How to put on a Bike Rack the correct way
The market for bike racks caters to the diamond frame, which features a straight top tube across the top of the bicycle frame.
Step-through bikes, once called Ladies bikes, often are missing or have an adjusted top tube on the frame to allow easier mounting and dismounting. Kids bikes also feature frames differing from the norm. If you’re trying to mount either of these, you could run into issues.
Bike racks come in three main types, which each have their own restrictions. They can hold between 2 and 5 bicycles and can be installed on the Trailer Hitch, the Roof, or attached to the Trunk.
Different bikes
Invented in the 19th century, bicycles have gone through many design changes. Most bikes today use diamond frames, which have a straight top tube. Step-Through Bicycles and Kids bikes have lowered, slanted, or absent top tubes.
Step-Through Bicycle
These bicycles were once known as Womens or Ladies bikes because of their lower top tube, allowing a rider to wear a dress or skirt during use. They have several advantages over the diamond frame.
Step-through frames are more suited for elderly and restricted agility riders. Their lower or absent top tubes allow for easier mounting and dismounting. They’re often used for utility bicycles, where the rider would have to make many stops.
These bikes are also often heavier and more difficult to mount on a bike rack because of their design.
Kids Bikes
Kids bike frames are miniaturized diamond frames or step-through frames. Most bike racks use the top tube of the bicycle frame as a mounting point.
This can lead to problems with mounting kids bikes because of the smaller area available.
Types of bike rack
Depending on the bike rack you have, you could face different issues. We’ll walk through the three main types, and how to mount a bike onto each bike rack correctly.
It’s very important to note – always strap down your bikes when mounting them on your bike rack. Immobilize the tires and the handlebars so they can’t turn and strap them securely to the supports of your bike rack.
Trunk Bike Rack
This is the cheapest option. Trunk mounted bike racks are suited for use by many vehicles, mounting on the trunk, rear bumper, or hatchback. While these are inexpensive, they are more likely to cause damage to the vehicle or bikes than the other options.
On a trunk mounted bike rack, two supports carry the weight of the bike. These supports can be padded or not, depending on how much you pay.
To properly mount a step-through bike, the best option is to purchase a top tube adapter – an accessory that creates a top tube for mounting.
If you can’t do that, mount it as best you can between the two supports – paying special attention to keep the center of gravity of the bike down. Strap it down firmly, making sure that it won’t wiggle around if you hit a pothole. Make sure you’re padding any areas that come in contact with the supports. If you are in the market, then take a look at the best trunk bike rack reviews.
For children’s bikes, there is less of a need for a top tube adapter. Mount the child’s bike onto the supports as best you can and lash it down well.
Roof Bike Rack
Roof bike racks come in a couple of varieties – some attach to existing roof racks, such as those found on SUVs, while others mount to the upper door frame using clips and mounting feet. They can be either upright, holding the bike by the frame or pedal crank, or use a fork-mount that requires the front wheel to be removed.
These carriers shouldn’t have an issue with most step-through and kids bikes – attaching to the lower parts of the frame instead of the top tube. Their major downsides are how complicated they can be to install, as well as decreased gas mileage because of wind resistance.
Similar to the Trunk Bike Rack, always ensure that your bikes are lashed down securely, with their tires and handlebars immobile.
Trailer Hitch Bike Rack
These are the most expensive option but have the easiest installation if the hitch hardware is already present on your vehicle. These can come with either a tray that holds the bikes from their tires, or supports that hold the frame similar to a trunk-mounted rack.
The tray mount version should safely accommodate most bicycle frames without issue.
If using the support mount version, the steps are similar to a trunk bike rack.
Place the bike onto the supports, doing your best to keep the center of gravity down between the two supports. For step-through and children’s bikes, you may need to macgyver it a little if you don’t have a top tube adapter. The most important thing, though, is to strap your bike down. An improperly mounted bike will go flying at the first pothole.
Immobilize the tires and handlebars by strapping them to the frame of the bike. Lash the whole bike down and make sure it won’t wiggle if you go over a bump or hit a pothole.
Staying safe and doing it right
No matter which bike rack you’re using, there are a few universal truths when mounting your bike for travel. No matter how well you strap it down, it will probably wiggle at some point. Always pad between your bike and anything that might scratch it. If you’re carrying multiple bikes, pad between them.
