Bikes are selling like crazy these days. While we were dealing with the sickness-that-shall-not-be-named, many of us dug out old bikes or bought new ones. (I know, I did it both!)
Personally, I find non-hitch bike racks for minivans convenient and user-friendly. In one area, non-hitch racks present a unique challenge: keeping them from hitting the garage gate or from falling off your minivan trunk.
Before buying bikes for my family for vacations, I had a heavy-duty hitch rack that supported my old 2-person e-bike – which I used to take my kid to his soccer game. Yet the thought of carrying our bikes on that big, hitch rack was laughable. I bought some pretty pricey bikes, and storing them on a low-riding minivan with a shaky hitch rack isn’t very smart.
The fact that I live right next to a bike rack shop gives me a unique advantage — I’m able to find just about any bike rack I want or need. So we brought our bikes to the shop to try these racks out. To get their impressions, I also talked to a few bikers who regularly use these racks. So here’s our best bike racks for minivans (no hitch).
Thule Bike Rack? Yakima Bike Rack? Allen Bike Rack? Which Brand Should I Go For?
Bicycle rack brands make products that make getting your bike around easier.
There are tons of companies that make these products, both bike carrier specialists like Hollywood Racks and rack makers like Thule. It’s always best to choose a well-reviewed, reliable manufacturer who makes high-quality products.
The first thing you should do is figure out your budget and what type of rack you need. You can then pick the company whose quality, designs, and reputation fit your needs.
Thule Bike Rack
Thule’s products are known for their high quality and durability, as well as their innovative design. Among their most innovative bicycle racks for cars, they make transporting your bike easy and safe.
Using a state-of-the-art facility for testing their products, Thule ensures the highest standards are met. A professional team also tests them in real life. Due to this testing, all of their racks come with a long warranty so you can be confident in them.
Yakima Bike Rack
From the US Pacific Northwest, Yakima specializes in racks of all kinds. Cycle racks are the company’s specialty, but they also design racks for other uses.
There’s a Yakima bicycle carrier for every need. They make bikes and vehicles for all types. Additionally, they consider your cargo situation and what kind of adventure you’re into.
Among their styles are tray racks, vertical racks, mast racks, trunk mounts, and roof mounts.
Allen Sports Bike Rack
Allen Sports has been specializing in bike carriers for over 50 years. Dick Allen, an Apollo program physicist turned entrepreneur, saw a need to solve a problem: carrying bikes on family vacations.
A variety of bar racks are available from Allen Sports, including hitch racks, trunk racks, spare tire racks, and compact racks. The Rack Finder tool on their website lets you find racks based on your exact vehicle model and year.
All racks come with a lifetime warranty, and great customer service makes sure you’re happy.
Saris Bike Rack
There aren’t many bike racks as good as Saris. Founded by cyclists and cycling advocates, this brand is based in the US.
The bicycle carrier rack is one of their biggest products. Their racks come in different styles to fit different cars and bikes. Saris tries to improve cyclists’ experiences by pushing the limits of what’s possible.
This is done by producing high-quality, durable racks that are easy to use. Aside from that, there’s a lot of versatility and compatibility in their products. They back this up with a limited lifetime warranty.
Hollywood Racks Bike Rack
One of the first rack-making companies in the USA, Hollywood Racks has been making racks for a long time.
During the 1990s, they expanded internationally with hitch racks and spare tire racks. As a result of their versatile, strong, and reliable products, they gained international recognition.
Because “everyone should be able to afford a bike rack,” one of the company’s key goals is to create affordable bike transportation solutions.
With excellent quality and superior stability, they continue to make the trunk, hitch, and spare tire versions. Due to their quality, versatility, and competitive prices, their racks are always in high demand, so they may be out of stock.
Best Bike Racks for Minivans Without Hitch: Our Top 7 Picks
What we listed down here are some of the best options out there for minivans. Some reviews say one non-hitch bike rack fits a minivan when it actually doesn’t. As a result, people spend money on useless racks they can’t get rid of.
Listed below are the best bike racks for vans (without hitch); complete with what we like (or dislike) about them, and a link to check the price.
Ranking | Brand & Model | Bike Rack Type | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Link to Purchase | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Top Pick | Thule ProRide XT | Roof Bike Rack | Quick and easy to get a bike in place | Not recommended for heavy bikes | Click to check price | |
Runner-up | Hollywood Rack F4 Heady Duty 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Has buckles for quickly tying down your bike | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price | |
Also consider | Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Good for 3 full size mountain bikes | Doesn’t come with a lock | Click to check price | |
4 | Allen Sports Deluxe – 4 Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Straightforward installation | May scratch the paint on your minivan during rough rides | Click to check price | |
5 | Tyger Auto TG – RK1B204B Deluxe Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Comes out of the box completely assembled | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price | |
6 | Allen Sports Ultra-compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Very compact, and can be folded when not in use | Side straps must be used to secure the bikes. | Click to check price | |
Avoid this one | Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | It has Rubber straps with a quick-lock feature. | The clips that hold the rig together are made of bare metal and will easily scratch your car’s paint. | Click to check price |
Not a lot of options right? But they’re all tested and proven to work for minivans. Find out how we chose the best bike racks for vans without a hitch below.
