If you’re struggling to lift your e-bike, even to the height of your hitch, then you may be wondering what’s the best way to transport an electric bike. Some brands have come up with innovative solutions which include bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp.
So whether you want to hit the trails far from home, or take a vacation with your e-bikes on the back of your RV, there’s a few options of bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp available.
With the average electric bike weighing 50 lbs or more, trunk and roof racks just don’t cut it. So, the best bike racks for e-bikes are platform hitch-style bike racks. But those with a ramp are very few and far between.
We’ve put together a list of the best bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp which includes both what we did and didn’t like about each one. So keep on reading to find the one that will work best for you.
Best E-bike Racks with Ramps This Year: Our Criteria and Results
The best e-bike racks with ramps need to be strong and robust enough to carry the extra weight required for electric bikes. You can remove the battery to reduce the weight of an e-bike, which also helps to protect the battery, but you still need a rack rated for e-bikes.
The best style of bike racks for electric bikes tend to be platform-style hitch mount racks. But not all platform-style hitch month racks are designed to transport electric bikes. So when you are shopping for your e-bike rack with a ramp, make sure you check the weight capacity first.
Below is a list of the bike racks for electric bikes that feature an included or optional ramp on the market today.
Make sure you click on the links to get all the details and the latest price.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top disadvantage | Link To Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Thule | Easyfold XT2 | Features an integrated, folding e-bike ramp | Some complaints of the ramp being too short for use with higher vehicles | Click To Check Price |
| Best Value |   | Hollywood Racks | Destination E 2 Bike Rack | Specifically designed to transport 2 e-bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each | Only works with a 2” hitch receiver | Click To Check Price |
| Also Consider |   | Yakima | OnRamp | Adjustable bike trays minimize bike to bike contact | Reviews complain that the ramp is too narrow | Click To Check Price |
| 4 |   | Kuat | NV 2.0 | No-tool installation with hand-tightening hitch cam system | Ramp is not included and sold separately | Click To Check Price |
| 5 |   | Saris | Door County | The first e-bike rack that uses an electric push-button lift system | Not actually a bike rack with a ramp | Click To Check Price |
As you can see, there’s not so many bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp available. But keep reading for all the details and the criteria we use for bike racks to make it onto our list.
How We Select The Best Bike Racks For Electric Bikes With Ramp
There are a whole bunch of different bike racks available, but for the sake of this article, we are specifically looking at bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp which poses its own set of challenges.
The following is a list of our criteria and some top tips for what to look out for:
Bike Weight Capacity
We cannot stress this enough, but the first thing to start looking for in an e-bike ramp rack is its maximum weight carrying capacity.
It’s not uncommon for an electric bike to weigh 50 lbs or more. Plus if you want to transport more than 1 e-bike then you need to make sure your chosen rack is up to the task.
Total Weight Capacity
While the individual electric bike’s weight is important, the total weight capacity is equally important. The fact that a rack can transport 2, 3, or even 4 bikes does not mean it can carry that many e-bikes. So make sure you don’t overload your chosen rack.
Ease Of Use
Does the rack come pre-assembled and ready to use or is there some DIY to do? Plus we look at how easy it is to install the rack to your hitch and how easy it is to load and secure your electric bikes using the ramp.
In addition, we look at if the rack can fold down, out of the way when it’s not in use, or whether it’s easy and practical to store away.
Security Features
Included security features can include locks for both the hitch and for securing your bikes. If there are no locks included, does the brand offer them as optional extras, and if so what are the extra costs involved?
Electric bikes don’t come cheap, so you’ll want to make sure they are safe and sound, especially if you need a pit stop on a long trip.
Brand Reputation
There are many different brands of bike racks on the market today, but not so many that feature a ramp. Luckily, most of the top brands do offer an e-bike ramp solution and these are the brands with the best reputations.
Customer Reviews
While the team here at Mud Bike test many of the racks ourselves, we also look at customer reviews over a number of the most popular e-bike websites and forums. After all, who better to give advice than the people who have bought, and tried and tested the different racks.
So there you have our criteria and some top tips about what to look for. Now let’s take a closer look at the bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp that made it onto our list.
Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes with Ramps [2023]
Some of the best ramp racks for e-bikes have ramps that are integrated into the rack’s design, while other ramps will need storing separately either in the boot of your car or inside your garage. Which is best? Only you can say which will meet your needs.
So without further ado, let’s take a closer look at the racks with ramps that made it onto our list.
Best Bike Rack for Electric Bike with Ramp Option: Thule EasyFold XT2
The Thule EasyFold XT2 is, as you would expect, a top pick amongst cyclists and experts alike for its versatility and ease of use. It can carry 2 electric bikes weighing up to 65 lbs each and features an integrated ramp for easy loading and unloading.