Follow these general guidelines, and you can’t go wrong:
- Keep the bike weight balanced, and the center of gravity down
- Always use padding to prevent scratching your bike frames
- Mount heavier and easier to mount bikes closer to the vehicle if using trunk or hitch racks
- Always immobilize the wheels and handlebars with straps
- Make sure that your bike is securely strapped down to the supports
- Make sure that no part of bike hangs below the bumper or obstructs exhaust
- Keep license plate and rear vehicle lights unobscured
Conclusion
Between different bike frames and multiple bike racks, it can be difficult to know if you’re mounting yours correctly. Hopefully, this guide has helped to answer some of your questions.
Just remember – safety first. Always assume that you will hit a pothole and strap your bikes down securely. Don’t let your bike become another highway casualty.
BIKE RACKS ON SALE
- Retractable and Foldable: Through snaping buckle, bicycle wall mount hook is easily to be adjusted from 8.9 inches to 12.5 inches. Not only saves space, but also allows the bicycle to be placed at the correct angle and desired position. With folding feature, the bike hook can be folded when not in use to save space.
- Bicycle Compatibility: Compatible with most bicycles like MTB, road bikes, mountain bikes, commuters, off-road motorcycles, hybrid and children's bike, each wall mount bike rack can bear maximum weight of 48.5 lbs/22 kg per one. Not fits step-through or ladies bikes (unless using frame adaptors), or fat tire beach cruisers bikes with curved frames or long wheelbase. Importantly, it is not compatible with bicycles with wide handlebars (over 31.5‘’/50cm), long wheelbase, or fat tires.
- Secure Storage, Save Space: Made of high-grade sturdy steel, the bicycle wall hanger keeps your bicycle safe. With the Max 90° adjustable angle, the rack can accommodate various frame shapes, keeping the bicycle level and fixed. Housolution bicycle wall mount is an ideal space saving option for apartments, houses, garages, and sheds by horizontally hanging the bicycle on the wall.
- Bike and Wall Protection: Designed with ultra-soft EVA foam, the bicycle holder protects aluminum, carbon and steel frames from deformation. Includes an elastic rope to stabilize the front wheel, the holder prevents scratching wall and wheel movement, preserving the decoration of bicycles.
- Please Note: Only install on wooden studs and beams, concrete and brick walls. Do not install the bike storage rack directly on gypsum board or drywall surfaces unless installed behind supporting bolts or beams. Package comes with expansion screws and metal screws.
- 【Quality Material 】Made of super elastic rubber rope, providing strong elasticity, strong and durable.
- 【Prevent Scratches】The ABS-coated hook prevents your car from being scratched, and the rope's rugged properties allow long-term use.
- 【Crocodile Mouth Tarp Clips】Contains 4 tarpaulin clips, which can clamp and release the tarpaulin, and tarpaulins of various thicknesses; the teeth are stable and safe to prevent the tarpaulin from falling
- 【Multiple Sizes】(6) pc. x 18”, (4) pc. x 24”, (2) pc. x 32”, (2) pc. x 40” bungee cords; (6) pc. x 10"mini cords; (4) pc. x 8” canopy ties UV resistant cord jacket; (4) pc Crocodile Mouth Tarp Clips.
- 【Convenient Storage】Each color represents a size that allows you to quickly identify the required length.
- What You'll Get: One 18oz can of Shout's Advanced Grease and Oil Busting Foam Stain Remover
- Formulated to fight tough stains: three powerful stain removing ingredients specifically formulates to dissolve grease and oil stains
- Clings, Penetrates, & Lifts: 50x more concentrated than in-wash powered when applied directly to stain
- Quick & Easy To Use: works on all machine-washable whites and colored fabrics, and works in all water temperatures and in HE and standard washers
- Spray, Wash, and Done: our only stain remover designed to fight grease and oil stains, and stays gentle on your fabric
- ADVANCED TRUEGAUGE SCREEN: This air pump includes updated sensor technology, capable of collecting pressure data from tire inflators at a frequency of 200 times per second. Its valid data rate is higher than 80%, which is 60% better than the market average. Wherever you go, accurate readings help you drive safely.
- 2X FASTER INFLATION & COMPACT: Weighing less than 1 pound, this portable bike tire pump is easy to carry and store in any limited space, such as cars, bike racks, or backpacks. The compressor’s 150 PSI maximum pressure, coupled with its 17L/min airflow delivers 2X faster inflation. It can refill a 195/65R15 tire from 30 to 36 PSI in 1.5 minutes.
