Bike's Terra is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
A lot of people like to hit the trails on their cycles, but rather than going all the way on their cycles, they prefer going via cars. They take out their cycles only when they hit the trail, and the adventure awaits them. However, the best way to carry one's cycle is not in the trunk of the car or by tying it to the roof. There is a method that is a lot safer and hence allows you to carry your bikes easily.
Fitting the bike in a roof or a trunk of the car can be a daunting task. It can not only be very tiresome but can also chip the paint off your car and hence cost you extra money. so the best way to avoid that is to invest in a bike rack.
This article reviews some of the best models for you to consider, along with their pros and cons. Moreover, it includes additional things that you should know before making a purchase. So if you are looking forward to an exciting adventure and need some help with transportation, then continue reading.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Bike Racks For Honda CRV
- OUR TOP PICK: Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
- RUNNER-UP: BV 2 Bike/4 Bike Hitch Mount Rack
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
Comparison of the Best Bike Racks For Honda CRV
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
What Makes a Bike Rack Great For a Honda CRV?
Bike racks can be amazing, but their installation and loading of bikes can be a pretty daunting task if you don't choose wisely. What makes a bike rack great is that it's durable, easy to use, and not very expensive. People with a Honda CRV should definitely consider investing in a bike rack for the following reasons:
Ease of Installation
Bike racks for a Honda CRV usually come assembled and hence aren’t difficult to install. Trunk bike racks are the easiest, closely followed by hitch racks. The only problem with the latter is that you will need a receiver hitch already installed on your car. But regardless of the option you choose, the installation process won’t be a hurdle.
Durability and Affordability
Bike racks, especially good-quality ones, do not damage your car. They also prevent frame contact, which protects both your bike and your car. On top of that, they aren’t very expensive, so you don’t have to worry about loosening your purse strings a lot.
Prevent Damage
One of the biggest advantages of investing in a bike rack is that it helps prevent damage to your bikes. Most racks come with anti-wobble and anti-sway technology that helps keep the bikes in place.
Are All Honda CRV Bike Racks The Same?
There are three main types of bike racks. A hitch-mount rack needs a hitch receiver before it can be installed. However, this type is one of the safest and allows for easy setup and loading of the bikes. Such racks are also relatively inexpensive, which means that you won't have to spend too much money.
Another type is a trunk mount hitch, which is one of the cheapest types and allows for very easy installation. The best thing about it is that it allows for anti-swaying technology and helps protect your bikes. Lastly, roof racks allow for greater visibility and don't let your bikes prevent access to the rear.
You can choose any one of these models according to your own criteria.
BV 2 Bike/4 Bike Hitch Mount Rack
What Are the Components of a Bike Rack?
Bike racks are made of smaller components that each perform a distinct function. Here is a list of all the integral parts:
Endcap aids installation and hence help provide ease of usage.
Adapter adds a top tube to the frame of the bike for easy installation.
Replacement hitch pin allows you to lock the vehicle to the rack for protection.
Replacement Speed Knob and Wedge Assembly secure the hitch rack onto the hitch receiver.
Replacement Wrench allows you to fix the tightness of the bike rack at regular intervals.
Review of the Best Bike Racks For Honda CRV
We did not just include the first few racks that we found on the internet in this review. We carefully scoured the internet to select only the units that come with enhanced durability and comfort.
You can compare the pros and cons of all the products to see which one suits you best.
Best Overall:
Swagman XC2 Hitch Mount Bike Rack
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers who wanted no hassle when transporting bikes were more than happy with this model. They also like the unit because it could carry up to two bikes easily, and each of these is secured at both wheels and prevents any contact between the frames. Moreover, they love the presence of the cushioned hooks that allow for greater adjustability.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The one that stands out in this model is its sturdy design and construction. This helps keep the bikes stable at all times, especially during fast speed traveling. This model also folds easily, and the compact body helps you to keep it anywhere you want. The presence of an anti-wobble hitch also helps keep the bike safe.
Versatility is another reason people invest in this unit. Unlike most other models, this bike rack does not carry one but two bikes at the same time. It is also fully compatible with a 1.25-inch and two-inch receiver hitch. There are also easily adjustable ratchet arms that can accommodate bike frames of different sizes.
