A Bike Rack for Cargo Vans
The answer is yes if you have a bicycle and are interested in taking it on vacation with you.
You can mount a bike rack to the back of any van or minivan.
It is essential to choose the right rack for your vehicle and ensure it works with your bikes.
We’ll discuss the best bike racks for vans and how to install them.
- SAFE AND SECURE: Comes with soft padded hooks, that secure your bikes in place without swaying and scratching the paint. Slide down over the vertical frame with hitch tightener to fit different size bike frame for safe. With rear Safety Reflector to enhance the visibility in the dark.
- FOLDABLE & TILT BACK DESIGN: Users can fold up this rack to save space when not in use, convenient for garage parking. Quick release tilting down feature allows easy access to trunk without detaching the hitch rack.
- 200 LB TOTAL CAPACITY: Easily transports up to 100 pounds per bike. Universal tire holders and wheel straps are compatible with mountain bikes, road bikes with up to 5-inch fat tires and 20″ to 29″ tire sizes. The maximum wheelbase is 58″ to fit on this rack.
- DESIGN FOR RV. WARNING!! – DO NOT exceed 120 lbs of capacity when installed behind a RV. DO NOT use this bike carrier for transporting or carrying other items or materials besides bicycles.
- 2 INCH HITCH RECEIVER: ONLY fits vehicles with 2″ receivers, the rack is sturdy and does not wobble easily. Most parts come pre-assembled for easy installation. Parts including instruction manual and hardwares.
Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Can You Put On A Bike Rack for Cargo Vans?
Depending on your van, you can choose to use either a platform hitch or a trunk mount bike rack. A hitch bike rack is recommended for older vans with spare tires attached.
You’ll need to consider where you want the bike rack to be placed, how many bikes you will transport, and whether you prefer a horizontal or vertical carrier.
Although it may initially seem strange, once you read this article, you can install a bicycle on a van or minivan.
Choosing A Bike Rack for Cargo Vans
Selecting the right bike rack for your cargo van requires careful consideration of several factors.
Each option has its strengths and drawbacks, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
1. Type of Bike Rack
There are three main types of bike racks: roof-mounted, hitch-mounted, and strap-on trunk racks.
Roof-Mounted
Roof-mounted racks are attached to the roof bars of your van. They offer a secure way to transport bikes, but they can be difficult to load and unload due to their height.
Moreover, they considerably increase the height of your vehicle, which could be problematic in low-clearance areas.
Hitch-Mounted
These racks attach directly to your van’s hitch receiver. They are easier to load and unload than roof-mounted models since they’re closer to the ground.
However, you’ll need a suitable hitch receiver installed on your cargo van.
Strap-On Trunk Racks
While these racks may not be as secure or sturdy as other options, they’re generally cheaper and easier to install without any special equipment.
2. Bike Rack for Cargo Vans – Capacity
Consider how many bikes you will typically transport. Most bike racks can carry anywhere from one to five bikes. A smaller rack might suffice if you only need space for one or two bikes.
Consider a rack that can hold more bikes for larger families or groups.
3. Bike Compatibility
Check whether the rack is compatible with the type and size of bikes you plan to carry – road, mountain, kids’, etc., may require different types of carriers.
4. Bike Rack for Cargo Vans – Security
If you plan to leave your cargo van unattended with the bikes still on the rack, ensure that it comes with security features like lockable mounts or straps.
5. Bike Rack for Cargo Vans – Durability and Quality
Lastly, consider durability and quality when choosing your mount system. Look for reputable brands known for their robust construction and reliability over time.
Types of bike racks for vans
Before installing a bike rack in a van, let’s first consider what type of van you have. There are many models and makes of vans on the market.
There are no universal bike racks. The type of van you drive will be determined by the type of rack that you choose.
Minivans
Minivans are large vehicles that can be used to transport your family or friends. Minivans are well-known for their versatility and the ability to carry many items or people.
Many manufacturers make minivans. These include General Motors, Toyota, and Nissan. There are many options for minivan owners.
