When you travel to a parking lot close to work and have a few blocks or miles to go, then a bike can make the trip much easier and faster. Having a functional bike rack will allow you to commute to work from any location. You can avoid the traffic and get where you need to go on time.
Taking care of ourselves means spending time exercising. One fantastic way is to bike your favorite trails. If you own a Honda CRV, then having a bike rack that fits your gear is necessary. You can travel to state parks, hiking trails, or take a weekend trip to a location near you. All you have to do is find a place to park and get your bike down from the rack.
Helping the environment is great motivation for getting more exercise. When you have a bike, then you can travel anywhere you want. When you want to take your bike with you to go on vacation or travel to a new destination, then all you have to do is hook it up to the rack. We talk about several types of bike carriers in this review, including items that tilt to allow you better access to the cargo area of your vehicle.
If you are in a hurry to make your bike rack purchase, then we suggest going with the Thule T2 Pro XT Bike Rack (learn more). This model requires no tools for assembly. You can purchase an add-on for two-inch hitches to carry an additional two bikes on the rack. This item folds up to stay out of the way when you are not carrying bikes. The rack also tilts out of the way to let you access groceries, fishing gear, and camping supplies.
Comparing Eight Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
| Bike capacity | Max Load | Folding | Weight | ||
| 1. Swagman XC2 | 2 | 35 lbs. per bike | Yes | 35 pounds | Shop Now |
| 2. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe | 4 | 132 pounds | No | 28.2 pounds | Shop Now |
| 3. Thule T2 Pro XT | 2 | 60 pounds | Yes | 51 pounds | Shop Now |
| 4. Saris Bones Car Bike Rack | 2-3 | 35 lbs. per bike | Yes | 11 pounds | Shop Now |
| 5. BV 2-Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack | 2 | 35 lbs. per bike | Yes | 39.1 pounds | Shop Now |
| 6. Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack | 2 | 35 lbs. per bike | Yes | 11 pounds | Shop Now |
| 7. KAC Overdrive Sports K2 | 2 | 60 lbs. per bike | Yes | 49.8 pounds | Shop Now |
| 8. Allen Sports 5-Bike Hitch Racks | 5 | 175 lbs. | Yes | 20 pounds | Shop Now |
1. Swagman XC2 – Best Stable Bike Rack
When you travel on the highway or go long distances, you need to know your bikes will be secure for the trip. The Swagman XC2 Bike Rack comes with a stability connector that minimizes movement. The manufacturer builds this hitch into every rack to ensure your equipment is safe whether you travel at freeway speeds or want to look for a place a little further away from everyday traffic.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Mount: 2-inch hitch
- Hitch: Fits Class 3 hitch
- Quick assemble bike carrier
- Versatile ratchet arms allows users to travel with bikes of various sizes up to 23.2 inches
- Conveniently fits two bikes up to 35 pounds each
- Accommodates tire sizes between 20 and 29 inches
- Hooks up to two-inch and one and a quarter hitches
- Space-saving rack design folds up to keep it out of the way when you do not have a bike with you
- Durable hardware and thick welds ensure this rack holds up to lots of use
- Bike frame holders come with a protective coating that minimizes rubbing and scratching to keep bikes pristine
- Users can lower the rack to access the cargo area without removing it
- Robust steel construction with extra padding where the bike rests on the carrier
- Accommodates a wide range of bikes including children’s, women’s, cruisers, BMX, and Y shape models
Cons
- Does not come with the locking hitch pin or cable tie down
- Will not fit fat tires unless you buy the separate tray
- Will not work for campers or RV’s
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Most buyers appreciate how easy it is to assemble this bike rack. They like the easy directions with just a few drawings of how to put the rack together. They say it is not heavy, allowing them to assemble and install it without the help of another person.
People are even going on a trip over 3,000 miles with no problems out of this bike rack. Some users suggest buying a lock for the wheel bars and the bike hooks to prevent theft if you do not purchase the locking pin and the ten-millimeter safety cord from Swagman.
Our Final Thoughts
This bike carrier is stable when you use it correctly. Reading the manufacturer’s instructions will ensure proper setup. We like that you can purchase additional items to make this hitch more secure and fit bigger bike tires. The Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount is appealing because it weighs very little and you can maneuver it out of your way when getting groceries or taking your camping or fishing gear out of the back of your CRV.
