The trend of buying car bike racks has increased quite dramatically in recent months. This not only has to do with the high cost of gasoline, but also with the growing popularity of a very family-friendly 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 happy with their purchase.
So if you’re thinking about getting car bike racks anytime soon, read this article to find out what common mistakes you can avoid when shopping for 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, tire mount and truck bed mount. The type of rack you buy will depend on the type of car you have, among a few other things.
If you have a hatchback car with no hitch receiver, your choice would come down to a trunk mount bike rack or roof rack. Now, you need to check that the model you are going with fits the car you drive. Also make sure the rack includes any extras like extra locks, bars, or straps if you need them. The 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 soon let you know.
If you have a rear hatch, but want a hitch-mounted bike rack, because you need access to the trunk, then all you need to do is install a hitch receiver. Before you rush out and buy a receiver hitch, make sure you know how many inches it needs to be in order for your rack to fit. Also make sure you get the hitch mount bike rack that is the flip-up or drop-down type. Some models are fixed so you won’t be able to open the trunk anyway!
2. What kind of bike do you have?
A 4-bike rack will carry 3 bikes comfortably, but you’ll often find that the fourth will only fit, if not at all. This is because the bike rack is designed for general frames and not for women’s bikes, children’s bikes, tandems, etc. Make sure the frame and size of your bike is best suited to the rack you choose.
3. Choose a larger shelf over a smaller one
Cyclists get so involved in their riding that they often get the whole family hooked. So if you plan on getting a bike rack for just one or two bikes, maybe think about getting one for 3 bikes. They’re not that much more expensive and you’ll most likely find yourself inviting a friend or family member because you have extra room for friends.
4. Be careful not to damage your car’s paint
This happens to those people who buy the trunk mount bike rack that comes with straps. This is not to say that this type of frame 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 put the shelf on to avoid the sanding effect. Finally, choose a rack that will fit your car correctly. A bad fit will mean that it will be a little loose and end up rubbing a lot. If you must buy a trunk-style bike rack, choose one that doesn’t rest on the rear bumper. That will help you a lot.