Here are some of the top minivan bike racks:
- Hitch-Mounted Bicycle Racks: This rack is mounted at the rear (rear) end of the vehicle and uses a hitch.
- Trunk Mounted Bicycle Rack: Attached to the vehicle’s rear doors or hatch, the bike rack can be mounted on the trunk.
- Roof Mounted Bicycle Racks: This roof rack system requires crossbars to install.
- Suction Mount Bike Racks – Uses vacuum cups to form a seal that attaches to your trunk, glass or roof.
- Tiltable Rack for Easy Trunk Access: Remove the safety pin to tilt the rack down with bikes still mounted, providing unobstructed access to your vehicle’s rear.
- 140 lbs Total Capacity: Supports up to 70 lbs per bike. Fits mountain, electric, and road bikes with up to 5″ fat tires and a 58″ wheelbase. Note: Step-thru or lady bikes require a bike adapter (sold separately). Can carry two Super 73 e-bikes under 70 lbs each.
- Triple Safety Design: Adjustable wheel holders fit various bike sizes. Reflective Velcro straps enhance visibility and secure the wheels. Includes additional security straps for extra stability. Carry handle with reflector improves portability and driving safety.
- Triple Anti-Theft Features: Dual key locks on hooks protect both bikes and rack. Security lock for hitch pin provides peace of mind when away from your vehicle. Torx star screws prevent quick disassembly by thieves.
- 2-Inch Hitch Receiver Compatibility: Fits vehicles with 2-inch receivers. Secured by a ½-inch anti-wobble pin and key lockset for stability. Note: Not suitable for RVs, trailers, or Class B vehicles. Patent pending.
Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Combo and Crew Vans
A crew or combo van is a vehicle you can use to transport people and their belongings.
You may find they have multiple storage areas, such as in the rear of your vehicle.
You can choose to have a full-sized van or a small mini-van.
There are many types of combination vans on the market.
- Ford Econoline van style with side doors
- Chevrolet Astro with dual rear doors
- GMC Savana passenger van
Combination and Crew vans will benefit from a hitch rack that allows people to open the back doors.
A hitch rack will allow you to lower your bikes without taking them out.
Minibusses and MPV Vans
A minibus, a small bus you can use for transporting people from one location to the next, is called a minibus. Hospitals, schools, and universities often use these minibusses to transport large groups.
The MPV van is usually larger than minivans and has more storage space. They are the right choice if you have a large family and travel a lot.
These MPVs are some of the most common you will see on the marketplace:
- Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna
- Nissan Quest (also called “mid-size”)
A hitch-mount bike rack is also recommended for minibusses and MPV vans. The bigger racks can hold up to 3-6 bikes, depending on the make or model.
Camper Vans
Conversion vans are also called cargo vans. These vans are becoming increasingly popular among van-living people.
These are some of the most popular camper vans on the market:
- Mercedes Sprinter
- VW Bus
- Ford Transit
Minivan Bike Racks
It can be difficult to find the perfect bike rack for your minivan. What is the best way to choose between a horizontal or vertical holder? It can be difficult to find the perfect bike rack for your minivan.
Here are some of the top picks for bike racks for minivans.
- AA Products 3 Bicycle Rack Platform Hitch: This folding bike rack is compatible with Minivans, SUVs, and trucks. It can fit a 2′” hitch receiver. The rack folds up, making it easy for you to reach the back of your van.
- GUDE4 Hitch Mount Bicycle Rack: This 2” hitch swing rack is designed for vans, minivans, SUVs, and other passenger cars.
- Walmann Bike Trunk Carrier: Rear Mounting carrier that can hold up to three bikes. This system includes six straps and two arms. It can attach passenger minivans, hatchbacks or sedans, and SUVs.
- LIGHTWEIGHT YET STRONG: Bones EX weighs only 11 pounds but boasts the strongest frame on the market, ensuring durability and long-lasting reliability.
- EXTENSIVE VEHICLE COMPATIBILITY: Fits 90% of top-selling vehicles, including those with spoilers, making it one of the most versatile trunk racks available.