- LONG RUNTIME & AUTO-OFF: After fully charging, the built-in 4000mAh large-capacity battery allows the car tire pump to refill up to 8 tires (195/65R15) from 30-36PSI. The preset function and auto-off function deliver a hands-free inflation experience. With just one press, the cordless bike tire pump will easily inflate car tires, motorcycle tires, bicycle tires, ebike tires, balls, and more. (Note: Incompatible with heavy-duty tires, like those on offroad vehicles, RVs, trucks, and trailers.)
- EASY TO USE: You can choose 4+N smart modes (car, motorcycle, bicycle, ball, and custom) based on your various inflation needs. You can also easily choose between 4 pressure units as needed (PSI, Bar, kPa, kg/cm²). The custom mode allows you to freely preset the desired pressure value (3-150PSI) based on the inflatables you want to inflate like ebike.
- VERSATILE EMERGENCY TOOL: The bike pump can be used as more than an air pump, it is also a multifunctional emergency tool. The flashlight on the top has 3 modes (flashlight, SOS, and strobe) to illuminate the night for easy operation. The air compressor is equipped with USB-C and USB input/output ports, providing backup power for your phones and other electronic devices. Note: Please fully charge the Tire Inflator (using a 5V 1A battery charger) before using.
- No water? No problem. MAXLONE car spray acts as your complete car wash kit, just spray and wipe to clean and shine without a hose or bucket. Whether you're on the go or in the garage, get pro-level results without the bulk or mess of other ceramic coating for cars products.
- MAXL high-tech triphene car spray features our exclusive Triphene formula, creating a hydrophobic barrier that repels water, dirt, and road salts better than any standard car wax or cleaner. It cuts down on cleaning time and keeps your vehicle protected longer.
- Restore deep color and a mirror-like shine across paint, metal, trim, and glass. MAXLONE is not just a car cleaner, it’s an advanced auto detailing supply that replaces traditional sealants, waxes, and sprays with one ultra-effective product.
- Formulated for extreme conditions, maxl spray coating triphene coats high-heat areas up to 600°F like wheels, exhausts, and engines, while shielding against UV rays, acid rain, and chemicals
- Safe for your family and the environment, our concentrated formula treats an entire vehicle with just 2oz. Dilute 50/50 for double the coverage and greater value than traditional auto detailing supplies or bulky ceramic car coating bundles.
- Designed for Bicycle Tire – fits closely to the contours of Bicycle Tires and is easy to remove for repair and replacement.
- Self Lubricating Engineered Plastic – Rounded edges and a 'glide' finish make it easy to 'lever and glide' off the rim and won’t scratch your rims.
- Comfortable Safe to Use - The front, back and sides of the bike tire levers are designed with thumb press grooves and an extremely fine sandblasted finish increases friction with the palm for an excellent ergonomic use experience.
- Double the durability – Bike Tire Levers are made from military-grade plastic for high strength and reliability, and are reinforced on the back to resist breakage and ensure good toughness.
- Reliable Customer Service - We are so confident in the quality of our products that if you are not satisfied, you can contact us at any time to offer a replacement or return with our Lifetime Guarantee.
- High-performance Vulcanizing Fluid: The bike tire patch kit contains 24 ml quick-drying vulcanizing fluid with high viscosity, which can repair tires quickly and efficiently. Combined with the patch, you can start riding again in just a few minutes
- Durable Patch Plate: The bike tube patch kit provides a patch plate with good elasticity, which contains multiple sizes to accommodate different puncture sizes
- Bicycle Inner Tube Repair Kit: Contains all necessary tools, 2 tire levers, 4 metal rasps and 4 durable sandpapers, which can help you grind the damaged part of the inner tube to meet the needs of bicycle tire maintenance
- Widely Compatible: Bicycle tire repair kit is suitable for bicycle, pneumatic rubber, ATV, scooter, motorcycle, stroller, wheelchair inner tubes and more. Whether you've been impaled by a nail or a sharp shard of glass, it's the answer to your emergency needs
- Easy to Carry: We provide you with a portable storage box, which is easy to store and carry, suitable for various scenarios
- STANDARD INDEX PLAYING CARDS: Enjoy the ideal balance of size and functionality with our Bicycle Black Playing Cards. Perfect as poker cards, these standard index cards cater to everyone from beginners to experts
- TRUSTED BICYCLE QUALITY: Experience the feel of perfection in every game with these high quality playing cards. Each card is engineered with an Air Cushion Finish, providing an easy handling and shuffling experience
- VERSATILE GAMING: These cards open the door to countless games of skill and chance. From poker and blackjack to euchre, pinochle, rummy, and canasta. Unleash your inner gamer with this versatile deck of playing cards
- CLASSIC RIDER BACK: With the classic Rider Back design, this deck of cards bring a sense of nostalgia and traditional charm to your gaming table. A perfect blend of style and functionality, adding a touch of class to your card games
- ECO-FRIENDLY & MADE IN USA: Crafted in the USA with 100% recyclable FSC paper, our Bicycle Cards embody an unparalleled blend of sustainability and quality. Feel good about your purchase knowing these playing cards contribute to a greener planet
- Adjustable Length and Any-Angle Stance: Features a spring-loaded latch for tool-less, on-the-go adjustment of kickstand length, allowing any-angle stance—great for balancing bikes on uneven ground.
