Choose The Right Type Of Bike Rack
If you are in the market for a bike rack, then it helps to know the basic options that are available. There are three basic styles of bike racks — trunk, hitch, or roof. Which you choose depends on your preferences and overall needs.
Trunk
Trunk racks have the benefit of being the most cost-effective option for transporting bikes. There are versions on the market for almost every car type, including those with traditional trunks, to hatchbacks and wagons. There are some limitations, as most trunk racks can only carry one or two bikes at most.
Security can also be a concern, depending on the design. Some racks can easily be removed, even when the trunk is closed and locked. Further, if the rack isn't installed properly, there is the risk that the bike may fall off. It's also important to always check the rack's adjustment so the bike isn't riding so low that it could be damaged by bumps on the road.
Hitch
Hitch-style racks are similar to a trunk rack in that they are attached to the back of your car. The cost for a hitch rack can be comparable to a trunk rack as well if you already have a hitch. Otherwise, you will need to have the hitch installed for an additional cost. It's important to choose a rack that will fit your existing hitch since there are several common sizes.
These racks are quite secure if they are attached to the hitch with a locking pin; otherwise, they can be removed much like a trunk rack. Bikes must also be locked to the rack, although some racks come with their own locking mechanisms.
Roof
Roof racks are the favored rack option if you have a lot of bikes to carry. They are also nice on longer vehicles because the bikes won't protrude when you are parked in a standard size parking space. Further, roof racks can be more secure, as the bikes are more difficult to access when the car doors are closed. The rack is permanently affixed to the roof of the car, so it is very effective in terms of security to lock a bike directly to the rack.
There are some things to consider. It can be difficult to place bikes on a taller vehicle, plus the taller profile can pose a challenge on roads with low bridges. There may also be a reduction in gas mileage due to the wind resistance that occurs when there are bikes on the roof.
Contact a bike rack dealer to learn more about the types available, like a Thule bike rack.