Advantages:
- Features an integrated, folding e-bike loading ramp
- Fits both 1.25” and 2” hitches
Disadvantages:
- Some complaints of the ramp being too short for use with higher vehicles
- Expensive
When it comes to bike racks, Thule is known as a top brand and their Thule EasyFold XT2 does not disappoint. It features a wide ramp that makes loading heavy e-bikes a breeze. Plus it has a wide platform which makes securing bikes with only one person easier.
Thule has thought about all the details; this rack features integrated locks for both your bikes and the rack, and there is the tilt function which has a user-friendly pedal to tilt the rack so that you can still access your trunk with your bikes loaded.
One of the other cool things about this rack is that, as the name suggests, it’s foldable. It not only folds flat against your car when not in use, but it also folds up to the size of a suitcase and has wheels so that you can easily store it away.
Unfortunately, as a premium brand, this rack does come with a high price tag. But if you want to transport your heavy e-bikes often then it’s probably worth it.
So click on the link below for the latest price.
A bit too expensive for your budget? Then keep reading for our best value bike rack for electric bikes with a ramp.
Best Value Bike Rack for Electric Bike with Ramp Option: Hollywood Racks Destination E
The Hollywood Racks Destination E can carry two electric bikes weighing up to a whopping 70 pounds each and features a ramp for easy loading and unloading. While it has many of the features of the Thule, the price tag is a bit more gentle on your wallet
Advantages:
- Specifically designed to transport 2 e-bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each
- Features a patented “No Wobble – No Tools” hitch-tightening system
Disadvantages:
- Only works with a 2” hitch receiver
- Secures bikes by the frames so not good for carbon bikes
While this rack also has an expandable ramp for easy loading and unloading, the main difference from the Thule is that this rack secures your bikes by the frames instead of the wheels.
It does feature adjustable wheel trays and tie downs, but the locking seat post clamps offer extra security and stability. It’s not ideal for carbon frames, but this rack does fit most bikes, including step-throughs or BMXs, without the need for adapters.
Other features include Hollywood Rack’s patented “No Wobble – No Tools” hitch tightening system. Plus it folds flat against your car when not in use, and it features a simple balanced tilting system which allows for easy trunk access even with your bikes loaded.
And for extra security, the Destination E includes a locking hitch pin, so if you’re driving long distances you can easily stop for snacks without worrying too much about anyone trying to steal your bikes or your bike rack.
Sound too good to be true? Then make sure you click on the link below – we’re sure the price will surprise you.
Or keep reading for our next option.
Honorable Mention Bike Rack for Electric Bike with Ramp: Yakima OnRamp
As the name suggests, the Yakima OnRamp features a built-in ramp for easy loading and unloading of 2 e-bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each. It also has a tilting feature that allows for easy access to the trunk or rear of your vehicle.
Advantages:
- Adjustable bike trays minimize bike to bike contact
- The integrated ramp is the longest making it easy to roll up heavy e-bikes
Disadvantages:
- Reviews complain that the ramp is too narrow
- Needs fat tire adapters (sold separately) for tires wider than 3.25”
The Yakima OnRamp features an integrated ramp that is one of the longest on the market. This makes the angle of loading less steep, which in turn makes rolling your e-bike onto the platform even easier.
Like the Hollywood Racks Destination E, the Yakima OnRamp has adjustable wheel trays and tie downs and it secures your bikes by the frames. This means it’s good for all different styles of bikes including e-bikes, sloping or step through frames, and kids bikes.
Other features include integrated SKS (Same Key System) with locks included to secure your bikes to the rack and the rack to your hitch, and a tilt system to access your trunk. However, there are reports that this tilt system is quite tricky to use.
Another good point is that this rack is RV rated, although the weight capacity does drop down to only 40 lbs for RV and off-road use. But another good point is that it comes in 2 versions – one fits a 1.25” hitch and the other fits a 2” hitch.
Like the sound of this one? Then click on the link below for the full specs and the latest price.
Or keep reading for our next option.
Kuat NV 2.0
The Kuat NV 2.0 is a premium bike rack with a high quality gray-metallic finish that is guaranteed to turn heads. The 2 bike version is rated to carry two e-bikes weighing up to 60 lbs each (there is an add-on for 4 bikes available but then the weight drops to 40 lbs per bike).
Advantages:
- No-tool installation with hand-tightening hitch cam system
- Has an integrated Trail-Doc workstand to enable bike repairs at the side of the road
Disadvantages:
- Ramp is not included and sold separately
- Tricky to load e-bikes without the ramp
While we have included the Kuat NV 2.0 as one of the best bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp, the ramp is not included and is available to purchase separately. This rack, as a premier rack, is not the cheapest, so adding the ramp does make it quite expensive.
However, the access ramp makes it easy to load an e-bike, mountain bike, or any other type of bike onto your Kuat NV 2.0 bike rack. It installs and removes in seconds and you can slide the ramp out and collapse it for compact storage in the boot of your vehicle.