- Durable and Secure Foot Design: Non-slip sole with a wide reinforced plastic foot prevents slipping and sinking in mud, while the steel hexagonal bolt secures the foot from sliding off and deters vandals.
- Easy Installation with Compatible Bolts: Requires an 8mm Allen key and wrench (not included). Includes 2.4 cm and 4.2 cm bolts; due to varying bike designs, these may not fit all models. Use bolt sizes suitable for your bike.
- Center-Frame Mounting: Designed exclusively for center-frame installation. If you lack mounting plates, ensure your frame is no more than 1 inch thick for proper mounting.
- Clearance Requirements: Confirm there's space between your chainstays for mounting and at least 2.75 inches between pedals and rear wheel or disc to prevent rubbing.
- Maximum Load Capacity: 55 lbs. Do not sit or place heavy loads on the bike when the kickstand is engaged; avoid forceful impacts.
- Installation & Support: Refer to the images below for installation instructions or contact us with compatibility questions.
- Chamois Butt'r Eurostyle is a non-greasy skin lubricant for cyclists, with menthol and witch hazel to produce a cooling and soothing effect
- Apply to skin or cycling shorts pad prior to riding to prevent chafing
- Improves riding comfort immediately
- This is the high end European style version of Chamois Butt'r, prized by elite cyclists and contains no artificial fragrances or colors
- Washes off skin and clothing with soap and water. Made in the USA.
- 12" long carry arms easily accommodate up to two bicycles (70 lb max capacity)
- Individual tie-downs secure and protect bicycles
- Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from vehicle
- Side straps for increased lateral stability
- Comes fully assembled; set up and installs in seconds
- Secure Bike Transportation: Safely transport up to 4 bikes with ease. The rack's towing capacity is 150 lbs and includes a hitch pin for secure attachment. An added reflector enhances safety during travel
- Convenient Swing-Down Feature: The swing-down feature provides effortless access to the rear of your vehicle, ensuring convenience when needed. Ideal for vans, SUVs, pickup trucks, and sedans with receiver hitches
- Easy Installation: Installing the MaxxHaul Towing Products 70210 Deluxe 4-Bike Hitch Mount Rack is a breeze and takes just minutes. The support arms, equipped with adjustable hold-down straps, firmly secure and transport your bikes
- Broad Hitch Compatibility: This rack fits 2" x 2" hitch receivers, offering versatile compatibility with a variety of vehicles
- Durable Construction: Built from rigid all-steel construction and powder-coated for durability, this rack is designed for longevity. The adjustable bike cradle with hook and loop straps ensures secure transportation
- Compatibility Note: Please note that the 70210 Bike Rack is designed for bikes with a horizontal top bar frame. For different style bike frames, the addition or installation of a horizontal crossbar may be necessary (not included)
- Weight Limit and Reflector: With a towing capacity of 150 lbs, the rack includes a hitch pin and reflector for added safety
- Important Note: Due to the increased distance between the rear bumper and the axle on trailers or RVs compared to cars or SUVs, using bike racks and cargo carriers in this scenario is not advisable
- Bikes mounted on RV's, trailers, fifth-wheels may experience increased bouncing, swaying, and stress. Always use tie downs and straps during transport for added safety
- Constructed from heavy duty steel plate with powder coat finish and includes industrial grade U-bolt, washer and nut with galvanized finish to resist rust and corrosion
- Eliminate or reduce wobbling, rocking, rattling and hitch play on hitch mount bike racks, cargo carriers and other hitch mount towing accessories.
- Quickly installs on Class I, II, III and IV or 1. 25" or 2" receiver hitches.
