Choosing a Bike Rack Based on Your Needs
Sometimes you can’t ride to the most beautiful biking destinations. To solve this problem and open up new horizons, you’ll need to equip your vehicle with a bicycle rack. Here’s an overview of the various options.
When it comes to choosing a bike rack for your vehicle, you should figure out what you need.
- How many bikes do you want to carry?
- What type of bike do you own?
- What is your vehicle’s model and year?
- Do you already have bars on your roof? Or a trailer hitch?
- Do you intend to drive on bumpy roads?
By answering these questions, you’ll be able to make an informed choice about the right bike rack for you.
Roof Bike Racks
If your vehicle has roof bars, a roof rack is a great option. Roof bars provide remarkable versatility because you can install other racks for your toy collection. The bike is held in place with a hook on the front wheel or by attaching the front fork to the bike rack.
Pros
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Roof bars can be used to carry other equipment (skis, snowboards, surfboards and cargo carriers).
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Safe option for urban driving.
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Less expensive.
Cons
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If your vehicle is tall, heavy bikes can be hard to load.
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Bicycles must be removed in some places: garages, tunnels and drive-throughs.
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They make your vehicle less aerodynamic.
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Some models require removing the front wheel and putting it in your vehicle.
This type of bike rack is ideal for people who want to carry several types of equipment year-round. The practicality of unconstrained trunk access is also a big plus. If you plan to drive long distances regularly, this type of rack is the safest way to transport your bikes.
Rear Bike Racks
Various kinds of rear bike racks are available. If you have a trailer hitch on your vehicle, you can install a hitch with a platform or an arm to transport your bikes.
Pros
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Easier to load your bikes—especially if they’re heavy.
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Ability to add an adapter to increase the carrying capacity.
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Some more expensive models give access to your trunk without removing them.
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Vertical bike racks are ideal for excursions on bumpy terrain.
Cons
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Cheaper models block trunk access.
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Bicycles can swing, causing them to knock against each other.
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In the city, this bike rack is less safe if you have a collision.
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Some platforms have a maximum tire width.
This kind of bike rack is very popular with cyclists with heavier bikes or mountain bikes. With a maximum carrying capacity of six bikes, rear bike racks can be an attractive option for families and groups of cyclists. Keep in mind that you can buy an adapter for wider tires from some companies, such as Thule.
If you own an electric bike, the rack you need is the Thule Easyfold XT.
Removable Bike Racks
If you don’t have roof bars or a trailer hitch, don’t worry: there is an option for you. Removable bike racks are an affordable, appealing option. You install this type of rack with nylon straps and hooks along the edges of your trunk or tailgate.
Pros
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Easy to install.
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Folds up and stores conveniently.
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Bicycles easily put on.
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Inexpensive.
Cons
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Maximum weight of about 16 kg (35 lb) depending on the model.
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Bikes can swing and hit each other, which could cause cosmetic damage.
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Blocks access to your trunk.
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Nylon straps are less safe for holding the bike rack in place.
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May damage the paint on your vehicle.
Accommodating up to four bikes depending on the model chosen, removable bike racks are a great choice for occasional or less expensive outings.
Racks for Truck Beds
The last possibility is a bike rack for a pickup bed. If you already use your pickup to transport your bikes, add a tailgate pad to carry them.
Pros
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Inexpensive.
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Large carrying capacity.
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Safe.
Cons
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Requires a pickup truck.
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The pad can damage your bikes.
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Mainly compatible with adult bikes.
As the least expensive option, tailgate pads are often used to transport bikes to the mountains. With the ability to carry up to seven bikes, you’ll quickly become the taxi for your group of riders.
Bike racks are a better choice than transporting your equipment in your trunk, and it’s a safe bet that there’s one that fits your budget and meets your needs. When purchasing a bike rack, we recommend consulting compatibility guides, which can be found on manufacturers’ websites. Talking with one of our specialists in-store is also a worthwhile option. He or she will have the knowledge needed to help you make your purchase. Plus, the installation service is free in-store.
