Bike carrier: models, installation and prices

To transport a bicycle in a car, the trunk is not always enough. Thus, the bike carrier allows you to carry one or more bikes independently of your vehicle. However, there are different types of bike carriers, not all of which are suitable for every machine. The price also varies from one model to another.

🚗 What types of bike carriers are there?

Un bike rack It is an automotive equipment that makes it easy to transport bicycles in or on a vehicle. There are several types of bike carriers: towing bike carrier, internal bike carrier, bike luggage carrier, roof bike carrier and spare wheel carrier. Here we go into detail about each type of bike rack, as well as their specific advantages and disadvantages.

Hitch bike carrier

Le bike mount it is a system that is hosted directly on ball joint your car. It is one of the safest and most common bicycle transport solutions. The bike carrier allows you to carry 1 to 4 bicycles.

If your vehicle does not have a towball installed, you can contact a mechanic and have it installed in a few hours. Always remember to size the ball joint according to the bike rack you are going to use. As a rule, balls with a diameter of 45 to 60 mm should be preferred.

The towing bike carrier consists of different parts: a rail, a hoop, a fixing arm and a clamping arm, a license plate holder and a cover for lighting.

Hang a bike rack or platform?

You should be aware that there are different types of bike towing mounts: hanging bike rack и bicycle platform... If you regularly transport bicycles, the suspension system is the most practical. The platform bike carrier remains the most convenient solution for transporting bicycles.

Our tip for choosing a towing bike carrier: If you choose a towing bike carrier, be sure to make sure the model you choose complies with current ISO standards. Also opt for folding arm bike carriers with a tilt system for easy access to the trunk without having to dismantle the entire structure.

To place the bikes on the hitch carrier, make sure the wheels are correctly positioned on the rails and then secure the bike frame. If you are carrying multiple bicycles, reverse their direction and then hold them together with a firmly attached strap.

In short, a bike towbar is a safe, simple and quick solution. Holds up to 4 bikes. On the other hand, you will only need to add the cost of the plate, tow ball and accessories to the price of the bike rack.

Indoor bike rack

Le covered bike rack it is a system that allows bicycles to be transported inside the vehicle. This solution is not the most common solution because it is very bulky and requires a lot of space inside your car.

The bike is then transported in the trunk by folding the various rear seats. However, this solution is quite safe and prevents theft of your bikes as they are inside your car.

Bicycle rack

Le bike rackAlso called a tailgate bike rack, it is an economical solution that takes longer to install.

A bike rack is a system that attaches directly to the trunk of your car. You will then need to position the bikes directly on the structure and tighten everything with straps to keep the bikes in place. The bike rack allows you to carry up to 3 bikes.

Even if a bike rack is an economical solution, it is not recommended to use it as it has many disadvantages:

• If necessary, access to the trunk of the car is difficult;
• Rear visibility of the driver is reduced;
• The system is not suitable for all types of vehicles;
• The installation is complicated, you will have to regularly check if the belts are loose;
• Impact and friction can damage your body.

Roof bike rack

Le roof bike rack the most famous system for transporting bicycles. We are talking about fastening rails that are placed on roof arches.

A roof rack bike rack has several advantages: it is economical, quick to set up and saves space as the bikes are on the roof and therefore do not take up space in the rear of the car. The bike rack on the roof also provides good rear visibility for the rider.

However, do not forget to take into account a few disadvantages:

• Have to buy roof racks if you don't have them;
• Be careful because bicycles clutter the top of the vehicle, you should always pay attention to the maximum height;
• The roof rack for bicycles also leads to excessive fuel consumption;
• Installation can be tedious depending on the weight of your bike because it will have to be carried at arm's length to install;
• You will not be able to transport an electric bike with this type of bike rack.

Bicycle mount with spare wheel

Le spare wheel bike holder it is a device designed for 4 × 4 vehicles. It is attached to the spare wheel located at the rear of the vehicle.

🔧 How to install a bike rack?

The installation of your bike rack will depend on the type of bike rack you chose from those mentioned earlier. Here we describe the different steps to attach your bike carrier to the towball.

Material:

• Bike rack
• Key plate
• braid

Step 1. Check compatibility

Before you start assembling your bike rack, we advise you to always check if the model you choose is compatible with your car and bike. Also remember to test the practicality of your bike rack before purchasing it, this will save you valuable time during assembly.

Step 2: Install the bike rack

To install the bike carrier, first screw the platform onto the ball of the hitch, then tighten the supplied mounts with an open-ended wrench. Then unlock the lock so you can raise the center bar.

Step 3. Secure your bikes

Once the rack has been installed, you can mount your bikes on a wheel rack. Then take the straps and secure the front and rear wheels of your bike. Do the same for each bike. Then tie all bikes together and lock the manual tilt.

Step 4. Check the visibility of the license plate and lights.

Always make sure your license plate and taillights are clearly visible before setting off. If not, buy a second license plate and make the necessary connections so your headlights are visible from the back.

The towing bike carrier is now installed!

💰 How much does a bike rack cost?

The price of a bike rack may vary depending on the type of bike rack you choose, as well as the model. For a towing bike rack, count between € 60 and € 500 for the most upscale models.

Roof racks will cost around fifty euros on average, plus the price of roof racks if you don't have one.

Indoor bike racks may vary in price. from 60 € to 120 € O. Entry-level models are available for bike racks. 40 € and the most upscale can go up to 200 €.

Now you know everything you need to know about the different types of bike mounts, as well as their installation and price! Before purchasing a new bike rack, make sure it is compatible with your vehicle.