A bike rack offers a convenient way to transport your bikes securely while you’re on the move. It’s a must have for the cycling enthusiasts who love to discover new trails on their fat tire ebikes. Fat tire bikes are bulkier and there’s simply no other way to transport them… unless you have a really spacious vehicle.
In this blog, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a bike rack for your fat tire ebike. We’ll also take a look at different types of racks that are suitable for fat tire electric bikes. And to help you narrow down your options, we’ll also highlight the top picks in each category. So, let’s go!
What are Bike Racks?
Bike racks are designed to securely transport bicycles and ebikes on vehicles such as cars, trucks, or SUVs. They provide a convenient and safe way to transport bikes without the need for disassembly or taking up space inside the vehicle.
Bike racks come in various types and styles, offering different mounting options and capacities to accommodate different needs. Their three most common types are roof-mounted, that attach to the roof of a vehicle using crossbars or a base system; hitch-mounted, that connect to the vehicle’s hitch receiver, usually located at the rear; and trunk-mounted, that secure to the trunk or rear hatch using straps and hooks.
Choosing the Right Rack for Your Fat Tire eBike
Choosing the perfect bike rack for your fat tire eBikes is a critical decision that can greatly enhance your cycling adventures. Whether you’re planning an exciting road trip or simply looking for a convenient way to transport your bikes, considering a few key factors will ensure that you make the best choice.
Compatibility
When selecting a bike rack for your fat tire eBikes, compatibility is crucial. You don’t want to end up with a rack that forces your tires into an awkward fit or, worse, damages them. Also, not all racks are designed to accommodate the wider tires typically found on fat tire eBikes. So, make sure the rack you choose explicitly mentions compatibility with fat tire eBikes.
Capacity
Consider how many fat tire eBikes you intend to carry on the rack. Some racks can accommodate multiple bikes, while others are designed for a single bike. If you frequently ride with friends or family, a multi-bike rack is the way to go. However, if you’re a lone wolf in the biking world, a single-bike rack will suffice.
Mounting Style
As discussed before, bike racks come in various mounting styles, and each has its own pros and cons. Trunk-mounted racks are relatively affordable and easy to install, but they may obstruct your rearview, making parallel parking an adventure of its own. Hitch-mounted racks offer excellent stability but require a hitch receiver on your vehicle.
Roof-mounted racks keep your rearview clear, but you’ll need to hoist your eBikes overhead, which can be a shoulder workout on its own. So, choose the style that suits your needs, but don’t forget to factor in your own strength (or lack thereof).
Security
You don’t want your bikes to disappear into the sunset while you’re grabbing an ice cream cone! Therefore, it’s crucial to choose bike racks that offer robust locking mechanisms to deter potential thieves. Always, look for racks that either come with built-in locks or allow you to attach your own bike locks for added protection.
Ease of Use
After a long day of cycling, the last thing you want is to struggle with a complicated rack. So, you must try to keep it simple, so that you have more time and energy. Look for racks that offer effortless loading and unloading of your fat tire eBikes. Foldable racks can be a bonus, allowing you to store them neatly when not in use.
Durability and Stability
A sturdy and stable bike rack is crucial for the safety of your fat tire eBikes and your vehicle. Look for racks made from robust materials that can withstand the rigors of the road. Racks with adjustable straps or padded cradles can provide added stability and protection for your bikes.
Price
Last but not least, consider your budget. Bike racks come in a range of prices, and while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, keep in mind that quality and features often correlate with price. Don’t compromise on the safety and security of your bikes just to save a few bucks. Find a balance between affordability and the features you require… Your fat tire eBikes will thank you for it.
Best Bike Racks for Fat Tire eBikes in 2023
Bike racks offer a wide range of options and styles to cater to diverse vehicle types and individual preferences. Let’s delve into the most popular types of fat tire e-bike racks and discover some excellent choices within each category.
Trunk-Mounted Bike Racks for Fat Tire E-Bikes
Trunk racks attach to the rear trunk or hatch of a vehicle using straps and hooks. They are easy to install and can fit a variety of vehicle types. They typically have multiple arms that extend and hold the bikes by their frames.
While they are generally less expensive, they may not provide the same level of security and stability as hitch or roof-mounted racks. Additionally, they can make it challenging to access the trunk or rear hatch while the bikes are loaded.
