Both are serious pieces of gear for the North American driver, but they solve very different problems on the road. The Allen unit is built for volume and security, while the Wildroad model prioritizes capacity for heavier, wider wheels and easy access to your vehicle's rear hatch. Neither option is a universal fix-all, and picking the wrong one means either struggling with bike clearance or worrying about stability during transit.
• Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking: Its biggest strength is the ability to carry up to five bicycles securely with a dedicated locking system, making it ideal for large families or group rides; its trade-off is a lighter frame weight that might feel less substantial than racks built for massive e-bikes.
• Best for: Allen Sports for groups needing maximum bike count and theft protection; Wildroad for individuals upgrading from standard bikes to heavier electric or fat-tire models.
The Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking is engineered for the enthusiast who plans to move more than just a single bicycle. With a design that accommodates up to five bikes, this carrier transforms a standard 2-inch hitch into a mobile garage for the whole squad. The dimensions of the unit, sitting at roughly 30.7 inches in length and 14.2 inches in width, provide a solid footprint without being overly bulky.
This product is explicitly marketed as a "Quick Release" model, suggesting a focus on efficiency for users who frequently swap their vehicles or need to secure the rack quickly when not in use. The inclusion of a locking mechanism is a critical feature for anyone parking in public spaces or traveling through areas where bike theft is a concern. Unlike simpler straps that rely solely on friction, a dedicated lock adds a layer of physical security that peace-of-mind travelers demand. The black finish offers a sleek, professional look that blends well with most vehicle colors, avoiding the cluttered appearance of some multi-colored plastic alternatives.
You should buy this Allen Sports model if your primary use case involves roof cargo logistics combined with ground-level transport for larger groups. It fits the profile of a family planning a camping trip where every passenger needs their own ride, or a cycling club leader coordinating a weekend jaunt. However, you should skip this unit if you only have one or two extremely wide tires, like those found on some fat-tire bikes, unless you verify the specific tire holder spacing, as the design is optimized for standard to slightly wider profiles across a larger quantity. It is not the right choice if you prioritize a tilt function to access your trunk, as the primary design philosophy here centers on carrying capacity and security rather than vehicle access convenience.
We compare products from their published specs and features; the verdicts below are our independent editorial opinions.
Updated: 2026-11-06 · 6 min read · Independent comparison
The Wildroad 2-Bike rack takes a completely different approach by focusing on the growing market of electric and fat-tire bicycles. These modern machines are heavier and often have significantly wider tires than traditional road or mountain bikes, requiring a sturdier platform. The physical dimensions, measuring 29.5 inches in length and 14.9 inches in width, create a compact yet stable base that holds its ground against the torque of heavy loads.
One of the standout features for daily drivers is the tiltable construction. Many hitches block the rear hatch of SUVs and trucks, forcing owners to remove the entire rack just to get groceries or luggage. The Wildroad allows you to tilt the rack down, clearing the rear opening while the bikes remain strapped in place. This functionality saves significant time and effort. Furthermore, the rack comes equipped with premium foam-padded hooks and heavy-duty nylon straps, which are essential for protecting the paint and carbon fiber components of expensive e-bikes. The anti-rattle stabilizer and no-wobble fastener address a common annoyance where cheap racks clatter and shake, potentially damaging both the vehicle and the bikes during highway driving.
This product is perfect for the urban commuter or outdoor adventurer who has upgraded to a high-end e-bike or a fat-tire cruiser. If you value the ability to open your trunk without unloading your ride, this is the superior choice. The gray color provides a modern aesthetic, and the inclusion of a reflective plug ensures visibility at night, adding a safety layer for late-night returns. However, you must accept the limitation of a two-bike capacity; if you plan to haul three or more riders, this unit will simply not work for your needs.
• Best for Maximum Capacity: Choose the Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking if you need to transport three, four, or five bikes simultaneously; the Wildroad caps out at two.
• Best for Trunk Access: Choose the Wildroad 2-Bike because of its tilting mechanism that keeps bikes loaded while allowing rear door access; the Allen model does not offer this tilt feature.
• Best for Security: Choose the Allen Sports Deluxe+ Locking for its integrated locking system designed to deter theft on the road; the Wildroad relies on straps and general stability.
• Best for Vehicle Compatibility: Choose the Wildroad 2-Bike if you drive an SUV, truck, or off-road vehicle and need a rack that handles heavy loads without wobble; the Allen is a strong all-arounder but less specialized for extreme weights.
• Best for Step-Through Frames: Avoid the Wildroad 2-Bike entirely as it is not suitable for step-through bikes; the Allen Sports model is generally more forgiving with varied frame geometries.
• Best for Night Visibility: Choose the Wildroad 2-Bike which includes a reflective plug for enhanced safety in low-light conditions.
In my opinion, I would buy the Wildroad 2-Bike for my personal needs. While the Allen Sports carrier is undeniably impressive for moving a crowd, my typical scenario involves taking my e-bike and a friend's standard mountain bike on weekend adventures. The foam padding protects my investment better than generic straps, and the reflective plug adds a necessary safety touch. For solo or duo riders with modern equipment, the Wildroad offers a smarter, more functional solution for roof cargo and street travel.
No, the manufacturer explicitly states that this rack is not suitable for step-through bikes. You should verify your bike's frame geometry before purchasing to ensure the hooks can properly engage the frame tube.
Users should consult the full manual for specific weight restrictions to ensure safe towing limits are not exceeded.
The product description highlights that it is easy to assemble and mount on a 2-inch hitch, but it does not specify if any proprietary tools are needed beyond standard wrenches or hand-tightening mechanisms typically included.
Yes, the "Locking" designation implies a security feature designed to prevent theft. However, for maximum safety, it is always advisable to lock the bikes to the rack itself in addition to securing the rack to the vehicle.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon and affiliated sites.
When you buy through links on this page, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon or its affiliates. This site is an independent third-party review and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Amazon or the product brands mentioned.