6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (2024)

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In this guide, we'll review six of the best bike racks for a jeep wrangler and discuss the most important features you should consider before buying one.

By

Gloria Bussey

Gloria Bussey

Product Research and Writer

Gloria is a talented writer based in Chattanooga, TN and enjoys kayaking and mountain biking. She graduated with a business degree in 2007 and is now working on a master's i read more

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (3)

Reviewed By

Steven Martin

Steven Martin

Vehicle Fit Expert and Consultant

Steven is a skilled car mechanic based in Denver, CO. He's a passionate hiker, devoted backcountry camper and his mechanic expertise allows him to maximize space in any vehi read more

Last updated: February 02, 2024

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A bike rack comes in handy when planning a weekend road trip since your bikes may not fit in your jeep’s trunk. It can help you create more space in your jeep for packing other essentials.

We reviewed the 6 best bike racks for a jeep wrangler based on ease of installation, bike capacity, and security. These features determine how many bikes you’ll take on the trip, how safe they’ll be, and if you’ll experience problems mounting the rack on your Jeep. Based on these features, the Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks gets on top of the list. As discussed below, we have also put together a detailed guide on factors to consider before making a purchase.

Quick Summary

  • "This rack is extremely safe and has a padded spine shield that protects your bike during transportation. Holds up to 4 bikes and 140 pounds. Rapid tilt away main mast. Limited lifetime warranty."

  • "This rack best serves people planning to camp outside since it comes with an integrated locking cable for increased security. Fits both regular and oversized tires. Foldable design. Limited lifetime warranty."

  • "This rack comes with the SKS locking package that ensures your bikes are safe from theft. Holds up to two bikes, 35 pounds each. Fits nearly any stock size spare tire. Limited lifetime warranty."

  • "With this rack, you can choose whether to put the extra wheel mount for the second bike or not. 2-bike and 80-pound capacity. Sliding wheel platforms. Foldable design."

  • "This bile rack is affordable and of decent quality, lightweight, and sports an anti-theft feature. 75-pound load capacity. Wobble-free iron and rubber construction. Fits spare tire up to 12.60″ wide and 34.65″ in diameter."

  • "This rack is affordable, versatile, comes fully assembled, and sports the design that protects your bike from scratches. Strap mounting. 12-inch max. spare tire width. Foldable design."

Top 6 Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Review 2023

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Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 4395 people in the past 30 days

9.9

Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

9.5

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.4

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.6

9.9

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (5)

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (6)

Features

  • Type: hitch rack
  • Bike capacity: 4 bikes
  • Load capacity: 140 lbs
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Size: 25.98 x 14.17 x 3.35 in

More features: fits 2-inch receiver hitches; 2 keys included; padded spine shield; quick secure straps and dual compound cradle; rapid tilt away main mast; limited lifetime warranty

The Allen Sports Premier Locking 4-Bike Hitch Rack for 2 in. Hitch was our editor’s choice since it has a padded spine shield that protects your bike during transportation. Additionally, the rack comes with quick set straps and dual compound tie-down cradles to ensure each of your bicycles is individually secured and protected. Beyond that, it also has an internal tilt-away release that makes it easy for you to lift the gate access. This feature also allows your rack to fold entirely flat, making it suitable for people with vehicles that have swing-out back tires. Moreover, the Premier Locking 4-Bike Hitch Rack for 2 in. Hitch comes with an integrated locking loop.

One feature that we liked and sets this bike rack apart from the other models produced by Allen is that it can carry four bikes. You can easily transport all bikes for a small family or a party of friends.

    Why is it special?

  • Carries up to four bikes, with a decent overall load capacity
  • Simple design without seat-tube stabilizers, making it ideal for people who are constantly on the move
  • No-wobble hitch installation feature for no more swinging when driving on rough terrain or braking suddenly
  • Limited lifetime warranty

    What are the flaws?