This is a solid versatile rack and the NV 2.0 comes in 1.25” in 2” versions. Please note if you do want to use the 2-bike add-on you will need a 2” hitch.
Other notable features include an adjustable front tire cradle system and integrated cable locks. It also has an easy foot pedal pivot system meaning when your bike rack is folded away, you simply tap a foot pedal to drop down the rack to make loading even easier.
Make sure you click on the link below for the full details and the latest price.
Or keep reading for our final choice.
Saris Door County
OK, so this rack doesn’t have a ramp, but the Saris Door County made it onto our list because of its cool “Lift-Assist” feature which has been specifically designed to make loading heavy e-bikes almost effortless.
Advantages:
- The first e-bike rack that uses an electric push-button lift system
- Folds for compact storage and features built-in wheels for easier portability
Disadvantages:
- Needs a 7-pin bladed connection to power the lifting mechanism and rear lights
- Expensive
Saris combines electric lift-assist technology with electric bikes to offer the first proper solution for an e-bike rack! This modern take on the platform-style rack uses a key and push-button system to raise or lower the platform so you can effortlessly load your bikes.
The lift system is powered by your vehicle’s 7-pin connection which also powers the rack’s rear lights, brake lights, and indicators, which is an added safety feature.
Talking about safety features, the Saris Door County also has unique lobster claw-style clamps that secure your bikes by their frame, an integrated locking system for both your bikes and the rack, and an easy tilt system so you can still access your trunk.
At 63 lbs it’s a beast of a rack and you will need a 2” hitch, but Saris have included integrated wheels which makes this rack easy to maneuver, plus it’s a breeze to install as it requires just about zero lifting for average height vehicles.
Is this the rack of the future? Maybe not at this price point, but for the avid e-bike enthusiasts it just might be worth it. So make sure you click on the link below for the latest price.
So there you have our full list of the best bike racks for electric bikes with a ramp. There’s not that many to choose from, but if you still haven’t made your choice keep reading for our final results.
Summary: Our Final Results And Picks For The Best Bike Racks For Electric Bikes With Ramps
While there’s no absolute best bike rack for electric bikes with ramps, there is a best bike rack that will suit your vehicle and your requirements. Each of the racks included here have their pros and cons, however, we’ve narrowed it down to our top three.
Keep reading for the ones who made it onto our final list.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link For Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Thule | Easyfold XT2 | The integrated folding e-bike ramp is one of the easiest to use | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up | | Yakima | OnRamp | Adjustable bike trays minimize bike to bike contact | Click To Check Price |
| Best Value Option | | Hollywood Racks | Destination E 2 Bike Rack | Specifically designed to transport 2 e-bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly not a lot of electric bike racks with ramps in the market yet, but we’ve identified the best from each brand available so you don’t have to.
Click the link on the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price because you never know, it could be on sale this time of the year.
People Also Ask
What type of bike rack is best for E-bikes?
The best type of racks for e-bikes are hitch-style platform racks. This is because they can generally accommodate the heavier weight of e-bikes, plus this style of rack sits lower so you don’t have to worry about lifting heavy e-bikes overhead.
How do I use a bike rack ramp for electric bikes?
How you use a bike rack ramp for electric bikes will depend on the style of ramp and the manufacturer’s instructions. But a ramp generally makes it much easier to load electric bikes.
Some ramps are integrated and fold or slide out, others need to be attached securely. Once in place, you simply roll or push your bike up the ramp and onto the platform or wheel holders and secure it with the clamps and locks provided.
Do electric bikes need special bike racks?
Yes, electric bikes need special bike racks, ones that can accommodate the extra weight. Hitch-style platform racks generally work for electric bikes, but while you can use hitch racks for any bikes, not all of them have the weight capacity for e-bikes.
Summary: Our Final Results And Picks For The Best Bike Racks For Electric Bikes With Ramps
While there’s no absolute best bike rack for electric bikes with ramps, there is a best bike rack that will suit your vehicle and your requirements. Each of the racks included here have their pros and cons, however, we’ve narrowed it down to our top three.
Keep reading for the ones who made it onto our final list.
| Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link For Purchase | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Thule | Easyfold XT2 | The integrated folding e-bike ramp is one of the easiest to use | Click To Check Price |
| Runner Up | | Yakima | OnRamp | Adjustable bike trays minimize bike to bike contact | Click To Check Price |
| Best Value Option | | Hollywood Racks | Destination E 2 Bike Rack | Specifically designed to transport 2 e-bikes weighing up to 70 lbs each | Click To Check Price |
There are clearly not a lot of electric bike racks with ramps in the market yet, but we’ve identified the best from each brand available so you don’t have to.
Click the link on the bike rack that you’re most interested in to check the price because you never know, it could be on sale this time of the year.
Also read: What Kind of Bike Rack Is Easiest to Use?
