Allen vs MAXXHAUL Roof Racks: Which Brand Fits You?
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You are comparing the allen vs MAXXHAUL roof rack options for transporting bicycles. Both brands offer sturdy carriers designed for SUVs, vans, and trucks. The main difference lies in how they attach to your vehicle. The Allen model mounts to the trunk, while the MAXXHAUL unit requires a hitch receiver. These distinct mounting methods change how you load your bikes and store the rack when not in use.
Key differences
| Aspect | Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | MaxxHaul 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Type | Trunk | Hitch (2-inch receiver) |
| Bike Capacity | 4 Bikes | 2 Bikes |
| Weight | 6.4 ounces | 33.1 pounds |
| Load Capacity | not listed | 40 lbs per bike |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack if
- You need to carry four bicycles at once.
- Your vehicle lacks a hitch receiver.
- You prefer a lightweight rack that folds flat for storage.
Choose MaxxHaul 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack if
- You want a secure platform that keeps bikes off the ground.
- You prefer a rigid steel build with specific weight limits.
- You have a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch receiver.
Verdict: The Allen rack suits those needing higher capacity and trunk mounting. The MAXXHAUL option is better for drivers with hitch receivers who prioritize stability and ground clearance. Choose based on your vehicle's mounting points and how many bikes you typically haul.
Trunk Versus Hitch Mount Comparison
Mounting style
The Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack attaches directly to your vehicle's trunk, hatch, or rear door. This design relies on straps and padded frames for stability. In contrast, the MAXXHAUL Platform Bike Rack mounts to a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch receiver. It is not compatible with Class I or II hitches, RVs, or trailers. You must have the correct hitch hardware to use the MAXXHAUL model. The Allen rack offers a simpler attachment method that does not require a hitch receiver, making it accessible for more vehicle types.
Bike capacity
Capacity is a major difference between these two carriers. The Allen model is designed to hold up to four bicycles securely. It uses individual tie-downs to protect each bike during transport. The MAXXHAUL rack is built for two bikes. It features adjustable tire cradles that fit wheels from 20 to 26 inches. If you need to transport more than two bikes at once, the Allen rack provides the necessary space. The MAXXHAUL model is better suited for couples or solo riders with a single bike.
Weight and portability
Portability varies significantly between these two options. The Allen rack weighs only 6.4 ounces. It folds fully flat for easy storage when not in use. This light weight makes it simple to handle and install without assistance. The MAXXHAUL rack is much heavier at 33.1 pounds. It is constructed from rugged steel to support up to 40 pounds per bike. While the MAXXHAUL has a removable vertical post for compact storage, it remains a heavy piece of equipment. You will need more strength to lift and store the MAXXHAUL model compared to the lightweight Allen rack.
Vehicle compatibility
Vehicle fitment depends on your specific car or truck. The Allen rack fits most sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. You should consult the manufacturer's site for specific vehicle fitment details. The MAXXHAUL rack is engineered exclusively for vehicles with a 2-inch Class III or IV hitch. It is not compatible with Class I, Class II, RVs, campers, or trailers. If your vehicle lacks a heavy-duty hitch receiver, the MAXXHAUL model will not work. The Allen rack offers broader compatibility with standard passenger vehicles that do not have hitch mounts.
Build and stability
Both racks prioritize stability but use different methods. The Allen rack features a padded lower frame to protect your vehicle and side straps for lateral stability. It installs in seconds and is fully assembled. The MAXXHAUL rack uses a heavy-duty steel build with a locking knob to secure the upright post. This knob reduces sway and bike movement during transport. The MAXXHAUL design aims for wobble-free stability through its hitch connection. The Allen rack relies on strap tension and padding. Both designs aim to keep your bikes secure, but the MAXXHAUL offers mechanical locking while the Allen offers strap-based security.
Choose the Right Rack for Your Needs
Carrying four bikes on a sedan
The Allen Sports Deluxe rack holds four bicycles, which is double the capacity of the MAXXHAUL model. Its trunk mount design fits sedans and hatchbacks that lack a hitch receiver. You get a sturdy frame with individual tie-downs to secure each bike. The unit folds flat for compact storage when you are not using it.
Protecting bikes with a platform design
The MAXXHAUL rack uses a platform style that supports bikes by the wheels. This avoids touching the frame, which is safer for expensive carbon bikes. It features adjustable tire cradles and foam padded hooks. The heavy-duty steel construction supports up to 40 pounds per bike, ensuring secure transport on every trip.
Using a Class III or IV hitch
This MAXXHAUL model is engineered exclusively for 2-inch Class III and IV hitch receivers. It is not compatible with Class I, Class II, RVs, campers, or trailers. If your vehicle has a standard 2-inch hitch, this carrier provides wobble-free stability with a built-in locking knob to reduce sway during transport.
The products compared
Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Best for: transporting four bicycles on sedans or SUVs
- Bike Capacity
- 4
- Mount Type
- trunk
- Folding
- folds fully flat
- Use
- Bike
- Weight
- 6.4 ounces
View on Amazon: Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack Affiliate link
This Allen trunk mount rack holds four bikes on sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUVs. It features a single-configuration design that installs in seconds without assembly. The padded lower frame protects your vehicle, while side straps ensure lateral stability. The unit folds fully flat for storage. It is a simple, sturdy option for transporting multiple bicycles without roof racks.
