Bicycle, cycle or bike racks are, indeed, a necessity for people who want to support their active lifestyle. They make bike storage in the car easy and secure especially if the best bike trails are miles away from your home. Luckily, there are many cycle racks to choose from. But in this article, we’ll review specifically the best bike racks for Toyota Rav4 and the best features your Rav4 cycle rack should have.
Finding the best cycle rack is difficult especially if you don’t have any idea what type of cycle rack you should get. That’s why before we go to the individual review, we’ll discuss first the best types of cycle racks for Rav 4 you can choose from.
Related: Thule Force vs Pulse: A Comparison of Cargo Boxes
Types of Rav4 Cycle Rack
There is a wide selection of Rav4 cycle racks to choose from, and they come in all types and variations. Whether it’s a roof rack, hitch rack, trunk or any other type, the end goal is to transport your bike as safely and securely as possible.
Roof Racks
Roof bike racks have different types to begin with. First, there are complete roof rack systems that can be placed on your car roof. Second, there are tray-style roof racks that attach to your car’s pre-installed crossbar or side rails. Lastly, there are suction cup roof racks that vacuum seal to almost any surface including your car.
You may load up your roof cycle rack with or without removing the front wheels. One major disadvantage of cycle roof racks is you might sometimes forget that you have your bike up there as you pull into the garage. Furthermore, make sure that you are able to lift your bikes over your head.
Hitch Racks
Hitch racks are considered the most convenient type of cycle rack. You won’t have to lift up your bikes over your head to the roof. Hitch bike racks attach directly to your car’s receiving hitch tube. The newer models of hitch bike racks are designed to fold up and or sideways should you need to access the trunk.
Hitch bike racks have the most integrated locks to secure the bikes to the rack which have adjustable arms. One major concern posed by hitch racks is that it makes your car a bit longer, essentially reducing your rear end clearance. Although some hitch racks are low profile, it may still cause some parking issues when you’re doing a back or parallel maneuver.
Trunk Racks
As the name itself implies, trunk racks are attached to your car’s trunk using straps and hooks together with foot support below for stability. Installing the attachments of trunk racks can be tricky at times, but still learnable. Likewise, it’s easy to remove and store when not in use.
Other things to consider include potential scratches to your car since the pedals and wheels aren’t that stabilized. The main concern for trunk racks are the attachment points because they don’t work on all cars, especially cars with spoilers and other accessories that may hinder attachment.
Tailgate Pads
Tailgate pads are commonly used on pickup trucks. They are also the simplest and easiest to install among the different types of racks. Both sides of the gate of your truck are covered and let you carry multiple bikes. A series of webbing straps are used to attach the pad over the tailgate.
The groove linings of the pad also double as a rear wheel tray. In essence, they are the more affordable option for cycle racks out there. Don’t expect too much from durability since tailgate pads are mostly made out of foam, polyester fabric, and soft fleece inner material.
The Best Toyota Rav4 Cycle Rack
Thule T2 Pro XTR
This list may not be in order, but the Thule T2 Pro XTR can be argued as the top choice among the featured racks here particularly for all hitch racks. Honestly, it also may be the best Rav4 cycle rack in the market as well. It definitely sets the standard for hitch racks.
It features an easy-to-reach tilt release handle. Moreover, the installation is a tool-free mounting system – no sweat. Other features of the T2 Pro work flawlessly such as the adjustable trays in order to handle virtually any bike on the market. This rack is the easiest and most intuitive model because of its versatility and ease of everyday use. Not to mention, the T2 Pro XTR is incredibly durable and ergonomic.
