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Welcome to your simple yet helpful guide to all things concerning vehicle bike racks. If you’re asking yourself what on earth vehicle bike racks are, or how to go about choosing the best one for your exact needs and specifications, then this is the guide for you. You might also just want to compare the different types of bike racks on the market and their benefits, and if that’s the case, we have all this and more.
WHAT ARE BIKE VEHICLE RACKS?
To put it simply, bike vehicle racks are devices that allow you to transport bikes on a vehicle in a safe and secure manner. Depending on the type of rack you go for will determine its positioning on your vehicle. It could be on top of your roof, strapped to the rear end of your vehicle or mounted to your car’s tow bar.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT BIKE RACK FOR YOUR CAR
The last thing we want you to do is make an uninformed purchase for a bike vehicle rack that doesn’t suit the requirements of your car, or your unique needs. So, here are a couple of things you might want to consider before purchasing yours.
WHAT VEHICLE ARE YOU GOING TO USE?
It might sound obvious but one of the main questions you should consider is: what vehicle are you going to use with your bike rack? They aren’t a one size fits all device. You will need to factor in your car’s make and model, and having the vehicle’s manual to hand will be useful when referring to the measurements and specifications.
If you’re unsure, then why not speak to an expert? Our team at Browns Outdoors is happy to assist with any query you may have, and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.
HOW MANY BIKES WILL YOU CARRY?
Before buying a vehicle bike rack not only should you think about how many bikes you are planning to transport, but also the type of bikes you need to carry. Some racks are only built to carry one bike at a time, and different racks have varying load capacities. E-bikes are considerably heavier than standard-grade ones, so racks intended for those bikes may not be sufficient.
Thule bike racks for cars has designs that can transport up to four bikes, the perfect choice for those family biking adventures. They also produce versatile designs to accommodate all different types of bikes.
WHAT ARE YOUR NEEDS?
When it comes to choosing the right vehicle bike rack, you also need to think about what device best suits your needs. If you need to access your car boot, then rear-mounted racks are probably not the best option. Pairing your bike rack with a roof box for a trip away? A roof-mounted one shouldn’t be your rack of choice. Roof-mounted bike racks also require a compatible roof rack system. Your needs will also include factors like budget, security and accessibility.
We know it might feel like a lot to consider, so our friendly team at Browns Outdoors is on hand with any assistance you may need. Feel free to contact us today and we’ll have you off in no time.
WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A VEHICLE BIKE RACK?
Bike vehicle racks are perfect for cyclists looking to tick some further cycling trails off their bucket list or families who enjoy cycling together. Whatever the reason may be, they offer peace of mind and allow you to travel with ease and comfort.
LOOKING FOR A BIKE RACK SOLUTION? OUR TYPES OF VEHICLE BIKE RACKS
Now that we’ve discussed what exactly bike vehicle racks are, we’ll compare the different types, looking at their benefits as well as their drawbacks.
ROOF-MOUNTED BIKE RACKS
Roof-mounted bike racks, as indicated by their name, are mounted to your car roof using a compatible roof rack. If you don’t have a roof rack system to hand don’t worry, as we stock a wide variety of roof bars for different makes and models.
Benefits
- Roof-mounted bike racks are perfect for those looking to retain access to their boot. They also keep your number plate, and rear window obstruction free.
- Because of their design, bike roof racks for cars can typically be loaded with several bikes at a single time.
- Although this type of bike rack requires a pair of roof bars, they are also useful for carrying additional luggage. They can be paired with a roof basket, a roof box or even dedicated water and winter sports racks. So, you might just be getting more out of this than you originally thought.
Drawbacks
- With roof-mounted bike racks drivers should remain cautious when driving under low bridges and objects. We know you can’t anticipate every route you’re bound to take, however, if you have a general idea, you can gauge whether this is a suitable option for you.
- Despite the added benefit that comes with a pair of roof bars, unfortunately, a roof box, basket or any additional attachments can’t be used in conjunction with a bike rack. So, if you want to utilise this space for extra storage, a roof-mounted bike rack could prove to be difficult.
- Studies have shown that roof bike racks for cars use considerably more fuel than other types of bike racks.
REAR-MOUNTED BIKE RACKS
Instead of being mounted to your car roof, rear-mounted bike racks are attached to the back of your car, usually the boot and rear window. Although most cars are generally compatible with this style of bike rack, some convertibles or sportscars may have some difficulty due to their varying design features.
BENEFITS
- Rear-mounted bike racks offer excellent accessibility as you can typically load and unload them in a matter of minutes. The positioning of the rack at the rear end of the vehicle saves you from having to haul them onto the roof or manoeuvre a tow bar.
- Their impact on fuel consumption is minimal compared to other styles of vehicle bike racks.
- Usually, no extra fittings or modifications are required to use rear-mounted bike racks, making them a more cost-friendly option.
DRAWBACKS
- The most obvious drawback is the obstructed access to car boots as well as rear windows, number plates and lights. This could lead to additional expenses such as light boards to mitigate this.
- There is a greater potential for damage or scratches to your vehicle when these are not installed correctly.
- The limited visibility caused by blocked rear windows can be a potential danger. This is because it reduces your ability to see other road users and pedestrians.
TOW BAR-MOUNTED BIKE RACKS
Tow bar-mounted bike racks differ slightly from rear-mounted ones. Although they are both positioned at the rear end of your vehicle, what differs is that they are mounted to a tow bar.
BENEFITS
- Due to their design, most of these bike racks can offer an increased load capacity. Many of Thule’s tow bar-mounted racks for cars can carry up to four bikes, such as the Thule Hangon 4 Bike. Not only does this offer a generous storage capacity but it is also tiltable meaning you can access your car boot.
- Tow bar-mounted bike racks can offer more security and stability. Their design tends to be more durable, involving clamps that secure the bikes in position.
- Again, you can access your bikes much easier with this style of bike rack as there is minimal heavy lifting.
DRAWBACKS
- If your vehicle doesn’t come with a pre-installed tow bar this will need to be fitted to make use of this type of rack, an additional expense that needs to be factored in.
- As tow-mounted bike racks tend to be more durable, they also tend to be more expensive than other design types.
- Although the obstruction to your rear windows is less invasive than rear-mounted designs, there will still be limited visibility which could prove to be a safety issue.
ORDER YOUR BIKE RACKS TODAY
No matter your vehicle make or the type of bike you own, we are confident there is a bike vehicle rack out there for you. Thule produces an extensive range of bike racks for cars to meet varying needs and specifications. Not only do all Thule manufactured products undergo rigorous testing but they are crafted with premium materials to give all users a pleasant experience every time.
To learn more about your options with a personalised service, contact Browns Outdoors today or call us at 01527 336337.
