As a Kia Soul owner who loves cycling through local trails or heading to the beach, I’ve spent hours finding a bike rack that complements my car’s unique boxy design and fuel efficiency.
The Best Bike Racks for Kia Soul include hitch, trunk, and roof-mounted options, ideal for road bikes, e-bikes, or family outings.
I’ve selected 9 top-performing racks, each offering unique features like no-frame-contact designs, tilting mechanisms, and easy installation.
Top 9 Best Bike Racks for Kia Soul
Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack
Simplify bike transport with a rack crafted for the Kia Soul’s compact hatch. This trunk-mounted rack holds two bikes up to 35 pounds each, perfect for road or hybrid bikes.
Its steel frame weighs 10 pounds, protecting the Soul’s paint. A real user shared: “It fits my Kia Soul perfectly without scratching.”
The patented tie-down system secures bikes, fitting wheelbases up to 46 inches, and padded cradles prevent scratches, as noted on gearcomrade.com. The rack folds flat for storage and installs without tools.
Its lightweight design minimizes fuel impact, ideal for urban cyclists. The adjustable straps ensure a snug fit on the Soul’s hatch, avoiding spoiler damage.
Perfect for budget-conscious riders, this rack offers reliable transport without needing a hitch, preserving the Kia Soul’s efficiency and style.
Real User Experience – Tom S.: “It fits my Kia Soul perfectly without scratching. Super easy to install.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each |
| Material | Steel |
| Rack Type | Trunk-mounted |
| Mounting Type | Strap-based |
| Key Features | Patented tie-down system, padded cradles, foldable |
Why We Chose Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike Trunk Mount Rack?
Its affordable price and padded cradles protect the Soul’s paint. The no-hitch design suits owners avoiding modifications.
Saris Bones EX 2-Bike
Transport bikes with a rack tailored for the Kia Soul’s unique shape. This trunk-mounted rack holds two bikes up to 35 pounds each, ideal for road or kids’ bikes.
Its plastic composite frame weighs 11 pounds, preventing paint damage. A real user noted: “It’s perfect for my Soul’s spoiler.” The arc-based design separates bikes, fitting wheelbases up to 48 inches, and avoids spoiler contact, as highlighted on rackstrapgo.com.
Adjustable straps ensure stability, and the rack folds flat for storage. Its lightweight build maintains fuel efficiency.
Ideal for casual riders, this rack offers easy setup and Kia Soul-compatible aesthetics, ensuring secure transport without a hitch.
Real User Experience – Sarah T.: “It’s perfect for my Soul’s spoiler. No scratches after heavy use.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each |
| Material | Plastic composite |
| Rack Type | Trunk-mounted |
| Mounting Type | Strap-based |
| Key Features | Arc-based design, foldable, spoiler-friendly |
Why We Chose Saris Bones EX 2-Bike?
Its lightweight, spoiler-friendly design protects the Soul’s finish. The no-hitch setup is perfect for simplicity.
Thule Helium Pro 2-Bike
Hit the road with a rack designed for the Kia Soul’s efficiency. This hanging hitch rack fits 1.25-inch hitches, holding two bikes up to 37.5 pounds each, suitable for road or hybrid bikes.
Its aluminum frame weighs 20 pounds, minimizing fuel impact. A real user said: “It’s lightweight and stable on my Soul.” Anti-sway cradles fit wheelbases up to 48 inches, preventing bike contact, as noted on etrailer.com.
The rack tilts for hatch access and folds for storage. Integrated locks secure bikes, and a hitch switch ensures stability. Perfect for weekend riders, this rack offers Kia Soul-friendly transport without sensor issues.
Real User Experience – Emma R.: “It’s lightweight and stable on my Soul. The tilt feature is great.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hitch Size | 1.25 inches |
| Bike Capacity | 2 bikes, 37.5 lbs each |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Rack Type | Hanging |
| Key Features | Anti-sway cradles, integrated locks, tilting design |
Why We Chose Thule Helium Pro 2-Bike?
Its lightweight aluminum and anti-sway cradles suit the Soul’s efficiency. The tilting design ensures easy hatch access.
Yakima FullBack 2-Bike
Carry bikes affordably with a rack built for the Kia Soul’s hatch. This trunk-mounted rack holds two bikes up to 35 pounds each, ideal for road or kids’ bikes. Its steel frame weighs 21 pounds, reducing paint wear.
A real user shared: “It’s secure and budget-friendly on my Soul.” Padded cradles and adjustable straps fit wheelbases up to 48 inches, preventing scratches, as recommended on etrailer.com.
The rack folds flat for storage and includes integrated cable locks. Its tool-free installation suits casual riders.
Perfect for short trips, this rack offers cost-effective transport without a hitch, preserving the Kia Soul’s quirky design and fuel efficiency.
