The trend to buy bicycle racks for cars has increased dramatically in recent months. This has to do not only with the high cost of gasoline, but with the growing popularity of a very familiar sport. The problem is, there are also a lot of bike rack returns because people buy the wrong bike rack and end up with scratches or loose bike racks and are generally not satisfied with their purchase.
So if you are thinking of buying car bike racks in the short term, read this article to find out what common mistakes you can avoid when buying a bike rack.
1. Choose the right bike rack for your car
There are 5 main types of bike racks for cars and trucks. They are roof mount, hitch mount, trunk mount, rim mount, and truck bed mount. The type of roof rack you buy will depend on the type of car you have, among other things.
If you have a car with a rear hatch and no hitch receiver, your choice would come down to a trunk mount bike rack or roof top bike rack. Now, you need to check that the model you go with will fit the car you are driving. Also make sure the rack includes any extra locks, bars, or extra straps if you need them. More expensive racks often have good padding for protection, lifetime warranties, and good customer support, but they don’t always include all the parts you need.
The fine print and reviews of most products will let you know soon.
If you have a rear hatch, but want a hitch bike rack, due to the reason you need access to the trunk, then all you need to do is install a hitch receiver. Before you rush out and buy a hitch receiver, make sure you know how many inches you need to be for your rack to fit into it. Also be sure to get the hitch mount bike rack that is either the flip down type or that can be lowered. Some models are fixed, so you won’t be able to open the trunk anyway!
2. What type of bicycle do you have?
A bike rack for 4 allows you to transport 3 bikes comfortably, but you will often find that the room only gets cramped, if it doesn’t. This is because the bike rack is designed for general frames and not for women’s bikes, children’s bikes, tandem bikes, etc. Make sure to make sure your bike frame and size are best suited to the bike rack you choose.
3. Choose a larger grid instead of a smaller one
Cyclists get so involved in riding that they often catch the whole family. So if you are planning to buy a bike rack for one or two bikes, maybe you will think about buying one for 3 bikes. They are not much more expensive and you will most likely invite a friend or family member because you have extra space for friends.
4. Be careful not to damage your car paint
This happens to people who buy the trunk mount bike rack that come with straps. This does not imply that this type of rack is bad, just take the necessary precautions to avoid scratches. You can buy cheap rubber padding and place it between the frame and the car for extra care. Also make sure the car is clean and dust free when you attach the grille to avoid sanding effect. Lastly, choose a roof rack that fits your car properly. A bad fit will mean that it will be a little loose and will end up rubbing badly. If you have to get a trunk-style bike rack, choose one that doesn’t lean on the rear bumper. That will help you a lot.