Other Product Features:
- Universal design to fit all bike types (up to 60 lbs each; zero contact)
- Built-in wheels for easy transport when unmounted on the car
- HitchSwitch to fold the rack up or down for trunk access and usage, respectively
- Does not block your rear window and has a very low profile design
- Can fit 20 to 29-inch wheels and wide wheel trays that can fit up to 5-inch tires
- Integrated cable locks to secure bikes to the rack and locking knob for to mount the rack to the hitch receiver
- Generous 12.5″ spacing between bikes with the ability to adjust side to side to eliminate bike interference
Yakima Fullback Trunk Mount Bike Rack
The Yakima Fullback Trunk Mount Bike Rack is a 3-bike rack that features a 4-strap mounting system. It also includes interlocking HUB for a quick and easy mounting on your Rav4. The Fullback is a reliable trunk rack that is more stable than other conventional trunk racks in the market.
Additionally, the adjustable arms also feature SuperCrush cradles which have anti-sway capabilities. The ZipStrip is an added bonus for easy bike loading, and locks the bike and rack it in place with its integrated locks with Same Key System (SKS)
Other Product Features:
- Can load up to 3 adult bikes easily
- Weight capacity: 35 lbs per bike (90 lbs maximum load)
- Arm Distance: (outside cradle to outside cradle): 12 inches
- Product weight: 21 lbs
- Rubber and foam pads on contact points protect your trunk from scratches and scuffs
- Sturdy bomber steel construction with high-gloss finish
- Foldable rack for easy storage in your trunk or garage
- Built-in bottle opener on the rack arm for easy beverage opening
Yakima HighRoad Roof Bike Rack
The Yakima HighRoad roof bike rack lets you carry 1 bike on the roof rack crossbars of your Rav4. The pivot hoops hold the front wheel in place, essentially securing your bike. The integrated TorqueRight knob prevents you from over tightening the hoops.
The rear wheel cradle is also adjustable to fit your bike accordingly. Overall, the HighRoad roof bike rack features a low-profile design that minimizes wind drag and has a sturdy frame coated with chip-resistant powder black finish.
Other Product Features:
- No frame contact and no wheel removal needed
- Adjustable wheel holder and ratchet straps to secure rear wheel
- Easy installation on most roof crossbars
- Yakima universal lock system applicable on TailWhip and rear mounting clamp
- Integrated anchor wheel point accepts a U-lock up to 1-inch diameter
- Hoops can be folded flat down when not in use
Yakima Dr. Tray
The Yakima Dr. Tray features a unique design for a standard tray-style hitch rack. The trays can be adjusted without the need of extra tools. You can also add in an extra tray to carry up to 3 bikes without getting too bulky on your Rav4. Other tray-style hitch racks feature a single support bar while the Dr. Tray has 2.
The quick release clamps allow you to adjust the trays and carry nearly all types of bikes. The easy lock and anti-wobble system are both excellent features. On the other hand, the bulk of the rack is made with aluminum only which could cause some concerns with long-term durability.
Other Product Features:
- Carries 2 bikes of all types (40 lbs maximum per bike)
- Incredibly lightweight aluminum design at only 34 lbs
- No bike-to-bike contact – up to 18 inches of space between bikes
- Easy adjustment of rack with the remote controlled tilt lever
- SKS cable locking system also included to secure the wheels and frame of bike
- Tool free locking speed knob to secure the wheels and frames of your bikes
Kuat Sherpa 2.0
The Kuat Sherpa 2.0 is another stray-style bike hitch mount bike rack. Its design is very simple yet elegant that would go well on your Rav4 much like its old version, Sherpa 1.0. Furthermore, the Sherpa is easy to install and use. While it’s frame is lightweight, it does lack the versatility to accommodate some bikes because of adjusting limitations.
On downside about the Sherpa 2.0 is that it can only hold up to 3-inch tires. Also, the trays are fixed, so adjusting the space in between bikes is out of the question. Despite this, the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 showed promise with the assembly experience.
Other Product Features:
- Lightweight and fairly easy to assemble
- Foot release feature to depress the rack when in folded up position
- Uses an expanding cam system by using a locking hitch pin
- Easy storage – smaller overall size and lighter weight
- Non-integrated cable locks to secure the rack
- Aluminum glossy coat finish is resistant to corrosion
RockyMounts Monorail
The RockyMounts Monorail is a much less expensive bike rack in the market. This is a hitch mount platform-style bike rack features a no frame contact mounting. Also, the Monorail has a low loading height making it convenient to use especially on the Rav4.
