If you love surfing and you love to use your bike, you need to consider a surfboard bike rack. You can simply hop on your bike and head to the beach. Using your bike to the beach gives a more wholesome feeling, rather than using your car, which can not get you as close to the beach.
Also, the use of the bike makes it easy for you to avoid traffic and also helps you warm-up for the ride on the surfboard. Once you decide to ride your bike to the beach with your surfboard, just one thing remains. The surfboard bike rack is critical, as there is no way you can hold the board as you pedal to the beach.
There are different types on the market. Manufacturers create racks that fit in different parts of the bike. Thanks to the constant innovation and styles that the manufacturers work with, there are numerous racks out there. The choice of a surfboard rack is difficult, especially if it’s your first time using one. In this guide, we inform you about everything you need to know. We also outline the best 10 surfboard bike racks from the most popular ones.
Overview of Surfboard Bike Racks
If you ride a bike with the surfboard under your arm, you know it’s not an experience you want to repeat. The wind action against your body as you move does not make it an easy ride. While you may get to the beach faster than with a car, it can be more convenient with a bike. This is where the surfboard bike racks come in.
Their function is simple. They hold your surfboards in place as you ride to the beach. The racks connect to your bike, and hold the surfboard securely, while you ride your bike.
Good surfboard bike racks are very easy to install. And with these bike racks, the ride is smooth. Also, It does not affect your mobility, and the same goes for your visibility. Different manufacturers produce the racks on the market, so you can’t expect them all to function the same way. Some function better and longer than others.
The Top 10 Surfboard Bike Racks in 2024
There are different surfboard bike racks out there. However, we take a look at 10 of the best ones out there. We select these ones out of the numerous surfboard bike racks.
Moved By Bikes MBB Shortboard Surfboard Bicycle Rack
These are very common, and if you have done any bit of research on racks, you might have come across them. They come with the patented quick-connect lines. Additionally, it comes with a pivot bar design which makes the bar attachable to frame brackets just by pushing a single button. Pushing this button also helps you remove the surfboard at will.
When they are in the rack, you only need to drag and drop them till they fall into place. There are three main versions of these racks. They include a longboard, shortboard, and Moped. Either of the three is suitable for use.
These racks are made of aluminum or stainless steel. As explained earlier, racks made of this material are resistant to rust.
One other factor that makes this rack popular is its flexibility. It fits on any bike and you can use it with just any surfboard. Also, the installment of this rack is very easy. They are very sturdy. These racks are attached to the head tube of the bike. You can also easily remove them and move them at will. They are able to support boards up to 2 meters in length.
Moved by Bikes MBB Longboard Rack
Longboards are fun to have. But carrying them around can be a lot of work. Hence, you need something to carry them. This is where these racks come in. This rack is built similar to the one mentioned earlier. However, this is designed for longboards. They have quick release bars. Also, there is a front base that adjoins them easily to the bike frame. This ensures durability.
They are easy to mount and adjust. You can also easily remove them when you want to. This is a major selling point for them, especially for people who don’t have much technical knowledge about bike parts. It supports longboards up to 12 feet, with comfort. It is very lightweight and also comes with dog leash loops.
Ho Stevie! Surfboard Bike Rack
This surfboard rack is comfortable with different kinds of bikes. However, they are best for windsurf boards that are just about 2 meters long. They can also handle larger boards, but there is the risk of complications. Hence, it’s best to keep the boards short with this.
They are made from aluminum, which makes them resistant to rust in the face of moist weather or rain. This also comes in handy when you use them in salty seawater. Installation of this rack is also very easy. It also keeps the board at the side of the bike at a level that leaves you comfortable on the bike.
The rack is thick, which ensures durability. Also, the aluminum it is made of is sturdy yet comfortable. If you are looking for a rack that can work with almost all bikes, this is the one.
Carver Surf Rack – CSR Max for Longboards
This is a very high-quality surfboard bike rack. It is comfortable to hold longboards that are about 10 feet in length. This model from carver is made to mitigate the risks associated with carrying a surfboard on your bike. You don’t have to fix it by the side which increases the surface area of your bike. An increased surface area can make it impossible for you to maneuver some areas.
This is why the design from Carver is unique. It is fixed to the back of the bike. This makes it possible for you to fit the board on the rear of the bicycle. It is made with aluminum which prevents it from rust. The installation facility it comes with is also easy to understand. If you have a longboard, buy this rack.
