1 Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Insight Analysis
The global Automotive Bike Carriers market is valued at USD 1,350.81 million in 2024, with a CAGR of 4.20% from 2024 to 2033.
Automotive Bike Carriers are devices used to safely park or transport bicycles from one place to another by mounting the bicycle on the vehicle. The bicycle can be easily carried by the user through this accessory.
Figure Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size (M USD) and CAGR (2024-2033)
2 Automotive Bike Carriers Market Growth Drivers and Restraints
In terms of driving factors, the first is the growth in demand for outdoor entertainment. With the development of personalized tourism, products based on a single tourism level can no longer meet people’s needs. More people choose outdoor adventures as a way of leisure, and the frequency of participating in leisure activities such as cycling has increased. For example, in Europe and the United States, more and more families choose to drive and carry bicycles on vacation, which has increased the demand for car bicycle racks and promoted market growth.
Secondly, people’s attention to health has increased. With the increase in disposable income, people are paying more and more attention to health, and cycling as a healthy way of exercise has become more popular. At the same time, the continuous improvement of bicycle design and quality has further stimulated people’s interest in participating in outdoor bicycle sports, prompting more people to buy car bicycle racks to go to farther places for cycling, which has promoted the development of the market.
In addition, the expansion of downstream application industries, especially the SUV industry. SUV has become an important application field for car bicycle racks with its strong performance and space advantages. In recent years, the global SUV market sales have continued to grow, bringing broad development space for the car bicycle rack market.
The limiting factors are mainly reflected in two aspects: traffic policy and product problems. In terms of traffic policy, some countries and regions have introduced many restrictive policies to ensure traffic safety. For example, some places have height restrictions for installing bicycles on the roof, and violations will face fines; some regions stipulate that when placing bicycles on the rear of the vehicle, the license plate and lights cannot be blocked. For example, Portugal even prohibits connecting two-wheeled vehicles (such as bicycles) to the rear of the car.
These policies have limited the use scenarios and market demand of car bicycle racks to a certain extent. In terms of the product itself, car bicycle racks have some problems that affect normal driving. After installation, the original structure and size of the vehicle may be changed, affecting the driver’s line of sight and increasing the difficulty of driving; when encountering strong winds or heavy rain, the bicycle installation is unstable and there is a risk of falling; in addition, installing a bicycle rack will increase the vehicle load and reduce fuel efficiency. These factors bring inconvenience to consumers and restrict the further development of the market.
3 Technological Innovations in the Automotive Bike Carriers Market
Technological innovation is the key force driving the market development. In terms of materials, manufacturers actively adopt new materials such as high-strength lightweight alloys and carbon fiber composite materials. These materials not only reduce the overall weight of the bicycle frame, facilitate user installation and disassembly, but also improve the durability and stability of the product. For example, some high-end bicycle frames are made of carbon fiber, which greatly reduces the weight while ensuring the load-bearing capacity.
In terms of technical application, ultra-quiet technology has been introduced to effectively reduce the noise generated by the bicycle frame during vehicle driving and improve the user experience. In addition, by improving the coating technology, the corrosion resistance of the product is enhanced, the service life is extended, the product damage and replacement caused by corrosion are reduced, and the user cost is reduced.
Corporate mergers and acquisitions are also an important feature of market development. Many companies integrate resources, expand business areas and enhance market competitiveness through mergers and acquisitions. For example, in 2019, Yakima acquired Road Shower and obtained its intellectual property rights and existing inventory in vehicle-mounted outdoor entertainment water transportation systems. This move enables Yakima to enrich its product line, meet more diverse customer needs, and further consolidate its position in the outdoor professional product market.
In the same year, Lippert Components acquired CURT Group. As a well-known trailer product manufacturer, CURT has a rich product line and strong market influence. This acquisition will help Lippert Components expand its business in the trailer and truck accessories market and achieve synergistic development. In 2021, Clarus Corp acquired Rhino-Rack, strengthening its layout in the outdoor and consumer enthusiast markets. Rhino-Rack has a leading market share and technological advantages in products such as car roof racks. Through the acquisition, Clarus Corp was able to quickly enter the relevant market and enhance its competitiveness in the global market.