Real User Experience – Mark R.: “It’s secure and budget-friendly on my Soul. No issues with the hatch.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each |
| Material | Steel |
| Rack Type | Trunk-mounted |
| Mounting Type | Strap-based |
| Key Features | Padded cradles, integrated locks, foldable |
Why We Chose Yakima FullBack 2-Bike?
Its affordable price and integrated locks suit budget-conscious Soul owners. The padded cradles ensure paint protection.
Swagman XC2
Enjoy bike adventures with a rack crafted for the Kia Soul’s versatility. This platform hitch rack fits 1.25 and 2-inch hitches, holding two bikes up to 35 pounds each, suitable for road or hybrid bikes.
Its steel frame weighs 28 pounds, ensuring durability. A real user noted: “It’s sturdy and fits my Soul’s hitch perfectly.” The wheel-mount system fits wheelbases up to 48 inches and tires up to 2.5 inches wide, as praised on etrailer.com.
The rack folds for storage, and optional locks add security. Its anti-wobble design prevents movement.
Ideal for casual trail riders, this rack offers Kia Soul-compatible stability and ease.
Real User Experience – Lisa K.: “It’s sturdy and fits my Soul’s hitch perfectly. Great for weekend rides.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hitch Size | 1.25, 2 inches |
| Bike Capacity | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each |
| Material | Steel |
| Rack Type | Platform |
| Key Features | Wheel-mount, foldable, optional locks |
Why We Chose Swagman XC2?
Its versatile hitch compatibility and wheel-mount design suit casual Soul owners. The foldable feature ensures easy storage.
Retrospec Lenox 2-5 Bike Hitch Rack
Tackle group rides with a rack designed for the Kia Soul’s spacious needs. This platform hitch rack fits 1.25 and 2-inch hitches, holding up to five bikes at 35 pounds each, ideal for family outings. Its steel frame weighs 45 pounds, balancing strength and affordability.
A real user said: “It holds my family’s bikes securely on my Soul.” Adjustable settings fit wheelbases up to 48 inches and tires up to 3 inches wide, as noted on gearcomrade.com.
The anti-rattle adapter minimizes noise, and the foldable frame simplifies storage.
Perfect for group adventures, this rack offers Kia Soul-compatible versatility and value.
Real User Experience – Karen W.: “It holds my family’s bikes securely on my Soul. The foldable design is awesome.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hitch Size | 1.25, 2 inches |
| Bike Capacity | Up to 5 bikes, 35 lbs each |
| Material | Steel |
| Rack Type | Platform |
| Key Features | Adjustable settings, anti-rattle adapter, foldable |
Why We Chose Retrospec Lenox 2-5 Bike Hitch Rack?
Its high capacity and adjustable settings suit family trips. The anti-rattle feature ensures a quiet ride for Soul owners.
Thule Proride XT
Carry bikes on your Kia Soul’s roof with a rack built for aerodynamics. This roof-mounted rack requires crossbars, holding one bike up to 44 pounds, ideal for road or fat tire bikes.
Its aluminum frame weighs 11 pounds, minimizing fuel impact. A real user shared: “It’s secure and doesn’t affect my Soul’s handling.”
The wheel-mount system fits wheelbases up to 48 inches and tires up to 3 inches wide, protecting frames, as noted on statecyclist.com. Integrated locks secure the bike, and the low-profile design reduces drag.
Perfect for solo riders, this rack offers Kia Soul-compatible efficiency and style.
Real User Experience – John B.: “It’s secure and doesn’t affect my Soul’s handling. Easy to load my road bike.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 1 bike, 44 lbs |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Rack Type | Roof-mounted |
| Mounting Type | Wheel-mount, crossbar-required |
| Key Features | No-frame-contact, integrated locks, low-profile |
Why We Chose Thule Proride XT?
Its low-profile design and no-frame-contact system suit Soul’s roof rails. The lightweight build minimizes fuel impact.
XCAR 2-Bike Hitch Mounted Bike Rack
Secure bikes with a rack designed for the Kia Soul’s hitch compatibility. This platform hitch rack fits 1.25 and 2-inch hitches, holding two bikes up to 40 pounds each, ideal for road or mountain bikes.
Its steel frame weighs 30 pounds, ensuring stability. A real user noted: “It’s easy to use and fits my Soul securely.” Adjustable mounting saddles fit wheelbases up to 48 inches and tires up to 3 inches wide, as highlighted on rackstrapgo.com.
The tilt-down device allows hatch access. Perfect for frequent riders, this rack offers Kia Soul-friendly durability and convenience.
