Best Bike Racks for Fat Bikes (2023)

Fat bikes are great for biking anywhere and in any weather, but they're not so easy to load onto just any bike rack. The bike rack that transports your fat bike must be able to accommodate the thick tire and additional weight.

We've put together this list for the best bike racks for fat bikes in 2023. See which racks made the list below!

What Type of Bike Rack Do I Need for My Fat Bike?

The safest way to carry your fat bike is with a hitch-mounted platform-style carrier. There are several reasons bike enthusiasts prefer hitch-mounted platform-style racks over other types.

Hitch-mounted platform racks:

Have higher weight capacities than other types of racks
Don't require overhead clearance (unlike roof racks)
Are more aerodynamic and fuel efficient than roof racks
Are less likely to be destroyed by low garages

Check out our top 5 list of hitch-mounted platform racks below!

Top Bike Racks of 2023 for Fat Bikes

Bike Rack

Capacity

Why Choose This Rack?

Thule T2 Pro XT

2-4 Bikes

Most Recommended by Cyclists

Kuat NV

2-4 Bikes

Attachable Repair Stand

RockyMounts Backstage

2 Bikes

Easiest Cargo Access

Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE 2-4 bikes

2-4 Bikes

Value Rack

Best Fat-Bike Racks of 2023

Thule T2 Pro XT

Pros

Thule has earned its respected reputation with high-quality products like the T2 Pro XT. This hitch-mounted, platform-style rack is fat-bike ready—no extra adapters required. The T2 Pro XT holds your bikes by the wheels, not the frame, so you don't have to worry about scratching your bike while you drive. The front-mounted HitchSwitch lever makes it easy for one person to tilt the rack and allow for rear cargo access. The rack includes locks for both your bikes and your rack as a theft deterrent. The T2 Pro XT is compatible with wheels as small as 20", so it's also great for taking along the kids' bikes.

Cons

At 96 lbs for the 4-bike model, the T2 rack isn't the easiest to lift alone. You may need a second set of hands.

Thule T2 Pro XT Key Features

Capacity: 2 bikes or 4 bikes (60 lbs per bike)

Mounting Style: Hitch Mount - Platform

Add-Ons: Expansion add-on # TH9036XT converts 2-bike rack to 4-bike rack

Allows Trunk/Cargo Access: Yes

Hitch Size: 1-1/4" or 2"

Carrier Weight: 52 lbs (2-bike rack); 96 lbs (4-bike rack)

Locks Included: Yes (Bikes & Rack)

Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Customer Review: 5/5

The pinnacle of bike racks. Hauls my 60 lb electric fat bike around with no problem. Quickly and solidly attaches my bikes so I'm on my way without a lot of messing around. Well worth the funds.

Watch Now: Thule T2 Pro XT Review

Kuat NV

Pros

The Kuat NV grips your bike by its front wheels via ratcheting hooks, so the rack never makes frame contact. The front-mounted foot lever lets a single person easily tilt the rack for rear cargo access. Keyed-alike locks are included for both your bikes and the rack, and the hand-tightening cam system means a tool-free installation in your hitch. The Kuat NV is made of corrosion-resistant aluminum, so the rack is a great choice for biking in moist or humid climates. Bonus: the Trail Doc bike maintenance stand attaches to the front of the NV, so you can repair and adjust your bike on the go.

Cons

An adapter/strap extender is required for use with fat bikes. The rack, especially the 4-bike version, is quite heavy and may require more than one person to lift/install/remove.

Kuat NV Key Features

Capacity: 2 bikes or 4 bikes (60 lbs per bike)

Mounting Style: Hitch Mount - Platform

Add-Ons: Phat bike strap extender # APBK; Expansion add-on # NA22B converts 2-bike rack to 4-bike rack; repair # TDKB stand attaches to rack

Allows Trunk/Cargo Access: Yes

Hitch Size: 1-1/4" or 2"

Carrier Weight: 52 lbs (2 bike); 82 lbs (4 bike

Locks Included: Yes (Bikes & Rack)

Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Customer Review: 5/5

I did a lot of research on tray racks and had narrowed it down to Thule, 1up, and Kuat. Then I started looking at what other riders were using. I didn't see any 1ups where I ride, but I did see a lot of Thules and Kuats. Thule owners are happy with their racks but Kuat owners are FANATICS! Nearly every Kuat owner was a "brand ambassador." So far this rack had really lived up to the hype....I guess I am now a Kuat brand ambassador too! (Assembly tip: assemble upside down and use foam or pillows to prop up center piece as you align the arms.)

Watch Now: Kuat NV Review

RockyMounts Backstage

Pros

The RockyMounts BackStage swing-away rack is the only swing-away hitch rack that swings out 180 degrees for easy cargo access. The large wheel cradles make it easy to load your fat bikes, and the ratcheting hooks hold your bikes by the wheels—no frame contact necessary! Locks are included to secure your bikes and rack.

Cons

The included locks are a theft-deterrent, but they are not foolproof. You may wish to purchase an upgrade. The RockyMounts Backstage is not available as a 4-bike rack.

RockyMounts Backstage Key Features

Capacity: 2 bikes (60 lbs per bike)

Mounting Style: Hitch Mount - Platform

Add-Ons: N/A

Allows Trunk/Cargo Access: Yes

Hitch Size: 2"

Carrier Weight: 60 lbs

Locks Included: Yes

Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Customer Review: 5/5

So glad I found this rack! We bought it to carry two fat tire electric bikes while still retaining access to the back of our camper. This is the *only* readily available swing-out bike carrier that is both made to accommodate fat tire bikes *and* carry the weight of electric models . . . Overall, this rack is a total winner and solves the issue of transporting fat tire e-bikes while keeping access to the rear of your vehicle. Fat tire e-bikes are growing in popularity and I'm sure this rack will as well.

