The Ultimate Guide to Fork Mounts: How to Secure Your Bike Inside Vans, Trucks & Trailers Like a Pro

The Ultimate Guide to Fork Mounts: How to Secure Your Bike Inside Vans, Trucks & Trailers Like a Pro

Posted by Cole Graves on

There are many ways to transport our bikes with our trucks and vans. This article dives into the benefits and uses of fork mounts and why they, in our opinion, are superior. 

What Is a Fork Mount?

A bike fork mount is a secure, space-saving way to store or transport your bike by securing the fork to the mount with the bike's thru-axle once the wheel is removed. It keeps your bike upright, stable, and protected—perfect for vans, trucks, garages, or trailers. At Freedom Coast, every fork mount is purpose-built and tested for reliable performance wherever your ride takes you.

  • Secures your bike by the fork after removing the front wheel.

  • Keeps bikes stable, upright, and wobble-free during transport or storage.

  • Saves valuable space in vans, truck beds, trailers, or garages.

  • Offers a clean and efficient setup for gear organization.

  • Freedom Coast designs each mount for durability and adventure-ready performance.

Why Fork Mounts Matter

Whether it is security, stability, or saving space we are after, bike fork mounts are our go-to solution in vans, trucks, and trailers alike. 

 Keep Your Bikes Safe and Secure

The safest way to transport your bike is inside your vehicle or trailer. Fork mounts provide a low-profile solution to secure your bike by the front axle in vans, truck beds, or trailers. This keeps your bike hidden from thieves and safer on the road, eliminating the worry of dangling racks or tailgate setups in traffic.

  • Low-profile mounting inside vans, trucks, or trailers

  • Secures bikes by the front axle for stability

  • Protects bikes from theft and road hazards

  • Ideal for commuting, trail runs, or long trips

Stability 

Most bike transportation options—from hitch racks with wear-prone ratchets to tailgate pads held by Velcro—fall short on stability. Our Adjustable and Micro Fork Mounts change the game by connecting directly to your rail system and using the fork’s axle for a rock-solid hold. The adjustable thumb wheel allows us to quickly lock the fork mount in place on the rail system, and makes setup a breeze.

  • Stable fork-axle connection for secure transport

  • Compatible with rail systems in vans, trucks, and trailers

  • Quickly lock in place with thumb wheel

  • Reliable performance even on rough roads

Make the Most of Your Space

Freedom Coast fork mounts are designed to maximize space by securely holding bikes in a compact, organized layout. Their low-profile design and adjustable positioning let you fit more bikes in tight areas—like vans, trucks, or trailers—without clutter or contact between handlebars. The result is a clean, efficient storage setup that makes the most of every inch.

  • Low-profile design saves valuable floor space

  • Adjustable mount tilt allows for tighter bike spacing

  • Staggered mount heights prevent handlebar and pedal contact

  • Ideal for saving space in vans, truck beds, and trailers

  • Creates a clean, organized storage setup

 How Does a Fork Mount Attach to My Floor or Wall?

A fork mount is only as good as how it’s anchored. There are several ways to securely attach a fork mount to your van, truck bed, trailer, or wall, giving you flexibility depending on your setup.

Whether sliding into L-Track rails, integrating with factory rails in Toyota or Nissan vehicles, or bolting directly to wood, metal, or composite surfaces, a secure foundation ensures your bike stays stable and ready for every ride. Our mounts come with different anchor attachments depending on your setup for an easy integration onto your rig.

  • L-Track: This is our preferred method; an aircraft-grade aluminum tie-down rail that allows the mount to slide into place and lock securely, creating a strong, modular system for vans and trailers

  • Factory Rail Systems: Compatible with specialty rails found in many trucks and vans, including Toyota and Nissan systems

  • Standard Bolt-Down Setups: Ideal for DIY or custom installs—mounts bolt directly to wood, metal, or composite floors and walls with the correct hardware

Common DIY solutions and where they fall short

Many DIY bike mounting setups may seem easy at first, but they often fail when it comes to stability and efficiency. Common solutions like 2x4s, clam shell clamps, or improvised brackets can introduce wobble, waste space, and increase the risk of bike damage. Even workarounds like turning handlebars or adding multiple tracks rarely provide lasting results. Precision mounting is key to keeping bikes secure, maximizing space, and ensuring safe, hassle-free loading every time.

