The best bike rack for your car’s trunk depends on how many bikes you carry, how much room you have to store the rack, and whether its straps and supports fit your vehicle. These trunk-mount options range from a compact one-bike carrier to a three-bike model. Before buying, check the maker’s fit information for your exact car and bike setup.
Quick Comparison
| Bike rack | Bike capacity | Standout feature | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | 2 bikes; 70 lb maximum | Arrives assembled and folds flat | Everyday two-bike transport |
| Soarify Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | 2 bikes; 70 lb maximum | Foldable design with strap-and-hook attachment | Shoppers seeking a simple, no-hitch option; listed as unavailable in the supplied product data |
| FORWODE Premium 3-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | 3 bikes; up to 35 lb per bike | Adjustable frame angle and soft rubber cradles | Carrying three lighter bikes |
| Saris Solo Trunk Mount Bike Rack | 1 bike | Weighs 2 lb and uses a compact design | Solo trips and limited storage space |
| Allen Sports Deluxe+ 2-Bike Trunk Mounted Carrier | 2 bikes | Quick-snap setup and side straps | Those who want a fast setup for two bikes |
Our Picks: Best Bike Racks For Cars Trunk Mount reviews
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Rack: A Practical All-Around Pick
The Allen Sports Deluxe Model 102DN-R is a two-bike trunk rack designed for sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. It arrives assembled, and its single-configuration design is intended to simplify setup. Allen lists a maximum load of 70 pounds.
Its 12-inch carry arms are meant to accommodate a range of bike styles. Individual tie-downs hold the bikes, while a padded lower frame helps keep them away from the vehicle. Side straps add lateral stability, and the rack folds flat for storage.
This is a sensible choice if you want a straightforward rack for two bikes and value easy storage. Its listed vehicle range is broad, but it is not a guarantee of fit for every model. Check Allen’s vehicle fit information before buying, and consider whether your bike frames can sit securely on the carry arms.
Pros:
- Designed for a range of common vehicle types
- Arrives assembled and folds flat
- Individual tie-downs and a padded lower frame
- Maximum listed load of 70 pounds
Cons:
- Vehicle compatibility should be confirmed before purchase
- Bike frames must work with the rack’s carry-arm layout
Verdict: Choose this Allen rack if you want an assembled, foldable two-bike carrier with a clearly stated 70-pound maximum load, after confirming it fits your vehicle.
Soarify Sports Deluxe: A Foldable Two-Bike Option
The Soarify Sports Deluxe is a strap-and-hook trunk rack for two bikes, with a stated maximum load of 70 pounds. Its description says it is designed for sedans and hatchbacks and does not require a trailer hitch. The rack folds down for storage when it is not in use.
The design is a basic alternative to a hitch-mounted carrier: straps attach the rack to the trunk or hatch, and padding sits against the vehicle. The supplied instructions advise tightening the straps fully, using extra straps to secure the bikes, and slowing down over ramps. Those steps are worth taking with any trunk rack, particularly before a longer drive.
The main drawback is that this item is listed as unavailable in the supplied product data, so it may not be an option when you shop. Its stated fit is also narrower than some other picks here: the description names sedans and hatchbacks, not minivans or SUVs. Confirm the fit details and current availability before making a decision.
Pros:
- Designed to carry two bikes with a stated 70-pound maximum load
- Does not require a trailer hitch
- Folds for more compact storage
- Uses straps, hooks, and padding to attach to the vehicle
Cons:
- Listed as unavailable in the supplied product data
- Product description names sedans and hatchbacks, so other vehicle types need extra fit checking
Verdict: Consider the Soarify if it becomes available and its fit details match your sedan or hatchback; otherwise, compare the other two-bike choices first.
FORWODE Premium 3-Bike Rack: For Carrying More Bikes
The FORWODE rack is the only three-bike carrier in this group. Its corrosion-resistant steel frame is listed as holding up to 35 pounds per bike, and the rack itself weighs 13 pounds. A 16-inch carry arm provides space for the bikes, while an adjustable frame angle is designed to help match different vehicle shapes.
Soft rubber cradles hold the bikes, and thick padded feet sit against the car. The design also includes side straps for lateral stability and a long strap intended to control tire movement. It folds for storage and arrives assembled, according to the product description.
Extra capacity can be useful for family rides, but three bikes take more care to arrange and secure than one or two. Check the weight of each bike, the fit guide for your vehicle, and whether the frames can sit properly on the rack. The listed 35-pound limit applies to each bike, so do not treat it as permission to overload any individual position.
Pros:
- Designed to carry three bikes at up to 35 pounds each
- Adjustable frame angle for vehicle fit
- Soft rubber cradles and padded feet help protect contact points
- Arrives assembled and folds for storage
Cons:
- Three-bike loading takes careful arrangement and securing
- At 13 pounds, it is heavier than the Saris Solo
Verdict: Pick the FORWODE if you need space for three bikes and each stays within the stated per-bike weight limit, provided the rack is compatible with your vehicle.
Saris Solo: A Lightweight Carrier for One Bike
The Saris Solo is a one-bike trunk carrier built around a compact, lightweight design. It weighs 2 pounds and is made from injection-molded plastic. The product description also notes that the material is recyclable and rust-free, and that the rack is made in the United States.
Its small size may suit a solo rider who wants a rack that is easy to lift and store. The design includes anti-sway features and ratcheting straps to hold the bike. The product is described as tool-free, but Saris stresses that vehicle and bike compatibility are not automatic.
