If you love cycling and exploring new places, you know how important it is to have a reliable and convenient way to transport your bikes. You don’t want to risk damaging your bike or truck using a poorly designed or installed rack. That’s why you must find the best truck bed bike rack for your needs.
That’s why you need the best truck bed bike rack. A truck bed bike rack is a device that attaches to the bed of your truck and holds your bikes securely in place.
It allows you to carry your bikes without removing the wheels, lowering the tailgate, or using any straps or tools. It also frees up space on the roof or the hitch of your truck for other cargo.
But how do you choose the best truck bed bike rack? There are many factors to consider, such as the size and shape of your truck bed, the number and type of bikes you want to carry, the ease of installation and removal, the durability and stability of the rack, the security features, and the price.
To help you make an informed decision, we have reviewed the top 10 best truck bed bike racks available today. We have compared their pros and cons, features, specifications, customer ratings, and prices.
We have also provided a buyer’s guide that explains the different types of truck bed bike racks, how to measure your truck bed and your bike, what factors affect the price and quality of the stand, how to install and remove the frame safely and securely, and where to buy the rack online or in-store.
Top 10 For Truck Bed Bike Racks
If you are in a hurry, you can buy any of the Top 10 truck bed bike racks given below because we have made the list after thorough research.
Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage
Thule Insta-Gater Pro Truck Bed Bike Rack
Heininger Advantage SportsRack
INNO RT202 Truck Bed Bike Rack
Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2
Stromberg Carlson CC-125 Cargo Caddy Bike Rack
Pipeline Racks Truck Bed 3 Bike Rack
Swagman PICKUP Fork Mount Bike Rack
Table of Contents
Top 7 Truck Bed Bike Racks Reviews
So without further ado, let’s dive into our top 10 truck bed bike racks and buyer’s guide for 2023.
1. Thule Insta-Gater Pro Truck Bed Bike Rack
✔️ 1 bike holds up to 50 pounds
✔️ Fits 20-29″ wheels; up to 5″ wide tires
✔️ Lock included Free
✔️ Ideal for carbon frames, mountain, downhill, e-bikes, and fat bikes.
The Thule Insta-Gater Pro is one of the most popular and highly rated truck bed bike racks on the market. It is designed to fit most standard pickup trucks with tailgates up to 51 inches wide.
It can hold one bike with wheels 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 5 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The Thule Insta-Gater Pro is straightforward to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed. You must secure it with a ratcheting strap around the tailgate and load your bike onto the wheel tray.
The rack has a quick-release lever that clamps onto your bike’s front wheel and locks it in place. You can lock your bike to the rack with a Thule One-Key system (sold separately).
The Thule Insta-Gater Pro is very durable and stable. It is made of high-quality steel and aluminum to withstand harsh weather conditions and road vibrations.
It also has rubber bumpers that protect your bike and truck from scratches and dents. The rack has a low-profile design that does not interfere with your rearview visibility or tonneau cover.
The Thule Insta-Gater Pro is not cheap, but it is worth every penny if you want a reliable, easy-to-use, and versatile truck bed bike rack. It has a lifetime warranty from Thule, which is a reputable brand in the bike rack industry.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits most standard pickup trucks with tailgates up to 51 inches wide
Holds one bike with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 5 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Quick-release lever clamps onto the bike’s front wheel and locks it in place
Lockable with Thule One-Key system (sold separately)
Durable and stable steel and aluminum construction
Rubber bumpers protect bikes and trucks from scratches and dents
The low-profile design does not interfere with rearview visibility or the tonneau cover
Lifetime warranty from Thule[/i2pros][i2cons]Expensive
Only holds one bike
May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2. INNO RT201 Truck Bed Bike Rack – Bike Mount for Standard Pickup Truck
✔️ hold 1 bike up to 50 pounds
✔️ Fits any shape or size of bike
✔️ Works with–Standard Bike Cable Locks
✔️ Hardware is included and there no drilling required
The INNO RT201 is another excellent option for transporting your bike in your truck bed. It is designed to fit most standard pickup trucks with C-channel track systems, such as Toyota Tacoma, Tundra, etc.
