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Cycling is a wonderful way to explore the great outdoors, and your Jeep Wrangler is the perfect vehicle to take you off-roading. However, if you need to carry camping gear or other cargo, you may not have room inside your Jeep to carry all your bikes. That’s when a bike rack comes in useful.
There are hundreds of bike racks on the market, so it is difficult to choose which one is the best bike rack for your Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. Below are reviews of 5 of the best bike racks on the market to help you make the right decision. Also see: Jeep Wrangler Bike Rack Buying Guide.
Best Jeep Wrangler Bike Racks
| Allen Sports Premier Locking /W Spare 4-Bike Hitch Rack | FieryRed 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack | Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Hitch Rack | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | |||
| Type | Hitch mounted | Spare tire mounted | Hitch mounted |
| Number of bikes | 4 | 2 | 2 |
| Rack weight | 26.6 lbs. | 13.78 lbs. | 21.2 lbs. |
| Customer Ratings | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars | 3.5 / 5.0 Stars | 4.4 / 5.0 Stars |
Also see: Bike Racks For The Jeep Wrangler Comparison Table
Quick Answer: The 5 Best-Rated Bike Racks For The Jeep Wrangler
- Allen Sports Premier Locking /W Spare 4-Bike Hitch Rack
- FieryRed 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack
- Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Hitch Rack
- Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
- Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire
Best Bike Racks For The Jeep Wrangler Reviews
#1- Allen Sports Premier Locking /W Spare 4-Bike Hitch Rack
- Type: hitch mounted
- Number of bikes: 4
- Rack weight: 26.6 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 140 lbs.
- Receiver hitch: 2” receiver
This rack is easy to assemble, requiring only 3 bolts. It is relatively lightweight, so one person can handle it with ease. You can install it on your Jeep without tools, and a locking knob ensures the rack won’t wobble.
Expand To See More The frame of the Allen Sports Premier allows space for a rear-mounted spare wheel. The arm is designed to fold away when not in use and snap into place when required. Tie-down cradles and straps are used to secure your bicycles and a padded dual-compound spine shield offers further protection. The cradles can swivel through 3600 to accommodate non-standard frames and women’s bikes. This means you won’t need to purchase an extra support bar (bike frame adapter). Another feature is the rapid tilt away mast. You can lay the main mast completely flat to access the spare tire and access the inside of your Jeep but only when the rack is unloaded. On the negative side, this rack does not allow much space between bikes, meaning you’ll have to manipulate the pedals and handlebars to hang all your bikes and loading can take longer than other bike racks. The Allen Sports Premier /W Spare 4-Bike Hitch Rack is a cheap bike rack that is well made and a great choice for people on a budget.
#2- FieryRed 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack
- Type: spare tire mounted
- Number of bikes: 2
- Rack weight: 13.78 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 75 lbs.
- Receiver hitch: N/A
The rack can be folded away when not in use. It is designed to minimize wobbling when your Jeep is moving even on off-roading adventures. A built-in anti-theft lock deters bicycle thieves making it an ideal Jeep Wrangler bike rack.
Expand To See More The FieryRed 2-Bike Tire rack is designed to hold bikes of all shapes and sizes. If you only have a couple of bikes to transport, this lightweight and affordable spare-tire mounted bike rack is ideal. It is much more affordable than the similarly designed Thule Jeep bike rack.
#3- Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Hitch Rack
- Type: hitch mounted
- Number of bikes: 2
- Rack weight: 21.2 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 70 lbs.
- Receiver hitch: fits 2” receivers and 1¼” receivers
The mast can be tilted back to enable you to open the hatch and access the inside of your Jeep. When not in use, you can fold away the carrying arm. The cradles on the arms rotate, enabling you to carry bicycles of many different sizes and designs.
Expand To See More This bike hitch fits both 1¼” and 2” receivers, so you won’t need to swap out your receiver hitch to install this bike rack. Its lightweight design makes it easy for anybody to install without the need for special tools, and the no-wobble bolt cuts down vibrations. Allen Sports provide amazing customer service, so if you do get any problems, they’re on hand to help you out. If you only have 2 bikes to carry, the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Hitch Rack is the perfect Jeep Wrangler bike carrier.
#4- Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
- Type: hitch mounted
- Number of bikes: 2
- Rack weight: 32 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 70 lbs.
- Receiver hitch: fits 2” receivers and 1¼” receivers
This means your bicycle is fastened to this Jeep bicycle rack in three separate places for added stability.
This jeep bike carrier features a low loading height, adjustable wire loops for the wheel trays, and upright ratchet arms that make it easy to load bikes of any size and shape.
If you need to access your Jeep, the center arm folds down out of the way. When you’re not carrying bikes, the rack can be folded into a compact shape.
