Bike Racks Buying Guide

A solid bike rack takes the hassle out of getting your wheels to the trail, the coast, or the open road. With so many styles on the market, it pays to know which setup works best for your car and riding plans.

Tow-Ball and Hitch Carriers

Most Aussies end up going with a tow-ball or hitch-mounted carrier, and it’s easy to see why. They make loading simple, handle multiple bikes, and feel secure on long trips. In your range, the Yakima FoldClick and JustClick series stand out for families, while heavy-duty options like the StageTwo or HangOver are popular among mountain bikers who travel in groups.

The StageTwo is built tough with a reinforced tray system, tilt lever for easy boot access, and SKS locks for added security. It’s designed to carry e-bikes and bigger frames without wobble, making it ideal for riders hauling serious gear. The HangOver series takes a different approach — it can carry up to four or six bikes vertically, saving space and keeping the weight balanced close to the vehicle. Both options are engineered for strength and stability, which is why they’re regarded as some of the most dependable heavy-duty choices in the hitch-rack category.

Many of these racks aren’t just about carrying capacity — they’re built smart. Features like tilt and swing-away arms mean you can still get into the boot without unloading everything, and some models (like the FoldClick EVO) even add LED lights and number plate holders so you’re road-legal from day one. For e-bike riders especially, the OnRamp series makes lifting and loading heavier frames much less of a chore.

Roof-Mounted Carriers

Roof-mounted carriers are the go-to for people who already run roof bars and don’t want to tie up the tow-ball. They’re lighter, easier to leave on the car, and perfect for carrying one or two bikes without fuss.

Yakima’s HighRoad and FrontLoader models are favourites for upright mounting, while fork-mount designs like the ForkLift or Rhino-Rack Hybrid give extra stability. They suit road cyclists, weekend warriors, or anyone who doesn’t mind lifting the bike overhead. The bonus? Your tow-ball stays free for towing campers or trailers.

Spare-Wheel and Ute/Tray Options

Not every 4WD owner can fit a standard rack. That’s where spare-wheel and tray setups come in. If you’ve got a rear-mounted spare, products like the Yakima SpareRide or Rhino-Rack RBC025 are designed specifically for vehicles like Wranglers, Land Cruisers, or Prados.

For ute owners, the Yakima LongArm extender or BedRock tray systems are worth a look. They’re not just handy for bikes — they can also double as carriers for kayaks, boards, or longer loads that don’t fit neatly in the tub.

Accessories and Compliance Must-Haves

One thing that really stands out in your product list is how many accessories there are, and it’s no accident. In Australia, carrying bikes without proper plates or lights can land you a fine, which is why add-ons like Yakima’s PlateMate or LightMate are so popular.

Other accessories focus on convenience and security: the ClickRamp EVO helps with loading heavy e-bikes, TubeTop adapters solve awkward frame shapes, and locks like the HitchLock or SKS cables give peace of mind when you’re parked at the servo on a road trip. These extras may seem small, but they make the racks safer, easier, and completely road-ready.

Pulling It All Together

Looking across the full range of bike racks, a few patterns emerge. Tow-ball racks dominate because they’re versatile and family-friendly. Roof carriers appeal to solo or casual riders who want a lighter, out-of-the-way solution. Spare-wheel and tray options might be more niche, but they solve problems that many 4WD owners face. And accessories? They’re essential, not optional, if you want to stay compliant and avoid hassles.

At the end of the day, the right bike rack isn’t just about price — it’s about matching your rig, your riding style, and your legal requirements. And when you’re ready to kit out your setup, our 4WD parts online store has the racks, mounts, and accessories you need to load up with confidence.