It can hold one bike with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 2.7 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The INNO RT201 is very easy to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed.
You must slide it into the C-channel track and tighten it with a knob. The rack has a ratcheting arm that clamps onto your bike’s front wheel and locks it in place. You can also lock your bike to the rack with a key lock.
The INNO RT201 is very durable and stable. It is made of lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum that withstands harsh weather conditions and road vibrations.
It also has rubber pads protecting your bike and truck from scratches and dents. The rack has a compact design that does not interfere with your rearview visibility or tonneau cover.
The INNO RT201 is reasonably priced for its quality and performance. It has a limited lifetime warranty from INNO, which is a trusted brand in the bike rack industry.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits most standard pickup trucks with C-channel track systems
Holds one bike with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 2.7 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Ratcheting arm clamps onto bike’s front wheel and locks it in place
Lockable with key Lock
Durable and stable aluminum construction
Rubber pads protect bike and truck from scratches and dents
Compact design does not interfere with rearview visibility or tonneau cover
Limited lifetime warranty from INNO[/i2pros][i2cons]Only fits trucks with C-channel track systems
Only holds one bike
May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3. Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack
✔️ 4 bike holds
✔️ Extends from 54.5″ to 66.5″ without a Spacer, and extends from 60.5″ to 72.5″
✔️ Fit tires up to 27” and is 2.5″ wide
✔️ Full-size spacer (included)
✔️ Lockable cable included Free
✔️ Not required any tool
The Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack is excellent for carrying up to four bikes in your truck bed. It is designed to fit most compact and full-size pickup trucks with or without bed liners.
It can hold bikes with wheels 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 3 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack is easy to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed. You need to adjust the telescoping bars to fit the width of your truck bed and secure them with pins.
The rack has four soft rubber padded forks that hold your bikes by the front wheel and lock them in place. You can also lock your bikes to the rack with a cable lock (sold separately).
The Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack is very durable and stable. It is made of heavy-duty steel that can withstand harsh weather conditions and road vibrations.
It also has foam pads protecting your bike and truck from scratches and dents. The modular rack allows you to use it as a standalone bike rack outside your truck when not in use.
The Heininger Automotive 2025 Advantage SportsRack BedRack is moderately priced for its capacity and functionality. It has a limited lifetime warranty from Heininger, which is a reliable brand in the bike rack industry.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits most compact and full-size pickup trucks with or without bed liners
Holds up to four bikes with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 3 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Soft rubber padded forks hold bikes by the front wheel and lock them in place
Lockable with cable lock (Included)
Durable and stable steel construction
Foam pads protect bike and truck from scratches and dents
Modular design allows use as a standalone bike rack outside truck when not in use
Limited lifetime warranty from Heininger[/i2pros][i2cons]Bulky and heavy
May interfere with rearview visibility or tonneau cover
May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4. Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite Truck 4 Bike Rack
✔️ 4 bike holds
✔️ Accommodates wheel sizes from 700c
✔️ Bike Rack width extends 52” to 68”
✔️ MTB (with extended ratchet straps, Fat Tires too)
✔️ Assembles in minutes without drilling into your truck bed
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite Truck 4 Bike Rack is another great option for carrying up to four bikes in your truck bed. It is similar to the previous model but has some additional features that make it more versatile and user-friendly.
It is designed to fit most compact and full-size pickup trucks with or without bed liners. It can hold bikes with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 4 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite Truck 4 Bike Rack is easy to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed.
You need to adjust the telescoping bars to fit the width of your truck bed and secure them with pins.
The rack has four soft rubber padded forks that hold your bikes by the front wheel and lock them in place. You can also lock your bikes to the rack with a cable lock (included).
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite Truck 4 Bike Rack is very durable and stable. It is made of heavy-duty steel that can withstand harsh weather conditions and road vibrations.
It also has foam pads protecting your bike and truck from scratches and dents. The modular rack allows you to use it as a standalone bike rack outside your truck when not in use.
