How to Mount Your Bike to a Classic Truck Without Losing Its Style

Few things feel more adventurous than pairing your bike with a vintage truck. The rumble of a rebuilt V8, the view from an open tailgate, and the freedom of hitting the trail all blend the best of classic motoring and modern cycling. But if your ride is a classic Bronco, an old Land Rover Defender, or even a vintage pickup, mounting bikes safely takes some know-how.

Unlike new trucks, older vehicles weren’t built with hitches or roof rails in mind. Their shorter beds, unique frames, and swing-out doors demand a bit of planning. Here’s how to carry your bikes securely while keeping your classic truck’s design intact.

Why Classic Trucks Need Special Mounting Solutions

Classic off-roaders and pickups are icons of design, not utility platforms for modern accessories. Most were built long before hitch receivers or roof crossbars became standard.

Common challenges include:
– Limited factory mounting points. Early Broncos and Defenders rarely came with built-in tow receivers or roof rails.
– Short beds and compact bodies. Space is limited, making wheel-on transport or multi-bike racks harder to fit.
– Swing-out doors and rear spares. Defenders and some Broncos use side-hinged tailgates with rear-mounted tires that block most traditional racks.
– Delicate paint and trim. Restored vehicles deserve protection from clamps, straps, and vibration.

The key is to choose systems that respect the truck’s structure and appearance while still being functional.

1. Tailgate Pads and Bed-Mounted Mounts

For classic Broncos, F-100s, or C-10 pickups with an open bed, a tailgate pad or fork-mount tray setup works well.

– Tailgate pads hang over the drop-down tailgate and allow the bike’s front wheel to rest outside the bed.
– A fork-mount tray (using quick-release or thru-axle mounts) keeps bikes upright inside the bed without drilling.
– Use rubber padding or foam spacers under clamps to prevent scratching paint or trim.

This setup is ideal for short-bed classics, including early Broncos and FJ40s, since it keeps the weight centered and looks clean.

Fact check: Early Broncos (1966–1977) have short 92-inch wheelbases and minimal bed depth. Most owners using this method mount bikes with the tailgate open or use a plank system that fits between wheel wells.

2. Hitch Racks — But Check Your Frame

A rear hitch rack is the most convenient option if your classic has (or can accept) a receiver. For early Broncos, aftermarket hitches exist that bolt to the frame rails using existing holes or, in some cases, require light drilling. These hitches can safely support a standard two-bike rack once properly installed.

For example, aftermarket 2-inch hitches made for 1966–1977 Broncos attach inside the frame and fit most swing-away or tilt-down racks. Some models, however, require trimming the rear frame ends on 1977 builds to fit cleanly.

Defenders, on the other hand, often come with a tow hitch or pintle mount already integrated into the rear crossmember. These make it much easier to add a receiver-style bike rack, though the rear spare tire may require an extended or swing-out rack for clearance.

Tip: If your vehicle has a side-hinged rear door, choose a swing-away bike rack that moves with the door or clears it entirely.

3. Roof and Roll-Bar Mounts

For vehicles with roof gutters or roll cages, roof-mounted systems can be surprisingly effective.

Defenders excel here. Many come with factory or dealer-fitted roof rails that accept crossbars and standard bike trays. With options from Thule and Yakima, carrying one or two bikes on a Defender’s roof is a proven setup that keeps the tailgate clear.

Classic Broncos generally lack factory roof gutters or load rails, but owners who’ve added a roll bar or sport cage can attach aftermarket crossbars to those structures. Lightweight aluminum racks are best, and padding at every contact point protects the paint.

Be mindful of height. Defenders and FJ40s ride tall, so always check clearance before entering garages or drive-throughs.

4. Interior and Spare-Carrier Transport

For high-end restorations, sometimes the best choice is to keep the bike inside. Removing the front wheel allows a mountain or gravel bike to fit diagonally inside the Bronco or Defender’s cargo area.

If your truck has a swing-out spare tire carrier, a few specialized mounts allow you to attach one or two bikes directly to the spare carrier bracket. Just make sure the hardware is rated for the load and that the bikes clear the body panels when turning or reversing.

5. Custom Fabrication for Vintage Builds

For owners who regularly haul bikes, a custom rack can be worth the investment. Metal fabricators who specialize in vintage off-road vehicles can build hidden hitch receivers, integrated swing-arms, or bed rails that look period-correct but support modern gear.

Custom setups often mount to the truck’s frame instead of thin body panels, preserving safety and aesthetics. Many builders also powder-coat the racks to match the vehicle’s color for a clean, factory-like appearance.

Protecting Your Ride and Your Bike

No matter how you carry your bikes, a few simple precautions will keep both safe:
– Use foam or rubber pads where metal meets paint.
– Tighten straps and bolts after a few miles to check for settling.
– Keep surfaces clean to avoid grit scratching the finish.
– For longer trips, remove pedals and turn handlebars sideways to reduce wind drag.

These small details make a big difference, especially when dealing with rare or restored vehicles.

Choosing the Right Setup

The Final Takeaway

Owning a classic truck doesn’t mean giving up your biking adventures. With the right setup, you can mount your bikes securely while keeping your vehicle’s timeless character intact.

A properly fitted hitch, a protective tailgate pad, or a smart roof system allows you to combine old-school style with new-school convenience. Whether it’s a classic Bronco at a local trailhead or a Defender cruising through the mountains, both are proof that adventure and history can travel together.