Here are some top picks for trunk-mounted e-bike racks :
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
This fat tire bike rack comes fully assembled and can be set up and installed in seconds. The rack features 12-inch long carry arms that accommodate various bicycle styles and 115-inch wide carry arms for greater bike compatibility. With a maximum capacity of 70 pounds, it offers side straps for increased lateral stability and individual tie downs.
Saris Trunk Bike Rack, Mounts 2 Bikes
The Saris Bones Trunk Bike Rack is a convenient, durable, and stylish option for transporting bikes. It fits most vehicle frames, including those with spoilers, and protects both your car and bike with rubberized feet and coated straps. With a capacity for two bikes, it boasts a strong and rust-free construction.
Allen Sports Ultra Compact Folding Trunk Mount Rack
This trunk mount rack for fat tire bikes folds up into a small size and can be easily stored in a carrying bag or backpack. The rack features three padded legs that rest against the vehicle and three adjustable security straps to keep the bikes securely in place. It is compatible with sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. It also comes with a padded lower frame to protect the vehicle from any damage.
Hitch-Mounted Bike Racks for Fat Tire E-Bikes
These racks are designed to attach to a vehicle’s hitch receiver, which is typically located at the rear of the vehicle. Platform racks are the most common type of hitch racks. They have a tray-like platform that supports the bikes by their wheels. The bikes are secured in place with adjustable arms or wheel clamps.
Platform-style fat tire ebike racks are generally more versatile, accommodating a wide range of bike styles without the need for adapters. They are also easier to load and unload and provide more stability during transportation. The only downside is they tend to be heavier and more expensive than hanging racks.
Check out these best selling mounted platform style bike racks on Amazon:
MaxxHaul Hitch Mount Platform Style 2-Bike Rack
The MaxxHaul Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a platform-style rack that can securely transport two bikes on various vehicles. It features foam-padded hooks and adjustable tire cradles to protect bikes without causing scratches. This rack is compatible with Class III and IV standard 2″ hitch receivers and can support a maximum weight of 75 lbs. It is designed with a removable vertical post for easy storage and comes with a hitch tightener to minimize rattling and movement.
HYPERAX Volt 2 -E Bike Hitch Mounted Platform Rack
The HYPERAX E Bike Hitch Mounted Platform is a versatile and secure bike carrier designed for cars, SUVs, trucks, and sedans. It can accommodate up to two bikes with a maximum weight capacity of 70 pounds each. The rack features a tiltable design that allows easy access to the rear trunk. Though it is not suitable for RVs or trailers, it is compatible with vehicles equipped with a 2-inch hitch receiver.
Roof-Mounted Bike Racks for Fat Tire eBikes
Roof racks are a convenient addition to your vehicle, mounted either using factory-installed crossbars or aftermarket systems. They provide a versatile solution, allowing you to carry a wide range of gear, from bicycles to fat tire ebikes.
Let’s explore the various types of roof-mounted bike racks available:
Fork-Mount Racks
Fork-mount racks provide a secure and stable attachment, but they require the front wheel to be detached, which can be a slight inconvenience. Check out the top pick:
Swagman Fork Mount Rooftop Bike Carrier
This rooftop carrier securely attaches to square, round, and oval bars up to 3″ wide, ensuring worry-free transport. It is easy to assemble without the need for tools and can be set up quickly following the provided instructions.
Frame-Mount Racks
These racks hold the bike by its frame, usually via adjustable arms that clamp onto the top tube or downtube.They are easier to load and don’t require wheel removal, but they may not be compatible with certain bike frame designs or sizes. Here’s a fine option to consider when buying frame mount racks:
The TBVECHI Roof Rack is a high-quality and adjustable cross bar luggage carrier designed for cars without side rails. It features a lockable anti-theft design with 2 locks per bar. With a maximum load capacity of 165 lbs (75 kg), this roof rack is suitable for light use and is compatible with car roofs measuring 110-114 cm (42.91-44.88 in) in distance.
Spare Tire-Mounted Racks for Fat Tire Electric Bikes
Spare tire-mounted racks are specifically designed for vehicles that have an external spare tire on the rear. They attach to the spare tire using a plate or strap system and can accommodate multiple bikes. Here is a great option:
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack
With 15-inch long carry arms, this bike rack for fat tire e bikes can easily accommodate two bicycles weighing up to 70 pounds. It is compatible with most externally mounted spare tires, including those with over the tire third brake lights. The patented individual tie-down cradles securely hold and protect your bikes, while the extra-wide bottom foot ensures weight is supported on the rear tire rather than the rim.