Expand To See More The Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack is a little heavier than the other racks reviewed and requires tools to assemble (a Phillips head screwdriver, utility knife, and ¾” wrench) though the procedure isn’t challenging. You must invest more time into this bike rack, but you will gain in terms of its stability and durable design. The tire trays are not wide enough to handle fat bikes, but you can purchase fat bike tire trays from the manufacturer and swap them for the original wire trays. Overall, it is a fantastic bicycle rack for your Jeep Wrangler.
#5- Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire
- Type: spare tire mounted
- Number of bikes: 2
- Rack weight: 9.4 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 70 lbs.
- Receiver hitch: N/A
The 15” arms provide plenty of space for 2 bikes, and the proprietary tie-down cradles secure your bikes well even at faster speeds. The 70 lbs. weight capacity is ample for safely holding 2 bikes.
Expand To See More Allen Sports feature the Jeep Wrangler in their marketing material for this Allen Sports Jeep bike rack because it is exactly the kind of vehicle they had in mind during the design process. However, this tire rack’s clever design enables it to fit a wide range of externally mounted spare tires. The Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack ensures that your bikes are lifted high above the road and the exhaust. However, this does restrict your view through the rear window when your bikes are in the way. Otherwise, it is a perfect Jeep JK bike rack. One of the key features of this design is the trouble taken to avoid damage to your Jeep’s exterior during use. For example, the bottom foot is supported by the tire and not the tire rim to avoid scuffing. An important factor to keep in mind when choosing your bike rack is that this Allen Sports bike rack is much more affordable than the similar Thule bike rack for Jeep Wrangler. This is the best Jeep bike rack for you if you’re on a tight budget.
Bike Racks For The Jeep Wrangler Comparison Table
| Type | Number of bikes | Rack weight | Customer Ratings | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allen Sports Premier Locking /W Spare 4-Bike Hitch Rack | Hitch mounted | 4 | 26.6 lbs. | 4.6 / 5.0 Stars | |
| FieryRed 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack | Spare tire mounted | 2 | 13.78 lbs. | 3.5 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Hitch Rack | Hitch mounted | 2 | 21.2 lbs. | 4.4 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack | Hitch mounted | 2 | 32 lbs. | 4.4 / 5.0 Stars | |
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire | Spare tire mounted | 2 | 9.4 lbs. | 4.4 / 5.0 Stars |
Jeep Wrangler Bike Rack Buying Guide
Now that you’ve read all about the best Jeep bike racks on the market, it is time for you to make up your mind which is best for you. This buying guide will help you understand what kinds of bike rack there are and the advantages and disadvantages of each.
The different kinds of bike rack
These days there are many innovative designs of bike rack. Each design has its pros and cons. However, the four most common kinds are:
- Roof-mounted
- Trunk-mounted
- Spare-tire-mounted
- Hitch-mounted
Roof-mounted
Roof-mounted bike racks are a common design, but they are unsuitable for many Jeep designs. When loaded, they would place too much weight on a soft top. They can be used with the crossover Jeep Renegade.
Some roof-mounted racks are fastened securely to the roof or cross bars with bolts. Other designs use suction cups. The main advantage of roof bike racks is that they do not obstruct access to the vehicle and allow you to tow a trailer.
A huge disadvantage of roof bike racks is that they are usually incompatible with your Jeep Wrangler. Roof racks cause problems if you go off-roading and have to pass under low-hanging tree branches or other obstacles. Roof bike racks also make your vehicle less aerodynamic, increasing drag and gas consumption.
Trunk-mounted
Trunk-mounted bike racks are attached to your vehicle using straps that loop around your bumper and hatch. They tend to be compatible with any kind of hatchback, though they will not fit if you have a rear-mounted spare tire. They rarely come with the option to fit a bike lock, so they are not secure.
The main advantages of truck-mounted bike racks are that they are affordable, easy to put on and take off, lightweight, compact, and easily stored.
The disadvantages are that they can damage your Jeep, are not compatible with any Jeep that has a rear-mounted spare tire, are less secure than other kinds of bike rack, and leave your bikes vulnerable to theft.
Spare tire-mounted
This kind of bike rack is a variation on the trunk-mounted kind. Instead of strapping the bike rack to the hatch, it is strapped or somehow bolted to the spare tire.
The varieties of spare-tire mounted bike rack that bolt onto the spare wheel mounting plate are more secure than those that simply strap on to the tire.
The advantages of spare-tire mounted bike racks are that they are affordable, compatible with Jeep Wranglers, relatively aerodynamic, easy to load, lightweight, compact, and easy to install.
The disadvantages are that they are less secure than some other kinds of bike rack, make it more difficult for you to reverse, and you may need to hang an illuminated accessory number plate on the back of your Jeep.
Hitch-mounted
Hitch-mounted or tow bar mounted bike racks slot into a 2” or 1¼” receiver hitch mounted to the rear of your Jeep. Hitch-mounted bike racks are more expensive than other kinds, but they are more securely attached to your Jeep. Many designs are lockable.