4 Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size by Type
Towbar bike carriers are designed to attach to the rear of a vehicle, offering a convenient and secure way to transport multiple bicycles. In 2024, the Towbar segment is expected to generate a revenue of $777.20 million USD, accounting for 57.54% of the total market share. This dominant position is attributed to the towbar’s versatility and ability to accommodate various types of bicycles without occupying roof space. Towbar carriers are particularly popular among SUV owners and adventure enthusiasts who require a robust and reliable solution for transporting their bikes. The growth in this segment is also driven by advancements in design and materials, making towbar carriers more aerodynamic and fuel-efficient.
Roof bike carriers are mounted on the roof of a vehicle, providing an excellent option for those with limited rear space or who prefer to keep their vehicle’s rear unobstructed. In 2024, the Roof segment is projected to achieve a revenue of $415.35 million USD, representing 30.75% of the total market share. Roof carriers are known for their ease of use and compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, including sedans and hatchbacks. The market for roof carriers is driven by the increasing popularity of compact and fuel-efficient vehicles, which often lack the space for towbar carriers. Additionally, advancements in roof carrier technology, such as improved locking mechanisms and aerodynamic designs, have enhanced their appeal among consumers.
Trunk bike carriers are mounted on the trunk or rear of the vehicle, offering a convenient and space-saving solution for transporting bicycles. In 2024, the Trunk segment is expected to generate a revenue of $158.26 million USD, capturing 11.72% of the total market share. Trunk carriers are particularly popular among owners of smaller vehicles who need a compact and easy-to-install solution. The growth in this segment is driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and portable bike carriers that do not require significant modifications to the vehicle. Innovations in trunk carrier designs, such as foldable and adjustable mounts, have also contributed to their growing popularity.
Table Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size and Share by Type in 2024
Type | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
Towbar | 777.20 | 57.54% |
Roof | 415.35 | 30.75% |
Trunk | 158.26 | 11.72% |
5 Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size by Application
SUVs are the largest segment in the automotive bike carriers market, accounting for 79.05% of the total market share in 2024. This segment is projected to generate a revenue of $1067.87 million USD. The dominance of SUVs in the market can be attributed to their popularity among adventure enthusiasts and families who require robust and versatile transportation solutions. SUVs are often equipped with towbars and roof racks, making them ideal for transporting bicycles. The growing demand for outdoor activities and the increasing sales of SUVs globally have further fueled the market for bike carriers in this segment.
Light Trucks account for 4.21% of the market share in 2024, with a projected revenue of $56.87 million USD. Light trucks are popular among commercial users and those who require additional cargo space. The market for bike carriers in this segment is driven by the need for convenient transportation solutions that do not compromise the truck’s cargo capacity. Innovations in bike carrier designs, such as foldable and adjustable mounts, have made them more compatible with light trucks, contributing to the growth of this segment.
Sedans represent 16.74% of the market share in 2024, with a projected revenue of $226.07 million USD. Sedans are popular among urban consumers who require compact and fuel-efficient vehicles. The market for bike carriers in this segment is driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and portable solutions that can be easily installed and removed. Innovations in trunk and roof carriers have made them more compatible with sedans, catering to the needs of consumers who prioritize convenience and ease of use.
Table Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size and Share by Application in 2024
Application | Market Size (M USD) 2024 | Market Share 2024 |
|---|---|---|
SUV | 1067.87 | 79.05% |
Light Truck | 56.87 | 4.21% |
Sedan | 226.07 | 16.74% |
6 Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size by Region
North America is the largest market for automotive bike carriers, accounting for 41.41% of the total market share in 2024. This region is projected to generate a revenue of $559.37 million USD. The dominance of North America in the market can be attributed to the high demand for outdoor activities and the strong presence of key manufacturers such as Thule Group and Saris. The United States, in particular, is a major market for SUVs and adventure sports, driving the demand for robust and versatile bike carriers. The market in this region is also supported by favorable policies and infrastructure for outdoor activities.
Europe is the second-largest market, accounting for 37.18% of the total market share in 2024. This region is projected to generate a revenue of $502.22 million USD. The European market is driven by the increasing popularity of cycling as a sport and a mode of transportation. The region has a strong presence of key manufacturers and a high demand for high-quality and innovative bike carriers. The market in Europe is also supported by strict safety regulations and a growing interest in eco-friendly transportation solutions.
