For Riders Who Want Quick Access Without Losing Trunk Space
Let’s be honest—spare tire bike racks are a bit of a hidden gem. Everyone’s talking about hitch racks and roof setups, but if your SUV or off-roader has a big ol’ spare mounted on the back, you’re sitting on one of the easiest and most underrated ways to haul bikes.
No crawling under your bumper. No messing with your trunk space. No overhead lifting. Just strap it on, clip your bikes in, and hit the road (or trail).
The trick, though, is finding a spare tire rack that actually fits well, holds steady, and doesn’t leave you cursing every time you load a bike. We dug into the best options out there and found the ones that really deliver.
What to Know Up Front
- These racks are perfect—if your vehicle qualifies. Got a Jeep Wrangler, RAV4, or older CR-V with a rear-mounted spare? You’re golden. But if your spare’s tucked inside a tailgate or hidden under a plastic shell, things get tricky.
- You’re usually limited to two bikes. Most racks tap out around 35 lbs per bike. That’s fine for road and trail bikes—but don’t expect to haul a fat-tire e-bike unless you want to stress-test your rack (and your luck).
- Tire depth and bolt pattern really matter. Some racks are adjustable; others are… less forgiving. Make sure you check clearance and how far your spare sticks out before buying.
- Don’t expect fancy security. You’ll get a strap or two, maybe a cable if you’re lucky. If theft protection is a priority, plan to supplement with your own lock setup.
So, What Should You Buy?
Here’s the breakdown—five standout spare tire racks that actually do what they promise, from rugged 4×4 trail beasts to budget-friendly options that still get the job done.
Best Overall
Our Top Pick
Best for Off-Road Use
Most Budget-Friendly
Easiest to Mount
Best for Odd-Shaped Spares
A Smarter Buyer’s Guide: What to Actually Consider With Spare Tire Racks
Let’s cut through the usual fluff. You’re not choosing between 300 different models here—spare tire racks are a pretty specific solution. But there are still a few important things to know if you want to avoid a bad fit or a frustrating setup.
Your Tire’s Shape and Setup Matters More Than You Think
Is your spare dead-center or offset to one side? Does it have a plastic cover? Is it recessed or flush with the rear of your car? You’d be surprised how many racks claim “universal fit” but don’t play nice with deeper or off-center spares. Look for racks with adjustable mounting arms or long enough hardware to accommodate your setup.
How Many Bikes Do You Really Need to Carry?
Nearly all spare tire racks max out at 2 bikes, and they’re not built for heavy e-bikes or fat tire monsters. Be honest about your riding habits—if you need to carry more or haul heavier rigs, you might be better off investing in a hitch receiver and going that route instead.
Security Isn’t a Given
A lot of budget models assume you’ll be fine using bungee cords or a basic strap. But if you plan to park your car anywhere unattended, you’ll want a rack with at least a locking knob and/or integrated cable lock—or be ready to add your own. Yakima and Thule both offer decent built-in security.
Paint Protection & Bike Clearance
Some racks can rub on your rear gate or scratch your bikes against each other if spacing is too tight. Look for soft cradles, padded contact points, and the ability to angle or stagger the bikes. And hey—if your SUV is your pride and joy, maybe skip the rack that saves $20 by cutting corners on padding.
Quick Access vs Long-Term Mounting
If you’re popping the rack on and off every weekend, easy installation is everything. Thule’s knob system is worth its weight in gold here. But if you’re leaving it mounted long-term? Go for something more robust like the Yakima or Surco, which won’t mind the miles.
Final Thoughts
If your vehicle has a rear-mounted spare, a good tire rack is like unlocking bonus cargo space. It’s easy, it’s out of the way, and—done right—it just works. Whether you’re loading up for a ride across town or bombing down a dirt road to your favorite trailhead, the right rack makes life easier without the overhead (literally) of roof setups or the complications of a hitch install.
Just know what you’re working with. Measure your spare, check the bolt pattern, and don’t assume that every “universal fit” claim actually means universal. Once you’ve found one that works? You’ll wonder why you didn’t get one sooner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Willem is an avid mountain biker and outdoor sports enthusiast. For years, he has been riding mountain bike stage races, including the grueling Cape Epic. As a father of three adventurous kids, he knows about packing a vehicle to haul his gear safely and responsibly from home to any exciting weekend or holiday destination.