The tilt release handle is easy to use as well as a sturdy clamping arm. Like other bike racks, the RockyMounts Monorail comes with integrated cable and hitch pin locks. The versatility of this bike rack is also as it can handle the bigger and bulkier bikes.
Other Product Features:
- 2 versions: Solo bike and a 2-bike platform ( up to 60 lbs each)
- Adjustable tray to avoid bike frame contact
- Can carry bikes up to 5-inch tires and wheelbases of 34 to 39 inches
- Folds flat and down to 30 degrees to allow vehicle hatch access
- Comes with an anti-wobble bolt to secure it to the receiving hitch
- Includes locking hitch pins, cable lock, and lock pads for security
- Solid metal construction that is durable but a little heavier at 44 lbs
Thule Spare Me 2-Bike Rack
The Thule Spare Me 2-Bike Rack is a tire mount bike rack that can easily carry 2 bikes of different sizes. It features dual arms with anti-sway cradles on the frame mount. In addition, the trays of the Spare Me are adjustable to fit different tire sizes.
The one lock key system included secures your bike, and the rack to your Toyota Rav4. The Thule Spare me 2 is also highly versatile as it can be repositioned to center your bikes despite the offset spare tires of the Rav4.
Other Product Features:
- Lets you carry 2 bikes up to 35 lbs per bike
- Heavy duty powder coated steel to ensure durability and protection
- Rubber cushions to protect your Rav4 spare tire against the bike rack
- Easy bike loading and unloading because of narrowly spaced dual arms
- Applies to all current vehicles with rear-mounted spare tires (12.5 x 33 inches)
- 2 mounting brackets and 2 standoffs to use on variety of tire widths
Kuat NV 2.0
The Kuat NV 2.0 is the new and improved version of its predecessor, the top-rated Kuat NV. The integrated Trail Doc work stand makes this platform hitch rack standout from the rest of the competition. The ratchet arms are easy to fit and release at the same time.
This also goes with the wheels traps which are easy to snug up. The NV 2.0 now uses two bigger burly cable locks instead of one on the previous version. Overall, the Kuat NV 2.0 is one of the more user-friendly hitch racks ever tested.
Other Product Features:
- Redesigned lever to now be pressed on by foot
- Can hold up to 60 lbs per bike including heavy electric bikes
- Uses the same car attachment system and adjustment knob as the NV 1.0
- Can carry bikes with tires up to 4.8 inches and wheel size of 20 to 29 inches
- Relatively heavier platform hitch rack at about 57 lbs
- Durable powder-coated finish that is highly scratch resistant
Thule UpRide
Thule UpRide is a roof-mounted cycle rack that features a innovative design. Much like a hitch rack, it delivers a secure hold to your bike without any frame and fork contact. The UpRide also works with big wheel sizes and tire widths without having the need to remove it.
One thing to consider is that the UpRide works best with lighter bikes. This roof rack also made installation and removal a simple and tool free task. Storage is easy with the UpRide thanks to its collapsible arms and cradles. On the flip side, you should purchase a separate lock system since the UpRide doesn’t have an integrated lock.
Other Product Features:
- Super lightweight design at only 18.5 lbs
- Three clamping points that are easy to loosen and tighten
- Can carry 20 to 29-inch wheels and 3-inch tires
- Can only carry up to 44 lbs (electric bikes are incompatible)
- UpRide Fat Bike Adapter also available for bigger wheels and tires
- Integrated locking cable that can extend out to rear tray
Inno Tire Hold
The Inno Tire Hold is another hitch rack that is very easy to use. This is complemented by its smooth tilt-down mechanism. The Tire Hold is also versatile as it can accommodate almost all wheel sizes and tire widths as well. Given this, it can hold up a 60-pounder bike including the heavier e-bikes.