How We Select The Best No-hitch Bike Racks for Minivans
There are several factors to consider when choosing a high-quality bike rack for vans without hitch. Here are some things we considered when we chose our best minivan bike racks (without hitch) for this year:
Bikes Attachment
You can usually put bike racks for minivans into two categories – roof racks and trunk racks. Bike frames are held in place by trunk racks that hang on to the back compartment of vehicles. roof bike racks attach to the roof of the van, either directly or clamped on to the cargo rack.
Number of Bikes
Do you have a lot of bikes to haul? Racks hold different numbers of bikes, so you’ll need one that fits your needs.
Locking Mechanism and Parts for Bikes
Because bikes can be expensive, it’s worth considering whether the bike rack has a lock. Does it provide the lock, or do you have to install it? Choose a rack that fits your needs.
Bikes Rack Build Quality and Material
There’s no doubt that quality varies from product to product. Protect your bikes with a bike rack that will last for years.
Bikes Rack Brand Reputation
There are people that say brands are just names and don’t really matter to the quality of the products. It’s a lie. Every flagship bike rack brand has a long history, delivering top-performing racks that bike riders and professionals love.
Bikes Rack Customer Reviews Over a Multitude of Sites
People who bought and tried minivan bike racks are the best people to get product feedback from.
There are a few bike racks here we have actual on-hand experience with. The rest, based on those factors.
Can a bike rack go on a van?
You can attach a bike rack to a van, but you’ll need to find the right one.
You can choose from a lot of bike racks. There are roof racks, hitch racks, and rear mount racks for vans.
Will a trunk bike rack work on a minivan?
Trunk-mounted bike racks attach to the back of your minivan using hooks, straps, and buckles. Since they don’t need extra equipment (like a hitch or crossbars), they’re the most economical way to transport bikes.
Best Bike Racks For Minivans (Without Hitch)
The number of hobbyist cyclists is on the rise, so no hitch bike racks for minivans are getting popular. With these bike racks, you can move your beloved bike while saving a lot of money.
Riddle me this. Want to ride your bike up the mountain without spending your whole paycheck? You don’t want to deal with hitch-related number crunching?
Your minivan needs the best bike rack without a hitch if the answer is YES. You’ll save 30% on your expenses and get the job done. You’ll have no problem transporting your bikes.
We’ve tested a lot of bike racks, but here are 7 that stood out to me. From budget hunters to premium pickers, every bike rack on this list is well-rounded and can meet everyone’s needs. Here’s what each bike rack offers. No worries. I’ll throw in any dirt I find.
Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack: For 3 Bikes
Pros
- Fits 3 full-size bikes and secures them with easy-to-use tie-down straps
- High build quality
Cons
- Rubs on your minivan’s paint after long-term use
- Comes with extra obsolete velcro straps that have little to no use.
The Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack is an excellent bike rack for minivan and SUV no hitch for those looking to take their bike with them on the road without needing a hitch.
It’s incredibly easy to install and remove, making it perfect for any lifestyle that involves switching between having extra storage space and taking your bike along.
Plus, since no tools are required, you can get this rack up and running in no time – even if you don’t have a lot of experience installing racks.
When it comes to securing your bikes, these types of SUV bike rack offers plenty of anchoring points as well as adjustable straps to ensure everything stays put regardless of how rough the roads may be.
Its large wheel trays also mean that most standard adult bikes will fit comfortably without any issues And if you’re concerned about scratches, the soft rubberized cradles will keep your bikes pampered while in transit.
On the downside, some users have reported that this bike rack can be a bit bulky when not in use and its weight might be too much for smaller vehicles to handle.
Additionally, since it only has two straps securing each bike, you may want to consider investing in an additional strap or two as extra security measures for peace of mind.
It’s bound to be on sale right now, so click the link below to check the price.
If not, check out the next item below.
Tyger Auto TG – RK1B204B Deluxe Trunk Mount Bike Rack
Pros
- Sturdy and handy construction
- You can fold the carry arms when they’re not in use
Cons
- Not compatible with vehicles with rear spoilers
- An additional adaptor is needed for bikes with top frame bars
The Tyger Auto TG Bike Rack is a great choice for anyone looking to keep their bikes hanging safely.
It boasts an impressive capacity of up to four bikes, while its platform design ensures that your bicycles will be stable and secure when in storage.
