Best Tailgate Bike Pads Review: Tested by OutdoorGearsHub

Transporting a bike to the top of a mountain can be a struggle, but with the use of tailgate bike pads, it doesn’t have to be anymore.

Tailgate bike pads have revolutionized the transportation of bikes, making it much easier and safer. These pads offer extra protection to both the bike and the tailgate of the truck, ensuring that your bike remains secure during transportation and reducing the risk of damage. With the introduction of tailgate bike pads, the days of struggling to transport your bike to the mountains are long gone.

What Are Tailgate Bike Pads?

These are specialized accessories designed to help in bike transportation via truck. These pads are made up of nylon or polyester with a well-cushioned interior. The straps included in the system help secure the bikes in one position and prevents them from knocking into each other. Tailgate pads are therefore protective objects that help to keep your bike secure in rough environmental and geographical conditions.

The article offers the best tailgate bike pads based on durability, padding, installation mechanism, straps adjustability, and cost-efficiency, along with a detailed buying guide.

The following are my recommendations for tailgate truck owners who want to transport their bikes on their trucks.

Best Tailgate Bike Pads Overview

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
Best All-Around	Best All-Around	Cache Basecamp Locking Tailgate Pad	Capacity: 5 Bikes Material: ‎PVC and PU Coated Nylon Weight: 12 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Best Overall	Best Overall	Fox Racing Tailgate Pad	Capacity: 6 Bikes Material: Polyester Weight: 2.2 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Highly Recommended	Highly Recommended	Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Bike Pad	Capacity: 5 Bikes Material: Nylon Weight: 5 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Editors Choice	Editors Choice	Evoc Duo Truck Tailgate Bike Pad	Capacity: 2 Bikes Material: Woven Polyamide Weight: 1.7 lbs	Check Latest Price
Best for Toyota Tundra	Best for Toyota Tundra	Thule GateMate Pro Tailgate Pad	Capacity: 7 Bikes Material: Vinyl Weight: 6.5 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Fits Tacoma Perfectly	Fits Tacoma Perfectly	Dakine DLX Pickup Tailgate Pad	Capacity: 7 – 5 Bikes Material: Polyester Weight: 2 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Best for MTBs	Best for MTBs	Demon Tailgate Bike Pad	Capacity : 5 – 7 Bikes Material: UV resistant thread Weight: 3.65 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Best for Pickup Trucks	Best for Pickup Trucks	LEETPIC Tailgate Bike Pad for Pickup Truck	Capacity: 5 bikes Material: PVC UV Protective Weight: 5.29 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Best for Tacoma	Best for Tacoma	MNJ Motor Tailgate Bike Pad	Capacity : 5 Bikes Inner Material: PVC Outer Material: Flannelette	Check Latest Price
Best for Ford F150	Best for Ford F150	Athletico Tailgate Pad for Bikes	Capacity : 6 Bikes Outer Material: Heavy-duty vinyl and Foam Padded Weight: 5.79 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Great fit for Tacoma	Great fit for Tacoma	Race Face T2 Tailgate Pad	Capacity : 6 Bikes Material: Thick Foam Weight: 6.6 lbs.	Check Latest Price
Universal Fit	Universal Fit	SPORTOURO Tailgate Bike Pads for Truck	Capacity : 5 Bikes Material: PVC and Flannel bottom Weight: 6.9 lbs.	Check Latest Price

Top Best Mountain Bike Tailgate Pads Review

I was able to meet up with the founders of the Cache tailgate and put the pad to the test on a mountain bike ride in the Corner Canyon trail system in Draper, UT! This is now the pad that I use on my truck for all outdoor activities. I found that it is extremely affordable for all of the premium benefits of the pad.

The Cache Basecamp System 2.0 stands out from its competitors by offering an array of benefits that cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. One key advantage is its unique locking capabilities, which ensure the security of your gear and personal belongings, and the pad itself!

