When it comes to transporting bikes in a pickup truck, a quality tailgate pad can make all the difference. Not only do these pads provide a secure and stable way to transport bikes, but they also help prevent damage to both the bikes and the truck itself. With so many tailgate pads on the market, however, it can be tough to know which one to choose. In this article, I listed some of the best tailgate pads for bikes, highlighting their features and benefits to help you make an informed decision.
After extensive research and review of some of the top tailgate pads on the market, I have determined that the Yakima Gatekeeper is the best tailgate pad for transporting bikes. Its durable construction, secure fastening system, and thoughtful design features make it an excellent choice for any pickup truck owner who needs to transport multiple bikes. Of course, every rider has different needs and preferences, so I have reviewed a total of six different tailgate pads in detail to help you find the best one for your unique situation. With the right tailgate pad, you can transport your bikes safely and confidently, without worrying about damage or instability during transit.
Best Tailgate Pads For Bikes
- Yakima Gatekeeper
- Demon Tailgate Pad
- Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad
- Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad
- Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad
- Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad
Yakima Gatekeeper
Key Features
- Two sizes: Medium (53″ wide) and large (62″ wide)
- Medium holds up to five bikes, large holds up to six bikes
- Velcro cradle closure system
Our Review
The Yakima Gatekeeper is a user-friendly tailgate bike pad that is available in two sizes, making it simple to install and use. The medium size can hold up to five bikes, while the large size can hold up to six. This high-quality pad is an excellent option for a pickup truck due to its straightforward design and durability. Installation involves draping the pad over the tailgate and securing it in place using the straps.
When transporting bikes, the velcro cradle system wraps around the bikes’ frames to keep them securely in place while the padding helps prevent damage to the bike frame or truck bed from friction. The Yakima Gatekeeper is designed to make transporting multiple bikes in a pickup truck easy, while also protecting the truck and the bikes.
Pros
- Simple installation and easy to use
- Nylon outer material is good at withstanding abrasions and bad weather conditions
Cons
- Might block rear camera depending on the model of your pickup truck
Demon Tailgate Pad
Key Features
- Two sizes: small (54″ wide) and large (60″ wide)
- Small holds up to five bikes, large holds up to seven bikes
- 3/4” foam pad with a heavy-duty vinyl cover on the outside
Our Review
Our second pick is a tailgate pad that comes in two different sizes: small (54″ wide) and large (60″ wide).
The small size fits most small to medium sized pickup trucks whereas large fits most full sized pickup trucks. The small size can hold up to 5 bikes and large can hold up to 7.
We like this tailgate pad because it comes with premium padding to protect your bike and truck and it’s also very easy to use. Not to mention the bike capacity.
The heavy-duty vinyl cover on the 3/4″ foam pad also means it can withstand bad weather conditions pretty well.
Using this tailgate pad is actually quite straightforward. You drape the pad over the tailgate and hook up the 3 straps around the tailgate. You secure it further using the web cinch straps on the pad.
You place your bike over the tailgate with the front fork and wheel just outside of the tailgate and the back of the bike resting on the truck bed.
You secure the bike to the tailgate pad by tying the adjustable hook and loop straps around the bike frame.
If you need to transport your and your pals’ bikes to go an adventure then this is a great fit and it’s also good value for your money.
Pros
- Easy to install and use
- Padding to prevent bike from coming in contact with the truck
- Heavy duty vinyl cover can withstand bad weather conditions
- Good value
Cons
- There’s a possibility the pad will cover your rear camera. So if you depend on your rear camera while driving then this pad might not be suitable for you.
Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad
Key Features
- Two sizes: small (57″ wide) and large (61″ wide)
- Small holds up to five bikes, large holds up to six bikes
- PVC tarpaulin, micro-brushed inner lining
Our Review
The Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad is an excellent choice for anyone who frequently transports bikes in the back of a pickup truck. This tailgate pad is well-designed, durable, and easy to use. It comes in two sizes – medium and large – and both sizes can hold multiple bikes securely in place.
One of the standout features of the Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad is the padding it provides. The thick foam padding ensures that the bikes are protected from scratches, dings, and other damage while in transit. The pad is also easy to install and stays securely in place thanks to the adjustable straps.
Overall, the Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad is an excellent investment for anyone who frequently transports bikes in a pickup truck. It’s durable, easy to use, and provides excellent protection for your bikes during transit. The only downside is that it’s a bit more expensive than some of the other tailgate pads on the market, but the extra cost is definitely worth it for the added protection and peace of mind.
Pros
- Durable, weatherproof material
- Padding to prevent bike from coming in contact with the truck
- Easy to use
- Compatable with e-bikes
Cons
- Relatively expensive
Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad
Key Features
- 7-5 fixed seats
- 2 tool pockets
- Open window
Our Review
The Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is a reliable and affordable option for anyone looking to transport bikes in the back of their pickup truck. This tailgate pad is designed to fit most trucks and can hold up to seven bikes securely in place.
