Best Tailgate Bike Pads: My Top 3 Picks + Tips for Choosing One
If you’ve got a truck and ride mountain bikes, chances are you’ve spotted tailgate bike pads hanging off pickups at your favorite trailhead. They’re hands-down one of the easiest, most practical ways to haul bikes around. But with so many options out there, how do you know which tailgate pad is the right one for you?
Like any mountain bike gear, the “best” pad depends on your needs and setup. But lucky for you, I’ve got some tips to help you choose, plus I’ve tested a bunch of different pads thanks to my brother and my mountain friends who’ve put them through the wringer on countless rides and trips.
Here are my top picks to get your bike from A to trailhead without a scratch.
1. Dakine Pickup Pad
This is my top pick for tailgate bike pads. Dakine makes good, reliable gear (I use their bike travel bag) and this pad is no exception. It’s simple, well-padded, and secure. This is also the bike pad my brother uses on his truck.
Favorite features
What could be better
Truck fit
Many different styles: Standard, DLX, DLX Curve, Universal, Half Side
Which Dakine pad should you get? Dakine has several styles for their pickup pads. Here’s a quick breakdown of which pad is best for which truck:
- Standard: The original pickup pad. Best for older trucks or those without modern backup cameras or tailgate features. It’s a no-frills, reliable option, but may not fit all trucks. Available in two sizes.
- DLX: Designed for newer trucks with backup cameras and tailgate handle access. Available in two sizes to fit most modern full-size pickups.
- DLX Curve: Ideal for newer trucks with curved or sculpted tailgates like the latest Ford and Dodge models. Available in two sizes.
- Universal: A versatile option made to fit a wide range of tailgate shapes and sizes. It’s also burlier with more protection and bells and whistles (like a bottle opener). It’s a good choice if you want to move it between trucks or want the added features. Available in two sizes.
- Half Side: Perfect for solo riders or small crews who want to carry one or two bikes while keeping the tailgate handle and backup camera free.
2. Küat HUK
Küat makes one of the most popular bike racks, so it’s no surprise that they make a dialed tailgate pad, too. The HUK is sleek, well-padded, and works with most trucks.
Favorite features
What could be better
Truck fit
Most trucks
3. RaceFace T3
The RaceFace T3 tailgate pad is a solid choice for riders who want maximum padding. It’s well-designed to keep bikes secure, but it’s it one comes in one style, so it may not fit every truck perfectly.
Favorite features
What could be better
Truck fit
Best for modern trucks
Want me to test your tailgate bike pad? Get in touch!
What to look for in a tailgate pad
While most tailgate pads are pretty similar, they do all have their own features and style. Here’s what I recommend keeping an eye on when choosing a tailgate pad:
1. Padding & protection
The whole point of a tailgate pad is to protect your bike and your truck. Look for a pad with thick, durable foam that cushions your downtube and keeps your tailgate from getting scratched or dented. Some pads have reinforced corners or extra padding in high-contact zones, which is a nice bonus.
2. Size & fit
Tailgate pads usually come in two sizes: mid-size and full-size. Make sure the pad you choose fits your truck snugly. Too small and it won’t cover enough of the tailgate; too big and it might shift around or sag.
Here’s a list of mid and full-sized trucks. You still need to measure your tailgate, though!
| Mid Sized Trucks | Full Sized Trucks |
|---|---|
| Toyota Tacoma | Dodge Ram |
| Honda Ridgeline | Ford Ranger |
| Chevrolet Colorado | Ford F-150 |
| GMC Canyon | GMC Sierra |
| Jeep Gladiator | Chevrolet Silverado |
| Nissan Frontier | Toyota Tundra |
| Nissan Titan |
3. Number of bike slots
Pads typically hold 5–7 bikes, depending on their size. If you regularly shuttle with a big crew, go for a pad that has clear frame slots or Velcro straps to keep each bike in place. If it’s usually just you and a buddy, you can get away with fewer or even a cute little 2-bike tailgate pad.
4. Frame protection
Some cheaper pads (bought on Amazon…) can cause frame rub, especially on long drives. Look for a pad with a soft, non-abrasive lining on the truck side and where the pad touches your frame. I also like to toss an old towel or foam spacer between bikes on longer trips just to be safe.
5. Straps & security
A good tailgate pad should strap on securely and stay put, even on rough roads. Look for heavy-duty straps with metal or high-quality plastic buckles that won’t snap under tension. Bonus if it has a way to lock your bikes — like a grommet — or at least thread a lock through the frame loops.
6. Weather resistance
Your pad is probably going to see sun, rain, snow, and mud—sometimes all in one day. Durable, water-resistant material (like PVC or reinforced nylon) will keep it from soaking through or breaking down quickly. UV-resistant coatings are helpful if you leave your pad on year-round.
7. Bonus features
Some pads come with little extras like tool storage pockets, removable panels for easier tailgate access, seats, and even an integrated cooler box. These features aren’t necessary of course, but sometimes nice to have depending on how you use your truck or how strong your post-ride tailgate game is.
I hope this roundup helps you find the perfect tailgate pad for your truck and riding crew! These picks have been tried and tested on countless trail days and road trips, and they strike a solid balance between protection, ease of use, and value. If you already have a favorite tailgate pad that’s not on this list, drop it in the comments—I’m always curious to hear what’s working for other riders.
Which tailgate pad are you considering? What questions do you still have? Leave a comment below!
You need to check out the Send It Tailgate pad, best one out there!