If you have a 1.25-inch hitch receiver, finding the right bike rack can be a challenge. Many racks are designed for the larger 2-inch receiver, but you don’t have to miss out on the convenience of a hitch-mounted carrier.
This guide reviews five of the best options available, from single-bike carriers to four-bike haulers. We’ll help you choose the perfect rack for your vehicle and biking adventures.
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MaxxHaul 50025 Hitch Mount 2-Bike Rack for Cars, Trucks, SUVs, Minivans – F...
Best forVersatile 2-bike carrier
- Fits 1.25 and 2-inch hitches
- Anti-rattle locking knob
ConsiderAdapter may feel loose

YOUNG ELECTRIC Single 1-Ebike Rack Hitch Mount with Ramp Foldable Bike Carr...
Best forSingle e-bike transport
- 100 lbs capacity for e-bikes
- RV approved for travel
ConsiderOnly carries one bike

Allen Sports Deluxe Locking Quick Release 2-Bike Carrier for 2 Inch & 1 4 i...
Best forQuick-release 2-bike carrier
- Quick-install hitch system
- Fits both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches
ConsiderNo tilt feature for trunk access

MaxxHaul Hitch Mount 4 Bike Rack 150 lb Capacity Heavy‑Duty Swing Down Desi...
Best forFamily 4-bike hauler
- Carries up to 4 bikes
- Swing-down for rear access
ConsiderHeavy when fully loaded

BELL Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Hitch Rack with Stability, Black
Best forSecure 4-bike transport
- Fits both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches
- Soft stability cradles protect bikes
ConsiderBikes can touch each other
MaxxHaul 50025 2-Bike Rack – Versatile & Sturdy
Brand: MAXXHAUL
A reliable, budget-friendly 2-bike rack with broad hitch compatibility.
The MaxxHaul 50025 is a solid choice if you need a versatile 2-bike rack that works with both 1.25 and 2-inch receivers. It comes with a hitch adapter, so you can use it on Class I through IV hitches. The built-in locking knob keeps the main upright sturdy, minimizing wobble and enhancing stability while you drive.
Transporting your bikes is secure thanks to the improved rubber bike cradles and buckle-type straps. These features keep your bikes stable during transit. The heavy-duty steel construction ensures durability, and the 100-pound total capacity is enough for two standard bikes. This rack is a practical and affordable option for most vehicles.
- Fits 1.25 and 2-inch hitches
- Anti-rattle locking knob
- Secure rubber cradles
- Adapter may feel loose
- Straps can be basic
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- Enhanced Durability: This bike rack is equipped with a hitch adapter to fit standard 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers, ensuring broad compatibility
- Versatile Hitch Compatibility: Designed to be used on Class I, II, III, and IV hitches, this bike rack is adaptable and suitable for various types of vehicles
- Secure Bike Transportation: Transport up to 2 bikes securely with the improved rubber bike cradles and buckle-type straps. These features allow your bikes to remain stable during travel
- Sturdy Design: The built-in locking knob keeps the main upright sturdy, minimizing wobble and enhancing stability while on the move
- Weight Capacity: The rack supports a maximum capacity of 100 lbs, with a limit of 50 lbs per bike. This ensures safe and reliable bike transportation
- Color Variation Note: Please be aware that the pad color may slightly differ, offering a variation in appearance
- Compatibility Note: Please note that our 50025 Bike Rack is designed for bikes with a horizontal top bar frame. For different style bike frames, the addition or installation of a horizontal crossbar may be necessary (not included)
- Important Note: Due to the increased distance between the rear bumper and the axle on trailers or RVs compared to cars or SUVs, using bike racks and cargo carriers in this scenario is not advisable.
- Bikes mounted on RV's, trailers, fifth-wheels may experience increased bouncing, swaying, and stress. Always use tie downs and straps during transport for added safety
Young Electric Single E-Bike Rack – Heavy-Duty Hauler
Brand: Young Electric
The best dedicated single e-bike rack for your 1.25-inch hitch.