One of the standout features of the Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is its thick padding. The padding is made from high-density foam and provides excellent protection for your bikes during transit. It also helps prevent scratches and other damage to your truck’s tailgate.
Another great feature of the Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is its ease of use. The pad is easy to install and stays securely in place thanks to the adjustable straps. The webbing system that keeps the bikes in place is also easy to adjust and can accommodate different bike sizes and styles.
One potential drawback of the Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is its durability. While it’s made from high-quality materials, it may not hold up as well as some of the more expensive tailgate pads on the market. The webbing system is also not as secure as a dedicated bike rack, so there is a chance that the bikes could shift or fall over during transit.
Overall, the Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad is a great option for anyone on a budget who wants a reliable and easy-to-use tailgate pad. While it may not be the most durable or secure option out there, it provides excellent protection for your bikes and is a great value for the price.
Pros
- Value for money
- Easy to install
- Can carry upto 7 bikes
Cons
- Not very durable
Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad
Key Features
- Padded tailgate protection
- Works best on traditional tailgate designs
- Individual bike anchor straps (7- Large; 5- Small)
- Four web cinch straps
- Access flap for tailgate handles
- Cable lock compatible
- Reflective logo
Our Review
The Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad is a well-designed and high-quality product that offers great protection for bikes during transit. This pad is specifically designed to fit most pickup trucks and can hold up to seven bikes securely in place.
One of the standout features of the Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad is its thick padding. The padding is made from high-density foam and provides excellent protection for your bikes during transit. It helps prevent scratches, dings, and other damage to your bikes, as well as your truck’s tailgate.
Another great feature of the Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad is its versatile webbing system. The webbing system can accommodate different bike sizes and styles, making it a great option for different types of riders. The webbing is also adjustable and easy to use, so you can quickly and easily secure your bikes in place.
The Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad is also made from high-quality materials that are built to last. The rugged nylon exterior can withstand regular use and exposure to the elements without showing signs of wear and tear.
One potential drawback of the Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad is its price. It’s more expensive than some of the other tailgate pads on the market, which could be a drawback for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some users have reported that the pad may not fit all pickup truck models perfectly.
Overall, the Dakine Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad is an excellent choice for anyone who wants a high-quality and versatile tailgate pad for transporting bikes. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, its thick padding, versatile webbing system, and durable materials make it a great investment for anyone who regularly transports bikes in their pickup truck.
Pros
- versatile webbing system
- Easy to install
- Can carry upto 7 bikes
Cons
- Some riders reported that it didnt fit their trucks
Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad
Key Features
- Padded pickup tailgate protection
- Ideal for shuttling bikes – particularly MTBs
- Quick access to tailgate release handle
- Fold-Away flap for rear camera (Olive/Black and Black/Olive only)
Our Review
The Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad is a well-designed and highly functional product that offers excellent protection for bikes during transit. This pad is specifically designed to fit most pickup trucks and can hold up to six bikes securely in place.
One of the standout features of the Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad is its thick padding. The padding is made from high-density foam and provides excellent protection for your bikes during transit. It helps prevent scratches, dings, and other damage to your bikes, as well as your truck’s tailgate.
Another great feature of the Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad is its adjustable webbing system. The webbing system can accommodate different bike sizes and styles, making it a great option for different types of riders. The webbing is also easy to use and adjustable, so you can quickly and easily secure your bikes in place.
The Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad also features a built-in flap that can be used to cover the bike’s top tubes. This flap helps prevent any damage to the bike frames or truck bed that could result from friction during transit. The flap is also secured with strong velcro, which keeps it securely in place even during bumpy rides.
One potential drawback of the Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad is its price. It’s more expensive than some of the other tailgate pads on the market, which could be a drawback for those on a tight budget. Additionally, some users have reported that the pad may not fit all pickup truck models perfectly.
Overall, the Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad is a great choice for anyone who wants a high-quality and versatile tailgate pad for transporting bikes. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, its thick padding, adjustable webbing system, and built-in flap for added protection make it a great investment for anyone who regularly transports bikes in their pickup truck.
Pros
- 24-month warranty
- M/L fits mid-size trucks like the Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Chevrolet Canyon, Ford Ranger, Jeep Gladiator, etc. Size L/XL fits full-size trucks like the Toyota Tundra, Nissan Titan, Chevrolet Silverado, Ford-F150, Dodge Ram, etc.
Cons
- Some riders reported that it doesn’t fit well
Guide to Buying a Tailgate Pad For Your Bike
Bike Securing Straps
When buying a tailgate pad, one important feature to consider is the bike securing straps. These straps are designed to keep your bike securely in place while it’s being transported on the tailgate pad.
