Rear bike racks have been highly popular among consumers of diverse backgrounds in the past few years. Rear cargo bike racks offer a remarkable alternative to traditional means of storing cargo and other basic necessities and are characterized by aluminum-based construction, which increases their strength and enables them to withstand heavy lifting without bending or cracking.
In addition to this, the majority of rear bike racks are lightweight and compact, therefore, can be easily carried from one place to another. Cyclists also admire the low maintenance and enhanced stability offered by the rear bike cargo racks. However, choosing a suitable bike back rack isn’t easy and requires careful consideration.
Contents
- Is a rear bike rack worth it?
- Best Rear Bike Racks for Cargo and Touring Overview
- Top 12 Best Heavy Duty Rear Bike Racks Review
- 1. Topeak Explorer Heavy Duty Rear Bike Rack
- 2. Planet Bike Eco Rear Bike Rack for Electric
- 3. Ibera Bike Rack – Best Rear Bike Rack for Touring Bike
- 4. Schwinn Bike Rear Rack – Luggage Folding Rack of Bike
- 5. DIRZA Rack for Back of Bike
- 6. SONGMICS Rear Mounted Bike Rack
- 7. UFANME Rear Bike Rack for Road Bike
- Rear Bike Rack Alternative
- What to look for while Purchasing the Rear Bike Racks?
- FAQs about Rear Bike Racks
- What Can You Carry On A Rear Bike Rack?
- Are rear bike racks safe?
- Wrapping Up Rear Bike Racks Review
Is a rear bike rack worth it?
Yes, a rear bike rack is useful, especially if you are a commuter and have to cargo a diverse range of materials on a bike. It is also highly useful for storing equipment during a bike tour and grocery items for daily use. The majority of the students also prefer rear bike racks for carrying their backpacks while going to school. Thus, rear bike rack is highly popular among cyclists because of its remarkable abilities and ease of use.
Best Rear Bike Racks for Cargo and Touring Overview
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Best Overall | Topeak Explorer Rear Rack |
| Check Price |
| Editors Choice | Editors Choice | Tubus Cargo Evo Pannier Rack |
| Check Price |
| Best for daily commuters | Best for daily commuters  | Portland Design Works Loading Dock Rear Rack |
| Check Price |
| Editors Choice | Editors Choice | Blackburn EX-1 Disc Rear Bike Rack |
| Check Price |
| Best for Electric Bikes | Best for Electric Bikes | Planet Eco E-Bike Rear Rack |
| Check Price |
| Universal Fit | Universal Fit  | Ibera Rear Bike Rack |
| Check Price |
| Most Durable | Most Durable | Schwinn Bike Rear Rack |
| Check Price |
| Highly Recommended | Highly Recommended | DIRZA Rear Bike Rack |
| Check Price |
| Universal fit | Universal fit  | Thule Pack ‘N Pedal Tour Rack |
| Check Price |
| For Road Bike | For Road Bike  | UFANME Rear Bike Rack for Road Bike |
| Check Price |
| For Carbon Fiber Bike | For Carbon Fiber Bike  | ROCKBROS Bicycle Cargo Rear Rack |
| Check Price |
Top 12 Best Heavy Duty Rear Bike Racks Review
Below, I have included a detailed review of the 12 best rear bike racks along with their various alternatives and factors that can affect their purchase.
1. Topeak Explorer Heavy Duty Rear Bike Rack
Specifications
- Compatible with: MTX Trunk Bags & Rear baskets
- Material: 6061 Hollow Aluminum
- Weight: 1.38 lbs.
- Other Specs: Allows to mount light on back of Rack
Topeak Explorer Rack is a remarkable rear bike rack available at an extremely reasonable price range across the market. It is highly popular among consumers of diverse backgrounds because of its affordability and exceptional performance.
Despite its low price, it is integrated with some of the top-notch attributes, which makes it a tough competitor to other racks available in a similar price range.
We absolutely admire the aluminum-based construction, which is renowned for its sturdiness and thus, imparts durability to the rear bike racks surface. This protects the bike rack from getting damaged due to a wide variety of environmental factors and makes it perfect for outdoor use. So, you can use it in heavy rain or high temperature with little regard to corrosion and rusting.
Similarly, the built-in mud shield prevents the bike from getting dirty in the long term and contributes to hassle-free cleaning and maintenance. This increases the suitability of the rack for those that prefer negligible maintenance and are fond of rear bike racks that do not require complex cleaning prices.
