How to choose an e-bike rack

How to choose an e-bike rack

View from the back of a vehicle parked on the street. Photo shows a hooked bike rack with two e-bikes hanging from it.
One of the advantages of electric bikes (e-bikes) is that the motors provide help when you need it. Unfortunately, however, the motors are not available to help you when you lift the two-wheel generator onto the rack for your next adventure. Since your electric bike is heavier than a traditional bike, you’ll need a frame that can support and securely hold your sturdy machine.

Keep the following points in mind when choosing a frame to carry your ebike:

Focus on hitch racks: roof racks are difficult to load; most luggage racks are not strong enough.
Look at how the bikes are secured: platform racks are ideal; also consider the accessory setup.
Double-check the specification: the most important thing is the maximum weight of the rack per bike, which should be greater than the weight of any bike you’re carrying.
See if it comes with a ramp: ramps make loading easier. Some racks may include integrated ramps, or you can purchase ramps as a separate accessory.
Rack brands are designing more models for e-bikes, so your options are growing. Racks that you purchase specifically to hold an e-bike can also hold a traditional bike.

This article is dedicated to e-bikes. For a broader discussion of luggage racks, read How to Choose a Car Luggage Rack.

Why hook racks are best for e-bikes
Roof racks are awkward for heavy e-bikes: many e-bikes weigh 50 pounds or more, which makes carrying an e-bike over your shoulder to load it onto a roof rack a daunting task. Unless your other interests include lifting weights, you’ll be happy with the hitch rack’s near-ground loading height.

Boot racks are not suitable for heavy e-bikes: although boot racks are loaded closer to the ground than roof racks, boot racks don’t have enough load capacity to accommodate most e-bikes.

How the rack accommodates the e-bike matters
Suspension (mast) vs. platform (pallet) racks: the better choice for your e-bike is a platform rack because it can handle a variety of frame styles, including step-through racks that require an adapter to be used a hitch rack. (Most step-through bike adapters are not strong enough to support heavy e-bikes.) Additionally, platform racks typically have more weight capacity per bike than suspension racks.

Bike attachments: many platform racks have a wheel hook that clips onto the top of the tyre to help secure the bike. If your e-bike has a wing, a rack with a hook may not properly secure it. (Moving the hook to the front or back of the wing is not recommended.) A better option is a rack that clips onto the frame of your bike so that the rack can secure a variety of bikes, including those with wings.

Tilt access: this common hitch rack feature allows you to tilt a fully loaded rack away from the vehicle so you can open the boot or rear hatch.

Key factors to check before buying an e-bike rack (specifications)
Maximum weight per bike: any bikes you plan to carry should weigh less than this weight, which should be listed in the description or technical specifications of the rack. (If your e-bike is slightly heavier, removing the battery during transport may put you within the acceptable load capacity: see the load tips below for more information.)

Hook Weight Capacity (TWC): TWC is the maximum weight the hook can support. The weight of the bike rack and the bikes on it must not exceed the TWC of the vehicle If you are adding a hitch to a vehicle that is not equipped with a hitch, find out the TWC of the hitch and the TWC of the vehicle (which is usually lower). The weight of your rack + bike must not exceed the hook TWC or vehicle TWC.

Tyre size and wheelbase: Double-check the tyre width and wheelbase of your bike against the maximum acceptable tyre width and wheelbase for the rack.

Advantages of racks with ramps
Even if the platform on a hitch rack is close to the ground, lifting a heavy e-bike onto it can still be a chore. If your rack has a ramp, you simply roll your bike onto the ramp. Ramps are therefore a useful feature for anyone, and are especially important for those who have difficulty lifting and carrying an e-bike. Some racks include ramps that are stored inside the rack during transport; some racks allow you to purchase ramps as a separate accessory; some racks do not offer either option.

Lift assist: the ultimate load assist (on high-priced racks), this power mechanism lifts the bike onto the rack. However, your vehicle’s hitch must be set up electronically, as it would be with a tail light on a trailer.

Rack loading tips
REMOVE THE BATTERY: E-bike batteries weigh several pounds, so removing them will make loading easier. (Not all batteries are removable, but most e-bikes offer this option.) Storing the battery inside also helps keep the vehicle warm, which is good for battery life. It also reduces the temptation to steal your e-bike, as thieves can’t easily ride it away. Before performing this operation, check your bike’s manual carefully for advice on the proper removal and transport of the battery.

Lift one wheel at a time: if you don’t have a ramp, first lift the front wheel of your bike into the tray to load the platform rack. Then lift the rear wheel of the bike into the pallet while rolling the front wheel forward. This technique takes some practice, especially if the rack tray has brackets for adjustment.

Safety Considerations
Most hitch racks allow you to lock the hitch to the rack. Most bikes also come with rack-integrated steel cable locks that secure the bike to the rack. Note, however, that the high price of e-bikes makes them a tempting target, and determined thieves can crack the steel cable lock. Therefore, it is best not to leave your e-bike unattended on the rack for long periods of time. Carry it with you so that you can keep it indoors overnight. Consider also purchasing a stronger chain lock for added theft protection.

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