Best Car Bike Rack Carrier for a Fat Tire E-bike

You have a new fat tire Electric bike and would like to explore other areas further from home that require you to transport your E-bike. Riding around your neighborhood is great, but riding in national and state parks on trails can be a lot more fun. A car bike rack can be a good solution to get you and your E-bike there.

You may have been looking for a fat tire electric bike rack and found the problem is most car-bike racks are designed for conventional bikes and are rated to handle about a maximum of 35 lbs per bike. The average mountain bike weighs around 30 lbs. A typical Electric bike can start at about 50 lbs and quickly go up to around 70 lbs or more for a fat tire E-bike. 

In this list of best hitch bike rack for electric bikes, I have compiled a number of Best Car Bike Rack Carrier for a Fat Tire E-bike that can handle the weight of an E-bike and accommodate fat tires. 

I picked double racks because it is always better to cycle with a friend and I made sure they can handle a fat tire bike. Keep in mind you will need a trailer hitch to use the Car Rack Carriers. Most are designed for a 2-inch trailer hitch. Here are the best hitch bike racks for electric bikes.

Note some racks are rated for 60 lbs and can handle an e-bike but the wheel carrier is not designed for fat tires. So you will need to get the optional wheel holders to accommodate Fat tire bikes.

As you scroll down I have two lists for you. The first is a brief description and if you scroll further down more information and a video to help you find the right bike rack for you.

If you're looking for a quick answer, click on the image below to see my favorite carrier of this list/overall: 

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Best Car Bike Rack Carrier for a Fat Tire E-bike

1. Thule Easyfold XT Hitch Mount Bike Carrier

The Thulu Easyfold mounts easily with detachable locking arms. Designs with uptight torque limiter knobs that “click” when the correct torque is reached Folds up for easy storage or to put inside the vehicle.

• 130 LBS Max
• Hitch Receiver 2″ and 1.25″ 
• The rack weights 45 lb

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2. Hollywood Racks Sport Rider Bike Rack for Electric Bikes

Is one of the highest weight capacity in the market. It can handle 2 80 lbs per bike for a total of 160 lbs. Making the Hollywood rack ideal for fat Tire E-bike owners.

• 160 LBS Max
• Fits 2″ hitches only
• The rack weights 55 lbs

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3. Saris Freedom EX 2 Bike Rack

Saris makes racks for heavier bikes. The Saris Freedom Ex 2 Bike Rack is rated for 2 bikes up to 60 lbs each. For a total of 120 lbs. The Ex 2 can be used with lighter E-bikes will not cut it for two fat-tire e-bikes

• 120 LBS Max
• Works with both 1 ¼” and 2″ hitches
• The rack weights 30 lbs

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4. Kuat NV 2.0 2-Bike Tray Hitch Rack

The Kuat NV 2.0 Bike rack is one of the slickest looking bike racks on my list. The rack has a nice gloss powder coat finish with orange accents. It not only looks good but has a solid build.

• 120 LBS Max
• Works within both 2” & 1.25” hitch sizes
• The rack weighs in at 52 lbs

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5. 1up USA 2″ Super Duty Double Bike Rack

The 1up company is a US-based company that makes heavy-duty bike racks that can handle heavy E-bikes. If you have a few big heavy E-bikes this is the rack for you. It has the highest weight capacity of any rack on the list with a total capacity of 275 lbs.

• 275 LBS Max
• Works with 2” hitch size
• The rack weighs in at 47 lbs

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6. Swagman E-Spec E-bike Carrier

The Swagman E-Spec Rack can carry two bikes up to 70 lbs and accommodate tires up to 3.1 inches. If you have a fat tire bike you will need to get the optional G10 E-Spec Fat Bike Wheel holders.

• 275 LBS Max
• Works with 2” hitch size
• The rack weighs in at 60 lbs

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7. Yakima Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack

The Yakima Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack is one of the lesser expensive bike racks on this list. It is a well-built bike rack made of steel and can handle a couple of heavy e-bikes.

• 120 LBS Max
• Works with 1-1/4” or 2″ hitch size
• The rack weighs 49 lbs

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You will need a car rack that is rated for at least 120 lbs to handle two E-bikes

Most car racks are designed for bikes weighing under 30 lbs and should be avoided for a fat tire E-bike. 

An average Fat Tire Electric bike can weigh about 50 lbs for lighter models and close to 80 lbs for a fat tire E-bike.

• Standard Two bike rack is rated for 70 lbs
• Standard Three bike rack rated for 100 lbs
• Standard Four bike rack rated for 140 lbs.