  • Locking mechanism is cumbersome

Also Product Ranking:

  • Our 2 pick for the: best spare tire bike rack

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Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 2267 people in the past 30 days

9.5

Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

9.2

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.4

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.2

9.5

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (7)

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (8)

Features

  • Type: spare tire rack
  • Bike capacity: 2 bikes
  • Load capacity: 75 lbs
  • Material: vinyl-coated steel
  • Size: 38.5 x 18.5 x 16 in

More features: detachable anti-sway cages; fits both regular and oversized tires; foldable design; limited lifetime warranty

Thule 963PRO Spare Me 2 Bike Spare Tire Bike Carrier was our best spare tire rack since it comes with Stay-Put Cradles for increased stability. It also comes with a second adapter that can accommodate large tires. Another feature that made this rack stand out is its detachable stay-away cage. We found that this cage prevents the bike from coming into contact with your vehicle. The rack also attaches to the spare tire, allowing you to continue using it even when you buy another vehicle with a bigger spare tire.

The Thule 963PRO Spare Me 2 Bike Spare Tire Bike Carrier best serves people planning to camp outside since it comes with an integrated locking cable for increased security. As such, you don’t have to worry about bicycle or tire theft.

    Why is it special?

  • Durable steel construction
  • Arms fold-down feature for folding the rack when not in use
  • Doesn't interfere with opening your vehicle's back door
  • Fits both regular and oversized tires

    What are the flaws?

  • Not very helpful user manual
  • The rack also bounces a little bit when loaded with two bicycles

?

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 8263 people in the past 30 days

8.9

Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

8.4

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.6

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.5

8.9

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (9)

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (10)

Features

  • Type: spare tire
  • Bike capacity: 2 bikes
  • Load capacity: 2 x 35 lbs
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Size: 40 x 13 x 19 in

More features: SuperCush ZipStrip cradles; full SKS locking package included; TireTread pads; fits nearly any stock size spare tire; limited lifetime warranty

The YAKIMA SpareRide Bike Rack is our pick for the most secure since it comes with a single security knob that you can attach to the carrier. After securing the knob, you can lock it using the carrier’s key. The manufacturer also includes a locking cord and a tether spot to secure the cable. Furthermore, the unique SuperCush ZipStrip cradles that secure the bike enable you to load and unload your bikes easily. The rack also comes with an anti-sway feature that reduces the contact between your bikes reducing the likelihood of damage. Finally, its frames are made of steel, making the rack durable.

This bike rack is ideal for people who like to travel light, enjoy traveling a lot, and are on the hunt for versatility. First, the SKS locking package ensures your bikes are safe from theft. As such, you need not keep loading and unloading your bikes for storage. It also fits most size spare tires and has a universal mounting plate for most lug patterns.

    What do we love it for?

  • Easy and quick to assemble and install the rack
  • TireTread pads and the unique SuperCush ZipStrip cradles that secure the bike
  • SKS locking package ensures your bikes are safe from theft
  • Comes with a bottle opener, allowing you to enjoy a cold drink after your ride

    What were we disappointed with?

  • It doesn't accommodate bikes with angled tube tops, so an adapter is needed if your bike's tube is angled
  • There have been several complaints about some components like the cable and keys missing from the box

Also Product Ranking:

  • Our 14 pick for the: best spare tire bike rack

?

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 2045 people in the past 30 days

8.7

Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

8.2

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.3

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.6

8.7

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (11)

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (12)

Features

  • Type: hitch rack
  • Bike capacity: 2 bikes
  • Load capacity: 2 x 40 lbs
  • Material: alloy steel
  • Size: ‎39 x 9 x 5 in (folded)

More features: compatible with 1-1/4 and 2-inch hitch; sliding wheel platforms; foldable design

If you are looking for a bike rack that offers flexibility, we recommend the Retrospec Lenox Car Hitch Mount Tray Bike Rack. This rack comes with grip arms that can accommodate various frames. It also comes with a sliding wheel platform that offers a custom fit for 20–29-inch bicycle wheels. Moreover, the rack can fit class II and III hitches. There’s also a central arm that you can fold down to access the rear door without removing it from the hitch mount. Loading and unloading bikes on this rack are also easy due to the rack’s wheel-mount design.

