In bed MTB bike rack suggestions (wheel on)

I just picked up a 2010 DCLB 2 weeks ago and currently have a Yakima HoldUp 2 I use with my 4Runner but have been looking for a good in bed solution. The Insta-Gater caught my eye but I’d like some real world info on it. Do any of you have any experience with it or what are you guys using to haul your MTB in the bed without removing the front wheels? Pics would be greatly appreciated

thanks

 

Any particular reason you don't want to remove the front wheel?
I've been looking at a few options of Amazon and the only mounts I've seen that allow you to keep the front wheel on look flimsy in my opinion.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/sideride-bike-mounts-from-squareone-creations.660977/

 

Any particular reason you need a rack for the bed? This is how I transport mine (unless I have the bed full). One strap for each handlebar and they won't go anywhere.

 

i didnt get an alert to the replies, sorry for the late response. i prefer not to go through the hassel of removing and installing the front wheel and it makes it easier if im having someone else put it in the bed before a ride. Its preference on my part and i understand some dont mind removing it.

The side rails is a cool concept but it involves removing the front wheel so id may as well get a 2x4 and add the mounts to that. Looks good though

The straps look pretty stable. I saw there was a company at one time that made something similar to a wheel choc that mounted to the rails at the front of the bed but they appear to be out of stock or out business. The insta-gater is the only other option im seeing that gives front wheel support and some true stability.

 

Provided you place your front wheel against the front of the bed (or the tailgate) you should never run into an issue with the straps. I've done 6 hour trips like this without issue. Your bike can't lean either way because of the tension of the opposite strap. Just don't tighten it too much or the back wheel will come off the ground, but that will be very obvious and is easy to avoid.

 

This is also how I carry motorcycles. Zero issues.

 

Tailgate pad is the easiest option without a doubt

Or Latch-It Rack; www.latchitrack.com

 

Ive done motorcylces like that, the added weight helps keep it from moving. wasnt sure how the tension on the straps would affect handlebars on a MTB though

Was never a fan of tailgate pads due to it laying on the tailgate and affects it would have on paint. All good options but looks like im going to have to do some looking around or see what can be made to somehow adapt to the front rail system

 

Agreed about the tailgate pads, although it's hard to argue against the convenience.

Yeah I usually make sure the tension is enough to compress the fork a little, but not enough to unweight the rear tire (it takes quite a bit of tension to do that). I've done it with for 4 years and with several different trucks and no issues. Just an idea if you didn't want to spend money on a special rack.

 

Could be worth making a small wooden rectangle with dividing slats that your front wheel will sit in like those big concrete bike "racks" that you lock your bike into when you go into a store.

 

Good idea, i have something similar made to use as a stand out of 2x4's, that may work as an option

 

I used a pvc bike rack for years ..before I required a more rigid solution. This is made from metal tubing and was constructed by a local fabricator for $200 Canadian....holds 3 bikes and uses the factory tie down points to secure to the bed.

 

Make your own PVC rack would be the easiest. Depends on wheelbase, wheel size of the bike(s) you're talking about transporting.

 

I use a tailgate pad when transporting buddies' cute little expensive bikes. I ride steel hardtails so when it's just me I just throw it in the bed (literally) and head out to ride!

 

Posting this again because it creates and solves the enigma that is mountain bikes in trucks with a cap:
Pros: "security" of being completely inside truck; ease of loading; free because everyone should already have tie-downs; no extra hardware; fr wheel stays on (my main whip has non-QR TA so that is big for me)
Cons: Looks weird; strap could rub paint; likely need 2nd strap when wheeling; less convenient w/ +2 bikes