Apart from its ease of use, it also has simple assembly procedure. On another note, the durability has been compromised as it doesn’t have a robust feel to its frame. One thing we like about the Inno Tire Hold is its unique clamping system that doesn’t frame, fork ,and even rim contact.
Other Product Features:
- Has 2-bike and 4-bike versions which
- Can carry up to 60 pounds each tray
- Tire Hold squeezes the wheels inward for a strong hold
- Simple push button to open up the wheel clamp arms
- 4 tilting positions for specific functions via accessible tilt handle
- Built-in cable locks that secures both the bike and rack in place
FAQs for Rav4 Cycle Rack
Here are some frequently asked questions for customers looking for a Toyota Rav4 cycle rack. There are many types of cycle racks each with its own pros and cons. Choosing the right one will depend on a variety of factors and personal priorities.
Does your Rav4 have an installed trailer hitch?
While the Rav4 is great for your outdoor experiences, not every Rav4 comes with a built-in receiver hitch. Fortunately, receiver hitches are very easy to install, and there are hundreds of options available. If your Rav4 does have a hitch, then we would recommend a hitch platform rack. You’ll also consider the size of the hitch receiver: it may be 1 ¼ inch or 2 inches. Keep in mind that hitch receivers can reduce a Toyota Rav4’s ground clearance.
How many bikes do you want to carry on your Rav4?
If you only have one to three bikes that you want to carry around, then almost any rack type will do. The real question starts when you want to carry more bikes. If you want to carry four to five bikes, you would need a hitch rack for that or a combination of trunk and roof racks. For a compact car such as the Rav4, you wouldn’t recommend carrying more than five bikes at a time. This puts too much stress on the attachment points of the Rav4 which could break.
Do you need to access the rear of your Rav4 while carrying your bikes?
Most of the hitch racks today can be titled down or swing to the side to give ample rear hatch access. Roof racks will completely get in the way of your trunk although they can be unstable depending on how it’s loaded and the rack’s capability itself. For trunk racks, you could only open your trunk completely once the bikes are removed. On other vehicles, you would have to remove the rack as well.
Do you prefer a Rav4 cycle rack that doesn’t have a bike frame contact?
If you own an expensive carbon-fiber bike, you might want to consider this. Avid cyclists are cautious about having frame contact because they might cause substantial damage. Roof and tray-style racks that use stabilizer bars also touch the frame. Trunk racks can also make it harder to mount oddly shaped mountain bikes. Platform hitch racks and roof racks hold bikes by their wheels instead of the frame.
Should you be concerned about theft?
Most models of hitch and roof racks have integrated lock systems to secure your racks onto the Rav4. Many high-end cycle racks have this as an added feature. Trunk racks are the most theft-prone because these racks are only held by straps that can be easily cut. Some experts recommend using third-party locks if you’re not satisfied with your rack’s integrated locking system. Known brands such as Thule and Yakima also sell these heavy-duty locks for increased security.
Final Thoughts for the best Rav4 Cycle Rack
Our review concludes that the best type of Rav4 cycle rack is a platform hitch rack. Nonetheless, there are many options of Rav4 cycle racks to choose from in the market today. This can be a tedious task, but luckily we have made it simpler for you by providing this comprehensive article. The familiar brand names appear on the list, so it can be a great idea to start from there.
In choosing a bike, you should consider different factors such as your budget, versatility, weight, and capacity. The Toyota Rav4 is a compact crossover SUV built for adventures, so you have to make sure that your bike rack can keep up with it. You could invest wisely on a heavy-duty cycle rack, and might as well pay extra for added features that would improve your experience.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a Rav4 cycle rack that may come in handy someday, you may opt for the simpler models that still do the job. This guide will surely narrow down your options when you’re deciding which one will best suit your needs and your Toyota Rav4 as well.
