Are you the type of person that enjoys long rides on your bike? Do you like to take weekend trips and explore new areas? If so, then you know that a bike can be a great way to get around. Feeling the wind in your hair and the sun grazing your face as you ride through a park or down a country road is a great way to experience nature and get some exercise at the same time.
But what happens if you’re planning a trip to an off-road or remote destination with your car? No matter how you look at it, bike storage problems are a real hassle. Do you just leave your bike at home? That would be a shame, especially when you could be taking advantage of all that fresh air and scenery. Thankfully, getting a practical bike rack for electric bikes might be the perfect solution to this issue. This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds – your bike and your car.
What Kinds of Bike Racks Are There?
E-bike rack carriers are designed to attach to your car, allowing you to transport your bike safely and easily, regardless of your destination. Based on how they are mounted, bike racks can be classified into three main categories.
Trunk-Mount
Trunk-mount racks are the most popular type of bike rack for electric bikes as they are typically the most affordable and easiest to use. As the name suggests, trunk-mount racks attach to the back of your car using straps or rubberized clamps. This particular build means that they’re generally less secure and can be a bit bulky, but they’re definitely easy to install.
These racks can typically hold one to two bikes, but some models are capable of carrying up to four bikes. Trunk-mount racks are a great option for occasional cyclists or those who don’t want to permanently mount a rack to their vehicle.
Hitch-Mount
These attach to the receiver on the back of your car, using a metal arm that extends out from the rack. They are more secure than trunk-mount racks and can hold multiple bikes, but they are more expensive and can be difficult to install.
Hitch-mount racks are available in two main styles: platform and hanging. Platform racks sit on top of your hitch receiver and can hold up to four bikes. These racks are very stable, but you might have difficulties accessing your trunk. On the other hand, hanging racks suspend your bikes from the rack and can hold up to six bikes. They’re more convenient to load, but they can swing from side to side other while you’re driving, which can interfere with your view.
In any case, hitch mount bike racks are a great option for cyclists who ride frequently and need a sturdier accessory. They are also a good choice for families who want to transport multiple bikes.
Roof-Mount
Roof-mount models are the most secure option, as they attach to your car’s roof using a set of bars or clamps. Due to their specific structure, they can hold anywhere from three to six bikes, making them perfect for long trips or family outings. If you’re looking for a long-term bike rack solution, a roof-mount bike rack for electric bikes is the way to go.
However, it’s important to note that roof-mount racks come with a somewhat heftier price tag so they might not be a suitable option if you’re on a tight budget. Plus, installation can be a little tricky, particularly if you’re not too handy with tools.
How Do You Choose a Suitable Bike Rack?
When choosing a bike rack, there are a few factors you need to consider.
Number of Bikes
Think about how many bikes you need to transport. If you only need to carry one or two, a trunk-mount rack may be a good option for you. But if you’re looking to carry three or more, you’ll need a hitch-mount or roof-mount rack.
Weight Capacity
All bike racks have a maximum weight capacity, so you should compare it to the weight of your bikes. You certainly don’t want a rack that can’t handle the weight you put on it, especially if you’re transporting multiple bikes.
Ease of Use
The ease of use of the e bike rack will depend on the type you choose since some models are far better than others in that department. For example, roof-mount racks can be a bit more difficult to install and require ladder access, but they are generally very stable and can hold more weight. Trunk-mount racks are typically the simplest to use and can be installed and removed quickly. And lastly, hitch-mount racks are in between, being a little more difficult to install but easier to remove.
Locking Options
This is definitely an important consideration when choosing a bike rack. Some racks come with built-in locks, while others don’t have any at all. If security is a concern for you, be sure to choose a rack that has the locking features you need.
Damage Potential
Finally, consider the damage potential of each type of rack. Hitch-mount and roof-mount racks are more susceptible to damage than trunk-mount racks, so if you’re not too careful, you could end up with some costly repairs.