If you are good at math you can calculate that 2 fat tire E-bikes surpasses this number. Fortunately, the battery that generally weighs between 7 and 10 lbs can be removed to lighten the load. 

It is a good idea to remove the battery regardless and bring it inside the vehicle. Be sure to keep the battery in a cool location. This prevents theft and overheating when sitting in direct sunlight.

When driving at high speed down the highway when raining, the rain can act as a pressure washer and water can get into places it should not be. A good investment is a  good quality bike cover. A  cover will protect the bikes from the rain. Many covers have a lock. I do also believe out of sight out of mind does further reduce theft.

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1. Thule Easyfold XT Hitch Mount Bike Carrier

Thule Easyfold XT Hitch Mount Bike Carrier is one of the better-known Bike Rack Carriers and for good reason. Not only has this product been around for a few years they have continually made improvements. The EasyFold XT bike carrier has a convenient foldable design to easily store in your vehicle when not in use.

The Thule Easyfold rack has integrated wheels on the bottom to make it easy to move. It has a handle on top to make it easy to carry and overall is a quality made product. 

The Load Capacity on the Thulu Easyfold is 130 lbs. Two E-bikes weighing 70 lbs adds up to 140 lbs which is more than maximum rating. You will need to take off battery to reduce the weight. The Thule EasyFold XT 2 can handle a fat tire up to 4.7 inches and the Thule T2 Pro XT 2 can handle a tire up to 5 inches.

• Hitch Receiver 2″ and 1.25″ 
• Rack weights 45 lbs
• The Load Capacity on the Thulu Easyfold is 130 lbs enabling transport of e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes
• The Thulu Easyfold mounts easily with detachable locking arms. Designs with uptight torque limiter knobs that “click” when the correct torque is reached
• Folds up for easy storage or to put inside the vehicle. If you have a hatchback car or Suv you should have no issues but if you have a car with a small trunk check to see before if it will fit. The dimensions are 48.4 x 25 x 26.8 inches.
• Tire Capacity: Up to 4.7”
• Secure your bike on the rack with adjustable pump buckles. If you have a large E-bike you will need to get the optional XXL wheel strap kit available at Amazon to fit longer wheelbases and tires up to 4.7 inch
• The ability to lock your bikes to the rack with locks included.
•  Folds out for easy trunk access.

https://youtu.be/whuvYx49BKY

Higher priced than many racks on this list but it is a very good quality rack for lighter E-bikes, the Hulu EasyFold XT Hitch Mount Bike Carrier available at Amazon will serve you well. It also has included a foldable loading ramp that integrates into the rack for convenient loading and unloading. 

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2. Hollywood Racks Sport Rider Bike Rack for Electric Bikes

The Hollywood rack is another very popular car bike rack. It has one of the highest weight capacity in the market. It can handle 2 80 lbs per bike for a total of 160 lbs. Making the Hollywood rack ideal for fat Tire E-bike owners. They do have a few different models to choose from, both have the same 80 lb weight capacity but one can handle 3-inch tires and one can handle up to 5-inch tires.

If you have a fat tire bike be sure to get the one that is rated for 5-inch tires like this one from Amazon. Another nice feature is the Hollywood rack is part of a system. The optional Rack Valet makes it easy to move around in your garage or driveway to make it easy to install and remove from the back of your vehicle. 

• Fits 2″ hitch only; Features patented no wobble-no tools hitch tightening system for fast and secure installation; Cannot be used with 1-1/4″ to 2″ adapter
• Rack weights 55 lbs
• The rack can carry two electric bikes (up to 5 inch wide tires) with up to a 60″ wheelbase with a maximum capacity of 80 lbs per bicycle.
• Theft protection with Locking bike frame hooks includes keyed-alike locking hitch pin
• The rack folds flat against the vehicle when not in use, and tilts down for easy cargo access
• Remove the battery from your bike when before putting the bike on the rack.

Compared to other heavy-duty car-bike carrying racks the Hollywood rack is modestly priced. You can get the rack and the valet for the same price as other racks. A great option that makes it easy to move around. It has many positive reviews from Amazon.

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3. Saris Freedom EX 2 or Ex 4 Bicycle Universal Hitch Rack

Saris Freedom Ex 2 Bike Rack

Saris Freedom Ex 4 Bike Rack 

Saris makes racks for heavier bikes. The Saris Freedom Ex 2 Bike Rack is rated for 2 bikes up to 60 lbs each. For a total of 120 lbs. The Ex 2 can be used with lighter E-bikes will not cut it for two fat tire e-bikes. The Saris Freedom Ex 4 Bike Rack is rated for 4 bikes total carrying weight 190 lbs total.