The Young Electric Single 1-Ebike Rack is purpose-built for heavier electric bikes. With a 100-pound total capacity, it can securely accommodate most e-bikes. The rack is constructed with reinforced steel and aluminum, making it durable and powerful enough for the job. It’s also RV approved, ensuring hassle-free installation and safe transport on the road.
Loading your bike is effortless thanks to the integrated ramp. The user-friendly design makes securing your bike quick and straightforward. This rack is a great choice if you own a single e-bike and need a dedicated, heavy-duty carrier. Its robust build gives you confidence that your expensive e-bike is safe during transit.
- 100 lbs capacity for e-bikes
- RV approved for travel
- Easy loading with ramp
- Only carries one bike
- Ramp may be bulky
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- 100 LB TOTAL CAPACITY: Built for durability and strength, this bike rack boasts an impressive 100lbs capacity, securely accommodating heavier electric bikes or multiple conventional bicycles with ease. Trust in its robust construction for reliable, strain-free transportation.
- DURABLE & SAFE: Young Electric bike rack is constructed with reinforced steel and aluminum which makes it durable and powerful enough to carry 1 bikes weighing 100 lbs. Comes with 1-arm fix, patent secure wheel cradles and anti-wobble structure, that secure your E-bikes in place without swaying and knocking against vehicle.
- RV APPROVED: Specially designed for RV compatibility, this bike rack is RV Approved, ensuring hassle-free installation and safe, stable transport of your bicycles while on the road. Travel with confidence knowing it's tailored for motorhome adventures.
- Easy TO USE: Effortlessly load and secure bikes with our user-friendly bike rack. Its intuitive design allows for quick attachment and detachment, comes with convenient handle device that allows for folding the bike rack with one hand. Please note: If a part seems missing from the accessory pack, it may have been pre-installed on the product for your convenience. Please check before contacting support.
- 2 INCH HITCH RECEIVER: Designed exclusively for vehicles with a 2" receiver, this rack is built to be sturdy and resist wobbling. For your convenience, it arrives mostly pre-assembled for easy installation. The locking mechanism is a sturdy M16 anti-wobble bolt. (For locked security, a hitch lock is available for separate purchase.) The package also includes all necessary hardware and an instruction manual.
Allen Sports 522QR 2-Bike Carrier – Quick & Convenient
Brand: Allen
A user-friendly 2-bike rack with a quick-install system and locking feature.
The Allen Sports 522QR is a popular choice for its quick-release design. It features a quick-install hitch that secures and tightens the rack inside the receiver. It comes with two keys for the locking mechanism. The rack fits both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches, making it versatile for different vehicles.
The arms fold out of the way when not in use, and the rack tilts back when needed for rear access. Individual tie-downs secure and protect your bicycles, accommodating a wide range of frame designs. This rack is a great balance of convenience and security. It’s a reliable option for carrying two bikes on your 1.25-inch hitch.
- Quick-install hitch system
- Fits both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches
- Arms fold away when not in use
- No tilt feature for trunk access
- Straps can be long
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- Features. Quick install hitch secures and tightens rack inside of receiver hitch. Includes 2 keys.
- Arms fold out of the way when not in use and rack tilts back when needed. Individual tie-downs secure and protect bicycles. Accommodates a wide range of bicycle frame designs.
- Made in China. Model: 522QR.
MaxxHaul 70210 4-Bike Rack – Family-Sized Capacity
Brand: MAXXHAUL
A great choice for families needing to carry up to four bikes.
The MaxxHaul 70210 is a heavy-duty 4-bike rack designed for larger families. It has a 150-pound total capacity, so you can carry up to four bikes. The swing-down feature provides effortless access to the rear of your vehicle, which is ideal for vans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. An added reflector enhances safety.
Installation is easy and takes just minutes. The support arms come with adjustable hold-downs to secure your bikes. This rack fits 2-inch hitch receivers, but you can use an adapter for your 1.25-inch hitch. It’s a sturdy and practical solution for transporting multiple bikes on your next family outing.
