It is no surprise that bike riding is a fun way to achieve healthy exercise, while providing very inexpensive neighborhood transportation. But bicycling should not be limited to local use. The entire family can include their bicycles in vacation plans with the simple and inexpensive means of a bike carrier. These carriers, also called bike racks, can accommodate up to as many as six bicycles, are relatively inexpensive and easily installed and removed. Before beginning your shopping, a few tips can help you know just what to look for in bicycle carriers.
There are many different styles of bicycle racks that will provide secure transport, without damage to either the bikes or the vehicle to which they are attached. The right style for your needs will have a direct relationship to the type of vehicle you will be using. Choices will include carriers that are mounted to the car’s trunk, the rooftop, or rear spare tire carriers. In addition, there are even racks made especially for mounting in the bed of pick-up trucks and to be hitch-mounted on SUVs and vans.
The most common and least expensive bike carrier type is the trunk mounted style. A wide variety of these styles are available from $50 to $150, fold compactly for storage when not in use, and are easily installed and removed. Look for a model that provides secure mounting and has sufficient padding to protect both the bike and the vehicle contact points. A good selection of models can be found in most sporting goods or department stores, either locally or online. Choosing models for pick-up trucks and rear spare tire carrier mounting will require correct measurements and attention to protection padding features. Normally, these models can best be found online.
When choosing a hitch-mounted rack, it is best to choose a model that easily folds out of the way when bikes are not being transported. This saves time and energy by not requiring the rack to be removed when not actually transporting bicycles. Some models are even designed to allow the rack to tilt out of the way, to provide access to the rear cargo door on vans and SUVs. Even the hitch-mounted rack can be obtained for $200 to $400.
When opting for a roof-mounted carrier, the cost will usually be around $400, but this style of rack will also permit secure transportation of other sporting equipment, such as skis, snowboards, canoes and even luggage. For secure attachment, roof racks will require accessories for the type of equipment transported. Most quality manufacturers of bicycle carriers, including roof racks, will list the vehicles that are compatible with each design. This is very important to ensure a secure and safe installation.