The 6 Best small tailgate pads (2023 reviews)

Compared with other pad in this category, the dakine dlx pad has a convenient design. It fits the Honda Ridgeline pickup perfectly. It fits midsize truck tailgates and has tie-downs for up to five bikes. The flip up panel matches up with the door handle and back up camera. The straps have padding that protect the bikes from paint. The pad easily shifts with driving and the camera is obscured. It is super easy to install and is very sturdy.

Why We Like This:

Large access flap for tailgate handles and rear-view cameras
Simple design that makes carrying bikes a snap
Works best on new tailgate designs
Easy to use and works well

Raceface small tailgate Pad

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The raceface small tailgate pad is capable of outshining several other pad featured in this list in overall features for the price point. The Raceface's t2 pad is made to fit any shape of tailgate, and has an adjustable rear camera panel. It fits perfectly, easy to install/uninstall, saves space vs. rack. The tires lay sideways on the mat so they aren’t taking up a lot of room between your tailgate and tongue of your camper. The pad has no padding just towards the back of those straps so if installation is off by a couple of inches your bike frame won't be well protected from the tailgate.

The convertible/removable pads that allow for backup camera/tailgate handle access is a perfect solution to the problem. This one is completely adjustable to counteract the curve, and the handle and camera are perfect in the cutout. It is made of soft materials.

Why We Like This:

Ability to adjust rack pads to access truck bed handle and backup camera
Delivers what they promise

Dakine small tailgate Pad

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Compared with other pad in this category, the dakine small tailgate pad has a convenient design. This particular pad is designed for pickups with a wider upper part of the tailgate like newer ford and dodge vehicles. It is made fit to the curved shape and back-up camera location of late-model, full-size dodge and ford tailgates. It comes with only 4 straps to secure the pad to the tailgate it bunches up. It is easy to put on (and take off), holds bikes great, and protects the tail gate really well. It is easy to install and easy to load bikes.

The overall shape of the profile that is designed to fit a wide / curved truck tailgate isn't shaped that way. It is perfect fit for modern trucks with a thick tailgate.

Why We Like This:

Speak the language and foster the community
Large access flap for tailgate handles and rear-view cameras
Good investment for long term

Swagman small tailgate Pad

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Swagman has been making great pad for years, thanks to a combination of clever design and appropriate materials. It fits an enormous variety of vehicles. It’s like a soft chamois type material but with longer soft fibers like a plush blanket. It can haul bikes with very little setup. The inside of the pad is lined with soft fleece to protect your vehicle from damage. The very soft interior ensures it won’t scratch your tailgate paint. It is easy to clean, remove and store when not in use. It is great for quick load and unload. It is compatible with many different size trucks.

Why We Like This:

Super easy to take on and off
Easily transports up to 5 bikes and is compatible with many different size trucks
Takes less than 2 minutes to install or remove
Carries a huge number of bikes due to its large number of daisy chains

Swagman TAILWHIP tailgate Pad

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Not everyone likes to purchase pad for their regular usage, but the swagman tailwhip tailgate pad would be an anomoly. It fits an enormous variety of vehicles. The tailwhip tailgate pad has large built-in flaps that let you access your tailgate handle without removing the pad. It comes with 4 velcro straps to secure your bike to the top hoops of the pad. It includes firm high density foam to protect your bike and vehicle.

It is easy to slide on the swinging tailgate. The inside of the pad is lined with soft fleece to protect your vehicle from damage. It provides plenty of access for the backup camera. It is easy to clean, remove and store when not in use.

Why We Like This:

Holds the bike in place nicely and is
Carries a huge number of bikes due to its large number of daisy chains
Good brand reputation

Pro Bike tool small tailgate Pad

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Pro Bike Tool line of pad come in a pretty wide variety of styles, so you can definitely find one that suits your individual preferences and needs. It fits conveniently in a saddle bag, jersey pocket or backpack. It also features 2 tool storage bags so you can take everything you need on your next adventure. It is perfect for those emergencies that require fast tire inflation.

Why We Like This: