Electric bikes (eBikes) are a game-changer for commuting, off-road adventures, and weekend getaways. But their heavier weight and unique design mean you need a bike rack that’s built to handle the extra load. Whether you’re heading out of town or exploring hilly terrain, a high-quality bike rack is essential for safely transporting your eBike.
After testing over 14 different bike racks, we’ve narrowed it down to the 7 best options for eBikes. Our top pick is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider HR-1500-2”, thanks to its durability, ease of use, and impressive load capacity. In this guide, we’ll break down the key features, pros, and cons of each rack to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider HR-1500-2” is our top pick for its heavy-duty construction and user-friendly design. This hitch-mounted rack can carry two eBikes with a load capacity of 80 lbs. per bike, making it perfect for fat-tire eBikes.
Why We Love It: The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider is a reliable and sturdy option for transporting heavy eBikes. Its foldable design and anti-theft features make it a standout choice for frequent travelers.
The Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR is a premium bike rack designed for easy mobility and secure transport. It can accommodate two eBikes with a load capacity of 60 lbs. per bike.
Why We Love It: The Thule T2 Pro is perfect for cycling enthusiasts who want a high-quality, easy-to-use rack with excellent mobility features.
The Yakima OnRamp 2 is a versatile rack that’s perfect for eBikes with fenders or unique frames. It can carry two bikes with a load capacity of 66 lbs. per bike.
Why We Love It: The Yakima OnRamp 2 is a great choice for riders who need a rack that’s easy to load and compatible with a variety of bike types.
The Kuat Racks NV Base 2.0 is a premium option for riders who want a versatile and easy-to-use rack. It can carry two eBikes with a load capacity of 60 lbs. per bike.
Why We Love It: The Kuat Racks NV Base 2.0 is a stylish and reliable option for riders who value ease of use and premium features.
The Saris Freedom is a heavy-duty rack that can carry up to 4 bikes with a total load capacity of 190 lbs.
Why We Love It: The Saris Freedom is perfect for families or groups who need to transport multiple eBikes at once.
The Westfalia BC 60 is a lightweight and foldable rack designed for European cars. It can carry two bikes with a total load capacity of 130 lbs.
Why We Love It: The Westfalia BC 60 is a great option for European car owners who need a compact and versatile rack.
The Vibrelli Electric Bike Hitch Rack is an affordable and versatile option for eBike owners. It can carry two bikes with a load capacity of 65 lbs. per bike.
Why We Love It: The Vibrelli Hitch Rack is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality or security.
There are two main types of bike racks for eBikes, each suited for different needs:
Pro Tip: Always check that the rack is compatible with your eBike and vehicle before purchasing.
The average eBike width ranges between 20 and 28 inches, so it’s important to choose a rack that fits your bike’s dimensions. If you’re unsure, opt for a rack that’s slightly wider than your eBike to ensure a secure fit.
Additionally, consider your tire type:
Make sure your rack is compatible with your tire size and type to avoid damage during transport.
eBikes are significantly heavier than traditional bikes, with most weighing between 30 and 60 lbs. Some models can even reach 100 lbs. Always check the rack’s weight capacity to ensure it can handle your eBike’s weight without risking damage or accidents.
Pro Tip: If you’re transporting multiple eBikes, choose a rack with a higher total weight capacity.
How many eBikes do you need to transport? Most racks can carry two bikes, but some models can be expanded to accommodate four or more. If you’re transporting heavy eBikes, consider a rack with a higher weight limit, even if you’re only carrying two bikes.
The wheelbase (the distance between the front and rear axles) varies between eBike models. Measure your eBike’s wheelbase before purchasing a rack to ensure a proper fit. Some racks are adjustable, making them ideal for transporting multiple eBikes of different sizes.
If you frequently travel and go long distances with your ebike, then you will need to choose a rack that can accommodate your bike’s weight and size. A heavy-duty rack is necessary to support the extra weight of an e-bike, so be sure to check the weight capacity before making your purchase. You will also want to consider the size of the rack, as some e-bikes can be quite large. Make sure the rack you choose is big enough to accommodate your bike’s frame.
If you are looking for a rack to use daily, then you will need to choose one that is durable and easy to use. A heavy-duty rack is ideal for everyday use, as it can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. You will also want to choose a rack that is easy to install and remove, so you can take it with you when you travel.
For those who are looking to travel long distances with their eBike, we recommend choosing a rack that is designed for both road and off-road use.
Not all racks are compatible with every vehicle. Consider your car’s hitch size, roof type, and trunk design when choosing a rack. For taller vehicles, look for racks with loading ramps to make loading easier.
Pro Tip: Check out our guides on the best bike racks for specific car models, such as the Honda CR-V, Subaru Outback, and Jeep Wrangler.
First and foremost, make sure your bike is properly secured to the rack. This is especially important with heavier electric bikes. You do not want your bike falling off the rack and onto the ground!
Also, be sure to check the weight capacity of the rack. Most racks are designed for traditional bicycles that weigh much less than an e-bike. Make sure the rack can accommodate the extra weight of your e-bike.
Finally, if you are using a hitch-mounted rack, be sure to check the maximum tongue weight. This is the amount of weight that can be applied to the hitch without damaging it. Again, electric bikes are heavier than traditional bicycles so make sure your rack can handle the extra weight.
Following these simple tips will ensure that you can safely and securely transport your electric bike.
Choosing the best bike rack for your eBike comes down to weight capacity, compatibility, and ease of use. Whether you need a heavy-duty hitch rack for long trips or a compact option for daily commutes, our guide has you covered. With these tips, you’ll find the perfect rack to keep your eBike safe and secure on every adventure.
What bike racks are compatible with step thru model bikes?
Fat tire bikes?
What an enlightening post about eBikes! The depth of information here is fantastic. By the way, assembling my own eBike using components from pedalassisted.com has been a gratifying experience I’d recommend to anyone.
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Thɑnks!
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