- PREMIUM BIKE PROTECTION: Equipped with premium bike hold downs that are easy to use and quick to load, ensuring your bikes stay secure during transport.
- RUST-FREE AND DURABLE: Made from injection-molded arms and legs, the Bones EX rack is built to last and maintain its strength even after years of use.
- SLEEK AND FUNCTIONAL DESIGN: Features articulated rubber feet to protect your vehicle’s paint, along with a streamlined strap management system for a clean and efficient look.
Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Other Things to Consider about a Bike Rack for Cargo Vans
Older vans, from 75 to 91 (Ford), featured a spare tire at the back of the double doors. These van models are still available, so you will want to get a spare tire mount rack if you own one.
These mounts are similar to a trunk bike mount and can be used for jeeps or off-road vehicles.
If you have one in your van, you don’t need to take out your spare tire to transport bicycles. Here are some spare tire racks that might work well for your van.
- FieryRed Spare Tire Carrier:75lb capacity iron bicycle carrier with a limit of two bikes. Mounts quickly on most tire mounting bases.
- Bunker Indust Bolt-On Spare Tire Rack This universal carrier attaches to your spare tire using bolts and a universal plate. It is ideal for vans and off-road vehicles, particularly jeeps.
How do you mount a Bike Rack for Cargo Vans?
It’s time for you to decide what type of van you have and which bike rack will work best for you.
The type of bike rack you choose will determine how to install a bike rack on your van.
It is easy to install a bike rack onto a van. YouTube is a great place to learn how to install a bike rack. Installing the bike rack will depend on your van and your chosen rack.
Mounting a bike rack on a van can be easy if done carefully and correctly.
Here’s a general guide for you:
- Choose the Right Bike Rack: There are various bike racks available in the market, but the most common ones for vans are hitch-mounted and roof-mounted racks. Choose one that suits your van and biking needs.
- Prepare Your Van: Make sure your vehicle is clean, especially around areas where the rack will be mounted, to avoid any scratching or damage.
- Assemble Your Bike Rack: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for assembling your bike rack. This usually involves attaching certain parts using provided screws or bolts.
If it’s a Hitch-Mounted Rack,
- Attach the Hitch: If your van does not already have a hitch, install one to match your hitch-mounted bike rack.
- Install the Rack: Insert the bike rack shank into the hitch receiver on your van, then secure it with a hitch pin or bolt.
- Secure Bikes: Mount your bikes onto the rack per manual instructions, ensuring they are tightly secured but not damaging.
If it’s a Roof-Mounted Rack
- Install Roof Bars: If you don’t already have them, you’ll need to install roof bars onto your van according to their specific installation instructions.
- Mount The Bike Racks: Attach each roof-mounted bike carrier onto these bars following the guidelines.
- Secure Bikes: Each bike will go into its carrier, the front wheel first, usually followed by the rear wheel and frame; secure them using straps, clamps, or locks.
For both types,
- Always remember safety is paramount, so double-check everything is securely fastened before setting off on your adventure!
- When driving with bikes mounted at the back or top of your vehicle, take extra care due to changes in vehicle dynamics such as wind resistance and center of gravity shifts.
Remember that this is a general guide; actual steps may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle and bike rack.
Other options to consider
Build a slide-out bike rack.
If your van has enough cargo space, a slide-out bike rack is a great option. This is a popular choice for people who use their bikes to build homes.
Slide-outs are bike carriers that allow the bikes to slide into and out of vans. Slides will keep the bikes secure and prevent them from moving during transport.
You may not be aware of a bike slide-out, but it is worth looking into if you are trying to figure out the best way to transport your bicycles inside your van.
There are currently no options for bike slide storage that I am aware of. You must buy the materials at your local hardware store and then build it yourself.
In conclusion, remember these points while selecting a suitable bike rack for your cargo van: type of rack based on preference or requirements; the number of cycles it needs to fit; compatibility with various kinds of bicycles; security features offered; durability based upon manufacturer reputation.
Happy Biking
