Carry A Bicycle: Transporting one’s bike in or on your vehicle is a great way to broaden your riding experience. It also makes it much simpler to discover peaceful rural roads or some lovely road course away from the urban congestion. While most vehicles allow you to transport your mountain bike in the cargo area or back seat, doing so will necessitate the removal of the wheels. Even if you have a large SUV, a considerable modification will be necessary, and there is always the potential of chain lube stains forming on the inside of the vehicle. With your bikes parked on the exterior of your van, you’ll have extra space for companions and cycling equipment. If you commute with your bike on the back of your vehicle, you will enjoy how recent advancements in bicycle rack technology have made it much simpler to move your bicycle to the next trip.
This section examines the fundamental distinctions between the most often used bike racks.
1. The Roof Rack
It is among the most common modes of bicycle transportation, and it communicates to the rest of the world that you like being outside. There are two types of roof racks available for transporting your bike: one that does not need the removal of the front wheel and another that does require the removal of the front wheel. So, there are racks available, including an auxiliary fork gripper, that can be utilized to keep your bike safe from theft.
So, there are plenty of such option available on the market. Many dealers offer Discovery 4 accessories and slimline roof racks online. These are easy to install and require no drilling.Â
Advantages
- The inside of your vehicle is still accessible for passengers and luggage.
- It may be the safest method of transporting bicycles.
- The trunk and the interior are entirely accessible.
Disadvantages
- Significant straining and reaching are required to get the bicycles onto the rack.
- The vehicle will no longer be able to fit into low-ceilinged spaces, including a garage.
- The increased wind resistance created by the bicycle will reduce the automobile’s gas mileage.
2. The Trunk Rack
Using this method is a fantastic choice for the occasional journey when you might not need a perpetual rack to transport your bike around. A trunk rack may also be moved from one automobile to another. Bicycles and the rack are much more vulnerable to security threats and vandalism than other types of equipment.
Advantages
- The racks are far less costly than the alternatives.
- A variety of vehicles may use these racks.
- Putting bikes on a trunk rack is simple, but you can also keep a close eye on their safekeeping while driving.
Disadvantages
- If the bicycles are not correctly attached to the rack, there is a risk of harm to the bikes.
- A rear-end collision will almost certainly cause damage to the bicycles.
- A trunk rack restricts accessibility to the automobile’s trunk or hatch.
3. The Hitch Rack
Some of these racks may be customized to hold numerous bikes and are readily attached to a trailer hitch socket at the back of the vehicle. Wheel trays and rubber/plastic cradles may secure the bike on various rack styles. It is possible to transport the bike without removing its rims on all variants.
Advantages
- Installing and sharing with many cars is a breeze.
- A few types also include hinges that enable easy access to the vehicle’s trunk or door without dismantling the bicycles.
- Securing bikes on a platform helps minimize bike-to-bike contacts while also helping to prevent swaying.
- Frequent usage is not a problem for these racks.
Disadvantages
- Models with a lot of extras might be pricey.
- Base models might hinder access to the trunk or hatch.
- Bikes and their racks may be stolen if they are not adequately protected.
- The motorcycles will be damaged in a rear-end collision.
- Many multi-model bike racks weigh 60 pounds or more.
4. In The Boot
You are not required to utilize a vehicle rack in any way. In some instances, if you have a big enough sedan, you could fit your bike into the boot with just a little dismantling and installation. Remove its front wheel, and you’re ready to go. Despite this, you’d be astonished how tiny a boot you can get a bike into when both wheels and the saddle are removed.
Check also – CIRCUS THEMED BIRTHDAY IDEAS
Advantages
- The bike is as secure as possible; it is convenient and readily loaded; there is no additional expense.
Disadvantages
- There isn’t much space for anything else.
5. In The Back Of An Estate Vehicle
The large load area of an estate vehicle, mainly when the back seats are folded, makes it excellent for transporting bicycles; thus, you will not require a vehicle rack for your bicycles if you choose an estate. You could also arrange bicycles upright with the front rims out and the saddle down if you use a cargo cover to preserve the carpet below. A large estate can easily accommodate half a dozen of these bicycles.
Advantages
- Bikes are protected from the weather and relatively secure against theft; there is no impact on fuel consumption and no additional expense.
Disadvantages
- The vehicle inside becomes filthy, and you have to drive about in a box to go somewhere.
In Conclusion
Keep in mind that bicycles are often stolen from vehicles while transporting them. There is no discernible difference between an owner withdrawing their bicycle from a parking rack and someone trying to steal it in a crowded lot. Use the lock that came with your rack. Keep your bike safe by locking it up with a cable lock if necessary.
Also Read: Best Guidelines to follow for the Aconcagua Treks – Familiarize yourself with the trail