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite Truck 4 Bike Rack has some extra features that make it more convenient and adaptable.
An integrated bottle opener lets you enjoy a cold drink after your ride. It also has an extender bar that allows you to carry up to six bikes with an additional fork (sold separately).
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite Truck 4 Bike Rack is slightly more expensive than the previous model but offers more value and functionality. It has a limited lifetime warranty from Heininger, which is a reliable brand in the bike rack industry.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits most compact and full-size pickup trucks with or without bed liners
Holds up to four bikes with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 4 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Soft rubber padded forks hold bikes by the front wheel and lock them in place
Durable and stable steel construction
Foam pads protect bikes and trucks from scratches and dents
Modular design allows use as a standalone bike rack outside the truck when not in use
Integrated bottle opener for convenience
Extender bar for carrying up to six bikes with an additional fork (sold separately)
Limited lifetime warranty from Heininger[/i2pros][i2cons]Bulky and heavy
May interfere with rearview visibility or the tonneau cover
May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5. Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2 Bike Compact Truck Bike Rack
✔️ 2 Bike holds
✔️ Accommodates wheel sizes from 700c
✔️ Width extends 44.25” to 62” (for Full-Size Trucks Beds,
✔️ NO tools needed; assembles in minutes
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2 Bike Compact Truck Bike Rack is a smaller version of the previous model, designed for compact pickup trucks with or without bed liners.
It can hold up to two bikes with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 4 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2 Bike Compact Truck Bike Rack is very easy to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed.
You need to adjust the telescoping bars to fit the width of your truck bed and secure them with pins. The rack has two soft rubber padded forks that hold your bikes by the front wheel and lock them in place. You can also lock your bikes to the rack with a cable lock (included).
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2 Bike Compact Truck Bike Rack is very durable and stable. It is made of heavy-duty steel that can withstand harsh weather conditions and road vibrations.
It also has foam pads protecting your bike and truck from scratches and dents. The modular rack allows you to use it as a standalone bike rack outside your truck when not in use.
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2 Bike Compact Truck Bike Rack has some extra features that make it more convenient and adaptable. An integrated bottle opener lets you enjoy a cold drink after your ride.
It also has an extender bar that allows you to carry up to four bikes with an additional fork (sold separately).
The Heininger Advantage SportsRack BedRack Elite 2 Bike Compact Truck Bike Rack is reasonably priced for its capacity and functionality. It has a limited lifetime warranty from Heininger, which is a reliable brand in the bike rack industry.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits most compact pickup trucks with or without bed liners
Holds up to two bikes with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 4 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Soft rubber padded forks hold bikes by the front wheel and lock them in place
Lockable with a cable lock (included)
Durable and stable steel construction
Foam pads protect bikes and trucks from scratches and dents
Modular design allows use as a standalone bike rack outside the truck when not in use
Integrated bottle opener for convenience
Extender bar for carrying up to four bikes with an additional fork (sold separately)
Limited lifetime warranty from Heininger[/i2pros][i2cons]May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes[/i2cons][/i2pc]
6. INNO RT202 Truck Bed Bike Rack – Bike Mount for Pickup Truck with C-Channel Track Systems
✔️ Extended Bike holds
✔️ Does not require front tire removal of the bike
✔️ Works with standard bike cable locks
✔️ Hardware is included and there is no drilling required
The INNO RT202 is another excellent option for transporting your bike in your truck bed. It is similar to the INNO RT201 but is designed to fit pickup trucks with C-channel track systems, such as Nissan Titan, Frontier, etc.
It can hold one bike with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 2.7 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The INNO RT202 is very easy to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed.
You need to slide it into the C-channel track and tighten it with a knob. The rack has a ratcheting arm that clamps onto your bike’s front wheel and locks it in place. You can also lock your bike to the rack with a key lock.
The INNO RT202 is very durable and stable. It is made of lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum that withstand harsh weather conditions and road vibrations. It also has rubber pads protecting your bike and truck from scratches and dents.
The rack has a compact design that does not interfere with your rearview visibility or your tonneau cover.