Real User Experience – Amy L.: “It’s easy to use and fits my Soul securely. The tilt feature is great.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Hitch Size | 1.25, 2 inches |
| Bike Capacity | 2 bikes, 40 lbs each |
| Material | Steel |
| Rack Type | Platform |
| Key Features | Adjustable saddles, tilt-down device, foldable |
Why We Chose XCAR 2-Bike Hitch Mounted Bike Rack?
Its adjustable saddles and tilt-down feature suit frequent Soul riders. The sturdy build ensures reliable transport.
HOPE YOU READY Anti-Theft Roof Rack
Enhance your Kia Soul’s cargo capacity with a roof rack built for adventure. This roof-mounted rack requires crossbars, holding one bike up to 220 pounds, ideal for heavy bikes or additional gear.
Its aluminum frame weighs 8 pounds, minimizing fuel impact. A real user shared: “It’s robust and stylish on my Soul.” The anti-theft lock ensures security, and adjustable bars fit various bike sizes, as noted on carglassadvisor.com.
The sleek design complements the Soul’s aesthetic.
Perfect for versatile adventurers, this rack offers unmatched strength and Kia Soul-compatible functionality.
Real User Experience – David P.: “It’s robust and stylish on my Soul. Perfect for my fat tire bike.”
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bike Capacity | 1 bike, 220 lbs |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Rack Type | Roof-mounted |
| Mounting Type | Crossbar-required, adjustable bars |
| Key Features | Anti-theft lock, high weight capacity, sleek design |
Why We Chose HOPE YOU READY Anti-Theft Roof Rack?
Its high weight capacity and anti-theft lock suit adventurous Soul owners. The lightweight design ensures efficiency.
Comparison Table of the Best Bike Racks for Kia Soul
| Product | Hitch Size | Bike Capacity | Material | Rack Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allen Sports Deluxe 2-Bike | N/A | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each | Steel | Trunk-mounted | Patented tie-down system, padded cradles, foldable |
| Saris Bones EX 2-Bike | N/A | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each | Plastic composite | Trunk-mounted | Arc-based design, foldable, spoiler-friendly |
| Thule Helium Pro 2-Bike | 1.25 inches | 2 bikes, 37.5 lbs each | Aluminum | Hanging | Anti-sway cradles, integrated locks, tilting design |
| Yakima FullBack 2-Bike | N/A | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each | Steel | Trunk-mounted | Padded cradles, integrated locks, foldable |
| Swagman XC2 | 1.25, 2 inches | 2 bikes, 35 lbs each | Steel | Platform | Wheel-mount, foldable, optional locks |
| Retrospec Lenox 2-5 | 1.25, 2 inches | Up to 5 bikes, 35 lbs each | Steel | Platform | Adjustable settings, anti-rattle adapter, foldable |
| Thule Proride XT | N/A | 1 bike, 44 lbs | Aluminum | Roof-mounted | No-frame-contact, integrated locks, low-profile |
| XCAR 2-Bike Hitch Mounted | 1.25, 2 inches | 2 bikes, 40 lbs each | Steel | Platform | Adjustable saddles, tilt-down device, foldable |
| HOPE YOU READY Anti-Theft | N/A | 1 bike, 220 lbs | Aluminum | Roof-mounted | Anti-theft lock, high weight capacity, sleek design |
Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Bike Racks for Kia Soul
Selecting the right bike rack for your Kia Soul involves balancing vehicle compatibility, bike type, and usage needs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose:
Vehicle Compatibility
Ensure the rack fits your Kia Soul model (e.g., Base, EV). Hitch racks (Swagman XC2) require a 1.25 or 2-inch hitch (e.g., CURT, ~$180 installation).
Trunk racks (Allen Sports) suit vehicles without hitches, but check spoiler compatibility, as noted on rackstrapgo.com. Roof racks (Thule Proride XT) need crossbars (100–150 lbs capacity). Verify tongue weight (2000 lbs for Class I hitches) and avoid sensor interference or license plate obstruction, as required by law.
A real user on mykiasoulev.com warned against roof racks for panoramic sunroofs to prevent cracking.
Bike Type and Weight
Choose racks based on bike type: e-bikes (HOPE YOU READY, 220 lbs) or road bikes (Allen Sports, 35 lbs). A real user said: “
The HOPE YOU READY handles my fat tire bike perfectly.” Ensure tire width (up to 5 inches for Thule T2 Pro) and wheelbase compatibility (up to 48 inches for Yakima).
Remove e-bike batteries to reduce weight. No-frame-contact racks (Thule Proride XT) protect carbon frames, as noted on statecyclist.com.
Rack Type
Hitch racks (XCAR 2-Bike) offer stability for trails. Trunk racks (Saris Bones EX) are budget-friendly but risk paint wear, as warned on gearcomrade.com. Roof racks (HOPE YOU READY) suit solo riders but require lifting.