Unlike traditional tailgate pads, the Basecamp System is designed with an integrated locking system that helps prevent theft, giving you peace of mind while you enjoy your ride. Or, if you are like me and you never actually take your pad off, as you are parked around town you can be sure that your pad isn’t going to disappear on you.

Another notable benefit of the Cache Basecamp Pad is its compatibility with accessory attachments. The multiple attachment points on the system allow you to easily customize and expand its functionality.

With the option to add seats, water bottles, or their Jeffrey Cooler, you can tailor the Basecamp System to fit your specific needs and preferences. This modular design not only makes it more versatile than competing products but also ensures you have everything you need, right at your fingertips.

Lastly, the superior quality and durability of the pad set it apart from other tailgate pads. Made from high-quality, weather-resistant materials, the Basecamp System is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, providing lasting durability and reliability. This means you can confidently take it on the most challenging of outdoor excursions without worrying about wear and tear.

Concluding Remarks about Cache Basecamp System 2.0

In summary, the Cache Basecamp System 2.0 offers a unique combination of security, customization, and durability, making it a top choice for mountain biking enthusiasts. Its locking capabilities, accessory attachment options, and high-quality construction set it apart from competitors, so if you are in the market for a new tailgate pad, this is what I recommend!

Tailgate pads do more than just secure bikes during transportation. The Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad is a great choice if you’re having trouble deciding which one to get. It can carry up to 5 bikes in the bed of your pickup and features the Slight Tight cradles, which effectively keep your bike secure and prevent any sliding or motion.

What sets this tailgate pad apart is its smart design, including the Velcro cradle closure system that keeps carbon bike frames and painted surfaces protected from scratches or damage. The integrated management system, consisting of nylon straps and latches, provides a secure grip on the pad and offers adjustability. The micro-fleece liner protects the tailgate from scratches or dents, while the rugged nylon outer surface is durable and weather-resistant.

Not only is the Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad reliable and safe for your pickup truck, but it also offers easy installation. With its exceptional features and performance, this tailgate pad proves to be a great investment for securing your bikes during transportation.

Concluding Remarks about Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad Review

Yakima Gatekeeper Tailgate Pad offers impressive features that make it stand out in the market. Its durability and reliability are unquestionable, as it can carry multiple bikes through rough terrains without any difficulty. Furthermore, it provides excellent protection for both the bike and truck from impacts and damages.

It may not have an appealing appearance but trust me it does have some gripping features with an even more enthralling price. There is a small flap present on it to assist you in accessing the truck and the tailgate handle very easily. This will save you time and effort that are wasted in taking off the tailgate cover every time you try to access your gear.

Whereas it has a standard size that undoubtedly fits the measurements of most trucks, which means that you don’t have to worry about finding the perfect size. Fox gives you an amazing opportunity to modernize your riding style, you don’t need to opt for the old-fashioned ways to carry your bike up to the mountains for downhill rides.

Moreover, the Fox Racing tailgate bike pad has an eye-catching head logo and comes in black color to add more appeal to its looks. So it is not bad having one of these tailgate pads especially when the offer is too tempting to reject. Personally, I used Fox Racing Pad with a Tacoma tailgate truck and had a great experience with it. And for this reason, I will highly recommend it to someone looking for a tailgate bike pad for Tacoma.

Concluding Remarks about Fox Racing Tailgate Cover Review

Fox Racing tailgate pad is basic, simple, and affordable but with the best features in it can make you look past its outer appearance. Although, the Fox Racing tailgate pad is offering plenty of incredible features that mountain bikers often look for. Hence, it could be a top preference for any person who often plans to attach and detach their tailgate pads. Also, Fox Racing Cover fits perfectly with Tacoma Tailgate Truck.

