![]() Pros: These spare tire mount bike racks for cars are quick and easy to install, they are not permanently affixed to the vehicle, and they are moderate in cost.Ĭons: These racks are only able to hold a maximum of two bikes, and tire covers must be removed which can be a bit of an inconvenience. Generally these racks rest on the tire or screw in securely to the tire mount. Similar to a trunk mount, this quick, easy and relatively inexpensive ($50–$200) rack is a great choice for any sport-utility or off-road vehicle with a spare tire mounted on the rear of the vehicle. To avoid damage, always be mindful of this. When fully loaded with gear, your vehicle might not fit in certain low-clearance areas, such as parking garages. Models designed to carry four or five bikes can be heavy, and you might experience a little sway when fully loaded.ĭon’t forget the clearance on your vehicle changes with bikes on the roof. However, more inexpensive models without these features will block entry to trunks or rear doors. Many hitch racks come with locks or can be easily secured to a hitch with a cable lock, so security is not an issue.Ĭons: Hitch racks, especially platform models with features that allow the rack to swing or drop out of the way of the rear hatch/door of the vehicle, can be expensive. They are great for frequent users, but they are easily removed should you decide you don’t need the rack for any period of time. ![]() Pros: Hitch racks are simple to install, and they are incredibly sturdy when compared to trunk-mounted racks. Be sure to check your owner’s manual or hitch (if installed aftermarket) to determine the load capacity. Depending on the hitch class, too much weight could cause a hitch to bend or to break if not loaded properly. When purchasing a hitch-mounted rack is be sure to check the tongue load capacity of your vehicle’s hitch (typically 10 percent of the towing capacity). Minor abrasions to the bike paint can result. On the downside, the bikes aren’t held as securely in place and will often sway and make contact with the other bikes while in transit. Hanging Cradle Style – The style where your bikes hang from the rack The advantage to this style is that they are typically less expensive than the platform style, lighter weight, and will usually offer more ground clearance. These racks are generally either platform style or hanging cradle style, both of which have their advantages and disadvantages. Hitch racks are typically designed to haul two to five bikes. ![]() Hitch Mount RacksĪlthough more expensive than trunk-mounted racks ($150 to more than $500), hitch racks are a great option for frequent users-especially for those needing to carry more than three bikes. Lastly, the design of trunk racks can make it difficult to lock bikes to your vehicle, if security is a concern. If done poorly, the bikes might shift or sway while driving. Additionally, the effectiveness of the rack relies on the straps being secured tightly. With some practice, they are easy to mount and take off.Ĭons: Trunk racks are often limited in their load capacity (two to three bikes is typically the max), and once mounted, they interfere with trunk access. Trunk-mounted racks are light, highly portable and easy to store when not in use. Pros: These racks are great for the recreational cyclist, and they can be used on multiple vehicles since fit is adjustable.
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