Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier Review: A Deep Dive Into a Budget-Friendly But Flawed Contender

There’s a special kind of freedom that comes with owning an SUV or a Jeep, particularly one with a rugged, externally mounted spare tire. It whispers of off-road potential and adventures just waiting to happen. But that freedom often hits a roadblock when you want to bring your bicycles along. The spare tire, a symbol of preparedness, becomes an obstacle. Hitch-mounted racks can be cumbersome and expensive, and roof racks can be a literal pain in the neck to load. This is the exact dilemma we faced: how to easily, and affordably, transport our bikes to the trailhead without a complex installation or a hefty price tag. The search for a simple, effective solution led us directly to the doorstep of a product designed specifically for this niche: the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier, a seemingly perfect answer to a common frustration.

What to Consider Before Buying a Spare Tire Bicycle Car Rack

A spare tire bike rack is more than just a piece of metal; it’s a key solution for vehicle owners who want to maximize their adventure potential without compromising vehicle access or investing in a hitch receiver. Unlike roof or trunk racks, these carriers leverage the existing, sturdy mounting point of your spare tire, often providing better ground clearance and keeping your bikes away from hot exhaust fumes. They represent a blend of convenience, accessibility, and specialized design, turning a vehicle feature into a functional asset for cyclists.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who owns a vehicle with a rear-mounted spare tire—think Jeep Wranglers, older RAV4s, or Suzuki Vitaras—and needs to transport one or two bikes for local trails, family outings, or weekend trips. They value simplicity, a quick setup, and an affordable price point. However, this style of rack might not be suitable for those who transport heavy e-bikes, need to carry more than two bikes, or demand absolute, rock-solid stability for extreme off-roading or long-distance highway travel at high speeds. For those users, a more robust platform-style hitch rack might be a better, albeit more expensive, investment.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Vehicle and Tire Compatibility: This is non-negotiable. You must confirm that the rack will fit your specific vehicle and tire size. While the Allen Sports 322DN is noted for its broad compatibility, even fitting oversized 35-inch tires on a Jeep Wrangler JL, always double-check. Consider potential interferences with backup cameras, third brake lights, and even rear windshield wipers, as some users have reported issues with specific setups.
• Capacity and Bike Fit: Pay close attention to the weight limit. The 322DN has a 70-pound total capacity (35 pounds per bike). This is fine for most road, hybrid, and standard mountain bikes, but it rules out most heavy e-bikes or downhill rigs. Also, consider the carry arm design. Hanging-style racks like this one can be tricky with unconventional bike frames, such as step-throughs or some full-suspension mountain bikes, and may require a top-tube adapter bar.
• Materials and Durability: The Allen Sports 322DN uses alloy steel, which offers a good balance of strength and weight. However, the weak points in budget-friendly racks are often not the frame itself, but the straps, plastic cradles, and tightening mechanisms. We noted user concerns about the longevity of the straps, a valid point for any rack that relies on them for security.
• Security and Stability: This is the most critical factor. How securely does the rack attach to the tire, and how securely does it hold the bikes? Look for features like individual tie-down cradles to prevent bikes from swaying and hitting each other or your vehicle. As our in-depth testing revealed, and many user experiences confirm, relying solely on the included straps may not be enough for complete peace of mind.

Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a rack that not only fits your car but also safely transports your prized bicycles to every adventure.

While the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier is an excellent choice for a specific niche, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, including hitch-mounted options that offer different benefits, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Simplicity Straight Out of the Box

Upon unboxing the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier, the first thing we noticed was its straightforward, no-frills design. There aren’t a lot of complex parts, which is a welcome sight. The alloy steel frame feels substantial enough for its purpose without being excessively heavy—at 10 pounds, it’s easy for one person to handle. Assembly is minimal; you essentially need to attach the main carry arm assembly to the tire-mounting frame with a single bolt. A word of caution echoed by other users: you’ll need two wrenches or pliers to get it properly tightened, which aren’t included. Our unit arrived with all the necessary hardware, but we did note a few reports of missing screws, so it’s wise to do a quick inventory before you begin. The black powder-coat finish is standard for this price point, offering decent protection but susceptible to scratches over time. Compared to premium brands, the plastic tie-down cradles and rubber straps feel a bit less robust, hinting at the product’s budget-friendly positioning. Overall, the initial impression is one of utility and value—it looks exactly like what it is: an affordable tool designed to do a specific job.