The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market, accounting for 16.40% of the total market share in 2024. This region is projected to generate a revenue of $221.54 million USD. The growth in this region is driven by the increasing disposable incomes and a growing interest in outdoor activities. China and Japan are the major markets in this region, with a high demand for lightweight and portable bike carriers. The market in the Asia-Pacific region is also supported by the development of new technologies and materials, making bike carriers more accessible and affordable.
South America accounts for 3.60% of the total market share in 2024, with a projected revenue of $48.68 million USD. The market in this region is driven by the increasing demand for adventure sports and the growing popularity of SUVs. Brazil is the major market in this region, with a high demand for robust and versatile bike carriers. The market in South America is also supported by the development of new infrastructure and policies to promote outdoor activities.
The Middle East & Africa region accounts for 1.41% of the total market share in 2024, with a projected revenue of $19.00 million USD. The market in this region is driven by the increasing demand for luxury vehicles and adventure sports. The United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia are the major markets in this region, with a high demand for high-quality and innovative bike carriers. The market in the Middle East & Africa is also supported by the development of new infrastructure and policies to promote outdoor activities.
Figure Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Size (M USD) by Region in 2024
7 Global Automotive Bike Carriers Market Analysis by Major Players
Thule Group
Company Profile:
Thule Group is a leading global provider of premium carriers and accessories for transporting bicycles, cargo, and other recreational equipment. Established in 1942 in Sweden, Thule has grown to become a household name in the outdoor and transportation industries. The company operates primarily in Europe and North America, with a strong presence in other regions as well. Thule is renowned for its innovative designs, high-quality materials, and commitment to sustainability.
Business Overview:
Thule Group’s business encompasses a wide range of products, including bike racks, cargo carriers, and hitch solutions for vehicles. The company also offers carry solutions for mobile and computer equipment, luggage, packs, RV accessories, and trailers. Thule’s products are designed to enhance the outdoor experience by providing secure and convenient transportation solutions.
Product Offered:
Thule’s product lineup includes the Thule TopRide Premium fork mount roof bike rack, which is designed for avid cyclists who require fast and easy mounting for both Thru-axle and standard Quick-release bikes. This product exemplifies Thule’s commitment to innovation and user convenience. Thule’s bike carriers are known for their durability, ease of use, and compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, making them a preferred choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Saris
Company Profile:
Saris, founded in 1974 and headquartered in the USA, is a well-established manufacturer of bicycle parts and storage solutions. The company is known for its high-quality products and innovative designs, catering to both individual cyclists and commercial users. Saris operates primarily in North America, with a growing presence in other regions.
Business Overview:
Saris specializes in manufacturing bicycle roofs, trunk, and hitch racks. The company’s business model focuses on providing reliable and user-friendly solutions for transporting and storing bicycles. Saris’s products are designed to meet the needs of cyclists who require secure and convenient transportation options.
Product Offered:
One of Saris’s popular products is the Bones EX 2-Bike trunk rack, which fits 20% more of the most popular vehicles, including those with spoilers. This product showcases Saris’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction. Saris’s bike carriers are known for their durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, making them a preferred choice for cyclists who prioritize convenience and reliability.
Uebler
Company Profile:
Uebler GmbH, established in 1965 in Germany, is a leading retailer of automotive parts and accessories. The company is known for its high-quality products and innovative designs, catering to both individual consumers and commercial users. Uebler operates primarily in Europe, with a growing presence in other regions.
Business Overview:
Uebler GmbH offers a wide range of products, including bike racks, scooter parts, vehicle parts, and other accessories. The company’s business model focuses on providing reliable and user-friendly solutions for transporting and storing bicycles. Uebler’s products are designed to meet the needs of cyclists who require secure and convenient transportation options.
Product Offered:
Uebler’s rear carrier PRIMAVELO T6 Basis is a popular product, designed to carry up to 2 bicycles with a maximum load of 60 kg. This product exemplifies Uebler’s commitment to innovation and user convenience. Uebler’s bike carriers are known for their durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, making them a preferred choice for cyclists who prioritize reliability and ease of use.