There are a few different types of bike securing straps available, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
One common type of bike securing strap is the hook-and-loop strap. These straps use a loop of fabric that wraps around the bike frame and attaches to the pad using a hook-and-loop fastener. They are easy to use and can be adjusted to fit bikes of different sizes and shapes.
Another type of bike securing strap is the buckle strap. These straps use a metal or plastic buckle to secure the bike to the pad. They are typically more durable than hook-and-loop straps and provide a more secure hold, but can be more difficult to adjust.
Some tailgate pads also include additional straps or tie-downs for extra security. These straps can be used to secure the bike to the pad or to the truck bed, providing an extra layer of protection against shifting or sliding during transport.
When choosing a tailgate pad with bike securing straps, it’s important to look for a design that is easy to use and provides a secure hold. Make sure the straps are adjustable to fit your bike properly, and consider additional straps or tie-downs for added security
Additional Padding
A good tailgate pad should provide enough cushioning to protect your bike from any potential damage during transport.
The padding of a tailgate pad is usually made from foam or other soft materials that help absorb shocks and vibrations during transport. The thickness and density of the foam will vary from one pad to another, and it’s important to choose a pad with sufficient padding for your specific needs.
When it comes to padding, the thickness of the pad is an important consideration. A thicker pad will provide more cushioning and protection for your bike, but it may also be bulkier and more difficult to store when not in use. A thinner pad, on the other hand, may be more compact and easier to store, but it may not provide as much protection for your bike.
In addition to the thickness of the padding, the material used for the padding is also an important consideration. Look for a tailgate pad made from high-quality foam that is dense enough to provide adequate cushioning, but not too heavy or bulky.
Some tailgate pads may also feature additional padding in strategic areas, such as around the bike frame or handlebars, to provide extra protection for your bike during transport. This can be particularly helpful for rough or bumpy roads.
Tailgate Handle Flap
Another important feature to consider when purchasing a tailgate pad for your bike is the tailgate handle flap. This is a flap or cutout in the pad that allows you to access the tailgate handle and open the tailgate without having to remove the pad.
The tailgate handle flap is an important feature because it allows you to easily access the contents of your truck bed without having to remove the entire pad. This can be particularly helpful if you need to grab something from your truck bed while on the go, or if you’re using your truck to transport other items in addition to your bike.
When choosing a tailgate pad with a tailgate handle flap, it’s important to make sure that the flap is positioned correctly and is easy to use. Look for a pad with a well-placed flap that allows you to easily access the handle without having to move the bike or the pad.
Size
Tailgate pad size is an important consideration when purchasing a tailgate pad for your bike. The size of the pad will determine how many bikes you can transport on your tailgate and how securely they will be held in place.
When choosing a tailgate pad, it’s important to measure the width of your truck’s tailgate to ensure that the pad you select will fit correctly. Most tailgate pads come in different sizes to accommodate various tailgate widths, so be sure to choose a pad that is designed to fit your specific truck model.
In addition to the size of the pad itself, the number of bikes that the pad can accommodate is also an important consideration. Some tailgate pads are designed to hold only one bike, while others can hold two or more bikes. If you plan to transport more than one bike at a time, make sure the pad you choose has enough space and straps to hold each bike securely.
Materials
The material of a tailgate pad is an important consideration when purchasing a tailgate pad for your bike. The right material can provide the necessary cushioning and protection for your bike during transport, while also being durable and easy to clean.
One of the most common materials used in tailgate pads is foam. Foam provides a soft, cushioned surface that can protect your bike from scratches and dings during transport. Look for a tailgate pad with a high-density foam that is thick enough to provide adequate cushioning, but not so thick that it makes it difficult to store or use the pad.
Another important consideration when it comes to tailgate pad material is the outer layer or covering of the pad. Some tailgate pads are made with a durable, water-resistant material like nylon or polyester. These materials are great for protecting the pad from the elements, and they are easy to clean and maintain.
Other tailgate pads may be made with a more heavy-duty material like vinyl or PVC. These materials are extremely durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making them a good choice for frequent use or for more rugged outdoor activities.
Back-Up Camera Compatability
Back-up camera compatibility is an important consideration when purchasing a tailgate pad for your bike, especially if your truck is equipped with a back-up camera. If you want to be able to use your back-up camera while the tailgate pad is in place, it’s important to choose a pad that is compatible with this feature.
Not all tailgate pads are compatible with back-up cameras, so it’s important to choose a pad that is designed specifically with this feature in mind. Look for a tailgate pad that has a cutout or opening in the center that allows the back-up camera to function properly.