We found the Retrospec Lenot Car Hitch to be best for people who often ride alone but might want to have a friend or family member tag along once in a while. This is because you can choose to put the extra wheel mount for the second bike or not.

    What are its best features?

  • Steel construction offers strength and durability
  • The rack doesn't wobble a lot when driving on rough terrain
  • Foldable design
  • You can choose whether to put the extra wheel mount for the second bike or not

    What could be improved?

  • Some people have complained about faulty parts
  • Rubber straps seem cheap and can break easily

?

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 5806 people in the past 30 days

8.5

Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

8.0

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.4

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.0

8.5

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (13)

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (14)

Features

  • Type: spare tire rack
  • Bike capacity: 2 bikes
  • Load capacity: 75 lbs
  • Material: iron, rubber
  • Size: 31.5 x 13 x 19.3 in

More features: adjustable support arm; wobble-free design; fits spare tire up to 12.60″ wide and 34.65″ in diameter; built-in anti-theft lock

The FIERYRED 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack is the best rack to buy if you are on a tight budget. It is made from heavy-duty iron with powder coating making it strong. The rack also comes with strong rubber straps that can withstand wear and tear even when you use it daily. Additionally, the rack is designed to fit spare tires of any size. There is also the anti-theft feature that protects your spare tire and bike from theft when your car is parked. Moreover, it is lightweight, and you don’t have to be physically strong to install it.

Though the FIERYRED is affordable and of decent quality, it is for people who do not have their rear-view camera in the spare tire. We found that it can obstruct the camera. We also found that it is best for people who are willing to let their bikes take a little beating. The cradles are hard plastic and might scuff your bikes during transport.

    Why did it make our list?

  • Easy to install even without going through the user manual
  • Wobble-free design
  • The rack's lock feature is secure and pretty convenient
  • Attractive price

    What is not ideal about it?

  • The stem is not properly threaded, making it hard for you to screw the bolt
  • The design is a bit off since it has everything hanging from the center

Also Product Ranking:

  • Our 12 pick for the: best spare tire bike rack

?

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 3687 people in the past 30 days

8.4

Customer Feedback

Customer Feedback

7.9

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.1

Features & Benefits

Product Review

7.9

8.4

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (15)

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (16)

Features

  • Type: spare tire rack
  • Bike capacity: 2 bikes
  • Load capacity: 2 x 35 lbs
  • Material: alloy steel, rubber
  • Size: 13 x 12 x 7 in

More features: strap mounting; 12-inch max. spare tire width; foldable design

The Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack was our best value bike rack. This bike rack can comfortably accommodate two bicycles, each weighing 35lbs. The rack also comes fully assembled and is easy to install. Moreover, it has rubber bike cradles that help you protect your bike from scratches. It is also versatile as it can accommodate side mounted tires.

Perhaps, what sets this rack apart from previous models is that you can mount it off the center of your spare tire. Additionally, the manufacturer nowadays includes standard and long bolts in this rack model for wider tires meaning it can now accommodate 15-inch tires, unlike the previous model that could only handle 12-inch tires. So, you don’t have to buy a new rack when you buy a different vehicle with a wider spare tire.

    Why are we impressed?

  • Comes fully assembled
  • Affordable price
  • Foldable design
  • Alloy steel construction is durable, while rubber adds stability

    What negatives must you be aware of?

  • Cannot be used it with an electric bike
  • A separate top tube adapter is required for the kids' and ladies' bikes to fit on the rack

Things to Consider

Exterior bike racks are great as you can carry your bikes without compromising storage space for other essentials. By and large, you can have your cake and eat it too. However, there are a few things you should consider getting the most bang for your buck. We considered aspects such as type and use, durability for use for longer periods, and security so your bikes are always safe. We recommend you consider them too.