The majority of the users appreciate the 4-point secure fixing mechanism offered by the rack, which prevents it from falling off while riding at high speed. This also makes it stable enough to carry other goods without worrying about performance inefficiency or other related issues.
Another highlighting attribute of the system is the ability to carry heavy weight without bending or breaking, and it is perfect for a wide variety of applications. It can easily carry up to 25 kilograms with the utmost convenience, and thus, it is perfect for daily use. You can also have a look at best trunk mounted bike racks.
What I Like?
- Lightweight and portable
- Enhanced durability
- Negligible maintenance required
What I Don’t Like?
- Not the best straps
Why I Suggested Topeak Explorer Rear Bike Rack
Topeak Explorer Rack stands out among the rest of its counterparts and is second to none in terms of performance and efficiency. Its high-quality construction coupled with unrivaled performance efficiency makes it a perfect option for daily use without over-straining your budget. I assure you will not face any difficulty while using it and will be impressed by its overall abilities.
If you own a minivan and want to transport your bikes on it, have a look at best bike racks for minivan. Also have a look at different types of bike racks.
2. Planet Bike Eco Rear Bike Rack for Electric
Specifications
- Best For: Electric Bikes
- Material: Strong Aluminum with 6061 tubular aluminum rod
- Weight: 1.5 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 55 lbs.
Planet Bike Eco Bike Rack is one of the most inexpensive options included in the list of the best rear bike racks available in 2023. Its sturdy aluminum-based construction imparts durability to its surface and protects it from getting damaged due to a wide variety of factors.
We highly suggest it for those that are searching for lightweight yet durable rear bike racks.
Aluminum used in the manufacturing process also increases the stability of this rear bike rack, thereby preventing it from falling down even while riding at a relatively high speed. During the trial sessions, I also used it under heavy rain conditions to analyze the corrosion-resistant abilities of the model and were highly impressed by the results.
Apart from this, another prominent characteristic of the system is the effortless installation which is attributed to its sturdy frame and various securing points. This makes it extremely easy to install the rack to the bike without any expert guidance. Hence, increasing its suitability for beginners that lack prior experience in this regard. The bike rack is also capable of withstanding the heavyweight and does not bend under heavy pressure.
Thus, it lasts for a long time without displaying any major signs of damage or performance inefficiency in the long term. The bike can be used for transporting different types of goods from one place to another with little regard to any related issue as it is capable of supporting up to 55 pounds of weight. This makes it an ideal option for a wide variety of users and increases its versatility to a great extent.
If you want to transport your electric bike on your car, have a look at best e bike racks
What I Like?
- Easy to install
- Suitable for beginners
- Durable and sturdy
Why I Suggested Planet Bike Eco Bike Rack
Planet Bike Eco Bike Rack is the best cargo rack among the rest of its counterparts. Its durable construction, alongside the large weight carrying abilities, allows you to achieve the best of both worlds by transporting cargo from one place to another without worrying about losing your balance or falling off. I highly encourage you to invest in the option if you are searching for the best rear rack for a bike. Also have a look at my review about best front bike racks.
3. Ibera Bike Rack – Best Rear Bike Rack for Touring Bike
Specifications
- Best For: 26 – 29 inches Frames
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 1.65 lbs.
- Weight Capacity: 55 lbs.
Ibera Bike Rack is yet another remarkable rear bike rack that is highly popular among a wide variety of users and is available at an extremely reasonable price range across the market.
It is not only lightweight but also extremely durable in nature and is not prone to damage due to external factors.
The high-quality construction also protects the rack against corrosion due to excessive moisture and heavy rain. Thus, contributing to an increase in its average life in the long term.
Along with the above-mentioned features, another highlighting attribute of the system is the ability to carry up to 55 pounds of weight which makes it an ideal option for transporting cargoes and other related applications.
The frame is also sturdy and can be properly secured with the help of screws and straps. This reduces the chance of the rack falling off from the bike even when riding at a relatively fast speed. Hence, contributing to performance efficiency in the long term.
To my surprise, Ibera bike rack height is also adjustable and can be modified depending on individual requirements. This makes it ideal for a wide variety of users and increases the versatility of Ibera rear bike rack.
Similarly, the aluminum used in the manufacturing process is high grade and will not bend or crack despite going through tough situations. Therefore, you can use it for years with little regard for damage or performance inefficiency. I highly encourage you to invest in this rear bike rack if you are searching for a durable, low-maintenance rear bike rack for daily use.
