Storing and transporting a recumbent trike can be a challenge, especially if you frequently travel by car, truck, or SUV. This guide highlights five hitch-mount racks designed to carry adult tricycles and fat-tire e-trikes with 2″ receivers. Each option is evaluated for stability, weight handling, and ease of use, helping riders choose the best carrier for their needs. Ideal buyers include weekend riders, vacation-travelers, and anyone seeking a secure, no-hassle way to tow a recumbent trike.
Overview of top picks:
- Hitch Mount Trike Rack for Tricycles, Fat Tire Etrike Rack — Best overall for heavy fat tires and multi-vehicle compatibility
- MOPHOTO Folding Trike Rack — Best budget-friendly folding option with anti-wobble design
- MOONCOOL Folding Hitch Trike Rack — Best for high capacity and long wheelbases
- Sunlite HRT-100 2in Trike Receiver Tray Rack — Best compact tray-style carrier
- Hitch Mount Trike Rack with 3 Ramps — Best for easy loading and secure ramp-assisted access
| Product | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Mount Trike Rack for Tricycles | Heavy fat-tire e-trikes | Ramps included, versatile mounting |
| MOPHOTO Folding Trike Rack | Budget-friendly folding | Compact when folded, anti-wobble |
| MOONCOOL Folding Hitch Trike Rack | Large wheelbases, high capacity | 2″ receiver, fat tires |
| Sunlite HRT-100 | Simple tray carrier | 2-inch receiver, light footprint |
| Hitch Mount Trike Rack with 3 Ramps | Easy loading with ramps | Three ramps for versatile access |
Hitch Mount Trike Rack for Tricycles
This rack is designed for fat-tire e-trikes and adult tricycles with a 2″ receiver. It includes three ramps to simplify loading and unloading, improving stability during transit. Best for riders with heavy or wide tires who need a solid, all-around carrier. The three-ramps setup helps prevent wheel misalignment, reducing wobble on the highway.
Best for: Riders with large, fat tires and multiple vehicle uses. Why selected: Strong load capacity and ramp-assisted access. Caution: Ensure your vehicle’s receiver and hitch are compatible with the rack’s mounting points.
MOPHOTO Folding Trike Rack
The MOPHOTO folding rack supports up to 170 pounds and folds away for storage. It fits fat tires and longer wheelbases, making it a versatile option for adult trikes and electric trikes. The anti-wobble design helps keep the trike steady during transport. It’s ideal for riders seeking a space-saving solution that still handles bulky tires.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who need a foldable, stable carrier. Why selected: Folding convenience plus solid anti-wobble construction. Caution: Folding mechanisms require periodic maintenance to prevent play in the joint.
MOONCOOL Folding Hitch Trike Rack
MOONCOOL offers a high-capacity option with compatibility for up to 5″ fat tires and wheelbases between 42″ and 59″. This folding rack is suited for long, wide trikes and is ready for rear-motor or manual trikes alike. The 2″ receiver mount makes it a flexible choice for many vehicle types, including vans and SUVs.
Best for: Riders with large wheelbases or heavy loads seeking a high-capacity carrier. Why selected: Broad tire compatibility and long wheelbase support. Caution: Folding mechanisms can add weight to the rack, requiring careful handling during installation.
Sunlite HRT-100 Trike Receiver Tray Rack
The Sunlite HRT-100 is a straightforward tray-style rack designed for 2″ receivers. It offers a compact footprint and a simple loading process, making it a good option for riders who want a lightweight carrier that’s easy to install and remove. Best for urban trips or quick outings where space is a premium.
Best for: City riders and light-duty transport where a compact tray suffices. Why selected: Simplicity and lower profile for easy access. Caution: Tray style may be less forgiving for very wide trikes compared to ramped carriers.
Hitch Mount Trike Rack with 3 Ramps
This option emphasizes ramp-assisted loading with three ramps, easing the process of placing a trike onto the rack and securing it for travel. It’s suitable for various trike sizes and weights, offering a dependable solution when frequent loading and unloading are required. Best for: Users who value easy ramp access and stability in one package. Caution: Ensure ramps are compatible with your trike width and tire profile.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for Recumbent Trike Carriers
- Vehicle compatibility: Confirm receiver size (2″ is standard) and vehicle clearance when a bike rack is mounted.
- Tire width and wheelbase: Fat tires and long wheelbases may require higher-capacity racks or specific wheelbase ranges.
- Loading method: Ramps vs. tray loading affect ease of use; consider your frequency of loading and physical comfort.
- Security and stability: Look for anti-wobble features, tiedowns, and wheel trays to minimize movement during transport.
- Foldability and storage: Folding racks save space but can add setup time; weigh convenience against space requirements.
- Weight rating: Ensure the rack’s weight capacity exceeds the trike’s weight, including any accessories.
- Durability and weather resistance: Powder-coated or stainless steel housings typically resist corrosion in varied climates.
FAQ
- What is a 2″ receiver hitch? It is the standard hitch size on many cars, trucks, and SUVs, compatible with most trike racks listed here.
- Can I transport two trikes with these racks? Some models are designed for single-trike use; check each product’s capacity and mounting options for dual transport.
- Are ramps necessary for loading? Ramps greatly simplify loading, especially for heavier trikes, but some racks use tray-based loading without ramps.
- Will a fat-tire trike fit on all of these racks? Compatibility depends on wheelbase and tire width; verify wheelbase and tire specs before purchasing.
- Is installation permanent? Most racks are removable, but some require tools for mounting; follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions for safe use.
- How do I prevent wobble during transport? Use anti-wobble devices, secure wheel chocks, and tighten all mounting bolts as specified.