What To Look For
Allen manufactures a variety of bike racks designed to park or transport bicycles. According to the Allen Bike Rack website, Allen manufactures a variety of hitch mount and trunk mount racks designed to transport bicycles and several racks designed to hold bicycles. Allen offers several automobile trunk racks carrying 2 to 5 bicycles. Allen bike storage racks hold 2 to 16 bicycles. Their racks often feature metal alloy skeletons and plastic components. Allen makes trunk racks that work with or without spoilers as well as racks that attach directly to spare tire mounts.
Common Pitfalls
Many high quality bicycles do not have kickstands, and many automobiles lack the interior space transport multiple bicycles. Allen racks offer several solutions for cyclists needing bicycle storage and transport options. Many cyclists buy racks with more capacity than necessary to allow space between bicycles during transport, however, this practice raises vehicle weight and lowers gas mileage, and also extends a bicycle further into traffic than necessary. Always ensure bicycles mount to racks away from heat sources such as tailpipes, furnaces or hot water heaters, as plastic and rubber parts may melt.
Where To Buy
Local bicycle shops and online distributors stock Allen bike racks. Local bicycle shops often install racks purchased in their shop for free, and many shops will mount racks purchased elsewhere for a small fee. Storage racks often arrive in large cumbersome boxes with several parts. Local bicycle shops may assemble and deliver such racks to a customer home. Allen bicycle racks typically install easily with few tools, but hitch mount racks require the installation of a vehicle hitch before such a rack will mount to the vehicle. Some local bicycle shops sell and install hitches as well.
Cost
Allen bike racks carry manufacturer's suggested retail prices ranging from $100 to 300. Many dealers, such as online bicycle rack supplier Bike Racks Shop, sell certain racks at significant discounts. Small Allen storage racks typically carry MSRP prices from $50 to $150. Large storage racks start at $340 for the four-bike capacity model and increase to $680 for the sixteen-bicycle capacity. Allen sells a variety of small accessories, such as a specialized bar allowing step-through bicycle frame attachment to a common bicycle auto rack, for under $50. Allen rack prices often closely compare to those available from other rack manufacturers.
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