COR Surf Longboard Bicycle Rack
This is one product that is designed with you at heart. Its’ design works for surfboards that extend to about 3 meters and are about 15 cm thick. This rack possesses a wide and soft foam that serves as protection over the board. Thanks to the aluminum it’s made of, the rack is very lightweight and has no risk of rusting.
Setting up this rack is also pretty simple, which is somewhat the standard surfboard bike racks in recent times. Thanks to the generosity of the manufacturer, you can get a refund, in case of complications after delivery.
Carver Surfboard Bike Rack – Shortboard
These racks are designed to be suitable for surfboards that are about 8 feet long. It is innovative and is able to support different types of bikes.
They are made of aluminum alloy which offers them a great deal of durability. It is also very easy to install and detach. It features rubber pads that protect the seats, it is also lightweight. However, it needs periodic adjustments.
Bike Balance Surfing Bike Rack
This is usually mounted at the rear of the bike. It is best for you if your board is not more than 8 feet long. Its’ design can carry two shortboards at the same time. It’s an excellent choice if you want to have a hassle-free ride. The location of the rack makes it very easy for you to maneuver in traffic.
Ho Stevie! Black Surfboard Bike Rack
Embrace the freedom of the sea and the thrill of the ride with the Ho Stevie! Surfboard Bike Rack in sleek black. Engineered for versatility and strength, this aluminum rack attaches effortlessly to all types of bicycles, from beach cruisers and road bikes to mountain and BMX bikes (excluding lightweight seat posts).
Measuring 16.75 x 3 x 8.75 inches and weighing just 3.25 pounds, it’s designed to hold surfboards up to 8 feet long securely, with adjustable carrier arms and foam padding to shield your board from scratches and dings. Installation is a breeze, so you can hit the road swiftly with your surfboard clamped snugly in place.
And with no need to fret over parking or fees, your seaside adventure starts with a simple pedal. Eco-conscious and convenience-driven, the Ho Stevie! Surfboard Bike Rack is your trusty companion for a clean, fun, and efficient surf day getaway.
Factors to Consider When You Buy a Surfboard Bike Rack
There are several things you need to consider before you put your money on that surfboard bike rack. In this section, we detail these factors and what makes them important for consideration.
Size
The size of the surfboard is one of the primary factors to consider. With that, the racks come in a variety of sizes. For small surfboards, they can fit into any rack size. However, for large surfboards, there are special types of racks to use.
For shortboards, you can simply use with side, rear, and trailer support. For longboards, they function better with the bumpers and container mount. The oar racks on the other hand are huge and have their specific side racks. However, they are better with trailers.
Rack Type
This is another important factor to consider as you search for a surfboard bike rack. Basically, there are three types of racks, which function in slightly different ways.
- Trailer Mount: These are very portable and are attached to the back of the bike. This rack is best for people with large windsurf boards and longboards. They can also work pretty well with portable boards.
- Side Mount: These are the most prevalent types of mounts. Also, they come in either single or double connection points. These make it easy to place the board just beside the bike. Sound mounts are also designed in a way that they work with any bike.
- Back Mount: The design brings better center balance. They possess a rear grille which makes them a great option for those who dislike pedal balancing. The major downside to this type of rack is its incompatibility with some types of bikes. Also, they only function with small surfboards.
Durability
Surfboard racks are made of stainless steel or aluminum, as the frame needs to be light and sturdy. This is to ensure that the boards can be thrown and held easily. Also, these materials are commonly used as they can resist rust in spite of exposure to rain. Hence, when you shop, stay away from racks not made of either of these materials.
Installation
You should consider the installation of the rack before your purchase. Make sure to note the points the carrier will have. Also, consider if it will fit your bike. Finally, consider if they can be easily detached.
Cost
You probably won’t go for something you cannot afford. Hence, you should take note of the price. The standard budget is anywhere between $70 and $135. Whatever size you are looking to get falls within this range.
Frequently Asked Questions about Surfboard Bike Racks
Can this rack work for my garage?
No, the surfboard bike racks cannot work for your garage. You need the vertical surf racks in this case. With this, you can store your bike in your hallway, garage, or your living room if you so wish.
Do I need the assistance of a professional?
If you have the technical know-how of bikes, it should not be that difficult for you. However, if you don’t and you don’t want to risk damage to the bike, you can always reach out to a friend or a professional.
