Kitchener Auto Recycler’s Tips for Safely Transporting Bikes in Your Car
If you’ve ever tried to transport a bike in your car, you know how much of a headache it can be. Between lowering or removing seats, trying to avoid grease and tire stains on your vehicle’s interior, and seeing out the back window once it’s crammed in, it’s reason enough to retire your bike for good. Fortunately, there are a few great systems you can install to make transporting your bike by car a breeze.
Roof Rack
Roof racks are specifically built units that allow you to safely secure your bike to the roof of your car. While some require you to remove your front tire, many allow you to attach your bike in once piece. The benefit of roof racks is that your interiors are free for passengers and no external visibility is lost. The drawbacks are that it can be difficult to lift the bike on the rack and it increases the height of your vehicle, making parking indoors or passing under short bridges difficult.
Trunk Rack
Trunk racks are perfect for riders who only need to transport their bikes occasionally, as it can be easily added and removed. The benefits of this type of rack are that it’s easy to take bikes on and off of it, and it can be quickly removed whenever you don’t need it. The downside is that bikes are more susceptible to theft as they are so easy to remove and it limits rear window visibly and trunk access.
Hitch Rack
Hitch racks are attached to the tow hitch of your vehicle and are great if you’re going to be carrying multiple bikes. The benefits of this type of rack are that loading bikes is a breeze and they experience minimal swaying or shaking while driving. The drawback is that, similar to the trunk rack if the bikes are not security attached they are vulnerable to theft. In addition, bikes are more vulnerable to damage if a rear end accident occurs.
If you plan on doing some out of town biking this season, save yourself a headache and consider in investing in a dedicated bike hitch. If you have any questions about transporting items in your vehicle or anything else, give our auto recycling facility in Kitchener-Waterloo a call. Our team is here to answer any of your questions!