Do you own a Subaru Forester and planning to carry bikes on it? If yes, read my detailed guide on bike rack for subaru forester

They allow you to open the pad without exerting much effort and can be adjusted with the help of supporter. To my surprise, it is available in multiple sizes which increases its versatility to a great extent. The small and medium-sized tailgate pads can be used to transport around 5 bikes at a time without worrying about damage. Contrary to this, the large size offers an additional advantage and is specifically designed for huge trucks. They are capable of carrying up to 7 bikes at a time.

Furthermore, the hook-up straps embedded in the system secure the bikes in place and prevent them from falling down even on rough terrains. Thereby relieving you from the concerns of the pad falling apart or loosening of straps. Last but not least, the effortless installation makes these pads suitable for a wide variety of consumers and is associated with their high market demand.

Concluding Remarks about Demon Tailgate Pad Review

The Demon Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bikes is a popular choice among a diverse range of users, thanks to its practical design features. This tailgate pad is equipped with two side pockets that provide additional storage space for securing accessories and equipment required for mountain biking. Additionally, the hook and loop holder frame is another prominent feature that helps in securing the bike in place and preventing it from sliding or moving during transportation.

In addition to this, the outer PVC layer is abrasion-resistant and does not get damaged easily. Furthermore, the inner layer is soft and is not characterized by any damage to the trucks’ paint or external surface. Thereby ensuring utmost efficiency without any additional effort.

Another prominent highlight of the system is the two pocket storage which offers space to store accessories and equipment required for biking. The magical zip and enclosed design also protect the accessories from falling and I absolutely admire this amazing feature.

I also appreciate the cost-efficiency of the MICTUNING tailgate bike pad, which makes it affordable for the majority of consumers. Thus, if you are looking for pads that are performance-oriented yet cost-efficient in nature, this model of MICTUNING is my ultimate recommendation.

Concluding Remarks about Mictuning Tailgate Pad Review

MICTUNING Rear Tailgate Pad for Bike is renowned for its waterproof abilities, which increases its versatility in extreme environmental conditions, including snow and heavy rainfall. Moreover, its decent design and thoughtful construction offer easy access to flaps handle even when the pad is on and ensures outstanding performance attributes.

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CyclingDeal Tailgate Bike Pad is a great choice for those who want a high-quality tailgate pad without breaking the bank. One of its best features is the rear open window, which provides easy access to the camera and doesn’t cover it like traditional pads. Additionally, it comes with a backup camera that can be used as needed.

Another impressive feature is the tailgate access handle flap, which allows you to open the tailgate even when the pad is in place. This makes it much more convenient to use and enhances the overall performance of the pad. With an easy setup process, you can quickly be on your way to transporting your bike without any worries about damage.

Along with this, the well-padded foam exterior combined with the UV-micro fiber interior provides additional protection against damage from external factors and adds five stars to its performance. It is also water-proof in nature and thus, can be used in extreme environmental conditions such as heavy rainfall or snow without worrying about damage.

Concluding Remarks about CyclingDeal Tailgate Mat Review

CyclingDeal Tailgate Bike Pad is my ultimate recommendation to those who prefer hassle-free maintenance and top-notch attributes. The pad contains two spare pockets that can be used to keep additional equipment required for mountain biking. Furthermore, cushion cradles are also an integral component and are responsible for protecting the carbon and aluminum frames against external damage.

To prevent the bike frame and truck tailgate from scratching, it is integrated with a fleece lining. This improves the appearance of the bike as well as the truck and protects both of them from getting damaged in the long term.

Unlike its other counterparts, this version of Evoc tailgate bike pad features an anti-slip cover that holds the bike firmly and prevents it from falling during loading and unloading. The anti-slip cover is capable of carrying two bikes at a time.

I highly encourage you to invest in this model if you are looking for a travel-friendly mountain bike tailgate pad. I also observed that it is associated with a universal fit which made it perfect for almost all types of tailgate trucks. Just fasten the straps, and you are good to go.