Watch Now: RockyMounts Backstage Review

Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2

Pros

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 is a cost-effective, heavy-duty rack capable of supporting up to 4 fat bikes, or 2 bikes plus 100 lbs of cargo with the cargo carrier extension. If you want to carry bikes but don't have room for your extra gear, this cargo carrier/bike rack combo offers the best of both worlds. Cushioned hooks secure your bike frame without scratching the finish. You can still enjoy convenient rear cargo access with the bikes loaded by means of two quick-release spring pins, which allow the rack to tilt down. Locks are included for added security. Even better, all of this comes at a great price point that won't break the bank.

Cons

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 is the only rack on this list that makes frame contact with your bikes (although the ratcheting hooks are heavily cushioned).

Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 Key Features

Capacity: 2 bikes or 4 bikes (50 lbs per bike) + 100 lbs cargo

Mounting Style: Hitch Mount - Platform

Add-Ons: 2-bike + cargo carrier # HR1450Z-85-FB; 4-bike + cargo carrier # HR1400Z-85-FB

Allows Trunk/Cargo Access: Yes

Hitch Size: 2"

Carrier Weight: 48 lbs (2 bikes); 82 (4 bikes); 95 lbs (2 bikes + cargo carrier)

Locks Included: Yes

Warranty: Limited Lifetime

Customer Review: 5/5

You want sturdy? This is your rack. It is well built! Takes about 90 minutes for an ordinary woman to assemble. Plan on getting some time learning which knob or lever does what. Not hard, but don't be in too much of a hurry. It's on the back of a 2014 Subaru Outback in Texas. It clears the bumper fine and folds up nicely with the four bike extension on it. I do have to allow for more gentle driving to escape dragging on dips in driveways. Haven't taken my trip yet, but happy with the purchase and astounded by the helpful employee and faster-than-promised delivery. A totally wonderful experience. That almost never happens!

Watch Now: Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 Review

Need a trailer hitch?

See hitches confirmed to fit your vehicle.

How to Choose a Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack

Which Bike Rack Mounting Style is Best for My Vehicle?

Written by: Amber S.

Updated on: 11/30/22

Donald K.

6/7/2022

I am looking for a fat tire E bike rack that can be mounted on a trailer or a truck bed .I have a fat tire bike rack now for two bikes I like to have one that can do more bikes

David B.

6/7/2022

What do you mean by "mounted on a trailer or truck bed"? Like mounted via a hitch receiver or a bumper? Or actually in the bed or the truck?

John C.

4/30/2021

I am buying a Bakcou Storm e-bike which the company says weighs 75 pounds. The bike racks recommended on this page state their maximum per bike weight is either 50 or 60 pounds. Is there another brand or model that will accomodate the 75 pound bike? Thank you in advance.

Jon G.

4/30/2021

The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HLY84FR would be what you're looking for as it has a weight capacity of 80 lbs per bike. Keep in mind that you do want to remove your battery prior to traveling to help reduce any stress on the battery - this will also lower the weight of your bikes.

John C.

4/30/2021

To @JonG Thank you for this helpful information.

Jon G.

4/30/2021

@JohnC Anytime!

John C.

5/2/2021

@JonG As you might guess, I am new to this area and have what are probably dumb questions. Please excuse my ignorance but here's my question. My new bike will weigh in at 75 pounds and 11 of those pounds are the battery. So after I remove the battery, I am looking to haul 64 pounds plus whatever other gear I have on the bike. My question is whether the 60 pound weight limit means exactly what it says or do the manufacturers build in maybe 5 to 15% more capacity and in reality, that 60 pound limit might mean 63 to 69 pounds.

Jon G.

5/4/2021

@JohnC While I'm sure there are tolerances built in, bike rack manufacturers don't want you to exceed the weight limit that they assign each bike rack. The rack should be able to handle more weight because they (and you) don't want to load it to it's absolute breaking point. The weight limits listed take into account any kind of high-speed maneuvering or obstacles you might encounter while on the road as well.

John C.

5/4/2021

@JonG In thinking about your recommendation of a Hollywood HLY84FR, that meets and exceeds my weight limit requirements. Because of this bike's weight, I will need a ramp to get it loaded. What is your recommendation for a ramp to use with that model rack?

Jon G.

5/5/2021

@JohnC Good point! There are only a few bike racks that have a ramp that either comes with them or can be purchased as an add-on. Since you're wanting a ramp I recommend checking out the Yakima OnRamp # Y36FR instead. It has a weight capacity of 66 lbs per bike and comes with a ramp stored on the rack itself.

John C.

5/5/2021

@JonG I looked at the Yakima and learned it does not have fat tracks but the Thule EZ Fold 903202 does. I would need the strapping for one fat tire bike. (We have not bought my wife's bike yet.) Other than the extra price, I did not see any downside to the Thule assuming it would fit on the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe. Can you please check on that for me. It has a 2 inch receiver.

Jon G.

5/6/2021

@JohnC The Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 is a great option too and it will fit just fine on your 2017 Santa Fe. Since you'll have a fat tire bike you'll need the Fat Bik Straps # TH985101. If you like the Yakima OnRamp instead then they have Fat Tire Straps # Y23FR that you can use.

See All (9) Replies to John C. ∨