Transportation of bicycles 2019 – have the rules changed?

The holiday season is approaching, prompting longer cycling trips. If the chosen route is farther from your home, you are likely to take a two-wheeled vehicle by car. It would seem that this is a trivial matter, but improper transportation of equipment can result in a fine of up to PLN 500. We will advise you on the advantages and disadvantages of different ways of transporting bicycles and what you should pay attention to in order not to face unpleasant consequences.

What will you learn from this post?

• What types of roof racks are on the market?
• What to look for when riding with a roof rack?
• What are the requirements for a towbar bike rack?

Shortly speaking

There are several ways to transport a bike, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The cheapest solution is to carry equipment in the trunk, but this is only possible in a larger vehicle. Roof racks are popular, but they can be problematic when packing bikes. The most convenient, but also the most expensive, will be the hook post, which, by law, must have adequate lighting and space for a third license plate.

Bike in the trunk

it the cheapest, but not necessarily the easiest solution especially for big bikes. A two-wheeled vehicle will fit in a large SUV and station wagon, but you'll need to fold the rear seats. It means that the car can only accommodate two people... In addition, unscrewing the front wheel is not easy on every bike, and packed equipment can stain the trunk. So let's stock up special covers that will protect the bike and the car interior. It is also imperative to secure the two-wheeled vehicle so that it does not move while driving.

Roof rack

One of the most popular solutions is the roof rack. In this case bike holders attach to rails mounted on rails or roof slots... For a secure grip, grip the two-wheeled bike at the same time by the wheels and by the frame or fork. The simplest handles cost a few dozen zlotys, but if you transport bicycles more often, it is better to invest in something more reliable, for example, a model with automatic hooks and an anti-theft lock. Rooftop bikes can be a little tricky, so consider a more expensive one. luggage rack with lifting systemwhich has a special lowering lever for convenient packing of equipment. Choosing a roof rack, the speed limits specified by the manufacturer must be respected.... Unfortunately, due to the increased air resistance, a car with bicycles will also burn more fuel, and when entering a tunnel or garage, you must remember that the car is much higher.

Luggage compartment on the tailgate

These types of stanchions should be matched to your vehicle model and not every vehicle is compatible with them. Fastened like this bicycles do not create as much air resistance as when transported on the roof, but they limit visibility and access to the trunk... It is also easy to scratch the paint when packing two-wheelers. In order not to risk a fine, it is worth remembering that it is mounted this way. bicycles must not obstruct the vehicle's license plate or headlights..

Hook barrel

If your car has a towbar, you can install a dedicated bike platform. This is not the cheapest solution, but definitely the most stable and comfortableespecially when we choose model that allows you to tilt bicycles without blocking access to luggage... When purchasing a rack, make sure it meets the legal requirements that came into force in 2016. space for a third license plate, which can be done for several tens of zlotys. Unfortunately, the law does not allow for the possibility of postponing rear registration, and an attempt to change it could lead to unpleasant consequences. Before buying, it is also worth checking if the selected model has 13-pin plug and statutory lighting (direction indicators, hazard lights, parking lights, reversing lights, fog lights, foot and license plate lights). Driving with a strut mounted on the towbar that does not meet these conditions may result in a fine of up to PLN 500.

Are you looking for a bike rack for your bike? At avtotachki.com you will find solutions from respected Thule that meet all legal requirements so you don't have to pay fines.

Photo: avtotachki.com,