Best ebike rack and basket: 5 picks with load ratings

A rack turns an e-bike into a daily vehicle. It also adds weight where the bike's design is most sensitive, so the ratings matter more than the look.

What to look for

1. The maker's maximum load. Every rack should state one. It is the rack's limit, not the bike's.
2. Your bike's own limit. Check the e-bike manual for the maximum rear-rack load and the maximum total weight (rider, cargo and bike). The lowest number wins.
3. Fit. Look at wheel size, tire width, mudguard width and mounting points. A rack made for 28-inch wheels will not suit every bike.
4. Battery compatibility. Some bikes carry the battery on the rear rack. Those need a rack made for that system.
5. Child seats. Makers say whether a rack is approved for one. Several Tubus and Racktime pages say "Not approved for mounting a child seat".
6. Material. Stainless steel and aluminum both work. Ask which suits how you ride and how much you carry.

Our picks

Tubus Cosmo

• Why: A stainless steel rear rack with a wide top and a second mounting level for panniers.
• Key spec: Tubus lists a 26 kg maximum load, tested with 40 kg (with the second load level), for 26 and 28 inch wheels.
• Check: Tubus says it is not approved for mounting a child seat. It also advises protecting contact points from bag abrasion with its protective film.
• Source: Tubus.

Racktime Bosch 2.0 carrier, 28 inch

• Why: A rack made for e-bikes that carry a Bosch luggage carrier battery.
• Key spec: Racktime lists 6121 aluminum, about 1,014 g, 28 inch wheels and a 25 kg maximum load.
• Check: Racktime says it is only approved for Bosch luggage carrier batteries up to the 2024 version. If your bike does not use a Bosch rack battery, pick another rack.
• Source: Racktime.

Racktime Boostit 2.0 Tour

• Why: A rear rack for wide frames and tires, with a second loading level.
• Key spec: Racktime lists a 25 kg maximum load, tire widths up to 75 mm, chainstays up to 205 mm and disc brake compatibility.
• Check: Not approved for a child seat. Racktime recommends protecting contact points from bag abrasion.
• Source: Racktime.

Racktime Frontit

• Why: A low-rider front carrier, which keeps a load low and balanced between the wheel and bag.
• Key spec: Racktime lists an 18 kg maximum load.
• Check: Front loads change steering. Check your fork's mounting points and the bike's manual for any front-rack limit.
• Source: Racktime.

Racktime Baskit large

• Why: A clip-on basket for shopping and daily items. It is sold without an adapter, so pair it with a compatible Racktime rack or adapter.
• Key spec: Racktime lists outer dimensions of 32 x 43 x 30 cm and a maximum payload of 10 kg.
• Check: Racktime also lists versions with its Snapit adapters; make sure you pick the version that matches your rack.
• Source: Racktime.

What about the e-bike maker's own racks?

Many e-bike makers sell a rack designed for their frame. Its maker's rating is the one to follow, and a rack from another brand may exceed what the frame's mounting points allow. Read the manual's section on accessories. If a rack's rating and your frame's rating differ, use the lower number.

How to fit and use a rack

• Check the contact points between rack and frame, and tighten bolts to the maker's torque figures.
• Pack heavier items low and close to the wheel.
• Re-check the bolts after your first few rides.
• Keep the load balanced side to side, and leave brake and light cables free.

FAQ

Can I use any rack on an e-bike? Only if it fits the frame and wheel size, and if your bike's maker permits it. Some bikes use a specific rack system, so check the manual.

What does "tested with 40 kg" mean? For the Cosmo, Tubus says the rack passed a test with 40 kg but is approved for a maximum of 26 kg. Use the lower, approved number.

Does a front basket suit an e-bike? It can, within the basket maker's and the bike's stated limits. Heavy front loads affect steering.

Can I carry a child seat on these racks? The Tubus and Racktime pages above say their racks are not approved for child seats.