  • Downfalls of other set ups:

    • Clam shell mounts - increase risk of damage to fork 
    • 2x4 - instability caused by unsecured base
    • Multiple tracks - waste space
  • Increased risk of bike damage during transport

  • Work-arounds like turning handlebars rarely solve the problem and create instability

  • Precision mounting ensures secure, efficient, and safe storage

Our Fork Mount Design Philosophy

Our fork mount solves the problems that DIY setups can’t. Designed with an adjustable base, it easily fits bikes in tight spaces and even allows for overlapping forks, maximizing capacity without clutter. The compact, clean, and versatile design keeps your setup organized and efficient, eliminating the wobble and wasted space common in homemade solutions. Plus, the quick release and slide feature makes loading, unloading, and repositioning your bike effortless—no tools, no fuss, just a secure and professional-grade mount built for real riders.

  • Adjustable base fits bikes in tight spaces

  • Accommodates overlapping forks

  • Compact, clean, and versatile design

  • Quick-release and slide feature for easy use

    Vertical Bike Storage Made Easy

    Our innovative fork mount makes vertical bike storage simple, efficient, and highly space-saving. By securing bikes by the front fork, it frees up valuable floor space in vans and trailers, allowing you to carry gear, tools, or extra cargo without clutter. Real-world users love how multiple bikes can fit side-by-side in previously tight areas, making it perfect for weekend adventures or multi-bike trips. Compact, versatile, and easy to use, it’s quickly becoming the best fork mount for van setups.

    • Secure bikes by the fork for vertical storage

    • Frees up floor space for gear and cargo

    • Fits multiple bikes side by side in tight areas

    • Compact, versatile, and easy to use

    • Ideal for vans, trailers, and long-distance transport

    One Mount for Every Bike

    Our Micro and Adjustable Fork Mounts make transporting bikes effortless, thanks to a wide range of adaptor options that fit any fork and axle size. Designed for riders with multiple bikes or bikes of different disciplines, these mounts provide a secure, snug fit with simple, user-friendly adjustments—ensuring every ride is ready to go. Plus, Freedom Coast keeps up with the latest fork standards, so you’re always covered. Check out our adaptors here.

    • Compatible with a wide variety of bikes: road, gravel, MTB, fat tire, downhill, and e-bikes

    • Adaptor sizes include 15x110 (Boost), 15x100 Torque Cap (RockShox), 15x100 (non-Boost), 15x135, 12x100, 9x100, 20x110, 15x150, 12x110, 9x135, 5x100

    • Quick and easy adaptor swaps for multiple bikes

    • Up-to-date with the latest fork standards for versatility and convenience

    Micro Adjustable vs. Adjustable Fork Mounts

    When selecting between the Micro and Adjustable Fork Mounts from Freedom Coast, consider your space and setup needs. The Micro Adjustable Fork Mount is compact and low-profile, perfect for single-bike setups or tight van installations, with an axle center just 1.3" above the base. The Adjustable Fork Mount offers greater versatility and adjustability, allowing for overlapping fork capability for multi-bike setups. Both mounts feature quick-release knobs, compatibility with L-Track, Toyota Rail, and Nissan Utili-Track systems, and support all fork adapter sizes for easy switching between bikes.

    • Micro: ideal for single-bike, tight-space setups

    • Adjustable: versatile, space-saving, great for multi-bike setups

    • Quick-release knobs for fast installation

    • Compatible with L-Track, Toyota Rail, and Nissan Utili-Track systems

    • Supports all fork adapter sizes for easy bike switching

    Crafted to Last: Our Machining Process


    At Freedom Coast, all products are proudly made in California, ensuring top-notch quality and consistency. Our process—from material selection to CNC machining, tumbling, anodizing, engraving, and final assembly—guarantees every Freedom Coast product meets the highest standards for strict quality control, rapid innovation, and products built to last.

    • Made in California at our in-house machine shop

    • CNC machining and tumbling for exact fit and smooth finish

    • Anodized for durability and corrosion resistance

    • Clear engraving for easy identification

    • Rigorous assembly and quality control for reliability

    Fast Shipping, Worldwide

    We know getting your gear fast matters, which is why we offer quick delivery across the U.S. and internationally. Whether you’re gearing up for your next ride or outfitting a fleet of bikes, our streamlined shipping ensures your products arrive promptly and reliably, no matter where you are.