If your truck’s back-up camera is located on the tailgate handle or near the top of the tailgate, it’s important to choose a pad that does not block the camera’s view. Look for a pad that is designed to fit around the camera, or one that has a cutout specifically for the camera to ensure that it is not obstructed.
It’s also important to note that some tailgate pads may interfere with the operation of other safety features on your truck, such as blind spot monitoring or parking sensors. If your truck has these features, make sure to choose a tailgate pad that is compatible with them to ensure that they continue to function properly.
Warranty
Most reputable tailgate pad manufacturers will offer some type of warranty, although the length and terms of the warranty may vary. Look for a warranty that offers a reasonable amount of coverage and protection, typically at least a one-year warranty, although some manufacturers may offer longer warranties.
Make sure to read the warranty carefully and understand what is covered and what is not. Some warranties may only cover defects in materials or workmanship, while others may offer more comprehensive coverage. Additionally, some warranties may require that you register your product within a certain timeframe or that you follow specific care instructions to be eligible for coverage.
It’s also important to note that not all warranties are created equal. Look for a warranty from a reputable manufacturer that has a good track record of honoring warranties and providing good customer service.
Overall, a warranty is an important consideration when purchasing a tailgate pad for your bike. Look for a warranty that offers reasonable coverage and protection, read the terms carefully, and choose a manufacturer with a good reputation for honoring warranties and providing good customer service. With the right warranty, you can be confident that your tailgate pad will provide the protection and performance you need for years to come.
FAQ
What is a Tailgate Pad?
A tailgate pad is a type of protective cover designed to be used on the tailgate of a pickup truck, providing a cushioned surface for transporting bicycles. It is a soft, padded mat that attaches to the tailgate of your truck, creating a stable surface for your bike to rest on during transport.
Tailgate pads are designed to protect both your bike and your truck during transportation. When you place your bike on the pad, the soft surface prevents scratches, dents, and other damage to the tailgate, while also providing a secure platform for transporting the bike.
Tailgate pads come in a variety of sizes, styles, and materials, and can be easily attached to the tailgate of your truck using straps, velcro, or other securing mechanisms. Some tailgate pads are designed to accommodate multiple bikes at once, while others are made for a single bike.
Most tailgate pads also come with additional features such as straps for securing the bike, pockets for storing gear, and access to the tailgate handle, so you can easily open and close the tailgate without removing the pad.
Tailgate pads are a popular choice for transporting bicycles, especially for mountain bikers who need to transport their bikes to trailheads or other off-road destinations. They are easy to install, affordable, and provide a simple and effective solution for protecting your bike and your truck during transport.
In summary, a tailgate pad is a protective cover that attaches to the tailgate of a pickup truck and provides a soft, padded surface for transporting bicycles. It is designed to protect both your bike and your truck from damage during transport, and is a popular choice among mountain bikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Why do I need a tailgate pad for my bike?
A tailgate pad is essential for protecting your bike and your truck when transporting bicycles. The pad prevents scratches, dents, and other damage to the tailgate, and it provides a secure platform for transporting bikes.
What features should I look for in a tailgate pad?
When shopping for a tailgate pad, look for features such as durable materials, secure attachment points, and a soft surface for protecting your bike. Some pads also include additional features such as straps for securing your bike, pockets for storing gear, and access to the tailgate handle.
Can I use a tailgate pad with other types of equipment?
Tailgate pads are designed specifically for transporting bicycles, but you can use them to transport other types of equipment as well, such as kayaks or surfboards.
How do I install a tailgate pad on my truck?
Tailgate pads are easy to install and typically attach to your truck using straps or velcro. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model to ensure a secure and safe installation.
Can I still access the tailgate handle with a tailgate pad installed?
Yes, most tailgate pads are designed to provide access to the tailgate handle and latch so you can open and close the tailgate without removing the pad.
Are tailgate pads suitable for all types of pickup trucks?
Tailgate pads are designed to fit most standard-sized pickup trucks, but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing to ensure a proper fit for your particular make and model of truck.
How do I clean and maintain my tailgate pad?
To clean your tailgate pad, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge and mild soap as needed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives that could damage the surface of the pad. Store the pad in a cool, dry place when not in use to prevent mold and mildew.
Our Verdict
After reviewing some of the best tailgate pads for bikes on the market, it’s clear that the Yakima Gatekeeper is the top choice. With its sturdy construction, high-quality materials, and versatile design, the Yakima Gatekeeper provides excellent protection for bikes during transit, while also being easy to install and use. However, all six of the tailgate pads we reviewed in this article offer unique features and benefits that make them great options for different types of riders and truck owners. Whether you prioritize price, padding, adjustability, or durability, there is a tailgate pad out there that can meet your needs. Ultimately, by taking the time to choose a high-quality tailgate pad, you can ensure that your bikes stay safe and secure during transit, no matter where your adventures take you.
