Best Bike Rack for Ranger

[Ranger's My Middle Name]

I'm considering different options on the best bike rack for our pickups. What is working for everyone? I was thinking about a bar type system, as that seems like it would anchor the bikes down well. You DO have to remove the front wheel, but seems like they would be held securely and I figure that is the only way bikes would fit in the short box with the end gate up anyway. Also would work as a cargo divider, which is a plus for me. I would need to transport 3 bikes. I have seen people using a few different options on a few different posts and build threads, just thought it would be nice to have in one spot and see what everyone likes best!

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[FULLSCALE]

I’m just using a tray style hitch mounted rack. I have the two-bike rack and just swap out the wheel holders depending on if I have my fat bike on it or not.

 

[MTB-BRUH]

This

 

[Ranger's My Middle Name]

This

That was going to be my other choice. Probably a basic question, but are the bikes stable? Do they fasten down in the bed in anyway? Lastly, any wear or rub points on the paint?

 

[LNK_Keff]

I've also gone with a tray style hitch mount (Thule). Too much work taking wheels on and off, especially with a thru-axle. I have, however, used the cargo bar styled rack in prior vehicles and had zero issues. Probably a 2 bike max fit in that scenario.

 

[DRVN1]

That was going to be my other choice. Probably a basic question, but are the bikes stable? Do they fasten down in the bed in anyway? Lastly, any wear or rub points on the paint?

I was curious also, I have never seen one in person or know anyone that uses one. But for the price and simplicity I am leaning towards going with one of these.

 

[MTB-BRUH]

That was going to be my other choice. Probably a basic question, but are the bikes stable? Do they fasten down in the bed in anyway? Lastly, any wear or rub points on the paint?

There are straps that go around the frame but you definitely don’t need them. Plop the bike there and it ain’t going anywhere.. nope no wear on the paint. I mean you can also just use a towel to protect the truck just to see how it works. The tailgate pad is better though

 

[SemperVee]

Have done it both ways but looking for a hitch mounted lock on bike rack for security and simplicity.

 

[LNK_Keff]

Have done it both ways but looking for a hitch mounted lock on bike rack for security and simplicity.

I'd definitely recommend the Thule T2 Pro XT series of hitch racks. Easy mounting on the hitch (though heavy AF), lockable, and decent cables to lock the bike to the rack. I probably wouldn't leave my bikes locked on there overnight, but definitely secure enough for going to the store / gas station, etc. I also had a Yakima hitch mounted rack, but sold since it didn't fit 3" + tires. It was also a decent rack, but the bolt on hitch was always a challenge and lowering it for tailgate access wasn't ideal. I have friends that swear up and down that 1UP is the best out there, but they're a little spendy for me.

 

[Dropper]

So i fretted over this and went with www.latchitrack.com

I also own a kuat and a Northshore 6.

it just came the other day but is an Xmas present so wont have it built till the 25th. will report back.

He just started making them for the ranger.

videos below.

 

[Surfink]

I went with a Rocky Mounts and a Yakima

"BackSwing"

 

[PNW_Ranger87]

So i fretted over this and went with www.latchitrack.com

I also own a kuat and a Northshore 6.

it just came the other day but is an Xmas present so wont have it built till the 25th. will report back.

He just started making them for the ranger.

videos below.

Very interesting design... I was sort of considering a tailgate pad but the went out the window pretty quickly. My current plan is a hitch mounted platform rack like the Thule T2 Pro. I wonder if this rack will clear a tri-fold tonneau cover. It looks like it will but I would definitely need to confirm that before considering it.

 

[Dropper]

Very interesting design... I was sort of considering a tailgate pad but the went out the window pretty quickly. My current plan is a hitch mounted platform rack like the Thule T2 Pro. I wonder if this rack will clear a tri-fold tonneau cover. It looks like it will but I would definitely need to confirm that before considering it.

After I get in on Xmas I will throw my longest bike in there (Large Megatower) and measure the distance to the rear tire. That way you have an idea where your flip top would be. I m gonna do a flip or a roll top and this will definitely weigh in on this decision.

 

[Jack]

For my truck I actually did an in-bed DIY rack for $40 (probably could've been cheaper) just with a ratcheting cargo bar and some fork mounts:

Used it multiple times with road bikes and heavier mountain bikes and it's worked like a charm! If anybody wants the specific parts just let me know and I'll send you them.

 

[Ranger's My Middle Name]

For my truck I actually did an in-bed DIY rack for $40 (probably could've been cheaper) just with a ratcheting cargo bar and some fork mounts:

Used it multiple times with road bikes and heavier mountain bikes and it's worked like a charm! If anybody wants the specific parts just let me know and I'll send you them.

Yes now this looks like the ticket! Could it hold three bikes? Does the endgate shut? How did you anchor the mounts to the bar??
Looks great and simple!

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