There are three main types of bike racks; hitch mounted, strap mounted and ceiling mounted. Each comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Hitch Mounted Racks
These attach to a hitch at the rear of the vehicle. There are two kinds.
• Class I roof racks are compatible with a large number of cars and small SUVs. Depending on the design, they can accommodate up to three bicycles.
• Class III roof racks are designed for use with trucks and large SUVs. They can hold a larger number of bikes than Class I bike racks. Unfortunately, they cannot be used on smaller vehicles without expensive modifications.
These bike racks are extremely easy to install and there is usually less chance of accidentally scratching a vehicle’s paint while riding bikes.
However, without proper installation, they can block rear windows, increasing the possibility of causing accidents when reversing, or obscure license plates, which is considered illegal in many jurisdictions.
Strap-On Trunk Mounted Luggage Racks
These bike racks strap to the trunk, rear bumper or tailgate and carry up to three bikes. They come with padded or plastic-coated frame supports to protect the bikes from scratches and other damage.
Strap-on racks are inexpensive and easy to store when not in use. They are also versatile and can be used on virtually any model, making them especially suitable for rental vehicles.
Unfortunately, like hitch-mounted roof racks, they can block the rear window if improperly installed. They are also less secure, as thieves may untie or cut the straps that hold the racks to the vehicle.
roof rack
These attach to the vehicle’s upper door sills or rain gutters, or where available, cross bars or roof racks, which are generally more economical. Depending on the size of the vehicle, up to seven bicycles can be transported. A special case can be added if additional storage space is needed for tools and other equipment. When not being used to hold bikes, the bike rack can also be used to transport canoes and skis.
While roof-mounted racks ensure an unobstructed view out of the rear window, they are more difficult to install. Other disadvantages include increased air resistance, which can lead to higher fuel consumption and wind noise, and a greater chance of scratching paint when bikes are lifted onto the roof of the vehicle.
Knowing the pros and cons of the main types of bike racks on the market can make it easier to decide which one to choose.
