The modern driver is given a choice of bike carriers of various shapes, configurations and prices. This device is able to unload the usable space inside the cabin by an order of magnitude. In the greatest demand are the varieties of modules, such as the top (on the roof), rear (on the tailgate) and for the towbar.
The buyer chooses the desired configuration based on the specifics of the car body. The upper module will save space inside the cabin and will not impede access to the car from the outside. The rear holder has a more affordable price tag (as a rule) and is universal (compatible with most body types). At the same time, the rear variety creates problems with access to the luggage compartment. Towbar modules are characterized by increased ease of use and are most preferred for regular use. The buyer should study the most commonly used fasteners on the market in order to make a balanced decision and make a choice.
Content
In view of the growing popularity, the modern market presents a diverse selection of products for fixing two-wheeled vehicles to the car body. To understand the specifics of the product, an inexperienced buyer should analyze the most purchased representatives of the desired category (upper, rear or towbar). Based on this analysis, it is worth making a choice, otherwise, the user risks getting only disappointment and a waste of money.
The most popular variety for the roof, due to the simple installation and lack of restrictions in operation. Even an inexperienced user can handle the installation, dismantling the holder also does not cause problems. It is possible to fix several bicycles at once on one mount. The disadvantages of this configuration include only a change in the height of the car. Since additional objects are placed on the roof, the driver will have to calculate the travel routes in more detail in conditions of limited height (tunnels, bridges, areas with branched trees).
For large vehicles, such as SUVs or minibuses, it is recommended to use rear category locks (on the trunk). This category will make changes both in the length of the car and in height, but, unlike the previous type, the dimensions will change slightly. This will get rid of unnecessary worries about the patency of the car in limited conditions.
The towbar category is convenient to use, but blocks access to the car. This is especially noticeable when the latch is loaded. The above disadvantage is compensated by increased comfort during placement and transportation, because the user does not have to make unnecessary movements to remove mobile vehicles.
With this method of fixation, the driver is guaranteed the protection of two-wheeled vehicles from the dirt of the road. In addition, this category does not block the view when driving. It should be borne in mind that due to aerodynamics, wind resistance increases, which will lead to a slight increase in fuel consumption. In addition, it is important to pay attention when crossing areas with limited height, such as bridges and tunnels. Fasteners from the economy segment are made according to a simple architecture with rectangular profiles. More expensive copies have a well-thought-out architecture using telescopic mechanisms.
This holder from a Polish brand offers a device for carrying 1 bike. The product is made on the basis of steel and specialized plastic. The weight is 2.72 kg., the diameter of the load frame is up to 50 mm., the maximum weight of the load is up to 15 kg., It is available at an average price of 1800 rubles. Fixation on branded arcs up to 55 mm is allowed. It is important to take into account that in some cases an adapter is required for fixing to third-party arcs.
Review:
“I purchased the product more than 2 years ago, the impressions are generally positive, the quality is adequate.The only thing I want to note is that when driving in the countryside or on sections with a bad road, the fasteners become loose (slightly), so you have to stop and tighten. I have to carry tools with me when I take a two-wheeled transport. I use this model not regularly, only when going out into nature. Would recommend to anyone looking for a top retainer at an adequate price!”
Video review:
A steel product of Italian production, mounted on the roof, available for sale at a price of 2861 rubles, the wheels are fixed on a textile type belt, the frame range is within 20-50 mm, the maximum load is up to 15 kg. The product is popular among drivers who do not use such units on a regular basis. This is due to the attractive price, which is not a pity to give for a seasonal accessory.
Review:
“The Italian manufacturer keeps the European quality standard, you can feel it in operation. Reliable material is qualitatively primed and painted with a solid layer of paint. Plugs are installed in the corners, the impression is pleasant. Would recommend to anyone looking for a transport device for seasonal use!”
Lightweight holder made of aluminum and specialized plastics. The product is domestic, available at an average cost of 3900 rubles, universal, the manufacturer gives a guarantee of 1 year. The user has 2 options for mounting on the roof. There is the possibility of mounting both electric models and open frame configurations.
Bike carrier option:
Review:
“It is noteworthy that the unit is equipped with 2 locks in order to protect against thieves. This is a very good solution, because it allows you to leave the loaded machine unattended and not worry. The model is light, the body of the car does not overload, I have been using it for more than 1.5 years, my impressions are only positive. Would recommend to anyone looking for a reliable two wheeler attachment!”
This species is known as the safest for transportation. It is important to make sure that there is a specialized adapter of the modern standard and a place for placing car numbers. Thanks to the 3-point mounting method, there is the possibility of transporting heavy two-wheeled vehicles (mopeds, weighted bicycles). If the driver transports exclusively bicycle equipment, one-time transportation of up to 4 copies is allowed. Access to the luggage compartment remains open if folding mechanisms are used. Significant disadvantages of this category are the inability to see the rear lights and numbers on models of older generations and the high price.
This mount is sharpened for a towbar, has a load capacity of 30 kg, is made of steel and plastic, is compatible with wheels up to 29”, weighs 5.4 kg, and is made in Italy. Thanks to weight balancing, the load almost does not weigh down the car. This allows you not to worry about excessive fuel consumption due to excessive workload. It is important to note that for compatibility with types of open frames, it is necessary to purchase a specialized adapter.