They can block access to your Jeep’s hatch, but some designs enable you to fold away the rack when it is not in use to enable you to open the hatch. Generally, the more features a hitch-mounted bike rack offers, the more expensive it will be.
The main advantages of a hitch-mounted bike rack are that they are strong, they don’t increase wind resistance, and they are easier to load than roof racks.
If you are off-roading in your Jeep, a hitch-mounted bike rack will hold your bikes more securely and be less vulnerable to strong vibrations.
The main disadvantages are that you must first install a receiver hitch before you can use one, and they are more expensive than other kinds of bike rack.
You must be extra careful when reversing with a hitch-mounted bike rack. Not only because you cannot see as clearly through the rear window with bikes in the way, but also because they make your Jeep’s rear longer than you expect. In some countries and states, you may need to hang an illuminated accessory number plate over the rack.
Factors to consider when choosing the Best Bike Rack
Compatibility
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a Jeep Wrangler bike rack is compatibility. Not all bike racks can be fitted onto your Jeep.
Also, ensure that the bike rack you choose is compatible with your bicycles. It’s pointless to buy a rack that fits your Jeep but won’t carry your bikes.
The type of bike rack that is best for you depends upon the model of Jeep you own. Generally, designs that are attached to the rear of your Jeep are best.
However, your choices are determined by whether you have a rear-mounted spare tire and a receiver hitch.
Quantity of bikes
You must ensure that the bike rack you buy is capable of carrying all your bikes. Also, take note of the maximum weight capacity of the bike rack to ensure your bikes are not too heavy.
The safest approach to take is to purchase a rack that is designed to hold one more bike than you need to carry.
Not only does this give you the flexibility to add another bike to your collection, but it also ensures you never exceed the weight capacity and your bikes are given more space making them easier to load.
Tailgate access
When a bike rack is fitted to the rear of your Jeep, it can hinder access through the tailgate. However, some innovative designs allow the rack to be tilted away or swung aside for easy access. If easy access is important to you, choose a Jeep bike rack design that incorporates features to make opening the hatch easier.
Assembly and installation
This may be a factor if you prefer to keep things quick and easy. A more lightweight design is easier to handle when you’re putting on and taking off your bike rack.
However, a hitch-mounted design is simpler to fit since it slides into the receiver hitch and does not require you to remove the spare tire or arrange straps around your open hatch.
Affordability
You may be limited by your budget, in which case cheaper models will appeal. However, if you own expensive bicycles, you should consider investing in a strong hitch-mounted bike rack that is lockable.
They are more expensive but will provide more protection for your bike from thieves and vibrations when off-roading.
Storage
More compact designs are easier to store when not in use. The innovative design of some bike racks allows them to be folded into more compact shapes while still attached to your Jeep.
This enables you to reverse your Jeep without worrying about the extra length of the frame protruding from the back.
If you want to remove the bike rack and store it in your garage when not in use, then designs that allow quick removal are best.
FAQs
What is the best bike rack for Jeep Wrangler?
This depends upon your circumstances and factors such as your budget, number of bikes you want to carry, and where you want to drive your Jeep. The 5 bike racks reviewed above are all ideal for your Jeep Wrangler, but each has its own strengths. Generally speaking, a hitch-mounted bike rack provides more stability, and the Allen Sports Premier Locking Bike Hitch Rack is the best of the more affordable brands.
What is the best spare tire rack for bikes?
Some spare tire bike racks attach to the tire and hatch using straps while others use more sturdy brackets to bolt them to the spare tire mount. Those that are bolted on, such as the FieryRed 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack, are more secure and will keep your bikes safer for off-roading or driving along rough roads.
Do you need a hitch receiver for a Jeep bike rack?
No. There are many good-quality Jeep bike racks, such as the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack, that do not require a receiver hitch. However, bike racks that are mounted using a receiver hitch are more secure and so better for off-roading adventures in your Jeep Wrangler.
Can you attach a bike rack to a spare tire on the Jeep Wrangler?
Yes. There are several great spare tire bike racks compatible with your Jeep Wrangler, such as the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack and the FieryRed 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack. Some attach to your spare tire using straps while others provide more security by bolting onto your spare tire mounting.
Bike Racks for Jeeps – Summary
Now you know what the 5 best bike racks are for your Jeep Wrangler and also how to choose the Jeep bicycle rack that is best for you. The key thing is to weigh up what is most important to you.
If you own 4 expensive bikes that you want to take out every weekend, you should invest as much money as possible into buying a high-quality hitch-mounted bike rack like the Allen Sports Premier Locking Bike Hitch Rack.
However, if you only have one old bike that you want to take out 4 or 5 times a year, a cheaper option like the Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack would make more sense.
I hope you found this buying guide useful for choosing a bike rack for your Jeep Wrangler. Please leave us a few words in the comments below about your own bike-rack buying experiences.
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