Truck Bed Bike Racks for Fat Tire Electric Bikes
If you have a pickup truck, you can consider using a truck bed bike rack. These racks secure the bikes in the bed of the truck, either using fork mounts, frame clamps, or specialized brackets. Truck bed racks are convenient, provide easy access to the bikes, and can often accommodate multiple bicycles.
Check out the finest choice in this category:
INNO RT201 Truck Bed Bike Rack
The INNO RT201 Truck Bed Bike Rack comes with all the necessary hardware, eliminating the need for drilling. You don’t have to remove the front tire of your bike. Additionally, the rack works with standard bike cable locks (sold separately) and can accommodate various bike types.
Bike Racks for Storage
In addition to the bike racks meant to transporte your ride along with you, you can also get storage racks to store your bike in a convenient and organized way. These racks offer a practical solution to the common problem of limited space, allowing bike owners to efficiently store their bikes in a way that keeps them safe, secure, and easily accessible.
Whether in a garage, basement, apartment, or any other space, bike racks come in various designs and styles to accommodate different needs. Wall-mounted racks, floor stands, ceiling hooks, and vertical hangers are just a few examples of the wide range of options available. By utilizing bike racks, cyclists can maximize space utilization, protect their bikes from potential damage, and create a clutter-free environment. Here are our top picks:
Hanging Bike Racks
Hanging bike racks feature arms that hold the bikes by their top tubes. The bikes hang vertically from the rack, with their wheels secured in wheel trays or cradles. Hanging racks are often more affordable and lightweight compared to other types, but they may require additional support or adapter bars for certain bike styles, such as those with step-through frames or full-suspension bikes. Here’s a best selling option:
The Eapele Bike Pedal Hanger is a heavy-duty wall mount made of high-quality 10GA steel plates. It supports up to 150lbs and is compatible with platform pedals, clipless pedals, and hybrid pedals. This wall mount is designed to save space by organizing your bike and keeping it safe from damage.
Freestanding Bike Racks
Freestanding bike racks are independent structures designed to provide stability and support for bikes. They do not require attachment to a wall, floor, or vehicle, making them a versatile choice. These racks are suitable for use indoors or outdoors, making them popular in bike shops, garages, or any space where bikes need to be parked or stored without relying on wall or floor mounting. Here’s one for you.
Bike Nook Vertical Freestanding Bike Rack
The Bike Nook vertical bike rack is a user-friendly, freestanding solution for indoor bike storage. With its upright design, you can easily store your bike without struggling to lift and hang it. The stand is adjustable for bikes with 18-inch wheels or larger, saves 3.5 feet of floor space, and requires no drilling for installation.
Vertical Bike Racks
Vertical bike racks are often space-saving solutions and are commonly found in bike storage rooms, apartments, or other places where space is limited. They usually have hooks or cradles that support the bike frame, allowing it to be stored upright. If you consider buying a vertical rack for your fat tire ebike, this best seller can be your way to go:
Delta Cycle Vertical 2 Bike Rack
The Delta Cycle 2 Bike Rack Garage Storage is a gravity wall bike stand that requires no drilling or permanent mounting. The rack is fully adjustable and can accommodate any bike style up to 40 lbs. Its stylish steel construction with a durable powder-coated finish complements any interior or garage space.
Floor-Standing Bike Racks
Floor-standing bike racks can come in various designs and configurations. Some may have arms or hooks that hold the bike horizontally. Others may have vertical supports or slots that allow the bikes to be stored in an upright position. These racks are similar to vertical bike racks, but they are not necessarily attached to a wall or a fixed structure. Here’s a fine choice in floor standing bike rack for fat tire ebike:
BIKEHAND Floor Type Parking Rack Stand
This fat tire bike stand is foldable, portable, and made of durable heat-treated steel. It offers a simple push-in design for easy bike storage and fits a wide range of bikes, except those with tires over 2.4″ in width. Its patented front holder tilts when you push the bike in, making it ideal for heavy bikes.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the best bike rack for your fat tire e-bike is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. You should consider all factors such as compatibility, capacity, mounting style, ease of use, and price, so as to make an informed choice that enhances your cycling adventures. In case you want to explore more add-ons for your ride, make sure to check my comprehensive guide on the best eBike accessories in 2023. Happy riding!