The INNO RT202 is reasonably priced for its quality and performance. It has a limited lifetime warranty from INNO, which is a trusted brand in the bike rack industry.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits pickup trucks with C-channel track systems
Holds one bike with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 2.7 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Ratcheting arm clamps onto the bike’s front wheel and locks it in place
Lockable with key Lock
Durable and stable aluminum construction
Rubber pads protect bikes and trucks from scratches and dents
The compact design does not interfere with rearview visibility or the tonneau cover
Limited lifetime warranty from INNO[/i2pros][i2cons]Only fits trucks with C-channel track systems
Only holds one bike
May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes[/i2cons][/i2pc]
7. Pipeline Racks Truck Bed 3 Bike Rack- Full-Size Pickup Truck Bed Mount
✔️ 2 Standerd Bike holds
✔️ Minimum Bed Width 58.5″
✔️Adjustable for 20″-29″
✔️ No Front Tire Removal, No Holes To Drill in Your Truck
✔️ Works with Mountain, Road, Cruisers, E-Bikes, Fat Tire, BMX, etc
The Pipeline Racks Truck Bed 3 Bike Rack Full Size Trucks is a simple and affordable solution for carrying up to three bikes in your truck bed. It is designed to fit most full-size pickup trucks with or without bed liners.
It can hold bikes with wheels 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 4 inches wide. It can also accommodate bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension.
The Pipeline Racks Truck Bed 3 Bike Rack Full Size Trucks is easy to install and remove. You don’t need any tools or drilling to mount it on your truck bed. You need to place it on the floor of your truck bed and secure it with bungee cords (included).
The rack has three metal forks that hold your bikes by the front wheel and keep them upright.
The Pipeline Racks Truck Bed 3 Bike Rack Full Size Trucks is durable and stable. It is made of heavy-duty steel that withstand harsh weather conditions and road vibrations.
It also has rubber caps protecting your bike and truck from scratches and dents. The rack has a minimalist design that does not interfere with your rearview visibility or tonneau cover.
The Pipeline Racks Truck Bed 3 Bike Rack Full Size Trucks is cheap for its capacity and functionality. It has a one-year warranty from Pipeline Racks, a new bike rack industry brand.
[i2pc show_title=”true” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Fits most full-size pickup trucks with or without bed liners
Holds up to three bikes with wheels from 20 to 29 inches in diameter and up to 4 inches wide
Accommodates bikes with disc brakes, thru-axles, and full suspension
Easy to install and remove without tools or drilling
Metal forks hold bikes by the front wheel and keep them upright
Bungee cords secure the rack to the truck bed (included)
Durable and stable steel construction
Rubber caps protect bikes and trucks from scratches and dents
Minimalist design does not interfere with rearview visibility or the tonneau cover
Cheap price
One-year warranty from Pipeline Racks[/i2pros][i2cons]May not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes
May not be very secure or stable[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Buyer’s Guide
Before you buy a truck bed bike rack, you should consider the following factors:
Types of Truck Bed Bike Racks
There are different types of truck bed bike racks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Fork-mount: This type of rack holds your bike by the front fork and requires removing the front wheel. It is usually easy to install and remove and offers a secure and stable hold. However, it may not fit some oversized or fat-tire bikes and may require you to carry the front wheel separately.
- Wheel-mount: This type of rack holds your bike by the front wheel and does not require you to remove it. It is usually easy to install and remove and can fit most bike types. However, it may not be very secure or stable and interfere with your rearview visibility or tonneau cover.
- Tailgate pad: This type of rack is a padded cover that attaches to your tailgate and allows you to rest your bikes. It is usually easy to install and remove and can fit multiple bikes. However, it may not be very secure or stable, damaging your tailgate or bike.
- Other: truck bed bike racks have different designs and features, such as clamps, straps, bars, etc. You should check the compatibility and functionality of each type before buying.
Measurement of Truck Bed and Bike
Another factor to consider is measuring your truck bed and bike. You should make sure that the rack you choose can fit the width and length of your truck bed, as well as the size and shape of your bike.