2. Tyger Auto TG-RK4B102B Deluxe – Best Padded Bike Carrier
When you own expensive cycles or spend a ton of money getting the paint job you want, then a protective rack may be extremely important to you. The Tyger Auto Carrier uses soft cushions to hold your cycles steady to prevent rocking and jostling that will damage your equipment. This carrier comes with two straps to tie down the bikes when in the rack. The manufacturer will only warranty damage requests if the buyer uses the tie-down straps they include.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Bike carrier fits up to four bicycles
- Fits 1.25 or a 2 inch hitch receiver
- Comes with a hitch pin lock and a cable for securing the bikes
- Will fit several bike sizes up to XL as long as you put them in order from smallest to largest
- E coating help prevent rust
- Uses four cradles with safety cushions to prevent damage and movement during travel
- Quick install item
- Ratchet buckles secure bikes in place
- Uses a screw to tilt the central holder for easier bike handling
- Will hold up to 132 pounds of bikes total
- Comes with an additional tie-down strap
Cons
- May need to flip women’s cushion bikes upside down to secure them to the cradle
- Should check the hitch regularly and tighten it when traveling
- Two pivot points have plastic knobs with bolts that can work loose and cause bikes to fall
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Buyers say this model is very secure for bikes whether you are traveling with one or four bicycles. They like the way the mount is stable and does not rattle as they go down the highway or travel across uneven ground.
The big knob is easy to turn for tilting the rack to get into the back of the vehicle. Some consumers say this model does not work with hidden hitches. They feel there is not enough clearance to use the carrier with these hitches.
Our Final Thoughts
We like how fast it is to install this bike carrier. The manufacturer is using a better rubber strap for this bike rack to make it more durable in colder climates. The only thing we do not like about the Tyger Auto Bike Rack is it is easy to damage the vehicle or bicycles if you are not careful when mounting or taking the items off the carrier.
3. Thule T2 Pro XT – Best Wide Tire Rack
This carrier will accept bike tires as wide as five inches. When you have a bike with fat tires or use an electric model, then this clearance is important for choosing the best bike carrier. The Thule T2 Pro XT model is large enough to handle bikes with tires up to 29 inches.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Accommodates a wide range of bicycles including mountain bikes and others up to 60 pounds each
- Fits two bikes for 100 pounds of carrying weight
- No tools necessary to attach this carrier to the vehicle, making setup a breeze
- Frame-free arms use a ratchet design
- Over a foot of distance between each bike when they are secure in the carrier
- Folding design lets you pull the gear against the vehicle when not full
- Carrier tilts out of the way to allow more access to the rear of the vehicle
- No adapters are necessary for fitting mountain bikes and carbon fiber frames on this unit
- The platform design keeps bikes securely away from the back of the vehicle
- User-friendly hitch with a lever to tilt the rack
- Attachment knob uses a cylinder to keep the rack secure when driving
- Adjustable mounts for each bike
- 24″ cable lock
- Compatible with attachments for carrying four bikes at once
Cons
- Weighs 51 pounds without the bikes
- Arms may bounce around a lot causing rattling and the eventual breakdown of the carrier
- Only works with square hitches
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Buyers love that there are no tools necessary for assembling this rack. The sturdiness of this item is also a huge benefit for many people. Some buyers say they use a castor wheel that you can weld to the hitch to make it easier for one person to take it on and off the vehicle. Consumers say to purchase a more expensive cable and lock system to prevent easy theft.
Our Final Thoughts
This bike rack works for many vehicle models. We like the robust design of the Thule T2 Pro XT model. The only problems we have are with the weight and the plastic tab that holds the security cable in place. It seems like many buyers come up with ingenious solutions for maneuvering the rack between uses.