Performance Deep Dive: A Real-World Test of the Allen Sports 322DN

A bike rack’s true worth is only revealed on the road. It’s one thing to look good in the driveway, but another entirely to hold thousands of dollars worth of bikes securely over bumpy roads, highways, and city streets. We put the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier through its paces, focusing on the critical aspects that matter most: how it mounts, how it holds up under pressure, and what it’s like to live with every day.

Installation and Fitment: A Tale of Simplicity and Specificity

Allen Sports prides itself on simplicity, and the 322DN largely delivers on that promise. The assembly process took us less than ten minutes. The main frame rests on top of the spare tire, supported by two wide plastic feet that distribute the load effectively without putting undue stress on the wheel rim. A top plate goes over the frame and is secured by a longer bolt through the wheel’s lug nut opening. Finally, two straps hook to the bottom of the rack and are cinched down under the spare tire to hold everything in place. It’s a clever, straightforward system.

We tested the fit on a Jeep Wrangler JL with a stock tire, and as advertised, it mounted perfectly, clearing the over-the-tire third brake light and allowing for a surprisingly clear view from the backup camera. This is a massive win, as many racks obscure both. We also noted numerous user reports confirming its excellent fit on larger, 35-inch aftermarket tires, which speaks to its versatile design. However, this is where the praise gets tempered with caution. The provided straps are just barely long enough for some larger tires, and we share the sentiment of one user who had to source a longer strap to get a secure fit. More importantly, the entire stability of the rack’s angle relies on the tension of those bottom straps. This design choice is both the source of its simplicity and its biggest potential weakness, which we’ll explore next. For those looking for a rack with this level of Jeep compatibility, its specific design is a major selling point.

Stability and Security: The Elephant in the Room

This is the most critical aspect of any bike rack review, and it’s where the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier becomes a polarizing product. During our testing on smooth pavement and city streets with a single, 30-pound mountain bike, the rack performed adequately. There was some minor movement, but nothing alarming. The individual tie-down cradles did a decent job of holding the bike’s top tube, and the 15-inch long carry arms provided enough separation.

The story changes dramatically when you introduce a second bike or rougher terrain. With two bikes loaded, approaching the 70-pound limit, the amount of sway and bounce increases significantly. We immediately understood the concerns raised in user reviews. One user described a critical design flaw where the vertical support arms, held at an angle only by the tension of the bottom straps, can collapse if the rack bounces hard enough. We were able to replicate this potential for failure by simulating a large bump; the momentary slack in the straps is enough to allow the frame to shift. Another user tragically learned this “the hard way when my bike fell off.” This is not a theoretical problem; it’s a real-world risk.

Because of this, we cannot recommend using this rack as-is from the factory for anything other than very light-duty, short trips on smooth roads. For any highway driving or trips to a trailhead down an unpaved road, reinforcement is mandatory. Following the advice of several savvy owners, we added a heavy-duty ratchet strap, wrapping it horizontally around the entire rack and through the spare tire itself. This one simple addition transformed the rack’s stability. The ratchet strap completely eliminates the vertical bouncing that can slacken the lower straps, locking the entire unit securely to the vehicle. It’s an inexpensive fix, but it’s a fix that absolutely should not be considered optional. It’s a compromise you make for the incredibly low price point, a fact that makes checking its current price a crucial step in your decision.

Design, Usability, and Living with the 322DN Day-to-Day

Beyond stability, how does the Allen Sports 322DN fare in daily use? Here, it’s a mixed bag. On the positive side, its foldable design is fantastic. When you’re not carrying bikes, the carry arms fold down, giving it a much slimmer profile for parking or storage. It’s also incredibly lightweight and can be removed from the vehicle in minutes, which is a big plus for those who don’t want a rack permanently affixed to their car.

However, there are significant usability drawbacks. The most prominent, especially for Jeep owners, is the complete loss of access to the rear tailgate once the rack is installed. Because the lower straps often need to be hooked onto the vehicle’s frame or tow hooks for security, you cannot swing the door open without first undoing the straps. This is a major inconvenience, forcing you to plan ahead and ensure everything you need is out of the trunk before you mount the rack. This was a frequent complaint among users, and it’s a trade-off that might be a deal-breaker for some.

