There are so many choices when it comes to purchasing bike racks for cars. Here are some helpful new ideas on how to pick a right bike rack at the best price available today.
There are 3 types of bike racks for cars these days: the roof rack, the trunk mounted rack (sometimes called strap racks), and the hitch rack.
There are benefits and negatives to each. There are also ways to get your chosen bike rack for a great price-if you know how. You will learn all of that here.
Roof Bike Racks
The positives of a roof rack include: freeing up the rear and trunk area of your car so you can have access to this area. The roof bike rack has also always been status symbol. If you transport your bike on your roof-you are a serious cyclist.
The downside to roof racks is that it can be cumbersome to lift your bike way above your car top at the end of a long ride or grueling race. Because some vehicles are getting taller this can be especially difficult. It can also be a problem when you are tired and forget your bike is up there and drive into a low ceiling area. Ouch!
Another negative to the roof rack system is that a bike transported there creates extra drag for the car and that reduces your gas mileage. Plain and simple, it will cost you more in gas to transport your bike on the roof vs. at the rear of the car.
Trunk Mount Bike Racks
Trunk mounted bike racks can be great for short trips. They make transporting your bike quick and easy. There are many new designs out there today that allow you to attach and detach your bike quickly. Your bike transported at the rear of the car is also protected from debris that can hit and damage a bike on the roof.
On the negative side is the obvious-you lose access to your trunk or rear entry area of your vehicle. That's why these types of bike carriers are recommended for short trips.
Hitch Mount Bike Racks
Hitch mount bike racks are becoming increasingly popular today-even with serious cyclists. There are some designs that swing out of the way so you can access the rear entry areas of your vehicle. One company has a design that serves a dual function. It can be taken off quickly and used as a bike storage rack in your home or apartment or work.
Of course you need a hitch receiver on your vehicle to use this type of bike carrier It must be either 2 inch or 1.25 inch.
The benefits of hitch racks are similar to the trunk versions-better protection and increased gas mileage. However, they can be more stable and secure than their trunk counterparts.
How To Find the Best Deals and Prices for Bike Racks for Cars
Using the internet and Google if you know how to search properly, you can comparison shop and find who has the best prices for bike racks.
In the search field put in very specific words what you are looking for and add words "best price", "discount", "sale". For example if you were searching for Thule bike racks put in the words: Thule bike rack sale and hit enter. Try different combinations. You can also use the word "code" or "promotion". Sometimes companies will release codes that if you enter then in when making an online purchase you will get your product for a reduced price.
