Choosing the right bike carrier

Choosing the right bike carrier

There are a lot of bike racks on the market, all with many advantages and disadvantages over each other. Finding the best rack for (1) your specific vehicle and (2) your bike(s) can feel overwhelming. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the best bike carrier for your individual needs.

Bike racks can be split into seven main categories of how they attach to your vehicle:

1. Hitch mounted bike racks
2. Tow bar mounted bike racks
3. Roof mounted bike racks
4. Spare wheel mounted bike racks
5. Rear door / boot mounted bike racks
6. Ute tub mounted bike racks
7. Suction mounted bike racks

Transporting bikes has never been more accessible, thanks to the wide range of rack systems now available, each designed to suit different vehicles, bike types, and user needs.

Roof-mounted bike racks remain a favourite, especially for those already using roof bars. Depending on your bike, you can choose between frame holders like the reliable Thule ProRide, tyre holders such as the Yakima FrontLoader, ideal for carbon frames or fork-mounted racks like the Yakima ForkChop or HighSpeed, which offer maximum stability by securing the bike via the forks.

If lifting bikes onto the roof isn’t practical, especially for heavier e-bikes, tow bar-mounted racks are an increasingly popular solution. Positioned at waist height, they’re easier on the back and quick to load. Models like the Thule Velcompact 2-4 bike and Yakima JustClick 4 offer secure, platform-style mounting for up to four bikes, making them perfect for families or frequent riders.

For those without roof bars or a tow bar, rear-mounted (boot-mounted) racks present a practical, lower-cost alternative. The Thule Outway leads the way here, though it's important to confirm compatibility with your vehicle, particularly if it has a spoiler. These racks clamp directly onto the rear of the vehicle and are ideal for occasional use.

If your car has a rear-mounted spare wheel, spare-wheel bike racks offer another smart option. The BUZZ Pilot provides stable, platform-style support and folds away neatly when not in use, an ideal match for SUVs and 4WDs.

Ute owners aren’t left out either. With tailgate-mounted solutions like the Yakima GateKeeper Evo, bikes can be quickly and safely hung over the tailgate. It’s a simple, secure setup that protects both the vehicle and the bikes while allowing up to five bikes to be transported with ease.

And finally, for vehicles once considered unrackable, such as sports cars, coupes, or those with panoramic glass roofs, suction-mounted bike racks offer a revolutionary solution. Brands like Tree Frog have led the way, with models like the Pro 2 providing a lightweight, secure option that mounts using powerful vacuum cups, opening up new possibilities for riders with unconventional vehicles.

In short, no matter what you drive or ride, there's now a bike rack solution designed to fit seamlessly into your setup, helping you get on the road, and on the trails, with less hassle and more confidence. Please note, each bike carrier has a maximum weight allowance per bike.

Updated on: 16/09/2025