Bike racks for the car - detailed guide and professional advice

A bicycle is a great companion for holidays, allowing for adventures both in nature and in the city. However, transporting a bike without proper equipment can be difficult – especially if you are carrying the bike in the luggage compartment. That's where bike racks for cars come in handy, which can be easily mounted on the roof, trunk, or hitch.

There are many options, but how do you choose the most suitable one? In this comprehensive guide, you will learn about the different types of bike racks for cars and find out what to consider when mounting the accessory on your car.

Types of Bike Racks

Choose the right type of bike rack based on the number of bikes to be transported, the model of the car, and, of course, the budget. The main types of bike racks are:

1. Roof-mounted. Bikes are mounted vertically on the top of the vehicle using crossbars or a base system. They are popular for their versatility and ability to carry various types of bikes, even with non-standard frames. 
2. Trunk-mounted. These racks are attached to the car's trunk using straps and hooks. 
3. Hitch-mounted. This type is popular for its stability, ease of loading and unloading, and the ability to carry several bikes. Such racks come in various designs, including platform-type racks that hold bikes by the wheels, or hanging racks that hold bikes by their frames.

Let's take a closer look at the different types of racks. 

Roof-Mounted Bike Racks

This is a space-saving method for transporting bikes, suitable for any car – even those without roof rails. Roof-mounted crossbars or a base system allow for carrying various types of bikes and, if necessary, can also be used to mount a roof box. This type of transport does not obstruct the driver's visibility and allows easy access to the car's luggage compartment. You'll notice that roof-mounted bike racks also vary: some are designed to mount the bike by its wheels, while others require removing the front wheel and mounting the bike by the front axle.

However, there are a few aspects to consider before choosing a roof-mounted bike rack. Loading and unloading bikes require physical strength, so stepping up to reach the mounting system will be helpful. The mounting itself is not complicated – once the bike is lifted, the frame needs to be locked, and the wheels secured with straps. Our tip: add padding when tightening the rack stand. This will prevent damage and dents if the rack is over-tightened.

When choosing this transport method, stay alert to avoid hitting ceilings in parking garages and other places with height restrictions. Finally, roof-mounted racks can slightly affect the vehicle's aerodynamics. You may notice increased fuel consumption and possibly hear whistling when traveling at higher speeds.

The good news is that manufacturers like THULE strive to create the best bike transport experience. Among the company's products, you'll find the high-quality " WingBar Evo” aerodynamic roof bars. They ensure a quiet ride and easy, quick accessory mounting, while the "WindDiffuser" technology reduces noise and avoids higher fuel consumption.

Hitch-Mounted Bike Racks

Hitch-mounted bike racks are popular for their convenient design. They are lightweight, have built-in locks, and allow for carrying three or four bikes. This transport method is suitable for long trips, and innovative locks protect against thieves or incidents on rough terrain.

Moreover, this type of bike rack is aerodynamic and very stable. It does not increase fuel consumption and has almost no contact with the car. Thus, mounting the rack on the hitch reduces the risk of damaging the car body. However, these racks can slightly hinder maneuvering or reversing. 

A high-quality hitch-mounted car bike rack, such as the " EasyFold XT 2,” is an impeccably safe choice. This rack does not block access to the trunk thanks to the smart foot pedal tilt, making it ideal for long or regular trips.

Bike Rack Installation – Key Aspects

Have you chosen a bike rack yet? Or are you still deciding? Here are the main aspects that every cyclist should know when installing a bike rack: 

1. Compatibility with the vehicle. When choosing a rack, consider your car's model and dimensions. Depending on the type of rack, you will need to know parameters such as the distance between roof bars, trunk height, and width.
2. Bike protection measures. It is important to choose a rack that has built-in and well-functioning locking mechanisms. Reliable locks will protect the bikes from theft and accidents on the road.
3. Regular maintenance. Even if you have chosen a high-quality car bike rack, regularly check for wear, fractures, and faults after installation. Keep the stand clean to maintain its functionality for as long as possible.
4. Aerodynamics. A bike rack can affect the car's aerodynamics and increase fuel consumption, so consider where you usually transport bikes and how this will affect your expenses.
5. Visibility. When installing the rack, focus on your and other vehicles' safety. Make sure that the device you purchased does not reduce visibility through the mirrors and rear window.

By considering these aspects of bike rack installation, you will ensure a smooth trip without accidents, worries, and the risk of damaging your or other cars.