Concluding Remarks about Evoc Duo Tailgate Bike Pad Review

Evoc Bike Tailgate Pad is durable in nature and can last for a long time before displaying signs of wear and tear. Similarly, it is available with a 24-month warranty, so you can be relieved from the concerns of accidentally damaging it. Lastly, it is inexpensive and available at a reasonable price.

The Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bikes is a top-performing and efficient product that is sure to meet your expectations. Its outer layer is made of 600D PVD, while flannelette serves as the inner layer, ensuring that your bike and truck remain undamaged even on rough terrains. The pad comes with two pockets, one on each side, where you can store your equipment and tools for riding.

If you are looking for a tailgate pad with a large rear open window, this is the perfect option for you. The window ensures that the backup camera is not covered up by the wheels and fork. Additionally, the handle access flap makes it easy to open the truck tailgate when the pad is in place, enhancing its overall performance.

What’s more, the pad is available in different sizes to fit your specific needs. The medium size can hold up to five bikes, while the large size is designed to carry up to seven bikes.

Concluding Remarks about Himal Tailgate Pad Review

Himal Outdoors Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bike stands out among the rest of its counterparts in terms of durable construction and high-quality output. The adjustable straps included in the system help in securing the bike and are extremely user-friendly. Moreover, click straps can also be used for additional security and adjustment for heavier bikes.

Also have a look at my review on best rear bike racks

Furthermore, it is half the size of its other industrial competitors and, therefore, can be easily carried around from one place to another. Another advantage of smaller size is the uncovering of the rear camera and handles, which offers a perfect alternative to traditional, standard size pads.

Furthermore, the universal size and fitting increase the versatility of the tailgate pad and makes it suitable for a wide variety of users. I am delighted to find out the inclusion of two additional anchor straps which offer enhanced protection and can be used to secure it in a specific place. This prevents it from falling apart or loosening while moving upwards.

Besides the anchor straps, web cinch straps are also present in the system and contribute to enhanced stability. Hence, I strongly advise you to consider this as a potential option if you are searching for the best mountain bike tailgate pad.

Concluding Remarks about Dakine HalfSide Tailgate Pad Review

Dakine HalfSide Tailgate Bike Pad is specifically designed for solo use and offers hassle-free installation and maintenance. The access handle can be easily opened even when the pad is on. This is attributed to the smaller size of the pad, which makes it suitable for a wide variety of activities and improves its overall performance in the long term.

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The Athletico Tailgate Pad for Bikes is an expensive but highly durable option. Its high-quality construction ensures that it can withstand rough and tough conditions without damage or inefficiency.

The pad is available in multiple sizes, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your needs. The small and medium sizes can carry up to 5 bikes, while the large size is designed for more than 6 bikes. Unlike other competitors, this model has a vinyl-based outer covering, providing protection against rain and snow, as well as abrasion resistance.

The interior is soft and thick, protecting both the truck’s paint and the bikes from scratches, improving their performance efficiency. The large window increases space for holding the rear camera and tailgate handle, ensuring that the camera is not covered by wheels or forks and can be used at the user’s convenience.

Additionally, the design allows for easy access to the handle without impacting the pad. Overall, it is perfect for those who prioritize hassle-free maintenance and user-friendliness.

Concluding Remarks about Athletic Tailgate Pad Review

Athletico Tailgate Pad for Bikes contains double-stitched straps that ensure better security and fastening of bikes with the pad. Furthermore, security rings are also included in the system and are perfect for protection against theft. They can be used in combination with the lockup pad for additional benefits.

Straps of MERCARS Tailgate Pad secure the bike properly and prevent it from falling during transportation. The outer covering of the bike pad is made up of PVC laminated material that is durable in nature and does not wear even after continuous use. This, combined with its waterproof abilities, makes it perfect for use in areas with higher humidity levels and heavier rainfalls.

The inner material is thick and soft and does not cause any scratches on the truck surface. The multiple sizes allow you to transport up to 6 bikes at a time without any difficulty.