How to Pick the Best Bike Rack for Jeep Wrangler

Deciding the type of bike rack to buy can be overwhelming due to the several options in the market. Nevertheless, you can make this process easier by considering the factors discussed below.

Type and Use

Fist thing to look out for here is whether or not the rack is compatible with your Jeep Wrangler. The hitch and spare tire bike racks included on our list are versatile and fit a wide range of car makes. However, while most spare tire bike racks are versatile, some cannot support all types of bicycles. For instance, the Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack cannot be used with electric bikes. Therefore, you also need to know the type of bicycle a rack can accommodate before making a purchase.

Bike Capacity and Weight Limit

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (17)

Bike racks come in different sizes, meaning the number of bikes they can accommodate varies. Additionally, these racks have a weight limit. For this reason, you need to consider the number of bikes you need to carry and the weight of each bike. If you have a big family, consider the Allen Sports Premier. This rack is among the best 4-bike hitch racks that can carry four bikes comfortably and has a maximum weight limit of 140 pounds.

Materials and Durability

Some bike racks are made from cheap material, and you might be back in the market sooner rather than later. Regularly buying bike racks can be frustrating, and you may spend a lot of money in the long run. Therefore, ensure you know the material a bike rack is made of before buying it. If you want a bike rack that can serve you for a long time, consider a bike rack made from steel such as the Retrospec Lenox.

Size and Weight

When buying a bike rack for your jeep, its weight and size are important considerations. It’s advisable to buy a rack with a compact design, such as Retrospec Lenox Car Hitch Mount Tray Bike Rack, which makes it easier for you to store when not in use. Also, a rack with a compact design allows you to easily access your car’s trunk. Other than the size, you should also consider the weight of the rack.

It is essential to buy a light rack since it is easy to install. Additionally, light racks don’t add extra weight to your jeep.

Security

The security of your bike is a major concern when you go on a road trip. To secure your bike against theft, look for a rack with anti-theft features. One of the best spare-tire bike racks that can protect your bike against theft is the YAKIMA. Nevertheless, buying a rack with anti-theft features doesn’t mean that your bike is completely secure. The first step in protecting your bike against theft is installing it correctly. Therefore, you need to be thorough during the installation process. You can also consider the best inside-car bike racks to reduce the chances of your bikes being stolen.

Ease of Installation

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (18)

Before buying a bike rack, look for one that you can easily install with simple tools. You should not jump through hoops to mount the bike rack. The good news is that bike racks such as the Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack come when they are fully assembled, and as such installation is a breeze. Also, you don’t have to remove the spare wheel from your jeep to install the rack, simplifying the process further.

Durability and Warranty

All products have their flaws, and therefore a warranty is crucial. When it comes to a warranty, you need to understand the manufacturer’s terms. Be sure to know the warranty period and if you are required to pay any amount when you want to exchange the product. Also, ensure you understand the factors that may make your warranty invalid. For instance, most companies do not provide a warranty for any products purchased from a third party.

To be safe, consider buying your bike rack from reliable brands such as Yakima that guarantee you a lifetime warranty.

Price

The cost of your bike rack is also an important consideration since it determines the type of rack you’ll buy. Therefore, ensure you know your budget before looking for a bike rack. Also, be sure to list down the features of the rack you need and the ones you can compromise for your budget. When it comes to price, you should not settle for a cheap rack. Most times, cheap racks are of poor quality. Nevertheless, high prices don’t always mean that the item is of good quality. If you are on a tight budget, consider the FIERYRED 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack. This rack offers the best features for its price.