You should also check the clearance and spacing between your bike and your truck and between multiple bikes if you are carrying more than one. You don’t want to end up with a rack that is too big or too small, or that causes damage to your bike or your truck.
Price and Quality of Truck Bed Bike Racks
The price and quality of truck bed bike racks vary depending on the type, material, design, brand, warranty, etc. It would be best to look for a rack that offers the best value for your money without compromising performance and durability.
You should also check each product’s customer reviews and ratings to understand its pros and cons. You don’t want to waste your money on a cheap but unreliable or expensive but ineffective rack.
Installation and Removal of Truck Bed Bike Racks
The installation and removal of truck bed bike racks depend on the type and model of the rack. Some racks are easy to install and remove without tools or drilling, while others may require some assembly or modification.
It would be best if you looked for a rack that is easy to install and remove without causing any damage to your bike or your truck. You should also follow the instructions and safety precautions provided by the manufacturer to avoid any accidents or injuries.
Where to Buy Truck Bed Bike Racks
You can buy truck bed bike racks from online retailers or local stores. Some of the most popular online retailers are Amazon, Walmart, REI, etc. Some of the most popular local stores are Home Depot, Lowe’s, AutoZone, etc.
You should compare the prices, features, availability, shipping, return policy, etc. of each retailer before buying. You should also check each retailer’s customer service and support if you have any questions or issues with your purchase.
Conclusion
Truck bed bike racks are a great way to transport your bikes safely and conveniently in your pickup truck. They allow you to carry your bikes without removing the wheels, lowering the tailgate, or using any straps or tools. They also free up space on the roof or the hitch of your truck for other cargo.
However, not all truck bed bike racks are created equal. There are many factors to consider before buying one, such as the type, size, shape, price, quality, installation, removal, etc. of the rack. You should also check the compatibility and functionality of the rack with your truck and your bike.
To help you make an informed decision, we have reviewed the above top 10 truck bed bike racks in this article. We have compared their pros and cons, features, specifications, customer ratings, and prices.
We have also provided a buyer’s guide that explains the different types of truck bed bike racks, how to measure your truck bed and your bike, what factors affect the price and quality of the rack, how to install and remove the rack safely and securely, and where to buy the rack.
We hope that this article has been helpful and informative for you. If you have any feedback or questions, please get in touch with us for more information. Thank you for reading, and happy biking!
FAQs.
How can I carry my bike in the bed of my truck?
There are different ways to carry your bike in the bed of your truck, depending on your preference, budget, and truck size. Some standard methods include a tailgate bike pad, a bed bike rack, a hitch receiver rack, or bungee cords. You can also remove your bike’s seat or front wheel to make it fit better in the truck bed.
What is the best way to carry a mountain bike in the bed of a truck?
The best way to carry a mountain bike in the bed of a truck may vary depending on how many bikes you want to transport and how much space you have in your truck bed.
One of the most popular options is using a tailgate bike pad, a thick pad that sits on the tailgate and protects your bike and your truck from scratches and damages.
You can also use a bed bike rack, which is a rack that holds your bike upright in the truck bed. Some bed bike racks are removable, while others are permanently installed.
What is the best way to transport 4 bikes in a truck bed?
If you want to transport 4 bikes in a truck bed, you will need a method to accommodate multiple bikes without damaging them or your truck.
One of the best solutions is using a tailgate bike pad with harnesses or straps to secure your bikes to the tailgate. Another option is a bed bike rack that can hold 4 bikes upright in the truck bed. You can also use a hitch receiver rack or a swing-out version of a bike rack that attaches to the rear of your truck.
How do you secure a road bike in a truck bed?
To secure a road bike in a truck bed, you must use some device or material to prevent your bike from moving around or falling over during transportation.
Some of the options are using a bed bike rack, which is a rack that holds your bike upright in the truck bed; using bungee cords, which are elastic cords that you can wrap around your bike and attach to the sides of your truck bed; or using a moving blanket, which is a thick blanket that you can wrap around your bike and secure with bungee cords.