I usually just carry my bike in the cab behind the front seats of my truck, four door truck. But was considering picking up a bike rack that would mount where my trailer hitch ball inserts. I wouldn’t want something that might lead scuffing or wear marks on my bike. Would prefer something that mounts at the wheels if that’s the best area for mounting? If there’s an opportunity to damage my bike I’ll just keep hauling it in the cab and put the luggage in the bed. I’m just looking for alternatives.
I have this rack and it has been excellent. Bikes goes on in 10 seconds, and will fit any type of bike.
http://www.rei.com/product/48018475.htm
I just got the Saris Thelma rack (2" insert). It holds the bike by the wheels only with a couple straps, no frame contact. Everything from 2.5" mtb tires to skinnies no problem. Since everything is on youtube these days…
The Saris CycleOnPro is the best hitch rack available.
Very user friendly and secure. Price - mid $400 range.
The Thelma is less $$$ and still a great rack. But, be carefull as the Thelma does not work well with some Tri bikes such as the Trek TTX and other frames that do not have much space between the down tube and front wheel.
I like this Thule hitch rack best becuase it swings out to the side for easy access to the rear of your vehicle and the arms fold down so do not have to worry about backing in to anything.
$369 for a rack??? Love my Swagman (got it for just over $100).
ATOC DRAFTMASTER
You’ll have to google it.
Customizable to carry up to 5 bikes (road, tri or mountain) vertically and securely lock them in place on a rack that hinges and lowers them to the ground for easy removal and access to a liftgate rear entry of a suburban or expedition type vehicle. As the name suggests, the bikes are protected from impact damage by riding in the draft of the vehicle, though they do tend to collect a lot of dust back there.
I think they are manufatured in the Seattle area but distribute through bike shops all over the US.
Clearly the most sturdy, secure and user friendly bike hauling system I have ever used. No potential for bike to bike contact for up to five bikes, while still giving access to your vehicles rear entry point.