The Ex 4 will work if you want to carry two fat-tire E-bikes or if you carry a mixture of standard bikes and E-bikes. They are light, tough, work well, and are made in the USA, also I have read they have excellent customer service. 

• Works with both 1 ¼” and 2″ hitches.
• Rack weights 30 lbs
• Easy to install and move around the Saris Freedom weights in at only 27 pounds
• Has a tilt feature to allow easy access to your trunk. Even when loaded with bikes.
• Has an integrated locking system and reflectors to make your rack more visible at night and more secure when parked.
• Fit all bike big and small

https://youtu.be/mNAPOTAIyQ0

The Saris Ex 2 Ans Ex 4 may work for some fat tire E-bikes but may come up short for heaver e-bike. Be sure to calculate the weight of the bikes you plan to carry before purchasing any Saris rack.

Saris Ex 2 Carries 2 bikes up to 60 lbs. For a total of 120 pounds.

 

Saris Ex 4 Carries 4 bikes. For a total of 190 pounds.

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4. Kuat NV 2.0 Platform Bike Hitch Rack Metallic Gray and Orange

The Kuat NV 2.0 Bike rack is one of the slickest looking bike racks on my list. The rack has a nice gloss powder coat finish with orange accents. It not only looks good but has a solid build. Weighing 52 lbs the Kuat NV 2.0 is not the lightest rack, but it will work with many fat tire e-bikes.

Removing the battery on many E-bike will bring the weight down to under 60 lbs. The wheelbase holder can accommodate tires up to 4.8 inches.

• Works within both 2” & 1.25” hitch sizes
• The rack weighs in at 52 lbs
• 2 Bike capacity up to 60 lbs each total 120 lbs
• Holds wheelbases up to 48”, and tires as large as 4.8” god for Fat Tire bikes
• Fits 20″ to 29″ tires Wheel adapter needed for 20-24″ tires
• Dedicated 2” model carries two bikes and with the optional NV 2.0 Add-on the Kuat NV 2.0 can carry up to 4 bikes. I contact the manufacturer and getting the 4 bikes Add-on is not advised for heavy bikes. With the Add-on the overall rating goes down and no single bike can exceed 40lbs. Total 160 lbs.

https://youtu.be/w-zZh_znEgk

The Kuat NV 2.0 Bike rack is a solid rack that is great looking and will work with two E-bikes weighing under 120 lbs.

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5. 1up USA 2″ Super Duty Double Bike Rack

The 1up company is a US-based company that makes heavy-duty bike racks that can handle heavy E-bikes. If you have a few big heavy E-bikes this is the rack for you. It has the highest weight capacity of any rack on the list with a total capacity of 275 lbs.

​This tray-style hitch rack is made from solid aluminum. 1up has been making bike racks for a number of years and have many happy customers. A basic design that is not as slick as other Bike racks. The 1 up Bike Rack has many loyal customers. Made very durable the build quality is excellent, and the rack is a good value for the money.

• Works with 2” hitch size
• Rack weighs in at 47 lbs
• 2 Bike capacity with a total weight capacity of 275 lbs Increases bike capacity to three bikes. 2” Super Duty Double Rack is rated to hold up to 75 lb per bike spot or 4 bikes (50 lb. or less) with additional Add-Ons (sold separately)
• The rack can hold 26’’, 27.5’’, 29’’, or 700-C wheels, up to 3.1” wide. For Fat Tire bikes you will need to buy the Fat Tire spacer kit that will Accommodates tires wider than 3.1” up to 4.9” wide. Sold separately.
  Accommodates up to 54” wheelbase
• Rack arms close to secure tires without touching the frame
• Tilt function for access to trunk but not very user-friendly.
• RV or Trailer applications have a two-bike max with only the 2-in. hitch-bar models due to the additional bouncing.

https://youtu.be/v4CIzFIzuGU

The 1up rack has a tray and not a trough-like many other bike racks. The bike will roll backward until you clamp on the second clamp making it a little more difficult to use than other racks.

One major downfall with the 1 up heavy-duty bike rack is it does not come with any locking hardware and is left for the individual user to buy additional looking devices. But they do have optional locking devices in their security section. It clamps down with a unique hex wrench that is hollowed out on the end making it more difficult to take off. The hex wrench can be purchased from 1 up and it will fit any 1 up bike rack.

Overall for a bulletproof heavy-duty bike carrier made in America the 1 Up Bike Carrier Rack is a great choice.

