6 Best Bike Racks for Toyota Highlander (Spring 2023)

An analysis of the best bike racks for Toyota Highlander to transport the bikes soundly.
By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Research Writer
Gloria is a young, but prosperous writer. A few years ago she graduated with a Master’s degree in Journalism, and since then experiences no difficulties with job offers.
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Expert Consultant
Apart from the fact that Steven is a car mechanic, we value his experience as an avid camper. Steven knows for sure how to make the most out of any space in your vehicle.
Last updated: May 21, 2023
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Are you tired of trying to fit square pegs in round holes when transporting your bikes on your Toyota Highlander? Then you need a bike rack! It’s like the missing puzzle piece to your outdoor adventure transportation needs.

We are here to help you in searching for the missing puzzle piece. We tested 13 models and compiled our list of the 6 best bike racks for Toyota Highlander, with the Saris Superclamp Bike Hitch Car Rack being our favorite. We included hitch and roof mount bike racks as the former often comes with a tilting mechanism, making loading and unloading easy, and the latter doesn’t interfere with the back view. Both are compatible with different bike models like women’s or kids’ bikes.

Quick Summary

  • "Fits a wide range of bikes, and comes with a built-in lock system, reflectors, and a tilting mechanism making it easy to use."
  • Premium Pick: Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR
    "Can accommodate two 60 lbs. bikes, and has built-in wheels, and the HitchSwitch lever, it is also easy to install and load."
  • Best Roof Mount: Yakima Highroad
    "It can carry four 40 lbs. bikes, fits many bikes, has a low profile tray, and produces no noise. "
  • Most Secure: Swagman XTC4
    "Can carry four 35 lbs. bikes with fits 20″ – 29″ wheel sizes, features soft frame-friendly grip, adjustable wheel holders, security cables, and a locking hitch pin."
  • Best Load Capacity: Curt Premium 18065
    "Can accommodate five 25 lbs. bikes, and comes with adjustable rubber cradles, a support strap, and an anti-rattle hitch pin."
  • "Features tie-down cradles and quick-set straps, dual compound spine shield for security at a nice price tag."

Top 6 Bike Racks for Toyota Highlander Review 2023

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7983 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.9
Features
  • Type: hitch mount
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes / 60 lbs. per bike
  • Hitch Receiver Size: 1.25” or 2″
  • Weight: 38 lbs.
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Warranty: lifetime limited

More features:  foldable, integrated locks, allows hatch access when loaded, reflectoes

The Saris SuperClamp EX 2 is our Editor’s Choice among the best bike racks for Toyota Highlander. It fits almost all bikes, including men’s, women’s, kids’, and even e-bikes. Due to its exceptional way of fastening with SuperClamp’s dual shepherd’s hooks, it doesn’t matter what frame your bike has, it will be securely fastened to its wheels. With a tilting function, you still have easy access to the hatch of your car with no need to unload the rack. Plus, it can be folded down when not in use. The hitch is compatible with universal receivers (1¼” and 2”). Its locking cable and hitch prevent thefts. It also comes with reflectors on wheel trays to make it visible to other vehicles at night.

The Saris SuperClamp EX 2 belongs to the Superclamp series, and just like its other family members, it’s built with incredible quality and intriguing versatility to handle whatever kind of bike you want to use it for. More so, it offers more improvements compared to the Saris Freedom 2-Bike, for it can handle up to 4″ tires folds when not in use, and features integrated locks.

    What do we love it for?
  • Easy to load and unload;
  • Compatible with all bike types, including e-bikes and kids’ bikes;
  • Can be folded down;
  • Made of alloy steel for durability;
  • Wheel tray reflectors.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • One of the tire trays is adjustable only for 1 inch;
  • Bikes are put close together and can touch each other’s handlebars.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9826 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.5
2
Premium Pick

Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR

Features
  • Type: hitch mount
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes / 60 lbs. per bike
  • Hitch Receiver Size: 1.25” or 2″
  • Weight: 52 lbs.
  • Material: aluminum
  • Warranty: lifetime limited

More features: integrated wheels, locking knob, cables

The Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR can be rated as a Premium Pick rack as it is made of sturdy alloy steel that can withstand a heavy load (up to 60 lbs. each) for years to come. The bikes are attached to the rack with wheels, so bikes with any frame can fit on the rack. The 20-29″ wheels and up to 5″ tires will sit nicely on the rack. There is enough space (12.5″) between bikes that can be easily adjusted side to side and prevent bike interference. With auto attach system, it is easy to install and remove the rack without using any tools. When off the vehicle, the rack can be easily maneuvered with wheels attached to it. You can unload it with no hassle when using the HitchSwitch lever.

The Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR has much in common with the Saris SuperClamp. They both have a lifetime limited warranty, a 1.25” or 2″ hitch receiver size, the capacity to carry a total of 120 lbs, and are both hitch mounts. However, this Thule rack is made of aluminum, while the SuperClamp is made of alloy steel. Also, it’s a bit expensive and heavier than the Saris SuperClamp EX 2.

    Why did it make our list?
  • Exceptional quality;
  • Compatible with most types of bikes and wheels;
  • The 12.5" distance between bicycles for no frame touching;
  • Easy to install and remove with no tools;
  • Features integrated wheels for managing the rack off the hitch;
  • Integrated locks.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • A bit pricey;
  • On the heavier side;
  • Short cable locks.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6156 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.7
3
Best Roof Mount

Yakima Highroad

Features
  • Type: roof mount
  • Load capacity: 4 bikes / 40 lbs. per bike
  • Hitch Receiver Size: 1.25” or 2″
  • Weight: 35 lbs.
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Warranty: lifetime limited (if registered online)

More features: requires a roof rack with a crossbar spread between 18″ and 35″, TorqueRight tightening knob

The Yakima Highroad rack is one of the Best Roof Mount racks that can hold up to 4 bikes of 40 lbs. each, making it perfect for larger cycling gatherings. Its universal mounting hardware fits most roof racks with a crossbar spread between 18″ and 35″. It features the TorqueRight tightening knob that can secure almost all bikes with 26″ to 29″ wheels and up to 4″ wide tires. Its low-profile tray reduces hatch interference. When loading the bikes, there is no need to remove the wheels, so you don’t have to waste time on it and have a stress-free ride.

The Yakima HighRoad is one of the unique bike racks featured on this list as it’s the only one that is roof-mounted. Although it has a condition, it can also provide a lifetime limited warranty like the Thule T2 and the Saris SuperClamp. More interestingly, it can carry up to four bikes, and it’s significantly more affordable than the Thule T2 and the Saris SuperClamp.

    What do we love it for?
  • Can carry up to 4 bikes, 40 lbs. each;
  • Fits most bikes with 26" to 29" wheels and up to 4" wide tires;
  • Low profile tray;
  • No wheel removal is needed;
  • No noise production when driving.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Not for kids’ BMX and fat tire (more than 4 inches) bikes;
  • Additional purchases required (locks).
Read full review: yakima highroad review
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3250 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.7
9.8
4
Most Secure

Swagman XTC4

Features
  • Type: hitch mount
  • Load capacity: 4 bikes / 35 lbs. per bike
  • Hitch Receiver Size: 2″
  • Weight: 64 lbs.
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Warranty: lifetime limited

More features: trunk access,  quick release tire hoops, locking hitch pin, security cable

Next on the list, we put the Swagman XTC4 rack which is a hitch mount rack and it can carry up to 4 bikes at once, 35 lbs. each. It is made of quality alloy steel to withstand high loads for years. The bikes are attached to the rack with a soft frame-friendly grip and adjustable wheel holders, providing the most security even on rough roads. Its center arm can be folded down to access the trunk of your car with no need to disassemble the rack. It fits 20″ – 29″ wheel sizes. The package also includes security cables and a locking hitch pin to prevent thefts.

The Swagman XTC4 comes with the swag to join the likes of Yakima HighRoad, Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR, and Saris SuperClamp EX 2 that comes with a lifetime limited warranty. And even though it can carry up to four bikes like the Yakima HighRoad, it can only take on 35 lbs. per bike, compared to Yakima’s 40 lbs. per bike.