    Unboxing & Installation

    Unboxing and installing your Freedom Coast fork mount is a straightforward process designed for convenience and durability. Upon arrival, your package will include the mount base, your selection of fork adapters, and all necessary hardware for installation.

    Step-by-Step Installation Overview:

    1. Select the Appropriate Fork Adapter: Choose the adapter that matches your bike's axle standard.

    2. Attach the Adapter to the Mount: Secure the selected adapter onto the fork mount by simply pressing it in.

    3. Position the Mount: Place the assembled mount onto your desired surface, ensuring it's aligned correctly.

    4. Secure the Mount: Fasten the mount using the quick-adjust thumb wheel, ensuring a tight and stable fit.

    5. Adjust as Necessary: Fine-tune the positioning to accommodate your specific setup.

    For a visual guide on installation and adjustment, check out our Freedom Coast Fork Mount Installation and Adjustment video

    Maintenance & Pro Tips

    Keeping your Freedom Coast fork mount in top condition is simple. Regularly check bolts and adapters, clean debris, and lightly lubricate moving parts. Proper storage and periodic inspections help preserve performance and extend the life of your gear.

    • Check bolts and adapters for tightness

    • Clean dirt and debris regularly

    • Lightly lubricate moving parts

    • Store in a dry place

    • Periodically inspect for wear to extend lifespan

    Superior Bike Storage

    From security and safety, to space-saving design, adjustability, and meticulous craftsmanship, Freedom Coast mounts, racks, and accessories are the go-to solution for riders looking to build out their vans, trucks, or trailers into adventure rigs.

    • Adjustable design for a perfect fit

    • USA-made for quality and reliable performance

    • Compatible with all bike types and setups

    • Don’t wait—build your ideal bike storage setup for your next adventure!

    Have the Space and Want to Keep the Wheel On?

    The HOVR rack is perfect for riders who want to keep the front wheel on while maximizing space. Its roll-in/roll-out design makes loading and unloading bikes effortless, whether you’re using it in a van, truck bed, or trailer. Built with rugged, USA-made quality, the HOVR rack is durable and reliable, yet installs quickly and easily, thanks to the quick-release mounting platform.

    • Designed for riders who prefer to keep the front wheel on

    • Roll-in, roll-out convenience for vans, truck beds, and trailers

    • Rugged, USA-made quality

    • Easy, hassle-free installation

    Ideal for anyone looking for a van bike mount, van bike rack, or efficient van bike storage, it keeps your bikes secure, accessible, and ready for the next ride. Check out the HOVR rack here.

    Looking for More Ways to Store Your Bike Gear?

    Our ModMount is designed for versatility and easy storage. It allows you to store helmets, shoes, and other gear securely on L-Track, Toyota Rail, or Molle systems. This modular approach keeps your gear organized and accessible, enhancing your overall storage solution.

    Customer Reviews & Real-World Setups

    Our customers consistently rave about Freedom Coast fork mounts, praising their precision, durability, and ease of use. From single-bike setups to full multi-bike rigs, riders highlight how these mounts make bike storage simple and reliable. Check out real-world setups and the glowing reviews below to see why so many cyclists trust Freedom Coast for their bike storage needs.

    adjustable fork mount Bike mount bike storage CNC machined aluminum fork mount Freedom Coast L-track mountain bike fork mount Mountain bike storage van storage

    Newer Post →

    Leave a comment

    Freedom Coast Blog

    RSS

    Tags

    Fine-tune your cockpit: Custom ergonomics with the Freedom Coast 90 Degree Pod Clamp
    Better Bolts CNC-machined aluminum Cockpit setup Freedom Coast Pod clamp Pod Ultimate SRAM Transmission SRAM Transmission Pod

    Fine-tune your cockpit: Custom ergonomics with the Freedom Coast 90 Degree Pod Clamp

    By Cole Graves

    Discover a fresh take on cockpit ergonomics with the Freedom Coast 90° Pod Clamp—our reimagined SRAM Transmission Pod shifter mount designed for a cleaner look,...

    Read more