Unlike hitch racks or roof racks, trunk mounted bike racks can damage a car’s paint because it straps to the trunk with metal clips and sits against the car’s paint. However, damage can also occur from driving errors, installing it incorrectly, using the wrong type, etc.
But be aware that every trunk rack doesn’t fit every car. While basically any hitch rack will fit your car as long as you have a hitch receiver, trunk racks aren’t as simple. Bike rack manufacturers have “fit guides” to help you determine if your desired rack will fit your vehicle.
Hitch mounted bike racks are considered by most to be the ideal way to carry bikes on a car. They are sturdy, reliable, easy to load, and carry nearly zero risk to damaging your vehicle. The catch is you need to have a receiver hitch installed on your vehicle (again, we install these).
What is the easiest bike rack to load?
Whether you need to transport heavier bikes, including some electric models, or you just want a rack that’s easy to load and store, the Thule EasyFold XT 2 is hard to beat. It’s expensive, but this rack has luxury features that make it one of the best overall models we’ve tested.
Do bike racks damage your car? – Related Questions
Can you open your trunk with a bike rack on it?
Expert Reply: If you need truck access often, I have a solution for you, but bike rack manufacturers do not recommend opening the rear hatch or trunk with a bike rack installed. The door hinges are not designed to hold the extra weight and the rear door could come down on whoever is underneath.
Are hitch bike racks worth it?
Hitch Mount Racks
Although more expensive than trunk-mounted racks ($150 to more than $500), hitch racks are a great option for frequent users—especially for those needing to carry more than three bikes. Hitch racks are typically designed to haul two to five bikes.
Are bike racks easy to install?
Most bicycle racks are fairly easy to install, so long as you choose the design that suits your vehicle best. Most bike racks attach to your vehicle just as intended. Whether you’re strapping them to the roof or in a truck bed, you want a reasonably snug fit with as little clattering as possible.
How to Transport a Bike Without a Rack?– 3 Easy Methods
Clean your bike.
Take the bike wheel off.
Fold the rear seat down.
Keep the chain on the smallest ring.
Lay the bike down in the back of the car.
Use a tie or bungee to securely fasten your bicycle.
Is it okay to lay my bike on its side?
When you lay your motorcycle on it’s side, that port will leak battery acid all over the place, which can cause serious cosmetic damage and serious safety risks to you.
How can I carry my bike in the car?
How do you travel with a bike on a car?
How fast can you drive with a bike rack?
While there is no law dictating how fast you can drive a car with a bike rack, it is recommended that you shouldn’t go faster than 55 mph with a trunk rack, 65 mph with a hitch rack, or 80 mph with a rooftop rack.
Can you drive long distance with a bike rack?
While you can purchase a quality roof rack, I advise against using it for a long distance road trip. For one, it will seriously degrade your gas mileage, especially if you’re cooking across the Great Plains at 80+mph.