Choosing the right spare-tire bike rack can simplify trips and protect your bikes during travel. This guide highlights top-rated options that fit most spare tires, balance ease of use with security, and support a variety of bike styles. Below, you’ll find a concise comparison and in-depth product sections to help you pick a rack that matches your vehicle and biking needs.
| Product | Brand | Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Mounted Carrier (Model 322DN) | Allen | 2 bikes / up to 70 lbs | High-position design; 15″ carry arms; fits various frame sizes; individual tie-down cradles |
| Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack 2-Bike | Hollywood Racks | 2 bikes / up to 35 lbs each | Adjustable to fit most spare tires; durable steel; not for E-Bikes |
| Yakima SpareRide Vehicle Rear Spare Tire Mounted Rack | Yakima | 2 bikes | Includes SKS locks; anti-sway design; built-in bottle opener; fits many spare tires |
| Allen Sports Premier 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack (S302) | Allen | 2 bikes / up to 70 lbs | 15″ quick-set carry arms; patented design; dual compound tie-down cradles |
| Elevate Outdoor Spare Tire Mounted Bicycle Carrier Rack | Elevate Outdoor | 2 bikes / up to 75 lbs | Powder-coated steel; 25″ L x 7″ W x 31″ H; adjustable length; includes tie-down strap |
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier (322DN)
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier uses a high-position design that keeps bikes away from road debris and hot exhaust. Its 15-inch carry arms are sized to accommodate two bicycles while maintaining clearance from the vehicle. The rack supports up to 70 pounds total and works with a wide range of bike styles and frame sizes. Each bike is held securely by patented individual tie-down cradles, reducing movement during transport. Installation is straightforward, with the two-bicycle setup designed to snap into place for quick use on weekend trips or longer adventures.
- Holds two bicycles with a combined weight up to 70 lbs.
- Carry arms are 15 inches long for wide compatibility and clearances
- Patented individual tie-down cradles protect frames while keeping bikes secure
The design aims to minimize contact with the bike frame and rims, helping protect finish and components. It’s well-suited for SUVs and cars with spare-tire mounting options, delivering a reliable, stable carry for family outings and camping trips. If you frequently switch between bikes or carry compact to mid-size frames, this rack offers a balanced blend of capacity and ease-of-use.
Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack 2-Bike
The Hollywood Racks SR1 is designed for vehicles with a spare-tire mount, making it a practical choice for many SUVs and Jeeps. It offers easy mounting and adjustment to fit most spare tires, with support arms that can be centered for side-mounted tires. The rack is built from high-quality steel, ensuring durability for frequent travel. It can carry two bikes, with a weight limit of up to 35 pounds per bike, which makes it suitable for many traditional aluminum-framed or carbon-fiber road and mountain bikes. It does not support E-Bikes, which is an important consideration for heavier e-assist bikes.
- Adjustable to fit most spare tires; supports two bikes
- Designed for spare-tire mounting; centered arms for side-mounted tires
- Heavy-duty steel construction; fits SUVs and Jeeps
- Maximum 35 lbs per bike; does not support E-Bikes
The SR1 is known for its straightforward installation and robust construction. For travelers who want a reliable, no-fuss rack that works with a broad range of spare-tire setups, this Hollyood Racks model offers a solid, affordable option with predictable performance across many common vehicles.
Yakima SpareRide 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack
The Yakima SpareRide converts a rear spare into a versatile 2-bike rack with a universal fit designed to accommodate most stock-size spares and lug patterns. It emphasizes an effortless loading experience through SuperCush ZipStrip cradles and an anti-sway design to prevent bikes from colliding during transport. A built-in bottle opener adds practical convenience for trail-side refreshments. For security, the rack includes a locking knob that secures both the rack and spare tire, and the package includes full SKS locking components to deter theft of bikes and equipment.
- Transforms rear spare into a 2-bike carrier
- Anti-sway design with cushioned bike cradles
- Integrated SKS locking package provides theft deterrence
- Built-in bottle opener for on-the-go convenience
Its broad compatibility and robust locking system make SpareRide a strong choice for travelers who want reliable security and ease of use while on the road. The combination of a secure mounting knob and included SKS locks helps protect bikes during pit stops and overnight stays alike.
