If you want a hitch-mounted carrier that transports five bikes with a locking mechanism and universal fit for your ATV, choose Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking; if you need a single-bike rooftop solution with one-handed operation and frame-free wheel support, choose GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack. This isn't a debate about which is cheaper or which has more glowing reviews; it is a decision based entirely on how you plan to move your machine and where you intend to store it. The choice between these two units comes down to capacity versus convenience, and the specific constraints of your vehicle's mounting system.
• Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking: Its biggest strength is high-capacity transport for up to five bikes with a built-in lock, but its trade-off is significant weight and the requirement for a 2-inch hitch receiver. It is for the family or group rider who needs to haul multiple machines at once.
• GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack: Its biggest strength is secure, frame-free holding of a single bike with easy one-handed ratcheting, but its trade-off is limited to just one bike and the necessity of roof crossbars. It is for the solo rider who values quick loading and protecting their frame.
The Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking Quick Release 5-Bike Carrier is engineered for volume. If you are an ATV owner who frequently rides with friends, leads a club, or simply needs to transport a fleet of quads without making multiple trips, this unit is the logical answer. The design explicitly supports a "Universal Fit" configuration, meaning it adapts to various hitch receivers rather than being tied to a specific brand of vehicle. This versatility is crucial for owners who might switch between different tow vehicles or ATVs themselves.
The standout feature here is the capacity. You can load up to five bikes onto this single rack. That is not a minor difference from a single-carrier setup; it fundamentally changes the logistics of a weekend trip. Furthermore, the inclusion of a locking mechanism addresses security concerns directly. When you park at a trailhead or a campsite, having the ability to secure the entire load to the hitch reduces the risk of theft significantly compared to unsecured roof racks or simple trays.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-05 · 5 min read · Independent comparison
However, this power comes with physical demands. While these dimensions seem manageable, the weight becomes a factor when installing or removing the rack from your vehicle daily. More importantly, this carrier is useless without a 2-inch hitch receiver. If your ATV does not have a factory-installed 2-inch hitch or if you haven't installed one, this product is off the table immediately. It is strictly a hitch-based solution, designed for those who already have the infrastructure to support heavy loads.
The GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack takes a completely different approach, focusing on the protection of a single bicycle and the ease of the loading process. This unit is designed for riders who prefer to keep their bikes out of sight on the roof rather than dangling behind the vehicle. The dual-arm design is the core innovation here. By pivoting upright arms to hold the bike firmly by the wheels, it eliminates the need to remove the front wheel. This saves time and frustration, especially when you are rushing to get to a trail before dark.
Security and protection are paramount in this design. The system ensures no contact with the bike frame, which prevents scratches and damage to expensive components like paint jobs or carbon fiber parts. The integrated tightening knob adjuster allows for faster adjustment, while the Ratchet Lock Mode lets you release the bike with just one hand. This ergonomic consideration matters when you are standing under a roof rack, trying to manage straps and levers simultaneously.
This rack requires specific vehicle modifications. It fits removable roof crossbars with a center distance between 19.68 inches and 47.25 inches. If your vehicle lacks crossbars, you must install them first. The maximum crossbar dimensions are also strict, limiting compatibility to bars up to 3.15 inches wide and 1.6 inches tall. However, the construction materials—black aluminum and thickened powder-coated steel—suggest durability against corrosion and the elements. The folding design is a nice touch for storage, allowing the arms to fold down when not in use so they do not obstruct access to the trunk or sunroof. It is ideal for the individual rider who wants to maximize cargo space inside the cabin while keeping the bike safe on top.
• Best for multiple bikes → Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking (Handles up to 5 bikes; GATHERSKY handles only 1).
• Best for bike frame protection → GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack (Holds by wheels, zero frame contact; Allen holds by tires/frame depending on tray type).
• Best for hitch users → Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking (Requires 2-inch hitch; GATHERSKY requires roof crossbars).
• Best for solo riders → GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack (Designed specifically for one bike; Allen is overkill for a single machine).
• Best for security features → Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking (Includes integrated locking mechanism for the whole unit).
• Best for one-handed operation → GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack (Ratchet Lock Mode simplifies loading/unloading).
• Best for compact storage → GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack (Arms fold down when not in use; Allen is a fixed structure).
• Best for universal compatibility → Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking (Universal Fit for hitches; GATHERSKY has specific crossbar dimension limits).
In my opinion, if you are an ATV owner looking to transport a single machine, the GATHERSKY Roof Bike Rack is the smarter buy. The ability to secure the bike by the wheels without touching the frame protects your investment, and the one-handed ratcheting system makes the daily routine of loading much less tedious. However, if you are hauling a group or need to move more than one bike at a time, the Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking is the only viable option. I would personally choose the GATHERSKY for its convenience and protective design, provided my vehicle has the necessary crossbars. But for the sheer utility of moving five bikes with a lock, the Allen unit remains unmatched.
It will not fit smaller 1.25-inch hitches without an adapter, and it cannot be used without a hitch entirely.
The specifications state it fits bicycles with tires up to 3.1 inches wide and a wheelbase up to 48 inches, so standard fat tires should fit within these limits.
No, the design specifically notes that the pivoting upright arms hold the bike by the wheels, meaning front wheel removal is not required.
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