Review:
“I transport 2 bicycles at once using this unit. It copes with this task perfectly, but access to the trunk of the car is blocked. It is easy to install and operate, I have no problems either with the placement of the load or with the dismantling of the latch. Would recommend to anyone looking for a device for more than 1 bike!”
This mount is sharpened exclusively for the towbar, no auxiliary devices are required to align with the car body. The manufacturer has provided the product with a folding design that makes it easier to access the luggage compartment of the car. Made in Sweden, weighs 10.3 kg, is made of plastic and steel, can carry up to 4 bikes, and has a load capacity of up to 60 kg. It is important to consider that this model overlaps the license plates on the rear of the body. This leads to comments (sometimes to fines) from the traffic police. Some buyers complain about the excessive pitching of the unit on problematic roads.
Video demonstration of fastening:
Review:
“Great model, copes with 3 loads without any problems! The only negative is the overlap of numbers, which is why I received reprimands from the traffic police more than once. Otherwise, it copes with a bang, even with a high load. I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a retainer for impressive loads!”
This model is equipped with double taillights and a platform for numbers. Thanks to this decision of the manufacturer, the driver does not run the risk of running into reprimands and fines from the traffic police. The possibility of simplified access to the luggage compartment is not provided.Manufactured in Germany, there are 2 places for cargo, the ability to load is 40 kg., Warranty - 3 years.
Review:
“A good trailer of German quality, duplicates numbers and headlights, which eliminates a number of problems with the police. There are only 2 places for cargo, I would like more. I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a high-quality mount with headlight and number plate doublers!”
This is a common view, but among drivers there is an impressive number of complaints about the device of such units. The architecture of these holders is such that the load is fixed only in the frame area, the rest of the components are in direct contact with the body of the car. This leads to damage to the paint on the body. There are instances with a provided module that creates a space between the hull and the load, but these models belong to the advanced segment. In addition, this type of device does not guarantee compatibility with classic sedans. When installing on the latter, problems arise, such as a loose fit of the mount or the inability to install the holder at all. In use, this category also does not show impressive results. In order to fully use the trunk (open the compartment from the outside), you will need to fully dismantle the latch and then install it back (after the completion of the operation of the trunk). The advantage of this type lies in the low (relatively) cost and the absence of additional requirements for the car, such as the presence of a tow bar or specialized rails for installation.
Fastening for transportation on the 5th door, is established by means of 6 strong belts. The main upper cables are equipped with a self-tensioning function, installation is simple and accessible even for inexperienced users. It should be borne in mind that when fully loaded, access to the luggage compartment becomes more difficult. Made in Italy, weight 4.2 kg, load capacity 45 kg, 3 bike places.
Video demonstration of this mount on the trunk:
Review:
“I bought this retainer on the advice of a friend, I didn’t trust such fastening methods before. The result impressed me, 3 bikes are firmly fixed and do not hang out during transportation. The only drawback is that it is difficult to open the 5th door when fully loaded. Would recommend to anyone who is looking for a sturdy trunk mount!”
A means for transporting bicycles, manufactured according to the standards of the rear clamps of the company. The diameter of the ribs is wider than in the younger models, which gives additional stability when riding. Made in Italy, weighs 7.3 kg., load capacity up to 45 kg., places for cargo 3., made of steel, mounted on belts. The manufacturer has provided the device with the ability to select the height depending on the preferences of the driver. Rubberized ribs reduce the risk of cargo damage even when driving on problematic sections of the road.
Video review of the mount:
Review:
“Impressions are strictly positive, it is installed without problems, while driving it holds tight and does not remind of itself. Rubberized frames do not allow bicycles to deform even with careless driving. Would recommend to anyone looking for a quality rear retainer!”
Made of steel and plastic, resistant to mechanical damage, the fixing element is made of a specialized material, which reduces the risk of damage to the bike body. Wheel mounts are compatible with most wheel sizes. The contact part of the mount is equipped with a protective layer that prevents damage to the car. It is important to consider that this model is not suitable for cars on which a spoiler is installed. Made in Taiwan, weighs 9kg, load capacity 30kg, places for 2 bikes.
Review:
“Good device, but few places for bicycles. Holds tight, but I would like to hang more than 2 bikes, and the load capacity and places for mounting are limited. I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a reliable lock for 1-2 bikes!”
There are many reasons for transporting bicycles on the body of a car. At the same time, drivers have a logical question: is it possible to implement it correctly, because such a load has a complex device and form factor. The pedals, steering wheel and frame are in direct contact with the car, which may affect the integrity of the coating. Often, in order to reduce the contact of the cargo with the body to a minimum, bicycle transport is fixed on the roof of the car.Less commonly, on the luggage compartment or an additional module that connects to the towbar. To ensure the best quality of transportation, it is worth taking care of the reliability of the latch. Bicycle racks are bought once and for a long time. When choosing a buyer, you should focus on the following aspects of the product:
Guided by these points, the buyer will find the desired latch in accordance with the requirements and financial capabilities. Do not neglect the recommendations, because the bike holder is purchased for a long period of time.