Apart from this, the product can be installed without any expert guidance and is perfect for beginners that do not have much experience in this regard. I highly recommend it for all beginners that are looking for a durable and weather-resistant tailgate bike pad.

Final Remarks about MERCARS Tailgate Pad Review

MERCARS Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bikes is lightweight in nature and lasts longer than you expect, thanks to its durable construction and high-quality attributes. Moreover, the two pockets located on both sides of tailgate pad provide space for storing a wide variety of accessories required for mountain biking and are loved by the majority of users.

You may also be interested to learn about Front Bike Racks

Additionally, a narrow opening is located at the backside for easy access to the handle. This enables you to use the handle without opening up the whole thing. Another advantage of the opening is the prevention of blockage of the camera caused by wheels and forks. Hence, you can effortlessly access the rear camera depending on the requirement.

Besides this, a Velcro lock and loop strap have also been included in the product for enhanced security and protection. Similar to the above-mentioned counterpart, this one is also waterproof and can be used in rain and snow.

I also observed that the outer covering is extremely durable and doesn’t show any sign of damage even after continuous use. The interior is relatively thick and feels soft on the touch. So, you can rest assured about the condition of your truck and bike and use these pads for the purpose of transportation.

Final Remarks about Leetpic Tailgate Pad Review

LEETPIC Tailgate Bike Pads stand out among their competitors and do not disappoint when it comes to performance and efficiency. The two-pocket design allows you to store extra accessories and equipment required for riding. Similarly, the tools needed for repair can also be stored in the inner mesh pocket.

In addition to this, the exterior surface of the cover is durable in nature and possesses waterproof nature, which makes it ideal for a wide variety of conditions, including snow, rain as well as extreme temperature. However, the interior is soft and well-padded. Therefore, it does not damage the truck and also safeguards it from scratching.

Another prominent advantage is the multiple sizes, which can be used for a diverse range of activities. The small and medium-size tailgate pads are suitable for carrying up to 5 bikes whereas the large one can carry around 6 bikes at a time without any inconvenience. Hence, making it the best and budget-friendly option included in the list today.

Concluding Remarks about CyclingDeal MTB Tailgate Pad Review

CyclingDeal Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bikes is highly recommended to those looking for durable yet cost-effective options. It is incorporated with a cushioned cradle which provides utmost protection to the paint of the carbon fiber framework. Thus, you can rest assured about the overall appearance of your truck and bike in the long term.

Are you confused that should you choose the bike rack or tailgate pad to carry your bikes on a truck? Read a detailed guide and comparison of Tailgate Pad vs Bike Rack

Factors to Consider While Looking for Tailgate Bike Pad

Mountain bike tailgate pads have provided a cost-efficient and trouble-free alternative to the traditional means of transporting the bikes on a mountain trail. They are not only durable and offer enhanced protection but also contain additional pockets to store accessories and tools required for repair.

However, there are multiple factors that have either direct or indirect impacts on the performance of these tailgate pads, including the fitting, durability, water resistance, padding, straps for security, installation, and price. Thus, you should carefully analyze all these elements before making a decision.

1. Fitting of Tailgate Bike Pad

First and foremost, choosing the right fit is of extreme importance. You should carefully observe the dimensions of your tailgate trucks and analyze whether the pads will fit them or not. The right fitting can be quite useful as it keeps the interior surface of the truck intact and protects your bike for a long time. Most tailgate bike mats available in the market feature either small or large sizes.

The small size can carry up to 5 bikes at a time, while large pads possess additional space and are perfect for up to 7 bikes. In recent years, mini-pads have also been released on the market and are generally half the size of the traditional ones. These mini-pads can carry one or two bikes effortlessly and are suitable for those looking for cost-effective and compact models.

2. Durability of Tailgate Bike Pad Material

Apart from the fitting, durability matters a lot as well. You should look for tailgate bike covers that are made up of PVC or nylon. Both of these materials are durable in nature and are mostly used to make the outer layer of the pads.

