How to transport a bicycle by car - transportation of two-wheelers and traffic rules

Polish law allows drivers to transport bicycles by car in several ways:

• bicycle in the trunk of a car;
• bicycle by car;
• transport on a hook or trailer.

How to transport a bike in the trunk?

This is one of the easiest ways to transport bikes and is also suitable for larger vehicles. How to transport a bicycle by car if we are owners of a small car? You need to have plenty of room in the back to carry all your equipment safely. To do this, you will have to give up large luggage or limit the number of passengers. Bicycles in the trunk should have a lot of space, otherwise they may block the view.

How to prepare bikes and trunk?

Transporting a bike in a car is one of the most convenient options. In adverse weather conditions, the equipment on the roof of the car creates more resistance while driving and can upset the balance of the car. In this case, the bicycles must be positioned so that they lie in a safe position and are fastened with seat belts. You also need to take care of the upholstery, which should be covered with blankets in advance to avoid soiling and damage. If the bike does not fit in the trunk, you will have to remove the vehicle's wheels and put them separately in the car. Insert them so that they do not interfere with the driver while driving.

Bicycle in the trunk of a car - rules

Bike in the trunk it is treated as baggage and is a completely legal carriage. This has the advantage that there is no need to purchase additional bike racks and mounts. You will also protect two-wheeled vehicles from theft. This is a good decision, because even in the event of a driver's error and an accident, the luggage will be relatively safe. Unfavorable weather will not interfere with your plans to transport bicycles by car. This solution is perfect for a trip as a couple, without a lot of luggage.

How to transport bicycles on the roof?

Roof bike

This is another easy option for transporting two-wheelers. How to transport a bicycle in a car on the roof? It is enough to buy roof rails and holders, one for each equipment. When buying roofing equipment, you should pay attention to the quality and dimensions of the equipment and find out if it has the appropriate certificates. This is important because if the stabilizing accessories are not very good, the bikes will not stay on the roof at higher speeds. And this can even lead to a serious accident on the road. The CE symbol is the main EU standard, and make sure the equipment complies with it.

Bicycle safety 

How to safely transport a bicycle by car? Please note that the bike must be secured to the rack with wheels and a frame. As a driver, you must be vigilant at tunnel entrances and avoid underground parking lots. This method of transportation does not affect the space inside the vehicle and does not restrict visibility. 

How to transport a bike in the trunk?

Carrying bikes in a roof rack is one of the more convenient options that many people choose. With this method, you need to properly mount the handles so that they do not catch on the body and do not damage the car while driving. The only drawback of this method may be the subsequent cumbersome installation of equipment on the roof and its dismantling. This requires considerable strength, and sometimes the help of another person.

Carrying bicycles on the roof of a car - rules

How to transport a bike in a car without worrying about visibility? Carrying two-wheelers on the roof provides good visibility while driving, but there are other risks to consider when choosing this option. It is worth investing in decent equipment that will keep your bikes stable even in changeable weather. Don't forget to check the fastening at every stop. Do not exceed the speed limit, as bikes on the roof create more air resistance. In the event of an accident, the equipment must be attached to the trunk and the speed must not exceed 50 km/h.

How to transport bicycles on a towbar?

Transporting bikes by car can be expensive. This is one of the most expensive transport options and can cost up to PLN 5. zloty. The most expensive, but also the most popular method requires the installation of a hook. You can adjust its size to the bike and car model. 

How to transport a bicycle in a car on a tow bar? Several advantages of the solution

This method is the most convenient, because bicycles do not increase air resistance. Thanks to this, the car does not consume more fuel than usual. The height of the vehicle also remains the same, so you can easily enter underground car parks and tunnels. On the contrary, a trunk mounted on the tailgate increases the length of the car, which, as a driver, must be constantly remembered.

Trunk installation - basic information

When installing such a rack, you can, as an exception, get a third license plate. As mentioned above, these car bike mounts will make your vehicle consume standard amounts of fuel, which is a plus compared to a roof mount. Removing vehicles and re-installing them also becomes much easier. The disadvantage of such a system may be a problem with the parking sensors. In this case, the driver must pay special attention to the elements protruding from the vehicle.

Installing the trunk - what to look for?

For such an installation, the following is important:

• additional license plate;
• protective foam;
• locks for every bike.

With this assembly, you need to pay attention so that the bikes in the trunk do not cover the license plates, otherwise you risk getting a fine. To avoid this, it is enough to make a new plate, the cost of which is about 6 euros.

Foam that dampens vibrations while driving is also important. Bicycles will not touch the body, and you will protect the car. To improve road safety, it is also good to buy locks for each bike separately. This ensures that attached weights do not loosen while riding.

What car can fit a bike?

How to put a bike in the car so that it does not interfere while driving? Unfortunately, two-wheelers won't fit in smaller cars because they will interfere with visibility and driving comfort. Bicycles fit easily into larger vehicles such as:

• SUV;
• minivan;
• Van. 

Large vehicles (such as a van) will fit two-wheeled vehicles with a protective trunk, while leaving room for a large group of passengers.

Bicycles in the car are not a problem

How to transport a bicycle by car without an adapted car? Two-wheeled vehicles can be transported in almost any vehicle with the seats folded down. You just need to remember about the restrictions on luggage and the number of passengers. In a standard car, luggage must also be fastened with seat belts.

Here are some of the best car deals

Sharan

• The Sharan car is a vehicle that can accommodate not only bicycles and luggage, but the whole family (up to 7 people). Folded seats create extra space. The car has large windows, so it is spacious and provides good visibility. It's built for travel, so the finishes on the inside aren't of the highest quality. When traveling with 5 people, the trunk volume reaches 852 liters. With 7 people, this is 267 liters. As for amenities, there is a 3-zone air conditioner inside. The engine pleasantly surprised in terms of fuel consumption.

Combo

• Combined - how to transport a bicycle by car if you have a regular car? The station wagon is a great choice for both everyday driving and travel. One of the more affordable options on the market would be the Volkswagen Passat or the Ford Mondeo. Also pay attention to slightly more expensive options like the Audi A6 and Mercedes class E. Comfort is certainly important in these cars. 

фургон

• Van - you have independent seats and plenty of space. Vans are good cars for long trips. In such a car, luggage, bicycles and passengers can easily fit. Smaller vans resemble a station wagon but still have a bit more space. However, their height differs from ordinary passenger cars, which can be a little difficult. Remember that minibuses are not designed to drive fast. The emphasis is on safety and comfort of travel.

You already know how to transport a bike in a car and know the different ways. Regardless of the type of attachment, take care of road safety and follow the rules. The regulations of the carrier manufacturers must be followed and an appropriate driving style must be taken care of. Choose a mount for your type of car, because thanks to this you will take care of the safety of passengers.