If you frequently transport bikes on your SUV or pickup, a spare-wheel mounted bike carrier can simplify trips and keep bikes away from road debris and exhaust. This guide highlights five highly compatible options that fit most standard spare tires, balance security with ease of use, and help you choose a carrier that matches your vehicle and cycling needs. Each option supports two bicycles and offers different mounting and security features to suit varying priorities—from quick install to integrated locks. Below is a quick summary of the top picks to help you decide.
| Product | Brand | Notable Feature | Bike Capacity | Mount Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOPOWN Foldable Spare Tire Bike Rack | TOPOWN | Adjustable arms and multiple installation positions | 2 bikes | Spare tire mount |
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Mounted Carrier | Allen | 15″ carry arms; high mounting design | 2 bikes | Spare tire mount |
| Yakima SpareRide Vehicle Rear Spare Tire Mounted Rack | Yakima | Integrated SKS locking; anti-sway design | 2 bikes | Spare tire mount |
| Hollywood Racks SR1 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack | Hollywood Racks | Adjustable to fit most tires; center arms for side-mounted tires | 2 bikes | Spare tire mount |
| Let’s Go Aero TireBiter 2-Bike VRack | Let’s Go Aero | PATENTED tire teeth grip; modular and lightweight | 2 bikes | Spare tire mount |
Notes: The table reflects the five most relevant spare-wheel bike carriers from the provided options. All are designed to attach to the vehicle’s spare tire area and support two bicycles, with varying degrees of security, adjustability, and installation complexity. When selecting a carrier, verify compatibility with your spare tire size, vehicle clearance, and whether you require locking features or quick-release mounting.
TOPOWN Foldable Spare Tire Bike Rack
The TOPOWN spare tire bike rack is designed to fit a wide range of 31.5″–32.5″ spare tires, providing a universal compatibility profile for many SUVs and trucks. It includes a complete installation kit and a clearly illustrated manual, which simplifies setup for users who want to install the rack themselves. The system offers five installation positions for the support arms, giving flexibility to align the rack with your spare tire’s location—whether left, middle, or right on the rear door. Arms can be adjusted to accommodate the rear door’s contour, ensuring bikes clear the car body and maintain balance during transit.
- Universal fit for most 31.5″–32.5″ spare tires
- Includes installation kits and a step-by-step manual
- Five install holes for flexible arm positioning
- Adjustable arms to match various rear-door configurations
The design focus is on straightforward installation and flexible mounting geometry, making it a practical option for drivers who want a reliable two-bike solution without a hitch-based mount. Users should confirm the exact tire dimensions on their vehicle and ensure adequate clearance for the bikes when the rear door is opened and closed.
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Mounted Carrier
The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier emphasizes a high mounting position that keeps bikes away from road heat and exhaust. It accommodates two bicycles up to a combined weight of about 70 pounds and is compatible with a wide range of bike styles and frame sizes thanks to patented individual tie-down cradles that protect frames while securing them during transit. Its 15-inch carry arms provide ample reach for loading bikes without interfering with the spare tire, which helps maintain clearance for emergency access and vehicle operation.
- High mounting design keeps bikes away from exhaust
- Two-bike capacity; up to 70 pounds total
- Wide compatibility with various bike styles and frame sizes
- Patented individual tie-down cradles protect bikes
Installation is typically straightforward, but users should verify fitment with their vehicle’s spare tire size and ensure the carrying arms can accommodate their bike frames without collisions with doors or fenders.
Yakima SpareRide Vehicle Rear Spare Tire Mounted Rack
The Yakima SpareRide converts a rear-mounted spare into a practical 2-bike rack with an emphasis on security and usability. It is designed to fit most stock spares and various lug patterns, broadening compatibility across a wide range of vehicles. The rack uses SuperCush ZipStrip cradles to cushion bikes and an anti-sway design that minimizes bike contact during transport. A built-in bottle opener is a welcome convenience for trail breaks, and a locking knob helps secure the rack and spare tire to the vehicle. The full SKS locking package is included to deter theft and protect the bikes during stops.
- Transforms spare tire into a 2-bike rack
- Wide compatibility with stock spares and lug patterns
- Anti-sway design with cushioned cradles
- Locking knob and SKS locks for security
- Built-in bottle opener for convenience
Users should consider the spare tire’s diameter and mounting surface to ensure the rack’s arms and cradles align correctly with their specific vehicle. The security features help protect bikes while away from home, though proper installation is essential for safe operation on uneven terrain.
Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack
The Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Rack is designed as a reliable option for SUVs and Jeeps with a spare tire mounted behind the vehicle. Its design focuses on ease of use and adjustability to fit most spare tires, with arms that can be centered for side-mounted tires. The rack is constructed from steel to offer durability and is capable of carrying two bikes up to 35 pounds each. It’s a straightforward, no-frills solution that emphasizes stability and ease of installation, though it’s not suitable for E-Bikes and heavier frames.
- Ready-to-use design for SUVs/jeeps with spare tires
- Fully adjustable to fit most tires
- Center arms accommodate side-mounted tires
- High-strength steel construction; two bikes up to 35 lbs each
Prospective buyers should verify maximum bike weight limits and ensure that the carrier’s footprint does not interfere with tail sensors or cameras on modern vehicles. The SR1 is well-suited for regular two-bike use on standard spare tires and offers solid stability for daily driving and weekend trips.
Let’s Go Aero TireBiter 2-Bike VRack Carrier
The TireBiter VRack from Let’s Go Aero uses a patent-pending grip system that bites into the spare tire base and clamps two bikes securely with two ratchet straps over the tire and rim. It is designed to fit all tire sizes and bike frames, offering a modular approach with a lightweight 22-pound design. Wing support arms are removable and lockable for compact storage, which is especially helpful for vehicles with limited rear clearance or for travelers who need to maximize trunk space when the rack is not in use. Note that a separate cable lock is not included.
- PATENTED tire-teeth grip base for secure mounting
- Fits all tire sizes and bike frames; two-bike capacity
- Lightweight (about 22 lbs) with removable, lockable wing arms
- Modular design allows compact storage
Installation typically involves mounting the base onto the spare tire and securing bikes with straps. It is important to ensure that the spare tire’s dimensions and the vehicle’s clearance allow full access to the hatch or trunk when loading and unloading bikes. The VRack provides a flexible, space-saving solution for two-bike transport.
Buying Guide
Vehicle and Spare Tire Compatibility
Begin by measuring your spare tire diameter, width, and the available clearance around the mounting area. Some carriers are designed for specific tire sizes (for example, middle-range 31.5″–32.5″ tires), while others offer universal fit. Vehicles with rear cameras or sensors may require careful arm positioning to avoid interference. If your spare sits on the left, middle, or right, choose a model with adjustable arms to maintain proper alignment and access to the rear hatch.
Bike Capacity and Security
Most spare-tire racks in this group carry two bikes. Consider the combined weight of your bikes and the rack’s weight capacity. Security features vary: SKS lock packages, locking knobs, and individual cradles protect bikes from theft and movement during transit. For high-value bikes or longer trips, prioritize models with integrated locking mechanisms and anti-sway designs to minimize bike contact and vibration.
Installation Difficulty and Storage
Some racks come with clear installation manuals and kit components, while others require more mechanical steps. If you frequently swap racks or need to store the rack when not in use, look for foldable or modular designs with removable arms. Weight is a practical consideration; lighter options are easier to handle, but heavier models may offer greater durability and stability on rough roads.
Durability, Materials, and Weather Resistance
Most spare-tire racks use steel construction for durability. Some models integrate coating or finishes to resist rust and corrosion. If you live in regions with harsh weather, look for corrosion-resistant finishes and sturdy cradles that protect bike frames from road salts and debris during winter months.
Security and Convenience Features
Locking options, anti-sway features, and convenience accessories—such as built-in bottle openers or quick-release operations—can influence the overall value. Consider SKS locking packages, keyed hitch locks, and whether the rack and bikes can be secured when you step away from the vehicle. Convenience features like easy-load ramps or padded cradles help protect bikes and simplify loading for riders of all experience levels.
Summary of Options
- TOPOWN offers flexible arm positioning and a kit-included installation, suitable for varied spare tire placements.
- Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike provides high mounting and robust frame protection with two-bike capacity up to 70 pounds.
- Yakima SpareRide emphasizes security with SKS locks and anti-sway technology while remaining compatible with most spares.
- Hollywood Racks SR1 focuses on durability and compatibility with most spare tires, suitable for everyday use on SUVs and Jeeps.
- Let’s Go Aero TireBiter VRack delivers a modular, lightweight option with a tire-grip design and compact storage capability.
When choosing, align the carrier’s primary strengths with your typical use: occasional weekend trips, daily commutes, or long touring. Consider your vehicle’s configuration, the number of bikes you transport, and how important security features are for you. All five options provide solid two-bike capabilities with varying emphases on fit, ease of use, and protective design, ensuring you can keep your bikes safe and ready for the next adventure.