Durability plays a significant role in transportation as it protects the bikes from getting damaged, especially on rough terrains. Modern pads are also incorporated with a foamed interior possessing UV and abrasion resistance. Thus, enhancing its average life and safeguarding it against wear and tear.

However, do keep in mind that durability has nothing to do with price but quality and material of construction. There are some inexpensive yet durable mountain bike tail pads available in the market that offer tough competition to some of the top-notch options available around the world.

3. Water Resistance Tailgate Pad

Water-resistance is essential for outdoor usage. Thus, it is important that the pad you are purchasing must be water-resistant. Many famous manufacturers such as Dakine, Evoc, and CyclingDeal design protective materials that are waterproof and can be used in a variety of weather conditions without damage. Choosing weather-proof materials can enhance its overall abilities and increase its potential for outdoor use, especially in regions with higher than average rainfall every year.

4. Padding of Tailgate Pad

There is no doubt that a good bike tailgate pad should be embedded with a properly foamed interior. The foam is included to keep the interior soft and comfortable. So, you must look for materials that can withstand high pressure and shock. Most riders like to ride their bikes on top of the trail and might have to pass through rough conditions before reaching the desired location.

During such instances, it becomes essential to protect the bike from bumps and dents generated by the collision. So, the interior is kept soft and thick to prevent the severity of the damage.

It is advised to go for polyester or nylon made tailgate pad in this regard as both are famous for durability and unrivaled properties.

5. Straps of Tailgate Pad for Bike Security

Straps are an integral component of a bike pad and are included to secure the bikes firmly. Thereby preventing them from falling during transportation. Most pads contain 3 to 4 anchor straps that can be easily tied to prevent the bikes from knocking into each other. Various expensive models also contain clip straps that offer adjustability and can be used depending on the type and design of the pad.

You can also tie them in various positions, such as stationary or upright positions to separate the bikes from each other. Therefore, you should search about various types of straps, their use, and material of construction before setting out to buy one. You can also read the reviews on the manufacturer’s website and can also contact them for more information in this regard.

If you're looking for budget-friendly mountain bike, have a look at my review on affordable yet best mountain bikes under $500.

FAQs of Tailgate Bike Pads

Are tailgate pads safe for bikers?

Yes, the majority of the tailgate pads available in the market are associated with a two-part design. This ensures that the tailgate pad can protect both bikes and the transporting vehicle. The inner surface of the pad is kept soft to minimize the chances of scratches on the truck surface. At the same time, the outer surface is durable and protects the whole system from getting damaged.

How do you secure a bike with a tailgate pad?

Most pads are integrated with 3 to 4 anchor straps that are incorporated to secure the bike firmly. In order to adjust the bike, you might have to grab and then lower it to an appropriate position. Once done, pull the strap from behind and tie it properly. Make sure that it is tight enough to hold your bike. Otherwise, the bike might fall. You can place it in either an upright or straight position depending on the requirement.

Purchased the Tailgate Pad and want to know how to use tailgate pad for bikes? If yes, watch the detailed video guide about tailgate pad installation

Wrapping Up Tailgate Bike Pads Review

The article offered an overview of the best mountain bike tailgate pads, along with a detailed buying guide. Based on the durability, installation mechanism, padding, strap adjustability, weather resistance, and fitting; following three are the Best Tailgate Bike Pads.

• Demon Tailgate Pad for Mountain Bikes for water and UV resistance, enhanced visibility, user-friendliness, adjustable straps, and multiple sizes.
• CyclingDeal Tailgate Bike Pad because of its universal fitting, amplified protection, sturdy straps, large opening window, eccentric design, two pockets, and UV-micro filter.
• Dakine HalfSide Tailgate Bike Pad due to its effortless installation, well-padded interior, multiple sizes, web cinch straps, large opening for the rear camera, and cost-effectiveness.

Therefore, they are ideal for those looking for performance-oriented tailgate bike pads to transport bikes on their trucks.

Choose Wisely