4 Types of Bike Racks You Can Install on Your Vehicle

A large number of people these days own bicycles, and for a variety of different reasons. Some use their bike to explore the city or region around them, while others use it as a form of transport when on holiday. If you really want to maximize your cycling experience, you need to have a bike rack so you can carry your bicycle with you when you’re on the go. There are a couple of different types of bike racks available, which makes it easy to get one that precisely fits your needs. Here are some of the most common types of bike racks and their distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Rear Mount Racks: Ideal for Transporting Multiple Bikes

If you have more than one bike, a rear mount rack is a good choice for transporting your bikes. A rear-mounted bicycle rack is often considered the most secure bike rack for a car and is a good choice for those who may have to transport a few bikes. This type of rack attaches to the rear of your vehicle and is a good choice for SUVs and cars with hatchback features. Since it’s mounted on the vehicle, the bikes are out of the way of passengers and other motorists. However, rear-mounted racks do take up a significant amount of space at the back of your vehicle and make it hard to access the trunk of your car.

Roof Racks: For When You Want to Go Off-Road

Off-roaders and mountain bikers who want to carry their bikes with them usually choose a roof rack. This type of rack gives you the perfect opportunity to take your bikes with you on those rough and challenging trails. The roof carrier works much better when you’re off-roading and allows you to go with the flow of traffic. If you’re going off-roading, you’ll be able to access the rack with ease, which also makes it easier to transport your bikes. However, roof racks do add weight to your vehicle.

Truck Bed Racks: A Secure Way to Transport Your Bike

If you have a truck, you should consider using truck bed racks. This type of rack is easy to access and takes up a minimal amount of space in your truck bed, making it easy to transport a bike. However, truck bed racks are usually quite expensive, and for this reason, they may not be an option for everyone.

The truck bed rack is ideal for those who may want to transport multiple bikes and is great for those who want to take their bikes on their four-wheeler or SUV. Truck bed racks are also a good option for those who want a more secure bike carrier, as it’s hard for a bike to fall off such a rack.

Hitch-Mount Bike Racks: A Good Option for SUV Owners

SUV owners should consider hitch towing when transporting their bikes. This type of rack attaches to the hitch of your vehicle and is a good option for those who want to transport multiple bikes. Hitch-mounted bike racks are good for those who may live in areas such as the mountains or a place where the roads are very hilly. This type of rack isn’t an ideal choice for city driving, though.

Conclusion

The right bike rack can have a significant impact on your experience on the road. If you’re going to buy a bike rack, make sure that it’s durable, strong, and most importantly, not too heavy. This way, your bike will be safe, and so will you!

Another consideration is lifting your bike to meet the rack. If you’re shorter, this can be an issue with racks that are too high so it may also be a good idea to consider a folding electric bicycle like the Espin Nesta so you can travel with it in your trunk rather than on a rack.

Now that you have an idea of which bike rack to install on your vehicle, the only thing that's missing is the bike itself. Espin bikes are designed for absolute comfort and convenience, giving you the best experience while riding a bike. With our collection of portable e-bikes as well as electric bike accessories, you'll definitely find something that suits your needs and riding style. Check out our online store and shop today!