Types Of Bicycle Racks And Their Uses

For most cyclists, especially mountain bikers, driving to their riding destination is a common practise. To transport your beloved bike safely and conveniently, a car bike rack is essential. These racks come in various styles, catering to almost all types of vehicles. However, choosing the right bike rack involves considering factors like capacity, convenience and fuel economy. In this comprehensive guide, we'll help you make an informed decision by covering the different considerations for selecting a bicycle rack.

Selecting a bicycle rack from a bicycle shop in Pietermaritzburg: Key Factors to Consider

Types of Bike Car Racks

Car bike racks come in different types, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The primary differentiators are how they connect to your car and how they secure your bike. Below, we've broken down the various types of racks:

Tray or Platform Style Hitch Bike Racks:

Tray-style bike racks are highly popular for their convenience and efficiency. These racks require a trailer hitch and are available for both 2" and 1-¼" hitch receivers found on smaller cars. One of their key benefits is the ease of loading, as you don't need to lift your bike overhead. Moreover, they have a minimal impact on fuel economy compared to roof-mounted racks. However, it's essential to check the specific model's wheel size limitations, especially if you plan to transport kids' bikes or fat bikes with wider tyres. Tray-style racks typically accommodate two bikes, with some models capable of carrying up to four or just one bike.

Pros:

    • Easy loading process

    • Minimal impact on gas mileage

    • No frame rubbing or contact

Cons:

    • Requires a trailer hitch

    • Limited compatibility with certain wheel sizes and widths

Rooftop Mounted Bike Racks:

If you already have crossbars on your car for hauling other gear, a rooftop bike rack is a cost-effective addition. These racks are available in fork mount and upright designs. Fork mount rooftop racks require you to remove the front wheel of your bike, reducing the bike's profile on the roof compared to an upright rack. However, you need to make room inside the car for the front wheel. Rooftop racks generally have a more significant impact on fuel economy due to the drag created by the bikes.

Pros:

    • Cost-effective option

    • Suitable for cars without a trailer hitch

    • Works well on sedans and low-ground clearance vehicles

Cons:

    • Requires front wheel removal and storage inside the car

    • Overhead bike lifting is necessary

    • Typically accommodates only one bike

Pickup Truck Tailgate Pad Bike Racks:

For pickup truck owners, a tailgate pad is a recommended option for transporting bikes. Throwing bikes loosely into the truck bed can lead to damage, but a tailgate pad allows you to securely hang the front wheel over the protected tailgate, maximising capacity. Purpose-built truck bike racks offer padding for truck and bike protection, straps for added security and flaps for tailgate handles and backup camera access. Tailgate pads are most suitable for adult-sized mountain bikes, while road bikes with steep head tube angles may fit but won't sit as nicely in the truck bed.

Pros:

    • Affordable option

    • High Capacity

    • Secure transportation

Cons:

    • Requires a pickup truck

    • Pad may rub against the bike frame

Choosing the best type of bicycle is very important to make the most of your experience. We hope this information helps you enjoy your riding downt he hills as well as on the normal roads.