4. Saris Bones Car Bike Rack – Best Lightweight Bike Carrier
If you want a bicycle carrier that you can take on and off with ease, then this model might be the right one for your needs. The Saris Bones carrier only weighs 11 pounds. The bike straps cinch down quickly and make it easy to remove your cycle when you want.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Accommodates bicycles up to 35 pounds apiece
- Uses a specific design to fit over the spoiler on many vehicle models
- Curving arm separates bikes during travel to prevent rubbing and damage
- Injection molding process keeps the unit corrosion free
- Environmentally friendly product that you can recycle completely
- Extremely stable and strong product
- Adjustable arms
Cons
- No locks to secure bicycles
- No way to lock the rack to the vehicle
- Instructions may be difficult to understand
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Buyers like the injection molding because it makes this rack a durable item. They say this model is easy to put on and off your vehicle. Consumers say it is difficult to get three bikes on this rack. They also dislike removing the rack every time you want to travel without your cycle.
Our Final Thoughts
We think this model carrier works best as a local rack. There is no way to keep your bicycles from being stolen with the Saris Bones Bike Carrier. Another thing to mention is the lack of rubber covers on this model. If you are not careful, then you can easily scratch the paint on your vehicle or bike.
5. BV 2-Bike Bicycle Hitch Mount Rack – Best Tilting Design Rack
When you leave your bikes on the rack a lot, then you need a modular carrier. The BV Hitch Mount uses a tilting feature that allows users to open the back of the vehicle. This technology also makes it easier to move the rack to mount and take off your cycles.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Unique design lets consumers leave the rack in place when bikes are not on it
- Space-saving design lets the item fold for better clearance in tight parking spots and garages
- Primary bolt goes in from the right to reduce loosening from vibrations
- Long loops add more stability to riding equipment to prevent movement when driving
- Padding along the arms prevents scratches and dings
- Fits models up to 35 pounds each
- Comes with an adapter for one and a quarter inch and two-inch hitches
- Red reflector on the back of the rack makes the item easier for other drivers to see in the dark
- Holds bikes secure with three points of contact
Cons
- Weighs almost 40 pounds
- Will not accommodate tires larger than three inches
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Buyers like that the arms will work for a variety of bike types including step down models. They say as long as you do not go over the total weight limit, the bikes can weigh different amounts. Some consumers put items with fat tires on the rack and use ratcheting straps to secure them. A few people say the rack lets the bikes bounce a lot when traveling immense distances or going highway speeds.
Our Final Thoughts
We love the accessibility of this bike carrier. The ability to tilt this item out of the way with our equipment on it is very critical for busy people. The BV Bike Rack stays secure as long as you monitor the bolt to make sure it does not loosen. The affordable cost is a definite perk.
6. Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack – Best Folding Frame Rack
Whether you live in a big city or have a small garage, a bike rack with a folding design may be necessary. The Allen Sports Premier Rack folds flat against the vehicle when you are not carrying bicycles. This model only weighs 11 pounds, so you only need one person to attach it to the vehicle.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Large bumper pads to reduce damage to the back of the vehicle
- Adjustable straps let users attach this model to many vehicle models
- Patent pending set-up uses a fast install technique
- UV Resistent Rubber straps are adjustable with several holes to get the right fit
- Robust stitching on the straps ensures durability
- Textured padding inside the cradles hold bikes tightly to the rack
- Lightweight model
- No assembly necessary
- Fits many bicycle sizes and designs including women’s and children’s
Cons
- May require some maneuvering to fit step through bikes
- No locking mechanism for bikes or the rack
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Many people say this rack stays in place on long-distance trips. They love how easy it is to put this product on the vehicle. Some buyers mention problems with the rubber straps breaking with the first use. Some people were not able to travel with four large bikes using this carrier.
Our Final Thoughts
We appreciate not having to assemble this bike carrier. The lightweight design is also a big plus. The Allen Sports Premier rack (learn more) is convenient for swapping between different vehicles.
7. KAC Overdrive Sports K2 – Best Versatile Carrier
When you need an item that will hold any bicycle you need, then this model may work best. The KAC Overdrive bike carrier uses adjustable trays to let you open up the brackets to fit fat tire bikes and electric models. The holders can fit tires up to five inches wide.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Fits bikes up to 60 pounds each
- Strong steel design
- Coated materials prevent rust and minimize scratching
- Quick assembly
- A reflector improves nighttime safety
- Secure with padded clamps and locking knob and hitch pin
- Tilting style for cargo access
- The company holds a patent for no wobble design
Cons
- May need the overdrive adapter to fit step through bikes
- Only works with two-inch vehicle hitches
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
People are happy they can use this rack for different bike sizes. They appreciate the large weight limit for taking along electric cycles. The spare locking pin for the hitch is an additional benefit. Some buyers say this rack is heavy to lift back up when you use the tilt function with the rack full.