Bottom Line
Good compatibility and durability come together in the making of this very strong bike rack. It comes with a smooth design that has a center arm that folds down to allow for better access to the rear. Moreover, the rack's anti-wobble device helps prevent sway and hence helps protect your bikes against any damage.
Runner-up:
BV 2 Bike/4 Bike Hitch Mount Rack
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The anti-wobble design was appreciated by both recent buyers and potential customers alike. They love the patented design that prevents any wobbling between the hitch and the rack. Moreover, they like the tray-styled loops and the padded arms that help cushion the bikes from any damage and prevent scratches.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Smart construction is what just a rack needs for efficiency. This model comes with a smart tilt-back design that, coupled with the fold-up design, helps enhance functionality. A safety reflector enhances safety and helps protect your bike from any accident or damage. It also enhances visibility at night and ensures a well-protected drive. Moreover, the anti-wobble design helps enhance safety and doesn't allow for any frame contact.
The ray-styled loops and the padded arms are also very attractive for anyone looking to keep their bikes safe from any sudden impacts. Each bike is also properly secured by a three-point connection system that prevents it from swaying during travel. But most importantly, the unit is super compatible with a range of bikes and hence increases diversity.
Bottom Line
Ease of storage is one of the main reasons this model stands high up on the list. You certainly don't want to spend too much time folding the rack and then finding an appropriate place for its storage. With this model, you won't have to. The tilt-back design will allow for good rear access. Moreover, there is a safety reflector to enhance visibility.
Best for the Money:
Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
According to most recent buyers, the best thing about this model is the narrow set of carrying arms that can accommodate a wide range of frame styles and sizes. This allows for greater compatibility and allows buyers to transport a variety of bikes. They also love the inclusion of extra-large car pads that help distribute the bike load evenly and hence protect it against any damage.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The design of this model is of prime importance because it is very strong and ergonomic, which enhances its appeal. The patented design allows you to set up the whole rack in only a few seconds. This is because the model snaps into place as soon as you remove it from the box. It can also be folded easily, thus allowing for easy storage. Another commendable feature is the dual-compound cradle. This comes with UV resistance that makes it last for a longer time.
Moreover, the cradle is very durable and hence properly secures your bike in place for a longer time. The tie-downs also include a soft cradle bed that cushions your bike during the entire journey and hence keep it safe.
Bottom Line
Adequate UV resistance and the design are the two main reasons why you should invest in this model. It is very affordable and hence makes your investment worth your while. There is also a dual-compound cradle that can be used with a wide variety of tube sizes.
4. Thule T2 Pro XT
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The model's ability to carry up to four bikes at the same time is its best feature, according to buyers. They love the loading capacity of 120 pounds that allows relatively heavier bikes to be transported easily too. The anti-swaying technology also doesn't let the bike frames touch each other, hence protecting them against scratching or any obvious damage. On top of that, the model allows for easy storage, which buyers appreciate a lot.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Thule has been a popular name in the market for quite some time now, and this model is a testament to its popularity. For starters, it stands out because it comes with tool-free attachment knobs that make it easy to install and remove the rack when needed. There is also a hitch switch lever that can easily tilt the rack up and down and hence enhance its functionality. The unit also folds up easily to allow for easy storage.
You also get to make use of the ratcheting arm that secures your bike and prevents any contact between the frames. This makes the model able to fit wheels ranging from 20 to 29 inches. Moreover, it can accommodate tires up to five inches. On top of that, the inclusion of an integrated 24-inch cable locks the bike, and when the cable is not in use, it simply retracts.
Bottom Line
All in all, this model helps provide adequate spacing between the bikes hence preventing any frame contact. There is also an integrated 24-inch cable lock to enhance protection. So if you are looking for an easy-to-use option that ensures maximum security and is backed by a reliable name, this is the one.