Pros
- Holds up to 4 bikes
- Folds fully flat for storage
- Fully assembled for quick installation
- Padded lower frame protects vehicle
Cons
- Trunk mount type limits roof cargo space
- Requires checking manufacturer fit for specific vehicles
- No integrated locking mechanism mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You need to transport four bicycles
- You want a rack that folds flat for storage
- You prefer a trunk-mounted solution over roof racks
Skip if
- You only have one or two bikes
- You need to carry roof cargo simultaneously
- You require a hitch-mounted carrier for stability
Verdict: Allen 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack is a straightforward choice for families or groups needing to move four bicycles. It suits buyers who prioritize easy storage and quick setup over the security of a hitch or roof mount.
MaxxHaul 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack
Best for: 2-bike hauling on 2-inch hitches
- Bike Capacity
- 2
- Mount Type
- hitch
- Load Capacity
- 40 lbs per bike
- Receiver Size
- 2"
- Tire Width
- 2-1/4"
- Vehicle Type
- SUV, Truck, Van
View on Amazon: MaxxHaul 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack Affiliate link
This MAXXHAUL platform rack carries two bikes via a hitch mount. It fits 2-inch Class III and IV receivers only. The steel build holds 40 lbs per bike. Adjustable cradles handle wheels from 20 to 26 inches. You get wobble-free stability with a locking knob. The design allows compact storage by removing the vertical post. It suits SUVs, trucks, and vans needing secure bike transport.
Pros
- Holds 40 lbs per bike
- Fits 20 to 26-inch wheels
- Locking knob reduces sway
- Removable post for storage
Cons
- Only fits 2-inch hitches
- Incompatible with Class I or II hitches
- Excluded from RVs and campers
Good fit if
- You have a 2-inch hitch receiver
- You transport two bikes frequently
- You need stable, wobble-free hauling
Skip if
- You have a Class I or II hitch
- You own an RV or camper
- You need to carry more than two bikes
Verdict: MAXXHAUL 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack is a solid choice for truck or SUV owners with a 2-inch hitch who need to haul two bikes securely without sway.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Allen Sports Deluxe 4-Bike Trunk Mount Rack | MaxxHaul 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack |
|---|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 4 | 2 |
| Mount Type | trunk | hitch |
| Load Capacity | not stated | 40 lbs per bike |
| Receiver Size | not stated | 2" |
| Folding | folds fully flat | not stated |
| Tire Width | not stated | 2-1/4" |
| Vehicle Type | not stated | SUV, Truck, Van |
| Use | Bike | Bike |
| Weight | 6.4 ounces | 33.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 60 × 24 × 33 inches |
| Size | 4-Bike | not stated |
| Color | Red/ Black | black |
| Model | 104DB-R | 50027 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Allen rack hold four bikes on a sedan?
Yes, the Allen Sports Deluxe model is designed to transport four bicycles on sedans or SUVs. Its trunk mount design allows it to fit vehicles that lack a hitch receiver. This makes it a practical choice for families or groups needing to move multiple bikes without requiring a hitch.
What hitch size does the MAXXHAUL rack require?
The MAXXHAUL 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack requires a 2-inch receiver hitch. It is not compatible with 1.25-inch hitches. This specific mounting requirement means you must check your vehicle's hitch size before purchasing, as it is designed for SUVs, trucks, and vans with that standard receiver.
Which brand offers a higher bike capacity?
Allen offers a higher bike capacity with its Deluxe model, which holds four bikes. The MAXXHAUL platform rack is limited to two bikes. If you need to transport more than two bicycles, the Allen trunk mount is the only option among these two specific products that meets that need.
Is the MAXXHAUL rack suitable for trucks?
Yes, the MAXXHAUL 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack is suitable for trucks. It mounts to a 2-inch hitch, which is common on many trucks. The platform design helps secure bikes without sway, making it a solid choice for truck owners who need to haul two bikes securely.
Does the Allen rack use a hitch mount?
No, the Allen Sports Deluxe rack uses a trunk mount. It attaches directly to the trunk, hatch, or rear door using straps and padded frames. It does not require a hitch receiver, which distinguishes it from hitch-mounted options like the MAXXHAUL platform rack.
What is the weight of the MAXXHAUL rack?
The MAXXHAUL 2-Bike Hitch Platform Rack weighs 33.1 pounds. This weight is significantly heavier than the Allen model, which weighs only 6.4 ounces. The heavier construction of the MAXXHAUL rack contributes to its stability on a hitch, while the Allen rack is designed for lightweight portability.
Can I use the MAXXHAUL rack on a vehicle without a hitch?
No, you cannot use the MAXXHAUL rack on a vehicle without a hitch. It is a hitch-mount platform rack that requires a 2-inch receiver. If your vehicle lacks a hitch, you would need to consider the Allen trunk mount option instead, which attaches directly to the rear of the vehicle.