice. It features a safe and secure five point attachment system with adjustable straps – once it’s been fitted to your car, you can install this rack in minutes.  

This rack also features individual tie-down cradles which hold your bikes securely, plus a padded lower frame keeps the bikes away from your vehicle. Overall, this rack can compete with the more expensive brands but at a much more affordable price.

Best Saris Non Hitch Bike Rack

Saris Bones EX

Advantages:

  • Lightweight, secure, and easy to use
  • Fits 90% of the top vehicles sold, including those with spoilers

Disadvantages:

  • There are reports of the straps breaking, which are not covered by the warranty
  • Tricky to fit bikes without a straight top bar

The Saris Bones EX is available as a 2 bike or 3 bike carrier. Saris claims this new version fits 90% of the top vehicles sold, including those with spoilers, and has the largest vehicle compatibility of any trunk rack on the market. The reviews seem to back this up.

The injection molded frame comes with premium bike hold-downs and ratcheting anti-sway straps, which hold your bikes very securely. Another nice feature is the frame’s rubber padded feet which protect your vehicle’s paintwork where it comes into contact with the frame.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:11 lbs
Weight Capacity:35 lbs per bike
Number of bikes:2 or 3
Materials:100% recycled injection molded composite
Ease of InstallationEasy with a bit of practice

While the Saris Bones EX is suitable for most vehicles on the market, the first fitting for your specific vehicle can take some time. The Bones EX comprises of a curved frame with 4 legs that fit against your car and 6 ratcheting attachment straps to secure the rack to your vehicle. It will take a couple of attempts to get it right the first time. 

Once installed, the Saris Bones Ex is easy to load up to 3 bikes. The two arced arms makes staggering more than 1 bike pretty straight forward, and they feature premium bike hold downs, which hold your bikes firmly. However, a Saris Bike Beam adapter may be necessary for bike frames without a horizontal top tube.

Best SportRack Non Hitch Bike Rack

SportRack SR4883 Upshift Roof Mount Upright Bike Carrier

Advantages:

  • Made by Thule
  • Wheel tray combined with an adjustable arm holds your bike firmly

Disadvantages:

  • Reports of the plastic clamp scratching a bike’s frame
  • Solid, but basic roof mount bike rack

SportRack is a Canadian manufacturer of bike racks and other outdoor gear that was bought by Thule back in 2006. So now all their bike racks are made by Thule, including the SR4883 Upshift roof mount bike rack. This bike rack is simpler and more affordable than the Thule ProRide XT, but you still get a trustworthy non hitch bike rack.

Type:Roof mount
Weight:9.5 lbs
Weight Capacity:45 lbs
Number of bikes:1
Materials:Alloy coated steel
Ease of InstallationEasy

The SportRack Upshift is another roof mount rack that doesn’t require you to remove your front wheel to load up your bike. What sets this bike rack apart from the Thule ProRide XT is the price. It’s not quite the same quality, but you get the reliability and safety of a Thule.

This rack works with most factory fitted roof racks, and is quick and easy to install. It only carries 1 bike, but again you can fit an extra rack to carry a second bike if needed. Your bike is secured onto a tray which holds the wheels securely when transporting your bike. It also uses an adjustable arm to hold the down tube of your bike for greater stability. 

The only down side is that the clamp on the adjustable arm which holds your bike is made from hard plastic. There are reports of this damaging the paintwork on your bike. However, this can be easily resolved by using a thin rubber pad.

Best Schwinn Non Hitch Bike Rack

Schwinn 2 Bike Trunk Mount Bike Rack

Advantages:

  • This rack comes with ratcheting straps
  • Rack folds quickly and easily for compact, easy storage

Disadvantages:

  • There are reports of damage to vehicles when using this rack
  • You cannot use your rear wiper when this rack is installed

The Schwinn Bicycle Company is an American company that has been manufacturing bicycles and cycling accessories since 1895. Their versatile 2 bike non hitch bike rack fits most sedans, hatchbacks, vans, and SUVs for convenient and safe travel. The ratcheting straps make this rack easy to install, and it’s designed to carry 2 bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 70lbs.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:7.5 lbs
Weight Capacity:Max 70 lbs
Number of bikes:2
Materials:Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Plastic, Other
Ease of InstallationEasy

While Schwinn has been a leading manufacturer of bicycles and accessories for many years, this non hitch bike rack feels a bit small and flimsy. 

The Schwinn 2 bike non hitch rack attaches to the car only at the top hinges of the trunk door, and at the bottom. There are no side straps for extra support. The first time we used it, it took a bit of effort to secure the straps tightly. Then, after loading our two bikes the straps felt loose again so we had to re-tighten them, and then check them often.

We would suggest using a couple of extra straps to secure your bikes to stop them from moving around and damaging the paintwork of your vehicle. And that’s why we don’t recommend this one as there are better alternatives out there.

Best OxGord Non Hitch Bike Rack

OxGordBike Trunk Mount Rack

Advantages:

  • 6 point Strap Securing System and soft rubber cradles for max security
  • Compatible with most types of bikes

Disadvantages:

  • Only holds 1 adult bike and 1 kids bike
  • Poor quality

This budget non hitch bike rack will fit most vehicles including mini vans, sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs. It uses a 6 point Strap Securing System to secure the rack to your vehicle and soft rubber cradles to secure an adult bike plus a child’s bike to the rack itself.

It has a maximum weight capacity of 55lbs, however, it does rank poorly for sturdiness in the ratings and reviews on Amazon.

Type:Trunk mount
Weight:8.88 lbs
Weight Capacity:Max 50 lbs
Number of bikes:2 (1 adult, 1 kids’)
Materials:Steel, Plastic, Rubber
Ease of InstallationTakes a bit of practice

This non hitch bike rack took a couple of attempts to figure out how to install it, but once you’ve got the hang of it, it’s pretty easy to install. However, the straps are quite thin and the locking mechanism is made from plastic – we’re not sure we would trust these on longer journeys.

In our brief test we didn’t have any major problems, but we were left unimpressed and we wouldn’t want to load an expensive bike on this rack. So, we are saying that this is one to avoid, but if you’re looking for a budget friendly bike rack and don’t plan on driving too far (or on a highway), then it’s worth a try.

Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Non Hitch Bike Racks Per Section

Still feeling unsure about which is the best non hitch bike rack for you? We’ve given you a lot of information about our top 11 picks, so to help you narrow it down, let’s take a look at our final results for the best non hitch bike racks. Check out the table below:

BrandModelWhy We Liked ItLink To Check The Price
Top PickThuleProRide XTIt has the quality you expect from Thule, is easy to use and carries your bike securely.Click here to check the price.
Runner UpYakimaFullback Premium Trunk RackThis versatile non hitch bike rack can carry up to 3 bikes.Click here to check the price.
Best Budget OptionAllenDeluxe Trunk Mount Bike RackSecure, versatile bike rack with more than 40,000, mostly positive reviews on Amazon.Click here to check the price.

There are clearly a lot of non hitch bike racks on the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points for each category so you don’t have to. Click the link on the non hitch bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price because, you never know, it’s bound to be on sale at this time of the year.

Once you’ve picked something you like from the list above, Can You Install Bike Rack Without Hitch? Click on the article link to find out.

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Jo Charnock — Mud Bike Writer

Jo biked overland from Cairo to Cape Town on a folding bike, then set up a bike shop selling Dahon folding bikes in South Africa when she got home and opened a MTB tour company in Zanzibar. She resides in Cape Town or Zanzibar, where she has been writing professionally since 2018.

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