What I Like?
- Increased portability
- Budget-friendly
- Hassle-free installation
What I Don’t Like?
- Bolts might snap
Why I Suggested Ibera Bike Rack
Ibera Bike Rack never fails to amaze me with its outstanding construction and effortless maintenance. The aluminum used in the process is properly anodized and TIG Welded to withstand tough conditions without bending or cracking in the process. Furthermore, the rack can be easily cleaned using a proper cloth without worrying about rusting or other kinds of damage.
For Nissan Rogue owners who are planning to transport their bike on it, have a look at best bike racks for Nissan Rogue
4. Schwinn Bike Rear Rack – Luggage Folding Rack of Bike
Specifications:
- Best For: 26, 27, 700c bikes
- Material: Aluminum
- Weight: 1 lbs.
- Load Capacity: 26 lbs.
Schwinn Bike Rear Rack, similar to its previously mentioned counterparts, is characterized by the use of durable aluminum during the manufacturing process.
The aluminum is renowned for its extreme strength and will not get damaged even under high pressure. Thus, it is perfect for carrying goods from one place to another.
The aluminum used in the bike rack imparts durability to its surface and reduces the impact of damage caused by harsh environmental conditions as well as other physical factors.
Furthermore, despite being a metal, aluminum is lightweight and thus, does not increase the weight of the rear bike rack. This makes it easier for you to carry it from one place to another without any difficulty or expert guidance. Hence, contributing to enhanced portability in the long term.
We also observed that the rack height is also adjustable in nature and can be modified according to the consumer’s preferences. This coupled with the adjustable seat, adds five stars to its overall abilities and increases the versatility of the model for a diverse range of applications.
This bicycle cargo rack is capable of withstanding around 26 pounds of weight without bending or breaking, thereby allowing you to use it for basic tasks on a regular basis with utmost efficiency and precision.
Similarly, the rack is also relatively easier to install and does not require any additional effort on your part. Moreover, beginners can also install the rack without any expert guidance because of the simple installation procedure. Hence, making it an ideal option for the majority of novice users that lack prior experience in this regard.
What I Like?
- Durable and compact
- Cost-effective
- Suitable for beginners
What I Don’t Like?
- Compatibility issues with some bikes
Why I Suggested Schwinn Rear Bike Rack
Schwinn Bike Rear Rack enjoys immense popularity among users of diverse backgrounds because of its exceptional abilities. This heavy-duty rear bike rack can be easily cleaned in simple steps and does not require regular maintenance on your part. So, you can enjoy a worry-free transportation experience with little regard to durability and maintenance.
If you own SUV, you can have a look at best bike racks for SUV no hitch
5. DIRZA Rack for Back of Bike
Specifications:
- Best For: 18″ to 27.5″ Mountain Bike
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Weight: 2.35 lbs.
- Load Capacity: 115 lbs.
Next up on the list is the DIRZA Rear Bike Rack, which is famous for its remarkable sturdiness and high durability.
The durability increases the strength of the system and protects it from getting damaged due to a wide variety of environmental and physical factors. Thus, making it last longer than you originally expected.
Similar to other rear bike racks available in the market, this version of the DIRZA rear bike rack is also characterized by durable aluminum construction which is properly anodized and can easily withstand heavyweight without any difficulty.
The most highlighting attribute of DIRZA rear bike rack is its ability to carry up to 115 pounds of weight without bending or cracking. This makes it superior above all the previously mentioned counterparts and increases the overall ability of the bike rack.
I highly recommend it for mountain climbing because of its secure bolts that can be used to mount the rack on the bike. Furthermore, the installation process is also relatively easy and does not require much effort on the users part. So, you can carry it out easily without any expert guidance. This makes it a perfect option for a wide variety of users, especially those that lack prior experience in this regard.
The majority of the users also appreciate the lightweight of the rack, which increases its portability and makes it a perfect traveling companion. Last but not least, the ergonomic design of the DIRZA rear bike rack increases its suitability for those that are searching for user-friendly bike racks for regular use.
What I Like?
- Lightweight and portable
- User-friendly
- Adjustable design
What I Don’t Like?
- Screws require tightening
Why I Suggested DIRZA Rear Bike Rack
DIRZA Rear Bike Rack stands out among the rest of its counterparts and is second to none in terms of performance and efficiency. This mountain bike rear rack displays an adjustable design that allows you to modify it depending on your requirements and increases the versatility of the rack to a great extent. I assure you will not face any problem in this regard.