The angled frame also makes it easy to lift and lower the rack with minimal effort. Plus, its powder-coated finish helps protect against scratches and rusting.
On the downside, this bike rack isn’t designed for use on cars; it’s only suitable for mounting on walls or posts. Also, it lacks built-in locks and can be tricky to install if you don’t have experience with home improvement projects.
Click the link below to check the price because it’s probably on sale.
If not, check out the next item below.
Allen Sports Ultra-compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack: Works as long as you don’t have a spare tire at the back
Pros
- When it’s not in use, it folds up
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Bikes must be secured with side straps
The Allen Sports Ultra-Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is a great choice for those who are always on the go.
This rack holds up to four bikes and fits onto most vehicles; making it easy to take your biking adventures anywhere you want.
The maximum weight load this rack can carry is 70 pounds, so you won’t have any worries about taking heavy bikes with you!
But don’t just take our word for it – plenty of reviews included by happy customers say how they love the compact size, stability, and ease of use that this bike rack offers.
Those who had long car journeys also reported that their bikes stayed secure throughout the entire trip, meaning no worries about them slipping off or being damaged in transit.
Overall, the Allen Sports Ultra-Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack is a great choice for those who need an easy to use and secure way of transporting their bikes.
With its lightweight design, plenty of reviews giving it the thumbs up, and a weight load limit that can carry most bicycles without issue – you really can’t go wrong with this option. Much better than getting a tray rack.
If not, check out the next item below.
Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
Pros
- There’s a quick-lock feature on the rubber straps
- Easy to install
Cons
- It’s made of bare metal, so it’ll scratch your car’s paint easily
- Racks need to be installed right, so they don’t cause accidents
S-102 Premier Two-Bike Carrier by Allen Sports fits minivans, hatchbacks, sedans, and SUVs.
Fast and easy to set up, it transports your bicycles safely around town or across the country. Two side belts provide excellent stability in your car.
Unique tie-down technology secures and protects your bikes. Allen Premier Racks install in seconds. A one-handed fold makes the Rack easy to store when not in use.
Various bicycle frame sizes and designs can be accommodated by the S-102’s carry arms. The Rack fits most adult bikes and most women’s and kids’ bikes.
To check the price, click the link below. It might be on sale right now.
Otherwise, check out the next category below.
Best Roof Bike Rack For Minivans [Without Hitch]: Put It All On The Roof! (Also Trailer Compatible)
There’s more versatility and customization with roof-mounted bike racks than hitch-mount or trunk-mount bikes.
Roof carriers give you more stability, more storage, easier access to doors and trunks, and a better view behind you than hitch-mounted carriers. Roof racks are great for low-height vehicles (like vans). Several models use suction cups, while others clamp onto crossbars.
Best Roof Bike Racks for Minivans: Thule ProRide XT: Also SUV Compatible
Pros
- Securely holds your bike
- It’s quick and easy to put a bike up
Cons
- Mounting the bike can be tricky with tire straps
- Fitting it requires roof bars
Putting your bike in the boot is just as easy as using this rack.
The Thule ProRide XT Bike Rack is a great choice for those who want to keep their vehicle clean and safe.
It features strong mounting hardware, an easy-to-use design, and the ability to carry up to four bikes with a maximum load 80lbs weight.
The rack can be securely mounted onto your roof rack using just two arms that hold firmly in place – no tools required! Plus, it’s made from durable materials that will last you for years to come.
On the downside, this bike rack can get a little pricey depending on what kind of model you select and how many bikes you need to fit on it.
Also, if you don’t have a roof mount handy then you’ll need to buy one separately. But, it is still a great option for many cyclists looking for a reliable rack that can hold up to 80lbs mounting weight.
If you’re in the market for a bike rack and don’t want to break the bank, then the Thule ProRide XT Bike Rack might be worth considering.
Otherwise, check out the next category below.
Best 4 Bike Racks For Minivans [Without Hitch]: Fit 4 The Whole Squad (Reviews Included)
Nothing beats a minivan joyride with the whole squad (or family). What if everyone’s a biker? The thought of driving a hundred miles to the bike park with drinks, food, camping gear, and four bikes in the trunk might not be appealing.
This is why you need a 4-bike rack for your minivan. Here are a few recommendations you might want to check out.
Best Hollywood Racks Bike Rack [4 Bikes] for Minivans: Hollywood Racks F4 (Mountain Bikes)
Pros
- Tubes and hardware made of extra-heavy steel
- It folds flat for easy storage
Cons
- It’s too heavy to install on a plastic hatchback
- Rack doesn’t swing away, so you can’t open your rear door without removing it
The Hollywood Racks F4 Bike Rack is an excellent choice for those looking to transport their bikes without the hassle of a trailer.