Our Final Thoughts
This rack is adjustable, giving us many options. We like the quick-tilt feature. The KAC Overdrive Sports carrier is not for trailers or RV’s.
8. Allen Sports 5-Bike Hitch Racks – Best Maximum Capacity Carrier
When you have a large family, you need a bicycle carrier that can tote all your equipment. Allen Sports features a five bike rack for more capacity. The arms are 28 inches long to give you extra room.
Bike Rack Features and Perks
- Easy fold design for saving space
- Adjustable tie downs for each bike
- Tilting design for rear vehicle access
- Powder coating prevents rust
- Durable construction
- Easy installation
- Hitch stability prevents vibrations and bouncing
Cons
- No hitch lock
- Only works with two-inch hitches
Consumer Comments about Bike Racks for Honda CRVs
Buyers like that you can set up this model in about five minutes. They appreciate having separate cradles for each bicycle. You can put children’s bikes on this rack with some adjustments. The only drawback is the lack of locks and a tight clearance for spare tires.
Our Final Thoughts
This carrier is excellent for families. We love the separate cradles and adjustable straps. The Allen Sports 5-Bike Hitch is secure for the lightness of this product.
Tips for Selecting the Best Bike Rack for Your Honda CRV
Weight
How heavy the carrier is may be a determining factor in your purchase. Some models on this list are over 50 pounds.
Whether the rack folds out of the way
If you need a rack you can keep on your vehicle, then a folding design might not be a choice. It may be a necessity. You can check the individual product reviews to see which models fold for saving space.
Capacity
How many bicycles you need the rack to carry may determine how you narrow down your options. There are several carriers on this list that accommodate two bicycles. There are a couple of models for three or four bikes. The last carrier from Allen will fit five bikes.
Bike weight
Since electric bikes weigh a lot more than traditional cycles, a carrier that can hold up to 60 pounds per bike might be important. You can check the weight ratings on the manufacturer’s website. You can also look at the individual product reviews for these figures.
Hookup versatility
If you need a carrier that fits a variety of hitch sizes, then you will want to look at the product reviews carefully. Some models on this list do not fit smaller hitches. One model will only work with square hitches. Most models will only work with cars, trucks, and SUVs. Camper and RV use require a different carrier or an adapter.
Tire size
What size tires are on your bike may determine which carrier you can purchase. Not all products we feature will fit fat tires or electric bikes. The individual reviews give this information.
Locking mechanism
Not every carrier in this review comes with a hitch lock or bike lock. If you remove your bike and rack every use, then these items may not be necessary. Otherwise, an additional purchase or different model may be crucial to prevent theft.
Assembly and removal
How fast you can set up these racks may make a difference in your decision to buy. The ease of mounting and taking the carrier off the vehicle is critical for many buyers. Some of these products come with no assembly.
Tilt feature
When you need access to the cargo area of your Honda CRV, then a tilt feature will keep you from removing the rack a lot. We list this feature in the individual reviews.
Car pads and reflective materials
Extra safety to protect your equipment may be a big thing for you. If so, then we suggest picking a model with thick padding. Reflective tape is an add-on you can purchase if the rack does not have this feature.
Two Questions and Answers and Bike Racks
Do you need an extension for your spare tire when using this rack
Most of the bicycle racks on this list will be snug against the spare tire, but it should clear. To be sure of the clearance, you can check the manufacturer’s instructions for use and look at the size of the racks. You can find the size information in the comparison chart at the top of this article.
Can you use these bike racks on a camper
Most of the items on this list are not acceptable for use on RV’s and trailers. You can check the user manual to find out the exact details for each individual model. If we have information about whether you can use these on a camper, then we list it in the individual product reviews at the beginning of this review.
See Also:
How Much Do Car Bike Racks Cost?
How Long Do Road Bike Tires Last?
10 Essential Tools To Carry On Road Bike
8 Best Bike Racks for the Mini Cooper
