Why Use a Tailgate Pad?
If you have a pickup truck and ride mountain bikes, a tailgate pad is one of the most practical accessories you can own. It lets you transport multiple bikes in the truck bed without a rack, hitch mount, or roof system — just drop the tailgate, hang the bikes over the pad, and go.
The pad protects both your bikes and your truck's tailgate from scratches, dents, and paint damage. It also keeps the bikes from shifting during transport when used with the integrated fork straps or frame straps that most quality pads include.
How Tailgate Pads Work
A tailgate pad wraps over the top of your lowered tailgate and secures in place with straps that run through the truck bed or attach to the tailgate itself. Bikes hang over the pad with their front forks or frames resting against the padded surface, held in place by individual bike straps sewn into the pad.
The bikes lean against the pad at an angle, with the rear wheels in the truck bed and the front of the bike hanging over the tailgate. This keeps the bikes stable and prevents them from swinging or colliding during transport.
Key Features to Look For
Padding Thickness and Material
The padding is what protects your frame and fork from contact damage. Look for dense foam padding that won't compress flat under the weight of multiple bikes. The outer material should be durable and weather-resistant — you'll be loading and unloading in all conditions.
Bike Capacity
Tailgate pads are rated by the number of bikes they can carry — typically 4, 5, or 6 bikes. The actual capacity depends on your bike's handlebar width and frame size. Wider bars (common on modern trail and enduro bikes) take up more space per bike. If you're regularly transporting 4+ bikes, size up to a 6-bike pad to avoid cramming.
Individual Bike Straps
Quality pads have individual straps for each bike position, keeping bikes separated and preventing them from swinging into each other on corners or rough roads. Look for straps with easy-to-use buckles that can be operated with one hand.
Tailgate Width Coverage
The pad should cover the full width of your tailgate with some overlap on each side. Most full-size truck tailgates are 60–65 inches wide. Check the pad's listed coverage width against your specific truck model.
Security Straps
The pad needs to stay in place while you're driving. Look for straps that secure through the truck bed (looping through the bed rails or tie-down points) rather than just wrapping around the tailgate, which can slip.
Storage Pockets
Many pads include zippered pockets on the front face for storing tools, tubes, snacks, or small gear. Useful for trailhead stops where you want quick access to essentials without digging through the truck cab.
How to Size a Tailgate Pad for Your Truck
The two key measurements are:
- Tailgate width: Measure the full width of your tailgate from edge to edge. Most full-size trucks (F-150, Silverado, Ram 1500, Tundra, etc.) have tailgates in the 60–65 inch range. Mid-size trucks (Tacoma, Colorado, Ranger) are typically 55–60 inches.
- Number of bikes: Count the maximum number of bikes you'll regularly transport and size up by one if you're on the edge of a capacity rating.
A pad that's too narrow won't cover the full tailgate and leaves the edges unprotected. A pad that's too wide will hang over the sides and may interfere with the tailgate closing.
How Many Bikes Fit?
As a general guide for modern trail and enduro bikes with 760–800mm handlebars:
- 4-bike pad: Comfortably fits 3–4 bikes with standard bar width
- 5-bike pad: Fits 4–5 bikes; may be snug with very wide bars
- 6-bike pad: Fits 5–6 bikes; best for group rides or families
XC bikes with narrower bars (680–720mm) will fit more per pad. DH bikes with very wide bars (800mm+) will fit fewer.
Tailgate Pad vs. Bike Rack: Which Is Better?
| Tailgate Pad | Hitch/Roof Rack | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Setup time | Fast (30 seconds) | Moderate |
| Bike capacity | Up to 6 | Typically 2–4 |
| Bike security | Good with straps | Excellent with locks |
| Truck required | Yes | No |
| Fuel economy impact | Minimal | Moderate (roof rack) |
| Bike protection | Good with quality pad | Excellent |
For truck owners who regularly transport 3+ bikes, a tailgate pad is hard to beat on value and convenience. For 1–2 bikes or non-truck vehicles, a hitch rack is the better choice.
Tips for Using a Tailgate Pad
- Alternate bike directions: Load bikes alternating left-right (one bike's bars to the left, next to the right) to maximize space and prevent handlebar collisions
- Secure each bike individually: Use the individual straps for every bike, not just the outer ones
- Check strap tension before driving: Bikes should have minimal movement when you push them side to side
- Use a tailgate lock or cable lock: Tailgate pads don't prevent bike theft — add a cable lock through the frames for security at trailheads
- Remove pedals for tight fits: If you're squeezing in an extra bike, removing pedals reduces the width of each bike by a few inches
Shop Tailgate Pads at Demon United
- Demon Mountain Bike Tailgate Pad — built for full-size trucks, multiple bike capacity, individual bike straps
- Demon Off Road Edition Tailgate Pad — heavy-duty construction for off-road and overlanding use