- Carries up to 4 bikes
- Swing-down for rear access
- 150 lb total capacity
- Heavy when fully loaded
- No anti-rattle mechanism
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- Secure Bike Transportation: Safely transport up to 4 bikes with ease. The rack's towing capacity is 150 lbs and includes a hitch pin for secure attachment. An added reflector enhances safety during travel
- Convenient Swing-Down Feature: The swing-down feature provides effortless access to the rear of your vehicle, ensuring convenience when needed. Ideal for vans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and sedans with receiver hitches
- Easy Installation: Installing the MaxxHaul Towing Products 70210 Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is a breeze and takes just minutes. The support arms, equipped with adjustable hold-down straps, firmly secure and transport your bikes
- Broad Hitch Compatibility: This rack fits 2" x 2" hitch receivers, offering versatile compatibility with a variety of vehicles
- Durable Construction: Built from rigid all-steel construction and powder-coated for durability, this rack is designed for longevity. The adjustable bike cradle with hook and loop straps ensures secure transportation
- Compatibility Note: Please note that the 70210 Bike Rack is designed for bikes with a horizontal top bar frame. For different style bike frames, the addition or installation of a horizontal crossbar may be necessary (not included)
- Weight Limit and Reflector: With a towing capacity of 150 lbs, the rack includes a hitch pin and reflector for added safety
- Important Note: Due to the increased distance between the rear bumper and the axle on trailers or RVs compared to cars or SUVs, using bike racks and cargo carriers in this scenario is not advisable
- Bikes mounted on RV's, trailers, fifth-wheels may experience increased bouncing, swaying, and stress. Always use tie downs and straps during transport for added safety
BELL Hitchbiker 450 4-Bike Rack – Protective & Durable
Brand: BELL
A protective 4-bike rack with soft cradles and dual-hitch compatibility.
The BELL Hitchbiker 450 is a 4-bike rack that prioritizes bike protection. It features soft stability cradles that keep bikes secure and separated, reducing the risk of scratches. The rack fits both 1.25 and 2-inch receivers with a unique all-metal insert. The rich powder coat finish over e-coat ensures long-lasting beauty and durability.
This rack can carry bikes up to 35 pounds each, with a total capacity of 140 pounds. The design is straightforward and effective. While it doesn’t have a tilt feature, the cradles do a good job of keeping your bikes stable. If you need a reliable 4-bike rack for your 1.25-inch hitch, the BELL Hitchbiker 450 is a solid option.
- Fits both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches
- Soft stability cradles protect bikes
- Rich powder coat finish
- Bikes can touch each other
- Assembly required
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- Soft stability cradles keep bikes secure and separated so they don't scratch each other or the car
- Fits both 11/4 and 2 inch receivers with unique all-metal insert – Fit guarantee
- Rich powder coat finish over e-coat for long lasting beauty
- Carries bikes up to 35 pounds each and 140 pounds total
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right bike rack for your 1.25-inch hitch involves a few key factors. This guide will help you understand what to look for.
- Hitch Compatibility: Ensure the rack fits your 1.25-inch receiver. Some racks come with adapters for both 1.25 and 2-inch hitches, offering more flexibility.
- Weight Capacity: Check the total weight capacity. Standard bikes weigh 30-40 lbs, while e-bikes can be 60-80 lbs. Choose a rack that can handle your heaviest bike.
- Number of Bikes: Decide how many bikes you need to carry. Racks range from 1 to 4 bikes. Consider your current needs and future plans.
- Design & Convenience: Look for features like anti-rattle mechanisms, tilting or swing-down designs for rear access, and folding arms for storage.
- Security & Protection: Consider security features like integrated locks or locking knobs to deter theft. Also, check for straps and cradles that protect your bike's frame.
Conclusion
Finding the best bike rack for your 1.25-inch hitch depends on your specific needs. Whether you need a heavy-duty option for an e-bike or a versatile carrier for multiple bikes, there’s a rack for you.
For most users, the Allen Sports 522QR offers a great balance of features and value. If you need to carry an e-bike, the Young Electric single rack is a solid choice. For larger families, the MaxxHaul 70210 provides ample capacity.