Common Mistakes When Selecting A Bike Rack
Online, April 12, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Getting your bikes to the race and trail has never been easier. Watch out for these common mistakes when selecting a bike rack for the upcoming summer biking season.
Choosing a Rack That Looked Like It Would Fit, But Won't.
Lots of bike racks look like they will fit onto the car, but BE CAREFUL! Check the BikeRackShops.com fit chart first. Different vehicles will bear different loads, use different trim materials etc. Choosing a rack that's not suited for the car may damage the car and prove to be a danger to or the other vehicles.
Not Choosing A Rack With a Bit More Capacity Than Needed.
Purchase a rack that will hold at least one more bike than anticipated. A new biking buddy, Juniors new friend or Uncle Joe may want to join on the next trip...In addition, having an extra space allows each bike more space and possibly less damage from hitting each other!
Not Considering Who Will Attach The Rack To The Car.
Some racks are heavy. Be sure that the weight of the rack being considered is manageable by those having to mount it onto the vehicle.
Not Considering Those Wacky New Bike Frames.
Be sure that the bike frame is compatible with the support arms of the bike rack. Don't allow the wheels of a bike to hang too close to the ground or too close to the tip of the exhaust pipe. Some odd bike frames, and particularly women's bikes, will require a frame adapter bar to keep the bikes level on the rack and out of harm's way.
Not Thinking About Accessing The Trunk or Hatchback.
Some hitch mounted and strap-on bike racks will limit accessibility to the rear trunk or cargo area. BikeRackShops.com offers many styles that will either swing out of the way or tilt down for easy access without having to remove the bikes from the rack.
Not Considering The Rear Mounted Spare Tire.
Most vehicles with rear mounted spare tires will require an appropriate sized rack. Hitch racks will require a connecting bar long enough to set the rack at a distance from the vehicle, clearing the spare tire. Weight bearing capacity of these racks may be limited. Spare Tire Strap-on Racks are also available. These racks are mounted onto the spare tire utilizing a strap-on system or bolted on through the center of the wheel. The BikeRackShops.com vehicle fit experts can help decide which type of rack is best.
Not Considering The Trunk Spoiler.
That fancy spoiler on the trunk may get in the way of installing a strap-on bike rack. Check with the fit experts at BikeRackShops.com to help choose the right rack to "un-spoil" a good time.
Careful At The Drive-Thru!
Properly installed roof racks offer a great way to save space while transporting bikes safely and securely.... BUT BE CAREFUL AT THE DRIVE THRU WINDOW! Make sure to pay attention to height clearances......ESPECIALLY THE OWN GARAGE DOOR!
Worried About Having The New Expensive Bike Stolen Right Off Of The Rack?
Most Hitch Racks and Roof Racks allow for locks to secure the bikes. Some Hitch and Roof racks include locks, some do not. There are some strap-on racks that are lockable, but do not offer the level of security available on Roof and Hitch Racks. Ask experts for help, they know their stuff!