Many cyclists make the decision to invest in a bike rack to enable them to take their bikes with them to sites that would be inconvenient or impossible to reach by riding their bikes from where they live. Mountain biking cyclists may choose to buy bike racks to allow them to reach pristine locations in parks or forests, while road cyclists may buy bike racks to help them reach deserted roads out in the country fit for a day’s worth of road riding. And plenty of cyclists in between buy bike racks simply to allow them to transport their bikes across town, or to the bike shop, or when camping or moving or going on vacations. Whatever the reason, the first decision a cyclist investing in a bike rack will have to make involves whether to buy a rear or a roof bike rack. This guide will show you the pros and cons of either design to help you make an informed decision the next time you’re looking for the best way to attach your bicycle to your motorized vehicle.
Rear and roof racks are named for the ways in which they attach to the driver’s vehicle. The decision to purchase either type will vary depending on your vehicle and your bicycle. In general, bike racks today are designed to be capable of being attached to virtually any vehicle on the road. Occasionally, however, you will come across a car that is uncommon enough that you have difficulty attaching racks to it. In such cases, you will typically have to visit the dealer of the vehicle to look into customized bike racks made for your car. This is usually only a concern if you have a premium car or bike rack; the majority of vehicles will fit the majority of bike racks, regardless of whether they are rear or roof mounted, without hassle.
Roof racks are generally used to mount mountain bikes. The reasons cyclists who favor roof racks do so is primarily because there will be a minimal amount of movement, or shudder, when bicycles are mounted on a roof rack. This is particularly important when you plan to drive over uneven terrain; it brings peace of mind to have bikes securely attached to the rack without a risk of them falling off your vehicle at every bump. However, the downside of a roof rack is in the significantly increased height of your vehicle. A roof rack and an attached bicycle can easily add three or more feet to the height of your car, which becomes more of an issue if you drive an already tall vehicle, like an SUV. When driving to car parks with height restrictions (which are more common in cities), you may not be able to enter the lots due to a roof rack. For gas-conscious drivers, there is also significantly increased drag when a rack is attached to the roof in comparison to when one is attached to the rear of the vehicle.
Rear racks, in contrast, are more aerodynamic, and they do not offer the height concerns that make roof racks a potential liability. If you plan to transport your bicycle over paved roads, a rear rack may be a better choice, as they will still secure your bicycle through regular road vibration. For this reason, as well as the aerodynamic aspect, many cyclists choose to invest in rear racks for their bicycles.
As you can see, choosing a bike rack doesn’t have to be hard; you just have to decide what you want to use it for and how much you’re willing to pay, and you’re halfway there. Remember that any decent bike rack will carry your bicycle, and as long as you buy a durable one that doesn’t fall off your vehicle (or let go of your bicycle) while you drive, it will likely be enough for your needs. Good luck!