If you own Sedan and planning to transport bikes on it, have a look at best bike racks for Sedan
6. SONGMICS Rear Mounted Bike Rack
Specifications:
- Best For: 26″ to 29″ bike frames
- Material: Aluminum Alloy
- Weight: 2.2 lbs.
- Load Capacity: 55 lbs.
- Other Specification: Suitable for disk brake bikes
SONGMICS rack is a performance-oriented rear bike rack. It is famous for its top-notch attributes and unrivaled performance efficiency, which makes it stand out among the others of its kind.
We highly appreciate the anodized, TIG-welded aluminum used in the construction process, which imparts durability to SONGMICS read bike rack and prevents it from getting damaged in a variety of harsh environmental conditions.
Similarly, the rack is not prone to corrosion and rusting and thus can last for a long time before displaying the signs of wear and tear. The majority of the users also admire the lightweight construction of the rack, which makes it easier to carry around from one place to another. This is highly suitable for those that like traveling a lot or have to transport goods on a daily basis.
We assure you will be impressed by the overall abilities of the system and will not feel disappointed with this investment. Apart from the above-mentioned attributes, another outstanding feature that grabbed my attention is the inclusion of different triangular stands on both sides of the bike rack. These stands are characterized by increased stability and will prevent the rack from falling even when riding at a relatively fast speed.
Moreover, the design of the SONGMICS rear bike rack is also adjustable in nature and can be changed according to the users requirements. You can modify the rack height and position according to the comfort level of the consumer without exerting any additional effort. I believe all of this can be easily carried out by beginners even without any expert guidance.
What I Like?
- Increased sturdiness
- Inexpensive
- Corrosion-resistant
What I Don’t Like?
- Limited weight carrying ability
Why I Suggested SONGMICS Rear Bike Rack
SONGMICS Bike Rear Rack is my ultimate recommendation to all the users out there because of its user-friendly design and low price, which makes it an ideal option for those with financial difficulties. Furthermore, the rack can be installed using stainless steel bolts to avoid durability and corrosion issues in the future.
For transporting bikes on Honda CRV, have a look at bike racks for Honda CRV
7. UFANME Rear Bike Rack for Road Bike
Specifications:
- Best For: Road bike, mountain bike and fat bike
- Material: Corrosion resistant aluminum and rubber
- Weight: 2.49 lbs.
- Load Capacity: 55 lbs.
UFANME Bike Rear Rack displays extraordinary weight-carrying abilities and is capable of carrying up to 110 pounds of weight without bending and cracking.
This is attributed to the aluminum alloy-based construction, which is known for its remarkable strength and sturdiness and will prevent the bike rack from getting damaged due to harsh environmental conditions.
Furthermore, aluminum also increases the strength and the ability of the rack to withstand heavyweight so I assure that the rear bike rack you are using will not bend even when faced with a heavyweight. In addition to this, the bike rack itself is relatively easier to install, and the installation can be carried out at home.
The bolts used for the installation procedure are not prone to damage and can last for a long time without displaying any major signs of damage or performance inefficiency. To my surprise, a safety warning reflector light is also incorporated into the rear bike rack to notify the users in case of stability issues.
This prevents the bike rack and cargo from falling off, especially when riding up the hill at a relatively fast speed. Hence, securing both the goods as well as the bike. This is highly useful for those that find it difficult to carry goods from one place to another using traditional bike racks.
Similarly, the straps can also be used for additional protection and will prevent the cargo from falling off while riding. This version of the UFANME rear bike rack is one of my most favorite and thus is highly recommended to all those searching for durable yet budget-friendly bike racks for regular use.
What I Like?
- Long-lasting
- Inexpensive
- Lightweight and compact
What I Don’t Like?
- Large clamp
Why I Suggested UFANME Bike Rear Rack
UFANME Bike Rear Rack Display is my ultimate recommendation to all beginners and professionals alike because of its unrivaled attributes and high-quality construction. The rack is lightweight in nature and can be carried out from one place to another with its efficiency and precision. Thus, it is highly suitable for traveling purposes as well as transporting goods.
Confused about toeing bike to the truck for transportation? If yes, then read my review on best tailgate pads which helps you to toe them safely without scratching bikes and truck.
Rear Bike Rack Alternative
Various materials can be used as potential alternatives to the rear bike racks. They include the use of ordinary racks around the seat to carry additional stuff. Furthermore, folding bike racks are another class of bike racks that are highly popular for their remarkable portability and storage because of their compact, lightweight and foldable nature.