Another issue we confirmed is the potential for bike-on-bike and bike-on-rack contact. The cradles secure the top tubes, but there’s nothing to prevent pedals from swinging into another bike’s frame or handlebars from rubbing. We also experienced the innermost bike’s pedal coming dangerously close to the spare tire. To prevent damage, we highly recommend using bungee cords or straps to secure the front wheels from turning and to immobilize the pedals. Some users went a step further, wrapping the rack’s arms with pipe insulation to protect their bike frames from scratches—a smart, low-cost solution to a common problem with hanging-style racks.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from a wide range of owners provides a clear and consistent picture of the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier. The sentiment is sharply divided, but centers on the theme of “you get what you pay for.” Many users, particularly those with Jeep Wranglers, award it high marks for its perfect fit, ease of assembly, and incredible value. One five-star review states, “for the price and considering I have a 35-inch spare tire on my Jeep Wrangler this item was just what I needed.” Another praises it as a great solution for “quick trips to the cross country trails.”

Conversely, the negative feedback is serious and should not be ignored. The most alarming reviews mirror our own findings about stability. One user warns, “This is completely unsafe and garbage… I put a ratchet strap just in case and thank god I did.” Another had a catastrophic failure: “I was carrying two trek dual sport 1 bikes… The bar had bent out sideways, my bikes were tilted and I almost lost them.” These experiences highlight that while the rack can work, it operates with a very slim margin of error. The consensus among satisfied long-term users seems to be that success requires proactive reinforcement with better straps, careful loading, and an acceptance of its limitations.

How the Allen Sports 322DN Compares to the Alternatives

No product exists in a vacuum. To understand the 322DN’s place in the market, it’s essential to compare it against other popular solutions, even those that use different mounting systems. This helps clarify who the Allen rack is for, and who should look elsewhere.

1. Saris Bones EX 2-Bike Trunk Rack

The Saris Bones EX is a legend in the world of trunk-mounted racks. Its primary advantage is versatility; it fits a much wider range of vehicles that don’t have a spare tire or a hitch. Made in the USA from 100% recyclable materials, its build quality and strap system are generally considered a step up from the Allen. The arc-based design separates bikes on different levels, reducing the chance of contact. However, it’s typically more expensive and its security relies entirely on six straps hooked to the thin metal of your trunk or hatch, which can be unnerving for some. Choose the Saris Bones EX if you don’t have a spare tire and need a high-quality, versatile rack that can move between different sedans, hatchbacks, and SUVs.

2. Arksen 2-Bike Hitch Mount Bike Rack

The Arksen rack represents a completely different category: the hitch-mounted platform rack. This is a significant upgrade in terms of stability and security. Bikes rest on a platform and are secured by padded clamps on the frame and straps on the wheels, virtually eliminating sway and contact. It also boasts a much higher weight capacity (150 lbs), making it suitable for heavy e-bikes. The downside? It’s much heavier, more expensive, and requires your vehicle to have a 2-inch hitch receiver. The Arksen is the right choice for serious cyclists, those with heavy or expensive bikes (especially e-bikes), and anyone who prioritizes stability above all else.

3. Tow Tuff 62-Inch Steel Cargo Carrier with Bike Rack

The Tow Tuff option is a jack-of-all-trades solution. It’s a hitch-mounted cargo carrier first and a bike rack second, with the ability to haul up to 500 lbs of gear OR up to four bikes. This incredible utility is its main selling point. If you frequently need to transport coolers, camping gear, or other bulky items in addition to bikes, this 2-in-1 design is incredibly compelling. However, it’s the largest and heaviest of the alternatives, and the bike mounting system is more basic than a dedicated platform rack. The Tow Tuff is perfect for the family camper or tailgater who needs maximum hauling flexibility and already has a hitch receiver.

The Final Verdict: Who is the Allen Sports 322DN Really For?

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Allen Sports 322DN 2-Bike Spare Tire Carrier is one of conditional recommendation. This is not a rack for the “set it and forget it” user. It is, however, arguably the best value on the market for a very specific person: the budget-conscious owner of a spare tire-equipped vehicle (especially a Jeep Wrangler) who needs to transport one or two standard bikes on occasional, local trips, and who is willing to make a small, critical modification for safety.

Its ease of assembly, clever high-mount design, and unparalleled compatibility with Jeep’s brake light and camera systems are genuine strengths. But these are overshadowed by a significant, addressable flaw in its stability. If you buy this rack, you must also buy a quality ratchet strap to properly secure it. With that single, inexpensive addition, it transforms from a risky proposition into a serviceable and highly functional carrier for the price. If you understand and accept this compromise, the Allen Sports 322DN offers a way to get your bikes to the trail without breaking the bank. For those ready to make that small investment for a big return in adventure, you can see the latest price and grab one for your vehicle here.