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6. Swagman E-Spec E-bike Carrier

Swagman has been making quality bike racks for a number of years. The Swagman E-Spec E-bike carrier is their latest model that has been specifically designed for heavier E-bikes. The Swagman E-Spec Rack can carry two bikes up to 70 lbs and accommodate tires up to 3.1 inches. If you have a fat tire bike you will need to get the optional G10 E-Spec Fat Bike Wheel holders.

The Swagman E-Spec gives you the ability to secure your bike in three locations. A-frame hook that puts down pressure on the top tube into the front and rear cradles, and two ratchet straps to fasten down each tire. Can be folded up 

• Works with 2” hitch size
• The rack weighs in at 60 lbs
• 2 Bike capacity up to 70 lbs per bike, with a total weight capacity of 275 lbs increases bike capacity to three bikes. 2” Super Duty Double Rack is rated to hold up to 75 lb per bike spot or 4 bikes (50 lb. or less) with additional Add-Ons (sold separately)
• The rack can hold 26’’, 27.5’’, 29’’, or 700-C wheels, up to 3.1” wide. For Fat Tire bikes you will need to buy the Fat Tire spacer kit that will Accommodates tires wider than 3.1” up to 4.9” wide. Fat tire trays are available for 3”-5” tires.
• Rack arms close to secure tires without touching the frame
• Tilt function for access to trunk but not very user-friendly.
• RV or Trailer applications have a two-bike max with only the 2-in. 
• Comes with Locking Hooks & Locking Threaded Hitch Pin with the same key.

https://youtu.be/o5DrOxugF8I

The center mast folds down so you can access your rear hatch. This allows you to remove anything from the rear cargo area. You can also fold it up against your vehicle to make it more compact if you do not want to remove it. Making it easier to park in the garage without removing the rack.

Comes with anti-rattle bolt and lock. For a secure rattle-free mount and to prevent theft. Hook locks also add to the security and come with two keys. If you are looking for a heavy-duty rack that can handle a few heavy E-bikes the Swagman E-Spec E-bike Carrier could be the right rack for you. 

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7. Yakima Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack

The Yakima Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack is one of the lesser expensive bike racks on this list. It is a well-built bike rack made of steel and can handle a couple of heavy e-bikes.

Although it weighs 49 lbs, the design makes it easy to mount onto a trailer hitch by yourself. You can secure your bikes with the lock cables. It has built-in cable locks and a locking hitch pin with shared keys. The Yakima Hold Up Bike Rack uses a locking hitch pin to secure the rack to your vehicle. This design is not the most convenient, but it is very sturdy and requires a saw or grinder to remove it from your car.

This rack can handle up to 120 lbs in total. Swing down design makes it easy to access your truck without unloading your bikes.

• Works with 1-1/4” or 2″ hitch size
• The rack weighs 49 lbs
• Two bikes at 60 lbs capacity with a total weight capacity of 120 bs 
• The rack can hold 20 inches to 29-inch wheels
• Rack arms close to secure tires without touching the frame
• Tilt function for access to trunk but not very user-friendly
• Bottle opener on the rack 

https://youtu.be/sU_HKHz3WXQ

The Yakima Hold Up Tray Style Bike Rack one of the cheaper bike racks on this list. It does have a weight capacity of 120 lbs so removing the battery is a good idea to lighten your e-bikes.

It is a good quality rack for the money and can be a less expensive alternative compared to some of the more expensive racks on this list like the Thule Easyfold XT Hitch Mount Bike Carrier or the Hollywood Rack. It is a little less refined than other but a good value nonetheless.

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Final thoughts

So there you have it, the seven best hitch bike rack for electric bikes that can handle a few heavy E-bikes. Be sure to always remove the battery to lighten the load and to make it a little easier to mount on the rack.

Don't forget to bring your locks and lock your bikes up as well. Here are a few tips on locking up your bike.

Now that you have a bike rack you can take your bike out for some great adventures in many parks and trails available in your area.

If you are a manufacturer or know of other bike racks that will accommodate a heavy fat tire E-bike that is not on the list, please comment below and I will add it to the list. I imagine many bike rack manufacturers are going to have to make heaver rated bike racks to accommodate the growing popularity of E-bike and some newer models will appear. Happy trails!

If you have a cyclist in your life check out my post ” Ultimate Accessories for an electric bike”

Learn more about E-bikes

• See: E-Bikes for under $2000
• See: USA and Canadian Electric Bike Manufacturers Roundup
• See: Best Electric Bike For Seniors
• See: Why Are Electric Bikes So Expensive?