If you’ve recently thought about carrying bikes on the back of your car, you’ve probably already stumbled across a big question: what tow ball do I need? Closely followed by another: Which tow bar bike rack is best for me?
It can feel confusing at first. Between fixed tow balls, detachable options, swan necks, and heavy-duty bike racks that all look similar, the choices are overwhelming. The good news is that once you understand the basics, picking the right tow ball and the right rack isn’t complicated. It just comes down to matching the equipment to your needs, your car, and the kind of cycling you do. And once you’ve got the right combination, loading bikes becomes stress-free instead of a juggling act.
What Tow Ball Do I Need?
A tow ball is the rounded steel hitch at the back of a car that connects to trailers, caravans, or bike racks. Choosing the right one depends on how you’ll use it.
The Common Types
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Fixed Tow Ball
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Bolted permanently to the tow bar.
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Strong, affordable, and always ready to use.
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Downside: sticks out even when you’re not using it, which some people find annoying.
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Detachable Tow Ball
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Can be removed when not needed.
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Keeps the car looking tidy, especially on modern vehicles.
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Often more expensive than fixed models.
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Swan Neck Tow Ball
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A slim, curved design that’s common in Europe.
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Works well with many modern bike racks and doesn’t interfere with parking sensors.
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Limited in terms of towing heavier trailers.
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Heavy-Duty Tow Ball
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Built for serious towing.
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If you plan to carry multiple e-bikes or tow alongside using a rack, this may be the safest bet.
Matching Tow Balls to Bike Racks
Most modern tow bar bike racks are designed for 50mm tow balls (the standard size). Before buying, check both your car’s tow bar rating and the rack’s requirements. If you only plan to carry bikes, a detachable swan neck or standard fixed tow ball is usually perfect. If you also tow caravans or trailers, go for something stronger.
So, to answer simply: the tow ball you need is usually a 50mm model, fixed or detachable, depending on your preference for convenience versus cost.
Which Tow Bar Bike Rack Is Best?
Now that you know what tow ball to fit, the next question is about the rack itself. With so many options on the market, how do you know which one is best? The answer depends on how many bikes you carry, what type of bikes they are, and how often you’ll use the rack.
Key Things to Consider
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Bike Capacity
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Racks usually carry between 2 and 4 bikes.
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If you ride solo or as a couple, a 2-bike rack may be all you need. Families or groups should look for 3,4 bike models.
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Weight Limit
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Electric bikes weigh much more than standard ones. Always check the rack’s maximum load rating.
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Some racks are specifically built for e-bikes with reinforced arms and stronger mounts.
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Ease of Use
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Premium racks tilt forward so you can still access the boot.
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Quick-mount systems save you from fiddling around in the driveway before every trip.
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Storage
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Foldable racks are easier to store when not in use. If space in your garage is tight, this feature matters.
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Security Features
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Locks for both the rack and the bikes give peace of mind if you stop mid-journey.
Types of Tow Bar Racks
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Platform-Style Racks
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Bikes sit on wheel trays with arms that hold the frame.
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Very stable, especially for heavier bikes.
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Usually more expensive, but worth it for frequent riders.
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Hanging-Style Racks
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Bikes hang from support arms.
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Lighter and cheaper, but not always suitable for unusual frame shapes or heavier e-bikes.
The “Best” Rack Depends on You
There’s no single rack that’s best for everyone. Here’s how to decide:
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Best for families: A 4-bike platform rack with tilt function.
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Best for e-bikes: A heavy-duty platform rack with wide wheel trays and higher weight capacity.
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Best for occasional riders: A simple 2-bike hanging rack, budget-friendly and compact.
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Best all-rounder: A mid-priced platform rack that carries 2–3 bikes and folds for storage.
At HomeMyGarden, we lean toward platform racks for long-term use because they’re sturdier, easier to load, and safer at higher speeds. And with their tilt features, they save you from unloading the entire setup just to grab a bag out of the boot, something you’ll appreciate on a long trip.
Tow Ball and Rack Safety Together
Having the right tow ball and the best rack only works if you use them properly. A few reminders:
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Never exceed the rack’s weight limit.
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Secure each bike with all straps provided.
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Check bolts and clamps before every trip.
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Make sure your number plate and lights aren’t blocked; a light board may be required.
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Drive with extra awareness, remembering the extra length at the back.
These small steps make the difference between a smooth trip and one that keeps you glancing nervously in the rearview mirror.
Why Shop Tow Bar Racks at HomeMyGarden?
At HomeMyGarden, we select tow bar racks based on safety, ease of use, and durability. Whether you’re after a simple rack for weekend rides or a heavy-duty platform for multiple e-bikes, we have options designed to keep your bikes secure without adding stress to your drive. We also make it easy to pair the right tow ball with the right rack, so you’re not left guessing.
Final Thoughts
So, what tow ball do I need? For most cyclists, a standard 50mm tow ball , fixed or detachable depending on your budget and taste , is perfect. If you tow heavier loads alongside carrying bikes, consider a heavy-duty option.
And which tow bar bike rack is best? That depends on your lifestyle. Platform racks are the safest bet for families and e-bike users, hanging racks work fine for lighter bikes and occasional trips, and foldable racks save space if storage is tight.
The bottom line: the safest, most convenient choice is the one matched to your car, your bikes, and your riding routine. With the right setup, transporting your bikes doesn’t need to be stressful. Instead, it becomes the start of the adventure , and at HomeMyGarden, we’re here to make sure that journey is as smooth as the ride itself. After all, the fun should begin the moment you leave your driveway, not only when you arrive at the trail.