Extra Features

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (19)

Other factors to consider when buying a bicycle rack include:

  • Design: Although the main purpose of a bike rack is to carry your bikes when going for a road trip, you need to consider a rack with a stylish design for aesthetic appeal. The design should also blend perfectly with your jeep.
  • How often you cycle: If you plan to use your bike rack once in a while, you can get a simple and cheap rack. However, if you are an avid cycler, invest in a quality rack with additional features. For instance, consider a rack with the arms fold-down, which allows you to fold your rack when not in use.
  • Where you’ll be driving: Another important consideration is where you’ll be driving. If you’re going to drive on rough terrain, consider a bike rack with an anti-sway design feature to protect your bicycles from bumping against each other.

FAQ

Can a bike rack damage your car?

Yes. When you use a trunk-mounted rack, your vehicle is at high risk of damage since the rack is in direct contact with your vehicle. Therefore, it can rub against your car, scratching off some paint. The straps attached to your car can also rub against the paint if you don’t tighten them properly. If you use a hitch-mounted rack, the chances of your car getting damaged are minimal since it doesn’t come into direct contact with your vehicle.

How do you know a bike rack is compatible with your Jeep Wrangler?

To determine if a bike rack is compatible with your Jeep Wrangler, you need to consider the weight of the rack, especially if it’s a hitch mount rack. Heavy hitch-mount racks are hard to install and can add extra weight to your jeep. For spare tire mount racks, consider the size of the wheel since some racks don’t accommodate particular wheel sizes.

How to install a bike rack on a Jeep Wrangler?

Installing a bike rack on a Jeep Wrangler depends on your rack. For a hitch bike rack, install the hitch first and insert the rack’s pole into the open end of the hitch. Tighten the knob to secure it. If you have a spare tire bike rack, start by removing the spare tire and adjust the tire holder’s mounting plate. The mounting rack usually comes with a plate that holds the rack in place, and it may have several tongue options with different lengths.

Our verdict

According to our review, the Allen Sports Premier Locking 4-Bike Hitch Rack for 2 in. Hitch, Thule 963PRO Spare Me 2 Bike Spare Tire Bike Carrier, and YAKIMA SpareRide Bicycle Rack were our top 3 picks for the best bike racks for a Jeep Wrangler. The Allen Sports Premier Locking 4-Bike Hitch Rack for 2 in. Hitch was the first since it has a simple design and has an anti-sway feature. The Thule 963PRO Spare Me 2 Bike Spare Tire Bike Carrier came second since it comes with premium features such as the arm fold-down feature that allows you to fold the rack when not in use and open your vehicle’s back door easily. Finally, the YAKIMA SpareRide Bicycle Rack will suit you if you seek most security.

References

1.

Cycling - health benefits - Better Health Channel

To be fit and healthy you need to be physically active. Regular physical activity can help protect you from serious diseases such as obesity, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, diabetes and arthritis.

2.

How to Choose Car Racks

Car racks let you haul outdoor toys while freeing up room inside your vehicle. In this article, we’ll cover tips to narrow your choices when picking a car rack for your next big adventure.

9,9

Total Score

Allen Sports 4-Bike Hitch Racks - Editor's Choice

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1 comment

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (26)

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Mar 06, 2023

Reply

Just purchased a new 2023 Jeep Rubicon and I am investigating bike racks. Unless I have missed something in the article, I see no mention of if and how each of these racks impacts the functioning of rear cameras on the vehicle. Any suggestions? Thanks!

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Navigation

  • Quick Summary

  • Top Picks Analysis

  • Things to Consider

  • How to Pick the Best Bike Rack for Jeep Wrangler

    • Type and Use
    • Bike Capacity and Weight Limit
    • Materials and Durability
    • Size and Weight
    • Security
    • Ease of Installation
    • Durability and Warranty
    • Price
    • Extra Features
  • FAQ

    • Can a bike rack damage your car?
    • How do you know a bike rack is compatible with your Jeep Wrangler?
    • How to install a bike rack on a Jeep Wrangler?
  • Our verdict

  • References

6 Best Bike Racks for Jeep Wrangler Reviewed (Spring 2024) (2024)

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