    What do we love it for?
  • The soft frame-friendly grip that won’t damage the frame but keep the bike still;
  • Security cables and a locking hitch pin;
  • Adjustable quick-release tire hoops for ease of use;
  • A foldable center arm for easy trunk access.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Heavy to install and lift.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6378 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.6
5
Best Load Capacity

Curt Premium 18065

Features
  • Type: hitch mount
  • Load capacity: 5 bikes / 25 lbs. per bike
  • Hitch Receiver Size: 1.25” or 2″
  • Weight: 43 lbs.
  • Material: not stated
  • Warranty: different for parts

More features: carrier hitch, anti-rattle hitch pin, support strap, built-in reflectors, tapered dual arms, tilting mast

The Curt Premium 18065 rack offers the Best Load Capacity of 5 bikes, one of which can be up to 25 lbs. with a maximum overall load of 225 lbs. The bikes are securely fastened to the rack with adjustable rubber cradles that fit different bike frames and don’t scratch them. Plus, a support strap and an anti-rattle hitch pin can be used to improve the stability of bikes. The rack can be tilted away to get access to the rear vehicle. The built-in reflectors provide visibility in low-light conditions. The rack is black powder coated to protect it from corrosion.

The Curt Premium 18065 is another unique option on this list as it is the only bike rack with the capacity to carry five bikes, compared to others on this list that can only take on two to four bikes. And what it lacks in terms of lifetime limited warranty, it compensates with its intriguing affordable price, as it’s pegged at a price lower than the first four featured racks on this list.

    What are its best features?
  • Can hold 5 bikes at once with 225 lbs. load;
  • Adjustable rubber cradles;
  • A tilt-away mechanism for trunk access;
  • Built-in reflectors;
  • Corrosion-resistant coating.
    What could be improved?
  • Not a sturdy rack when fully loaded with heavy bikes;
  • Not compatible with small kids’ bikes.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5975 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.4
6
Features
  • Type: hitch mount
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes / 60 lbs. per bike
  • Hitch Receiver Size: or 2″
  • Weight: 23.5 lbs.
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Warranty: no

More features:  quick fold carry arms, quick secure straps, dual compound tie-down cradles, rapid tilt-away mast, dual compound spine shield, integrated locking loop

The Allen Sports Premier 4 rack offers security and quality at an affordable price. It features tie-down cradles and quick-set straps that won’t leave scratches on the bikes and tightly keep them in place. The dual compound spine shield snaps over the vertical mast on your rack and provides a landing pad to protect the bike. No wobble bolts reduce the movement of bikes on uneven terrains. With an internal tilt-away release, you can load and unload the rack quickly. When not in use, the rack can be folded down and takes little space.

The Allen Sports Premier 4 will appeal more to users who are on a tight budget and cannot splurge on getting a high-priced rack like the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR and Saris SuperClamp EX 2, which are also built to carry 2 bikes. The Allen Sports Premier 4 is the only rack on this list without any warranty but its weight of 23.5 lbs, which makes it the lightest on this list, makes it worth giving a try.

    What stands out?
  • A quality rack for a very affordable price;
  • Tie-down cradles and straps don’t leave scratches on the frame;
  • Spine shield protects bikes;
  • No wobble bolts;
  • Tilt away release.
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Not enough space between bikes;
  • Loading more than two bikes can be challenging.

Things to Consider

When deciding on the best Toyota Highlander bike racks, there are a few things to consider. We’ve put together some pointers to assist you in making the best decision for your needs.

Type of the Rack

6 Best Bike Racks for Toyota Highlander (Spring 2023)
The hitch-mount racks and roof-mount racks are available for this particular vehicle. Some of the racks are designed specifically for the Highlander, while others will fit any SUV.

You can find three main types of bike racks on the market, and these are hitch, roof, and trunk mount racks; each has its benefits and drawbacks.

  • Hitch mount racks are the most common option seen on Toyota Highlander, and we completely understand why. When using a hitch bike rack, you don’t strain your back because you don’t need to lift the bikes very high. Moreover, there are two styles of this type of rack: hanging and platform. Hanging cradle-style racks are lightweight and affordable, but they are not really sturdy, and bikes can swing if not set as directed. Platform-style racks keep bikes in place more securely, preventing damage but they can look a bit awkward and usually weigh more.
  • Roof mount racks, as the name suggests, are placed on the roof. They cost more than hitch ones but also offer more versatility. You can set up to 4 bikes on such racks, depending on the model. This type of rack doesn’t affect clearance but can be the reason for an increase in fuel expenses.
  • Trunk mount racks are less expensive and designed to be placed on a car trunk which can be a bit inconvenient to access the rear of the car. However, they usually fit different car models and can be stored easily when not in use.

