Transporting your bike on your car helps clear space inside for people and luggage. Choosing the right rack is important, particularly if you are fond of your bike and your car. Fortunately there are many different types of racks, depending on the type of vehicle you own and your personal preference. You have the option of purchasing a roof, trunk or hitch rack as well as installing one in your truck bed.
Roof Racks
Roof racks require a commitment; they are more difficult to install and remove, and are also more expensive than trunk racks. But the are also more secure and prevent your bike from rubbing the car or another bike. The Thule ProRide 591 is the top-rated roof rack on BikeRadar. Thule is known for its high-quality products, and this rack is no exception. It's extremely simple to use, with straps that secure the wheels in place while a clamp holds and locks the bike's frame to the carrier and the car. The wheel channels are wide and accommodate even the fattest mountain bike tires. The only obstacles are the price tag and the initial setup and assembly.
Hitch Mount Racks
Racks that connect to the hitch of your vehicle allow you to drive with less wind resistance than a roof rack while keeping your bikes separate and locked to your car. Some models even mount around the receiver, leaving your hitch free to tow your other toys. According to MTBR, a trusted product review site for cyclists, the 1upUSA Aluminum Quik-Rack received 4.62 out 5 stars from consumers as well as "The Best of MTBR" award in 2010. It comes fully assembled, mounts to your vehicle in approximately 10 seconds, has a corner expander ball to eliminate wobble and an anti-theft security bolt that tightens in two turns. It folds down and can be stored in its reusable box.
Trunk Racks
Trunk racks are removable and typically secured to the trunk using straps. Inexpensive racks are available but are more prone to damaging your car. Saris provides excellent trunk racks, even for cars with spoilers. Their Bones 2 and 3 bike racks are curved to accommodate spoilers and other trunk types and hold bikes at different levels to prevent contact damage. The rack is easy to use, well-built and secure. No assembly is required and straps are labeled for proper placement.
Truck Bed Racks
If you have a truck, you can always toss your bikes in the back, but they can bounce around and sustain damage. Truck bed racks are relatively inexpensive and can save you money on bike repairs. Thule's Insta-Gater rack received 4.38 out of 5 stars on MTBR for its quick installation, security and ability to hold bikes with tires attached. Compatible with both road and fat-tired mountain bikes, the Insta-Gater is a single bike rack, but up to three can be installed in your truck bed.
Member Comments