Allen Sports Premier 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack (S302)
The Allen Sports Premier S302 carries bikes safely away from the road and exhaust by design. Quick-set arms measure 15 inches and snap into place, enabling fast, tool-free installation. The dual-curve cradles provide gentle, secure contact points that protect bike frames during transport. This model emphasizes practical, out-of-the-box usability, especially for users who want a reliable rack that requires minimal setup while delivering solid two-bike capacity and protection.
- Patented design elevates bikes away from road exhaust
- 15″ carry arms snap into place for quick setup
- Dual compound tie-down cradles protect bicycles
With a weight capacity around 70 pounds, the S302 is a versatile choice for riders who own a mix of road, mountain, or hybrid bikes. Its straightforward installation and sturdy construction make it a popular option for daily commutes and weekend trips alike.
Elevate Outdoor Spare Tire Mounted Bicycle Carrier Rack
The Elevate Outdoor spare-tire carrier is built for durability with a powder-coated steel construction and a generous 75 lb weight capacity, designed to securely carry two bikes. The carrier measures 25″ L x 7″ W x 31″ H, with adjustable length from 20″ to 25″ to accommodate different spare-tire profiles. Weighing 18 lbs, it’s a lighter, robust option for frequent travelers. A tie-down strap is included to secure bikes together and to the rack during transit.
- Powder-coated steel for durability and long life
- 75 lb capacity for two bikes
- Adjustable length (20″ to 25″); removable or adjustable components
Whether you drive a pickup, SUV, or crossover, this Elevate Outdoor rack offers a solid balance of strength, adjustability, and weight efficiency. The straightforward installation and secure tie-downs help ensure bikes stay stable on long highway drives or rough rural roads alike.
Buying Guide
Key fit considerations
Vehicle compatibility is essential. Spare-tire racks rely on mounting around or over the spare tire, so you’ll want to confirm your car’s spare configuration, overall rear clearance, and whether the rack interferes with taillights or cameras. Look for adjustable arms and flexible mounting options that accommodate a range of tire sizes and hub patterns to ensure a universal fit.
Weight capacity and bike types
Capacity determines whether you can transport two bikes or two heavier bikes like mountain or fat-tire bikes. Many two-bike racks support 35–70 pounds per bike, while some higher-capacity models reach 75 pounds total. Consider your typical bikes’ weights, frame sizes, and whether you need to carry carbon fiber or heavy alloy frames. If you ride e-bikes, verify compatibility or consider models that explicitly support non-E-Bike use only.
Security and anti-sway features
Security features such as locking knobs, SKS lock packages, and anti-sway designs help deter theft and reduce bike rattling during transport. Some racks include integrated locking for the spare tire and bikes, which is valuable during pit stops or overnight stays. If security is a priority, choose a model with a full locking system and robust construction.
Ease of use and installation
Quick-set arms, tool-free installation, and lightweight construction simplify setup and removal. Look for racks with straightforward leverage or snap-into-place components, especially for frequent loading and unloading. Arm length and adjustability influence how easily you can mount different bike styles without removing the rack.
Durability and materials
Powder-coated steel or similarly durable materials offer resistance to rust and weather exposure. When shopping, compare build quality, welds, and the overall rigidity of the rack. A sturdy rack reduces vibration and potential bike damage on rough roads, making it a better long-term investment for regular travelers.
Practical considerations
Consider additional features that enhance usability, such as a built-in bottle opener, centered or side-mount options for spare tires, and the ability to adjust for cameras or other rear-mounted equipment. Also assess whether you require a locking system for theft deterrence or a purely mechanical hold for short trips.
Across these models, the best choice depends on your vehicle type, typical biking loads, and how often you travel with bikes. For lighter bikes and shorter trips, the Hollywood Racks SR1 offers straightforward use. For heavier bikes or frequent use, the Elevate Outdoor model provides stronger capacity and adjustability. The Yakima SpareRide stands out for security with full SKS locks and a thoughtful integration of a bottle opener for trail adventures. The Allen options emphasize quick setup and safe frame protection, while the 322DN model balances high clearance with dependable tie-downs for two bikes.