This bike mount can easily be installed on almost any type of vehicle, including minivans without a trailer hitch. It has adjustable arms that allow it to fit most types and sizes of bicycles, and its anti-sway cradles help keep the bikes in place while driving.
On the pro side, this bike rack offers easy installation and removal without the need for tools. It’s also lightweight yet sturdy, making it perfect for frequent travelers who don’t want to lug around heavy gear all day long.
Plus, its slim design means it won’t take up too much space inside your vehicle when not in use.
The downside of the Hollywood Racks F4 Bike Rack is that it can only carry up to four bicycles at a time. This might be an issue for larger families or groups who want to transport more than four bikes with them.
Additionally, some users have reported that the rack rattles while driving, which could be annoying if you’re planning on going on long trips with your bikes mounted.
Overall, the Hollywood Racks F4 Bike Rack is a great choice for those looking to transport their bikes without having to buy a trailer or invest in other bulky equipment.
If not, check out the next item below.
Best Allen Bike Rack [4 Bikes] for Minivans: Allen Sports Deluxe – 4
Pros
- Two side straps make it super stable
- The clear arch preserves the paint on the top and bottom
Cons
- To prevent scratching on the car, fix the two side straps
- Not recommended for vehicles with rear spoilers
The Allen Sports Deluxe – 4 Bike Rack is a great way to transport multiple bikes with ease and style.
This economical rack can hold up to four bicycles, making it an ideal choice for families or avid cyclists. The unique design allows the bikes to be securely loaded onto the rack while still providing easy access.
With adjustable rubber cradles that separate each bike, you can be sure that your ride will stay safe and secure during transport.
Plus, the quick-release mounting load system makes installation simple and fast. All in all, this bike rack is a great option for those who want an easy and stylish way to get their rides from point A to point B.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Bike Racks For Minivans Without Hitch Per Section
If you’re a cyclist, a no-hitch minivan bike rack makes heavy lugging easy. A non-hitch rack is easy to install and provides secure and safe transportation for your favorite ride with tons of different designs, and bike-capacities to choose from.
Grab one of these well-tested bike racks for minivans (without hitch). If you can’t decide between our 7 bike racks, why not try one of our top 3? You can check them out below.
Top Pick | Thule ProRide XT | Roof Bike Rack | Quick and easy to get a bike in place | Not recommended for heavy bikes | Click to check price | |
Runner-up | Hollywood Rack F4 Heavy Duty 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Has buckles for quickly tying down your bike | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price | |
Also consider | Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Good for 3 full size mountain bikes | Doesn’t come with a lock | Click to check price |
People Also Ask
Can you put a bike rack on a car without a hitch?
Yes, you can put a bike rack on a car without a hitch by using an adapter system that mounts the rack directly to the rear tailgate. This type of bike rack typically requires straps or other fasteners for secure mounting.
Can you put a bike rack on a minivan?
Yes, you can put a bike rack on a minivan. There are various types of bike racks available that can be attached to the back or top of vehicles. Depending on the model and make, some minivans may require specific bike racks for installation.
How can I transport my bike without a hitch?
You can transport your bike without a hitch by using a roof rack, cargo box, or truck bed mount. Additionally, you could use a tow dolly or employing the services of a professional transportation company.
How do you carry a bike on a minivan?
Attach bike racks to the back of your minivan and secure the bikes with straps. Make sure to check that the bike racks are properly attached before transporting your bikes. For extra security, you can also use a lock or cable to keep your bikes on the rack.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Bike Racks For Minivans Without Hitch Per Section
If you’re a cyclist, a no-hitch minivan bike rack makes heavy lugging easy. A non-hitch rack is easy to install and provides secure and safe transportation for your favorite ride with tons of different designs, and bike-capacities to choose from.
Grab one of these well-tested bike racks for minivans (without hitch). If you can’t decide between our 7 bike racks, why not try one of our top 3? You can check them out below.
Top Pick | Thule ProRide XT | Roof Bike Rack | Quick and easy to get a bike in place | Not recommended for heavy bikes | Click to check price | |
Runner-up | Hollywood Rack F4 Heavy Duty 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Has buckles for quickly tying down your bike | Smaller mountain bikes and step-through bikes may require a top tube adapter to fit the bike rack | Click to check price | |
Also consider | Saris Bones EX Trunk Mount Bike Rack | Trunk Mount Rack | Good for 3 full size mountain bikes | Doesn’t come with a lock | Click to check price |
There are a lot of minivan bike racks without hitches out there, but we’ve compared them to find the most competitive price. If you’re interested in a certain bike rack, click the link to see the price because it’s bound to be on sale now.
Anyways, we’ve been talking about non hitch bike racks for minivans, but when it comes to other vehicles, can you have a bike rack without a tow bar? Read the article to find out.