# 1
Thule GateMate Pro Tailgate Pad for Full-Size Trucks - Up to 7 Bikes - 53" Wide
I only gave this 3 stars because the straps that fasten the bike to the pad is to long to use on a tube for a normal road bike. The straps are 16 inches long and it wraps around my bikes twice leaving no room to fasten the strap together. I thought this seemed strange so I called etrailer customer service which gave me Thule service number and they seem to understand the issue but had the only solution of using a zip tie. It seems the straps work for a Mountain bike but not for smaller tubed bikes. Just keep this in mind when ordering. I also think you will need to secure the back of the bike if you are only hauling 1 or 2 so the not flop around.
It has 7 different areas to strap bicycles down but there is definitely not room to strap 7 bikes down from what I can tell. The straps were a little tricky to feed under the tailgate and pull up at the same time with only one person. Overall it works pretty well but it appears to only have enough room for 4 MTN bikes.
# 2
Swagman Paramount Tailgate Pad for Full-Size Trucks - Up to 7 Bikes - 61" Wide
I've been using this for a couple of years now. I mainly use it when we go camping. It's been great for carrying the 4 bikes we have. The bikes never have shifted/moved while in transit. The tailgate pad is a little tricky to put on (I lay under the truck and fish the strap up to my son). I've installed the mat by myself but it's way easier with 2 people.
It has been great for 5 or 6 bikes, easy to put on. A little tight and depending on the type of bike it won't line up in the designated spot but I can still velcro the bikes to keep them secure. Would definitely recommend the Swagman. It can be put on with one person but 2 is easier, one in the bed and one threading it through. The same is true for loading/unloading bikes, one in the bed of the truck and one handing the bikes up. I have definitely done it by myself so we're loaded and ready to go camping when the boys get home from school.
What our customers are saying:
"Very fast service. Shipped out an hour after I ordered it.Thanks!!"