Car and Rack Compatibility

The first thing that comes to mind is the car and compatibility. Make sure it fits your hitch, roof, or trunk. You can look for this information on the official website of your car brand. If you’re also looking for bike racks for other models, check out our reviews of the best BMW X3 bike racks and the best bike racks for Jeep Wrangler.

The Number of Bikes

Usually, bike racks can accommodate two to three bikes. Some can carry four or even five bikes, but they cost a bit more.

As we mentioned above, roof-top bike racks can accommodate more bikes which are perfect for a family of cyclists. Hitch bike racks in a platform style can carry 4 to 5 bikes, so pay attention to them as well.

Note that the more bikes a rack can accommodate, the heavier and bulkier it will be.

The Weight of Bikes

The weight coincides with the number of bikes a rack can handle. Manufacturers provide the overall weight capacity of a rack or per bike. Don’t exceed prescribed measurements and overload the rack; otherwise, it won’t last long.

The Size of Bikes and Their Frames

6 Best Bike Racks for Toyota Highlander (Spring 2023)
The size of the bikes you own will determine which bike rack is best for your Highlander.

Most bike racks are made to work with standard-size adult bikes as they have a so-called diamond frame, and the rack can be fastened to it. While women’s bike requires additional equipment (adaptors) due to their step-through frame. For this reason, there is another way of fastening a bike to the rack with a platform hitch or roof rack. These ones come with adjustable straps and can fit different-sized wheels and tires. In addition, the wheelbase size is important to check as it determines the distance between the front and rear wheels.

If you have an e-bike and want to make sure you have a proper-sized rack, it is worth checking our prepared compilation of the best bike racks for e-bikes.

Ease of Installation

Of course, you want the installation of a bike rack to be a breeze. Look for bike racks with clear step-by-step instructions and all the necessary hardware or tools. You can also ask for help at your local bike shop if you want so.

Security

Not only want your bikes securely fastened but also locked with keys so that no one could thieve them. That’s why we recommend you pay extra attention to whether a bike rack has not only straps and tightening knobs but also security cables, locks, and keys.

FAQ

What are the racks that tilt?

Some backs are made with a tilting function for convenience. If you have health issues or some other reasons, a tilting rack will allow you to load and unload the rack effortlessly.

How expensive is a bike rack?

Bike racks can cost from $30 to $500. We advise you not to buy cheaply-made racks as it’s not something you should save money on when your safety and your bike’s lifespan are in question.

What is the best capacity of the rack?

Two to three bikes are perfect for not overloading your bike rack and car. If you want to transport more than three bikes, choose a sturdy rack.

Our verdict

Our Editor’s Choice is the Saris SuperClamp EX 2 which has a robust construction and can hold two bikes making it a nice bargain for couples. It fits most bikes and comes with a tilting mechanism for easy access. Its reflectors come in handy at night.

We awarded the Thule T2 Pro XT/XTR model with the Premium Pick nomination. Though it can hold only two bikes at once, it has an alloy steel construction and built-in wheels for off-car transport. There is 12 ″ spacing between the bikes to prevent bikes from scratching.

Lastly, we have the Yakima Highroad rack which is the Best Roof Mount rack. It can accommodate 4 bikes at once with 40 lbs. weight capacity each. It fits bikes with 26-29” wheels and up to 4” wide tires. You don’t have to remove the wheels to load the rack.

We hope you’ll find the best bike racks for Toyota Highlander.

References

1.
SuperClamp EX 2-Bike– Saris
A Transport Rack Built with Your Bike in Mind With its robust construction, eye-catching style and compact design that carries both bikes on a single bar, the SuperClamp is your bike’s new BFF. This lightweight – yet mighty – platform hitch rack is ready to hit the road at a moment’s notice.
2.
fit-guide2
Find the Ideal Bike Rack for Your Vehicle.
3.
Find Your Bike Rack Fit to Get Started– Saris
Need help using this Fit Guide? Here’s a step-by-step tutorial. Is this your first time shopping for a bike rack? If so, check out our Bike Rack 101 resource page to help you find the perfect rack for your needs. Unsure of which bike rack to go with?
9,9
Total Score
Saris Superclamp Bike Hitch Car Rack - Editor’s Choice
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