Find the right spare tire bike carrier to fit your vehicle and riding style. This guide highlights five well-suited options for different needs, from budget-friendly two-bike racks to rugged, lockable designs. Best for weekend warriors, road-trippers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a stable, hitch-free mounting solution. The top picks emphasize keeping bikes away from exhaust, protecting finish, and offering simple setup. The table below helps compare core details at a glance.
| Product | Best For | Weight Capacity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack (Model 302DN) | Budget-conscious riders needing compact mounting | 70 lbs | 15″ carry arms; holds 2 bikes; quick assembly |
| JOYTUTUS Spare Tire Bike Rack (Wrangler & Bronco) | Heavy-duty on larger spare tires | 110 lbs | Anti-wobble, integrated lock, no tire removal |
| Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Bike Rack | Simple, reliable rear-mount option | Up to 35 lbs per bike | Fits most spare tires; easy installation |
| Allen Sports Premier 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack (S302) | High-clearance mounting for trucks/SUVs | Not specified in data | High-position design; dual cradles |
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Mounted Carrier (Model 322DN) | Versatile, high-and-wide bike mounting | Up to 70 lbs | High carry arms; wide frame compatibility |
Buying intent note: The options above balance ease of use, compatibility with common spare tire setups, and security features. Use this table as a quick reference when choosing a carrier that fits your vehicle type, bike size, and travel plans.
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack, Black
Features. Bikes are held away from the road and car’s exhaust. Narrow carry arms accommodate most styles and frame sizes. Bikes secured by individual tie-down cradles. Extra-wide bottom foot supports weight on the rear tire instead of the rim. Carry arms are 15″ long; hold up to 2 bikes. Quick assembly required. Weight Capacity: 70 lbs. Model: 302DN.
Best for: Budget-minded buyers who need a straightforward, two-bike carrier with high exhaust clearance and simple setup.
Why selected: It offers a low-cost entry into spare-tire mounting while maintaining a standard two-bike configuration and secure cradles. The 15″ arms and wide foot supports help stabilize bikes without touching the rim. Caution: May not fit some oversized frames or unusually shaped tires; confirm clearance on your vehicle’s rear bumper before purchase.
JOYTUTUS Spare Tire Bike Rack for 2 Bikes
Features. Fits spare tires 25.5″–37″ diameter and 10″–13.5″ width. Designed for Wrangler, Bronco, and similar vehicles. Integrated anti-wobble mechanism reduces vibration; heavy-duty ratchet buckle tightens securely. High-density rubber strips protect paint. Includes safety rope and integrated lock with rust-resistant steel; supports up to 110 lbs for two bikes.
Best for: Vehicle owners with large spare tires who want a robust, theft-deterrent solution without removing the tire.
Why selected: The anti-wobble feature and integrated lock provide stability and security, while rubber padding protects finishes. Caution: Size compatibility is critical; verify tire dimensions and bumper clearance before buying.
Hollywood Racks SR1 Spare Tire Bike Rack
Features. Synthetic, imported material designed for ready deployment. Specifically marketed as a spare-tire mount for SUVs and Jeeps, focusing on ease of use and compatibility with most spare tires.
Best for: Buyers seeking a simple, lightweight rear-mount rack for everyday use on SUVs or Jeeps.
Why selected: The SR1 provides straightforward installation and reliable two-bike capacity while avoiding exhaust interference. Caution: Limited detailed specifications in the data; check precise weight per bike and tire compatibility before purchase.
Allen Sports Premier 2-Bike Spare Tire Rack (S302)
Features. Patented design carries bikes high, away from the road and hot exhaust. Quick set 15″ long carry arms snap into place out of the box. Dual compound tie-down cradles protect and secure bicycles.
Best for: Riders needing elevated bike mounting to maximize rear clearance and exhaust protection.
Why selected: The high-position design reduces exposure to road debris and heat, while rapid-arm deployment supports fast, repeatable setup. Caution: Not all frame styles may be compatible with the specific cradle design; verify bike frame geometry before purchase.
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Spare Tire Mounted Carrier (Model 322DN)
Features. Patented design carries bikes high, away from road and hot exhaust. 15 inches long carry arms accommodate 2 bicycles (up to 70 pounds). Works with a wide range of bicycle styles and frame sizes. Patented individual tie down cradles secure and protect bicycles.
Best for: Riders who want a versatile, high-clearance option with strong frame protection for various bike types.
Why selected: The combination of high clearance and individual cradles helps protect both bikes and rims. Caution: Ensure the mounting points align with your specific spare-tire setup and bumper design.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a spare tire bike carrier?
- Vehicle compatibility: Check spare-tire diameter and width, bumper clearance, and mount type on SUVs and Jeeps.
- Bike compatibility: Assess frame styles, wheel sizes, and total weight to ensure the rack supports two bikes securely.
- Security features: Look for integrated locks or anti-wobble mechanisms to reduce theft risk and vibration.
- Installation and removal: Consider models with quick-assembly arms and simple mounting procedures for faster trips.
- Protection and finish: Prefer rubber padding or paint-protective strips to prevent scratches on tires and vehicle surfaces.
- Weight distribution: Choose racks that keep bikes away from exhaust and reduce rear-end debris exposure.
- Durability and materials: Powder-coated steel with rust resistance is ideal for long-term outdoor use.
FAQ
- Q: Do spare tire bike racks fit all SUVs and Jeeps? A: Most are designed for common spare-tire sizes, but always verify tire dimensions and bumper clearance with your vehicle.
- Q: Can I carry two full-size bikes? A: Many models support two bikes up to a combined weight limit; confirm per-bike weight and overall rating.
- Q: Is a lock necessary for safety? A: Integrated locks add security against theft, but they do not guarantee theft prevention.
- Q: Do racks require tire removal? A: Some models do not require removing the spare tire, while others may advise it for best fit.
- Q: What maintenance is needed? A: Regularly inspect cradles, straps, and hardware; tighten bolts and replace worn padding as needed.
- Q: Which option is best for high-clearance mounting? A: Models with high carry arms and elevated bike position reduce exposure to exhaust and road spray.