Bikes are a fun and healthy way to get around, but they can be difficult to transport. One option is using the best bike rack for cars. There are many different types of car racks available, so it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Here we will go over the best bike racks for cars on the market in order to help you find the perfect fit.
The best bike rack to use for your car is one that is easy to install, has a solid construction, and will fit most cars. When you buy your next bike rack, it is important to know the various ways to transport bikes in a car.
You should be aware of what makes each type easier or more inconvenient for different situations as well as how much capacity and space they use when transporting multiple bicycles. Some styles are better in certain scenarios than others so make sure that you find one that best bike rack suits your needs before making any purchases.
There are several types on offer: roof-mounted carriers that secure bikes by hooks or straps, trunk and hatchback-mounted styles that can be either vertical or horizontal designs with telescoping arms, hitch mount options like heavy-duty four-bike models made from steel-reinforced tubing and require additional trailer adapter.
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How to choose the Best Bike Rack for your car
Each option has its pros and cons. So the choice to buy one for you depends on your need and budget which drawback you’re least bothered by. Let’s start below with all available best bike rack options. There are 3 types of best bike racks available in the market.
1. Roof-mounted bike rack
The roof-mounted bike carrier is the safest type of bicycle rack. You’ll have full access to your tailgate and boot, so you do not need to worry about hidden plates or lights which can be a problem on some other types, and
It’s safe because its mounts are well designed with ratchets that keep your bike from moving even when you’re driving on the motorway.
On the other hand, this bike rack is going to take an extra beating from high winds on top of everything else – which leads to increased gas usage costs- but getting the bike out at all might prove challenging if any height issues come up as well. This includes maneuverability such as quick changing between levels inside car park complexes without too much hassle.
2. Rear-mounted bike carriers
These easy and affordable racks make for quick, hassle-free installation. They provide a clear view of your bike as you drive too.
The only downside is that you can’t see your license plate which could be bad for parking or other things, plus they have to stay mounted all the time and if something falls off of them then there’s no way to fix anything right away.
The strap-on frame on a carrier may also scratch any car it grasps onto, making sure to find one with an arm that does not attach directly to the back window or at least have something there for protection.
3. Towbar-mounted bike carriers
If you own a towbar-equipped vehicle, then attaching an easy to use carrier is not difficult. There are two types of carriers: the platform type that features four bike slots for hanging from its top bar and stronger weight capacity; or hang on style, which hangs bikes by their top bars and offers more affordable price point options.
One of the most convenient ways to transport your bikes is by using a towbar-mounted bike carrier. There are two types: platform carriers, which can hold up to 4 bikes and usually come with integrated number plates or hang on carriers that attach from the top bar for easy loading.
The roof and rear boot carriers are more expensive than the towbar, but they give you years of freedom to travel securely with your bike or all your family’s bikes.
The Best Bike Racks NZ
1. Sea Sucker Bomber 3 Bike Fork Mount Rack
It is the ultimate bike carrier for your car. The Bomber 3 holds three bikes and can be mounted on a rooftop, trunk or hatchback. It’s made for all types of vehicles including cars, SUVs, vans and trucks.
This fork-mount bike rack attaches to metal, glass and fibreglass surfaces with ease making it ideal for any vehicle type. This best bike Rack can hold up to 30 kg each so you can transport your favourite bikes easily.
The Bomber 3 is engineered with a 3/4″ thick high-density polyethene (HDPE) base plate which has superior strength and durability for long-term use. It is an easy to install fork mount bike rack that removes in seconds, with no tools required. Simply pull up on the handle of your fork-mounted SeaSucker vacuum cup, and it releases from its mounting plate.
2. Yakima JustClick 3 Bike Rack
The Yakima JustClick 3 Bike Rack is a technical marvel for all cyclists. The simple “Just Click” system makes it easy and secure to mount to your vehicle’s tow ball. No tools are required, so you can get on the road quickly.
The Yakima JustClick 3 Bike Rack extends to fit virtually any vehicle and includes an integrated Lock System for security. It’s red/green indicator confirms secure attachment to the vehicle and carries tire trays that hold up to four bikes.
3. Yakima HangOver Rear Bike Rack
The Yakima HangOver 4 is the most stable bike rack on the market. The innovative design allows you to carry up to four bikes without any sway or bounce. This unique system has all of its weight placed over the rear axle.
This best Bike Rack is designed to carry bikes in less space. This vertical bike rack carries bikes by the wheels and fits any 2-inch hitch receiver. The HangOver’s easy-to-operate tilt technology allows you to access your vehicle’s rear cargo area without having to remove the rack, saving you time and hassle.
4. Yakima HoldUp Evo Rear Bike Rack
The HoldUp EVO is the only bike rack you’ll need for your new fat-tire mountain bikes. Unlike other racks that can’t accommodate these newer models, this one has a StrongArm hook which securely holds them at their wheels and protects carbon frames from scratches while allowing easy access to the rear of the vehicle with its tilt function when loaded up high on two tires.
The time-saving and ingenious SpeedKnob locks installation in seconds with no need for tools. Hitch compatible, the rack can carry 2 bikes without any frame contact worries thanks to its innovative tilt mechanism that makes raising or lowering a breeze.
It has strong arm hook attachments that secure the bike at its wheels while protecting painted surfaces from scratches by clamps on top of them, this product is perfect for cyclists who want quick access every day but don’t have all morning to spend installing it.
5. Yakima FullTilt 4 Rear Bike Rack
Yakima FullTilt 4 Bike Hitch Rack is the only tilt-down hitch rack that can carry up to four bikes. The AutoPin makes loading and unloading your bikes easier than ever before, while the locking SpeedKnob keeps your bike secure on the road. ZipStrips make it simple to load and secure each bike for a quick and easy setup every time.
It is the most convenient, easy to use bike rack on the market. The Yakima FullTilt 4 Bike Rack can be attached and removed in seconds and fits both 32 mm and 50 mm receivers.
6. Sea Sucker Hornet 1 Bike Handle Bar Rock
The Hornet is so small and compact that it can fit into a zipper-case. This makes the product easy to store, pack up for travel, or use in any everyday setting.
It is a nifty invention that was designed to mount securely in the back window of any hatchback, SUV, or minivan. This best bike rack will be safe on your car glass and can hold up to 15 kg without falling off because it uses two 4.5″ vacuum cups for stability. Use this bike rack if you are looking for an easy way to store all those bikes too large for most parking garages and with limited space at home.
7. Yakima Literider 3 Bike Carrier
The Yakima Literider 3 Bike Carrier is the ultimate hitch rack for bike enthusiasts. The aluminium frame of this bike carrier provides more cushion in the cradles, so you can load up your bikes with confidence.
ZipStrips secure bikes to the rack and are fully removable for easy storage when not in use. The durable steel hitch pin adds extra security to your bike rack.
A locking cable is included to keep your bikes safe from theft while transporting them on the road or trail. It tilts away for rear-of-vehicle access, and the anti-sway cradles keep your bike steady during transport.