A real user noted: “The XCAR tilts easily for hatch access.” Platform racks are best for heavy bikes, while hanging racks suit families. Ensure hatch access, especially for EV models, as discussed on mykiasoulev.com.
Ease of Installation
Look for tool-free setups (Yakima FullBack) or anti-wobble hitch racks (Swagman XC2). A real user shared: “The Yakima went on my Soul in minutes.” Ensure the rack’s weight (11 lbs for Saris) is manageable. Tilting or foldable designs (Retrospec Lenox) allow hatch access. Check ground clearance, as lower hitches reduce departure angle, per etrailer.com. Foldable racks save storage space.
Security Features
Integrated locks (Thule Helium Pro) and anti-wobble systems (XCAR 2-Bike) ensure safety. A real user said: “The Thule locks gave me peace of mind.”
Use hardened steel U-locks for extra security, as recommended on bestcarbikerack.com. Choose durable materials (aluminum for Thule Proride) for long-term use. Avoid prolonged trunk rack use to prevent paint wear, as noted on rackstrapgo.com.
Budget
Racks range from $90 (Allen Sports) to $120 (Retrospec Lenox). Budget racks (Yakima FullBack) offer reliability, while premium models (Thule Helium Pro) add features like locks.
A real user shared: “The Allen Sports is a steal for its performance.” Balance cost with Kia Soul-specific features like sensor compatibility and hatch access. Check for warranty coverage (e.g., Thule’s lifetime warranty) for value.
Frequently Asked Questions on Bike Racks for Kia Soul
What is the Best Bike Rack for Kia Soul with E-Bikes?
For e-bikes, the HOPE YOU READY Anti-Theft Roof Rack or Thule T2 Pro XTR (not in budget) are top choices. The HOPE YOU READY supports 220 pounds, ideal for heavy e-bikes.
A user noted: “It holds my fat tire e-bike securely on my Soul.” Ensure crossbars support the weight (150 lbs for Soul). The rack’s anti-theft lock adds security, and adjustable bars fit wide tires. Avoid roof racks with panoramic sunroofs, as warned on mykiasoulev.com. For hitch options, verify a Class I hitch (2000 lbs capacity) is installed. These racks ensure safe transport while preserving the Soul’s efficiency.
Can Trunk Bike Racks Fit Kia Soul Without Paint Damage?
Yes, racks like the Saris Bones EX or Allen Sports Deluxe minimize paint damage with padded straps or spoiler-friendly designs.
A user said: “The Saris didn’t scratch my Soul at all.” Use bike covers or clear plastic film, as suggested on bikeforums.net, for extra protection.
Avoid prolonged use to prevent clear coat wear. Choose larger trunk racks to avoid bike-to-car contact, as noted on statecyclist.com. Regularly inspect straps for wear. These racks are perfect for no-hitch Soul owners, ensuring the vehicle’s finish stays pristine.
Are Hitch Bike Racks Safe for Kia Soul Sensors and Hatch Access?
Hitch racks like the Swagman XC2 or XCAR 2-Bike avoid sensor issues with low-profile designs.
A user noted: “The XCAR doesn’t trigger my Soul’s sensors.” Test in reverse to confirm sensor behavior, as suggested on etrailer.com. Tilting racks (XCAR 2-Bike) ensure hatch access.
Use Tow Mode to disable alerts. Ensure proper hitch installation (e.g., CURT) to minimize wobble, as warned on mykiasoulev.com. These racks offer stability and convenience for Soul owners.
Can Roof Racks Work on Kia Soul for Solo Riders?
Roof racks like the Thule Proride XT or HOPE YOU READY support solo riders, holding one bike up to 44 or 220 pounds.
A real user said: “The Thule is great for my road bike on my Soul.” Ensure crossbars are rated for the weight (150 lbs). No-frame-contact designs protect frames. Avoid heavy bikes with panoramic sunroofs to prevent damage, as noted on statecyclist.com.
Use a step stool for easier loading, as suggested on apexbikes.com. These racks minimize fuel loss (5–10% reduction) and suit Soul’s style.
Conclusion
Owning a Kia Soul, I cherish hitting the trails with my bikes securely mounted, knowing my car’s quirky design and efficiency shine through.
From the budget-friendly Allen Sports to the versatile HOPE YOU READY, our top 9 picks cater to solo riders, families, or e-bike enthusiasts. The Best Bike Racks for Kia Soul offer no-frame-contact designs, tilting mechanisms, and sensor-friendly setups.
Use our comparison table and buying guide to match your bike type, vehicle setup, and budget. Enjoy worry-free adventures, knowing your bikes are safe and your Kia Soul’s functionality and bold aesthetics are preserved.