Bike Rack Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best One for Your Needs
Bike racks are a great way to transport your bikes safely and conveniently. Whether you want to go on a road trip, explore new trails, or just get around town, a bike rack can make your life easier. But how do you choose the best one for your needs? There are many factors to consider, such as the type of vehicle you have, the number of bikes you want to carry, the style of bikes you have, and your budget. In this bike rack buying guide, we will help you find the perfect bike rack for you.
Types of Bike Racks
There are four main types of bike racks: roof racks, hitch racks, trunk racks, and truck bed racks. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your situation.
Roof Racks
Roof racks are mounted on top of your vehicle’s roof. They can carry up to four bikes, depending on the size of your roof and the rack. Roof racks are ideal for vehicles with low clearance, such as sedans and hatchbacks. They also allow you to access your trunk or hatch without removing the bikes. However, roof racks have some drawbacks. They can increase your fuel consumption and wind noise due to the added drag. They can also make it harder to park in garages or under low bridges. And you have to be careful not to forget that your bikes are on top of your car when driving.
Hitch Racks
Hitch racks are attached to a hitch receiver at the back of your vehicle. They can carry up to five bikes, depending on the size of the hitch and the rack. Hitch racks are easy to install and remove, and they provide easy access to your bikes. They also have less impact on your fuel efficiency and aerodynamics than roof racks. However, hitch racks can block your rear view and license plate, which can be a safety and legal issue. They can also make it harder to access your trunk or hatch if they don’t have a tilt or swing feature. And you need to have a hitch receiver installed on your vehicle, which can be costly.
Trunk Racks
Trunk racks are strapped to the trunk or hatch of your vehicle. They can carry up to three bikes, depending on the size of the trunk and the rack. Trunk racks are inexpensive and easy to store when not in use. They also fit most vehicles without any modifications. However, trunk racks have some limitations. They can scratch or dent your vehicle’s paint if not installed properly. They can also block your rear view and license plate, which can be a safety and legal issue. And they can interfere with your trunk or hatch opening if they don’t have a quick-release feature.
Truck Bed Racks
Truck bed racks are designed for pickup trucks. They can carry up to four bikes, depending on the size of the truck bed and the rack. Truck bed racks are secure and stable, as they keep your bikes inside the truck bed. They also don’t affect your fuel efficiency or aerodynamics as much as other types of racks. However, truck bed racks can take up valuable space in your truck bed that you might need for other cargo. They can also make it harder to access your bikes if they don’t have a sliding or folding feature.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bike Rack
Besides the type of bike rack, there are other factors to consider when choosing a bike rack for your needs. Here are some of them:
- The number of bikes you want to carry: How many bikes do you usually transport? Do you travel alone or with family or friends? Do you need extra space for future bikes? Choose a bike rack that can accommodate the number of bikes you need.
- The style of bikes you have: What kind of bikes do you have? Do they have standard frames or unusual shapes? Do they have fenders or disc brakes? Do they have fat tires or thin tires? Choose a bike rack that can fit the style of bikes you have.
- The weight of bikes you have: How heavy are your bikes? Do you have electric bikes or cargo bikes? Do you have lightweight road bikes or heavy mountain bikes? Choose a bike rack that can support the weight