Users also prefer extra high capacity bike racks to store materials that are relatively higher in quantity for hassle-free transport and storage in the long term. If you own Toyota Sienna, have a look at Toyota Sienna bike racks
What to look for while Purchasing the Rear Bike Racks?
There are a wide variety of factors that can be taken into account while purchasing the best rear bike racks. They vary from the weight carrying ability of the rock to its durability and price. I highly suggest purchasing rear bike rack that possess large weight carrying abilities. The larger the number, the better it is for the users.
Racks with the ability to carry up to 110 pounds of weight are highly preferred because they will not bend even when faced with the toughest of situations. Furthermore, they are highly versatile in nature and can be used to carry additional stuff from one place to another. Apart from this, I also suggest looking into the material of construction and durability of the model.
Both these factors are interdependent and impact each other significantly. I advise going for bike racks that are made up of TIG-welded, anodized aluminum to prevent durability issues.
Aluminum is famous for its sturdiness and its pre-processing to further improve its strength to a great extent. Thus, racks that use aluminum in the manufacturing process are designed to last for a long time with little damage incurred.
Do you own a mini cooper and want to transport bikes on it. Have a look at my collection of best bike racks for mini cooper
FAQs about Rear Bike Racks
What Can You Carry On A Rear Bike Rack?
Rear bike racks can be used to carry a lot of materials ranging from cargos to daily necessities and much more. It is highly dependent on the user’s convenience about what they want to carry on the rear rack they are using with their bikes.
Here are some of my recommendations in this regard!
- You can use your rear bike rack to carry your bags and other grocery items.
- They can be attached to the side of the rack and then properly secured with straps to prevent them from falling down when riding at high speed.
- Apart from this, you can also attach some buckets or baskets on the sides of the rack to carry additional items like stationery, basic necessities as well as your sports equipment without worrying about losing them on the way.
- The majority of the users also prefer carrying cargo from one place to another using the rear bike rack. This can be used for both professional and personal use depending on the weight carrying ability of the rack and the size of cargo.
Are rear bike racks safe?
Yes, rear bike racks are extremely safe for a wide variety of activities. They possess high-weight carrying abilities that make them suitable for a wide variety of activities. Furthermore, they are also secured with stainless steel bolts and screws, which protect the rack from falling apart in case of excessive weight or while riding at relatively high speed. Thus, making them last longer than you originally expected.
You may also be interested to read about Bike Racks for Subaru Forester
Wrapping Up Rear Bike Racks Review
Transporting cargo might become difficult if you lack proper means of transport. Thus, it is important to choose a suitable rear bike rack for yourself to avoid unwanted issues.
These rear bike racks are characterized by the inclusion of durable straps, triangular stands for stability, aluminum-based construction, and exceptional weight-carrying abilities.
Thus, based on these factors, the following are my top recommendations for all the bike riders out there.
- Topeak Explorer Rack for its enhanced durability, increased portability, lightweight construction, ease of use, negligible maintenance, and large weight carrying abilities.
- Planet Bike Eco Bike Rack because of its sturdiness, effortless maintenance, hassle-free installation, lightweight and compact design, and budget-friendliness.
- Ibera Bike Rack due to its high portability, cost-effectiveness, easy installation, increased durability, enhanced stability, and large weight carrying abilities.
Thus, they are perfect for those searching for the best rear bike racks.
Alexandra Betty
Hi, I’m Alexandra Betty, co-founder of OutdoorGearsHub.com! I am a cycling enthusiast and currently living in Waltham, Massachusetts. I love just about everything about the cycling industry, which is why I created this site! Combining my passion with my work has always been extremely important to me. Feel free to reach out, leave comments, or recommend improvements to the site and its content so we can help you improve your cycling experience!
I am on a mission to enable everyone to spend more time on a bike and outdoors. So whether it’s on the road, gravel, mountain, e-biking, or just cruising around – Outdoor Gears Hub is the place to come for trusted advice.
Learn More about Outdoor Gears Hub
We participate in affiliate programs to help us fund OutdoorGearsHub. Some of the links in OutdoorGearsHub are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase a product using our link, we will earn a small commission. Don’t worry! This comes at no additional cost to you, and we will never base our reviews on whether or not we earn a commission off of a product. With that said, if you find our review helpful and are willing to purchase it, we would be very appreciative if you use OutdoorGearsHub links to do so. It will help us bring you more awesome content in the future!