5. Allen Sports 5-Bike Hitch Racks
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This model's rugged design gives users peace of mind because it allows them to enjoy better durability. They also love that the minimalistic design allows for ease of usage and maintenance. It is also very easy to operate and install on the hitch receiver. On top of that, the model can easily accommodate a range of different sizes and designs, making it suitable for a wider audience.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This bike rack is popular because it comes with very durable folding carry arms that can be easily folded down to allow for extra flexibility. Moreover, the individual tie-down system not only secures your bike but also protects it from any damage. These tie-downs are also properly secured in position and can only be rotated.
The tilt-away main mast is also of prime importance because it allows you to enjoy easy access to the rear when the rack is properly in place. On top of that, you will like the no-wobble hitch installation that saves time and energy,
Bottom Line
If we say that we saved one of the best models for the last, it wouldn't be an understatement. The model can carry up to five bikes at one time, which makes it great for larger groups. Moreover, it comes with the main mast that tilts away from and hence allows for easy gate access.
Types of Bike Racks
When choosing bike racks, it is important to know which one is right for both your car and your bicycle. Investing in the right type will ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Moreover, you can ensure ease of usage and greater efficiency when you make the right choice. Here are the different types:
Roof Mount Bike Racks
As the name suggests, these racks attach to the aftermarket crossbars and can hold one or sometimes even two bikes. With most models, you will have to remove the wheel of the bike; however, you can also opt for a unit that doesn’t require that. This type is most useful for people who are worried about rear window visibility. Moreover, this is the only type you can use to carry a tandem bike.
Hitch Mount Bike Racks
If you are looking for ease of usage, this is the type to go for. Hitch mount options work great with several bicycles. You can simply load the bikes without having to spend a lot of time on the installation of the rack.
Such types also often come with anti-sway technology that helps keep the bicycles in place. A major downside to these is that there has to be a receiver hitch already installed in your car, or you will have to get one yourself.
Trunk Mount Bike Racks
For people who are looking for affordable options, trunk mount racks are just perfect. They are one of the most versatile options out there that can fit almost any vehicle easily. You also won’t have to buy any additional components separately. On top of that, this type is also one of the easiest to install and setup on the Honda CRV. It is also compact and lightweight and hence allows for comfortable storage.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Investing in a Bike Rack
Bike racks are great for when you want to go on a trip that involves a lot of adventure and when you simply want to go out of town and take your bicycles with you. However, they don’t come without their drawbacks. This section includes both advantages and disadvantages of investing in such models.
Advantages
Some of the top pros of buying a bike rack are mentioned below.
Diversity
The biggest advantage of buying a rack is that you get to choose from many different options. There are three main types of racks, and each comes with its unique advantages. Roof racks offer more security, whereas hitch and trunk racks offer an easier installation process. All these types also hardly take any time for the assembly process and are highly recommended.
Protection
You want to protect not only your bikes but also your car, which is why bike racks are a must-have for when you want to transport your bikes to a different location. They usually feature amazing durability and strength that doesn't allow the components to break easily. Moreover, the anti-swaying and anti-wobble mechanisms prevent any frame contact between the bike and Honda CRV, thus enhancing appeal.
Easier Installation
With most bike racks, the installation process is quite simple. They usually come assembled in the box, and all you have to do is attach them to the trunk, the roof, or the hitch receiver. The whole process takes about five to ten minutes only or sometimes even less. Moreover, you won’t need a lot of bolts or hitch to install the unit. This saves both your time and energy.
Disadvantages
Like with pros, bike racks also come with some disadvantages, which includes:
Limited Capacity
Most bike racks come with a limited capacity. This means that you can’t carry more than a single or two bikes at one time. This can be a problem if you want to carry bikes for the whole group.
Conclusion
Going on an adventure should be exciting, but it shouldn't be unnecessarily difficult. People no longer want to ride their bicycles to the desired location. They would rather use their cars to reach the destination and then cover the exciting track on their bicycles. This is why a bike rack is recommended. They come in various shapes and sizes and can accommodate a wide range of bicycles.
If you own a Honda CRV, you can make use of some options. All you will have to do is install one at the back of your car or on the roof and then load the bikes on top. Just remember to look at the prices of each model, so you don’t end up exceeding your budget.