Fit is especially important with this model. Saris advises checking its fit guide, since some vehicles or bike frames may need an accessory such as a top-tube adapter or wheel straps. With capacity for only one bike, it is also less flexible for couples or group rides than the other options here.
Pros:
- Weighs just 2 pounds
- Compact for storage in a car trunk or small space
- Tool-free design with ratcheting straps
- Made from recyclable, rust-free plastic
Cons:
- Carries only one bike
- Some vehicle or bike setups may need added accessories
Verdict: The Saris Solo is a strong match for a solo cyclist who values low weight and compact storage, as long as the fit guide confirms the rack works with their vehicle and bike.
Allen Sports Deluxe+ QS2: Quick-Snap Setup for Two Bikes
The Allen Sports Deluxe+ QS2 is a two-bike trunk carrier with a quick-snap setup design. It comes fully assembled and is described as fitting most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. Allen still recommends checking its vehicle-specific fit information before purchase.
Individual dual tie-downs secure the bikes, while a padded lower frame helps protect the vehicle. Left and right side straps add lateral stability. Compared with the Allen Model 102DN-R, the QS2’s main stated distinction is its quick-snap setup rather than a listed load limit or carry-arm measurement.
This model is worth considering if fast setup is your priority and you want a two-bike rack from the same brand as the all-around pick. The product details do not state a maximum load, so check the listing or manufacturer information for weight limits before loading your bikes.
Pros:
- Quick-snap setup and fully assembled design
- Designed for sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs
- Individual dual tie-downs hold the bikes
- Padded lower frame and side straps
Cons:
- Vehicle fit still needs to be confirmed
- Supplied product details do not state a maximum load
Verdict: Choose the QS2 if quick setup and two-bike capacity matter most, but verify the vehicle fit and load limit before you buy.
How to Choose a Trunk-Mount Bike Rack
Confirm the rack fits your vehicle
Vehicle fit is the first thing to check. Trunk shape, hatch design, spoilers, and the places where straps can attach may affect whether a rack works. A broad claim such as “fits most cars” does not confirm fit for your exact vehicle. Use the manufacturer’s fit guide, and check that the rack’s hooks and padded contact points can be positioned as directed.
Choose capacity based on your rides
Think about how many bikes you need to carry on a typical trip. A one-bike rack like the Saris Solo is lighter and more compact, while two-bike models work for many pairs of riders. A three-bike rack adds room for a group, but requires more careful loading. Check both the total capacity and any per-bike weight limit, and include the weight of each bike in your decision.
Check how your bike frame sits on the rack
Not every frame shape rests easily on every carry-arm design. Compare your bike’s frame with the rack’s support layout and look for any manufacturer notes about adapters or added straps. When carrying more than one bike, make sure the bikes can be arranged without pressing against each other or the car.
Look at how the rack attaches and protects the car
Trunk racks rely on straps, hooks, and contact points against the vehicle. Check the instructions for where each strap should go and how the rack should sit. Padded feet or a padded lower frame can help protect contact areas, but keep the car and rack contact points clean and follow the installation directions to reduce the chance of scratches.
Consider setup and storage
If you plan to take the rack on and off often, an assembled or quick-snap design may save setup time. If storage space is tight, compare folded size and rack weight. The Saris Solo is listed at 2 pounds, while the FORWODE is listed at 13 pounds; the other product descriptions do not provide a rack weight.
Review the instructions before every trip
Install the rack and secure the bikes according to the manufacturer’s directions. Check that the straps are tight, the bikes are stable, and no part of the load blocks lights or the license plate. Recheck the setup after driving a short distance, and follow the rack maker’s guidance on speed, road conditions, and load limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do trunk-mount bike racks fit every car?
No. Fit depends on the vehicle’s trunk or hatch design and the rack’s strap and support layout. Check the manufacturer’s fit guide for your exact vehicle before buying.
Can I use a trunk rack on a hatchback?
Some of the options listed are described as fitting hatchbacks, but that does not confirm compatibility with every hatchback. Verify the fit and attachment instructions for your specific make and model.
How many bikes can a trunk-mount rack carry?
That depends on the rack. The options here are designed for one, two, or three bikes. Follow the stated bike count and weight limits, and do not exceed the limit for an individual bike position.
Will my bike need a top-tube adapter?
It may. Bike frames differ, and the Saris Solo description specifically notes that some bike setups may need a top-tube adapter or wheel straps. Check the rack maker’s guidance for your frame.
Can a trunk rack scratch my car?
Any rack that rests against a vehicle can pose a scratch risk if it is installed incorrectly or if dirt gets between the rack and the car. Follow the instructions, use the provided padding, and keep contact points clean before mounting.
Which rack is best for carrying three bikes?
The FORWODE Premium is the three-bike option in this selection. Its product details specify a limit of up to 35 pounds per bike. Confirm vehicle fit and make sure each bike is within that limit.
Which option is easiest to store?
The Saris Solo is listed at 2 pounds and is designed to be compact. The Allen Model 102DN-R and FORWODE rack are described as folding for storage. Compare the folded dimensions with the space you have available.
Final Recommendation
For most people seeking a trunk-mounted rack for two bikes, the Allen Sports Deluxe Model 102DN-R is the most balanced choice in this group: it arrives assembled, folds flat, and has a stated 70-pound maximum load. Choose the Saris Solo for a lightweight one-bike setup or the FORWODE if you need three-bike capacity. Whatever you choose, confirm vehicle and bike fit before setting out.