- Great to use on different tow and carry vehicles such as SUV, pickup trucks, RV's, vans, sedans, minivans, campers and more
- Use on ball mounts, drop hitches, hitch adapters, hitch extenders and other trailer accessories
- Enhanced Durability: This bike rack is equipped with a hitch adapter to fit standard 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers, ensuring broad compatibility
- Versatile Hitch Compatibility: Designed to be used on Class I, II, III, and IV hitches, this bike rack is adaptable and suitable for various types of vehicles
- Secure Bike Transportation: Transport up to 2 bikes securely with the improved rubber bike cradles and buckle-type straps. These features allow your bikes to remain stable during travel
- Sturdy Design: The built-in locking knob keeps the main upright sturdy, minimizing wobble and enhancing stability while on the move
- Weight Capacity: The rack supports a maximum capacity of 100 lbs, with a limit of 50 lbs per bike. This ensures safe and reliable bike transportation
- Color Variation Note: Please be aware that the pad color may slightly differ, offering a variation in appearance
- Compatibility Note: Please note that our 50025 Bike Rack is designed for bikes with a horizontal top bar frame. For different style bike frames, the addition or installation of a horizontal crossbar may be necessary (not included)
- Important Note: Due to the increased distance between the rear bumper and the axle on trailers or RVs compared to cars or SUVs, using bike racks and cargo carriers in this scenario is not advisable.
- Bikes mounted on RV's, trailers, fifth-wheels may experience increased bouncing, swaying, and stress. Always use tie downs and straps during transport for added safety
- ►HEAVY DUTY - Tubular steel construction makes this two bike rack one of the sturdiest bike racks on the market
- ►EASE OF USE - Quickly store 2 bikes with ease. No clamps, no brackets, no lifing. Just roll the bike into the rack and walk away
- ►VERSATILE - Bikes Can Be Stored In The Same Or Alternate Directions
- ►SIMPLICITY - So simple even children can use it without assistance. It doesn't get any easier than this.
- ►DURABLE FINISH - The gloss black powdercoated finish will protect your rack from the elements for years.
- STASH RACK: Retrospec all-new proprietary rack is designed to fit most bicycles including children's bicycles and bicycles with disc brakes.
- RELIABLE BUILD: The weather-resistant fine powder steel coating protects from damaging weather conditions. Modular design allows for multiple racks to be combined to meet your exact need for bicycle storage.
- ACCOMMODATES MOST BIKES: Fits most wheels sizes from kids to Mountain Bikes (12"-29") and tire widths from 23C-3 0".
- SIMPLE CONSTRUCTION: Retrospec's Stash Rack is incredibly simple to assemble. Plus, your new rack doesn't require any hardware to get it up and ready-to-go.
- 5 BIKE: Sturdy floor rack that is easy to assemble and holds 5 bicycles Dimensions 70''L x 14 75''W x 14''H.
- MADE FOR YOUR BIKE: This platform-style, hitch-mount bike rack supports most road and mountain bikes. Transport 1 or 2 bikes weighing up to 60 lbs total using your car, truck, or SUV with a 1.25 inch hitch receiver (2 inch hitch receiver adapter included).
- SECURES YOUR BIKE: Keep your bike safe driving around town or across the country. This rack features a heavy-duty, powder-coated steel frame, adjustable wheelbase trays, padded frame hooks, and a safety strap included for added peace of mind during transport.
- NO-SWEAT SETUP: Assemble and install this double bike rack quickly and easily for more time on the trail (check out our assembly video). Step-by-step assembly instructions and all installation hardware included.
- SPACE SAVER: Navigate crowded parking lots, your garage, and offseason storage. This flat bike rack folds behind your vehicle’s bumper when not in use, giving you the freedom to maneuver any tight space.
- Smart phone bag makes it easy to take your phone with you on your ride, compatible with regular or plus-size phones up to 3.5 inches width and 7.8 inches tall
- Quick and easy installation frame mounted bike bag with tool-free hook and loop attachment system ensuring compatibility acorss different bicycle models
- Secure zipper closures for main compartment keep your belongings safely enclosed, helps keep out dust, dirt, and moisture, add an extra layer of security
- Fully touch-screen compatible smartphone pocket can help you interact with your smartphone without removing it from the pocket, making it easier and safer to check maps, or control music while riding
- Top tube bag is compatible with most adult bikes perfect for additional storage space for your essentials like tools, keys, or small wallet
- FREE UP GARAGE SPACE: Looking for a solution to organize your garage to save floor space? This is the one you've been looking for. This wall mount rack is great for use in a garage or apartment with limited space. Get organized by hanging the bike on the wall to free up some valuable space so there can be more room to store other items. The easy-to-take design makes it simple to take out or hang up your bikes and lets you hang or detach your bikes in a second. No more mess!
- SUITABLE FOR MOST BIKES: This bike hanger is designed to fit most bikes, including Mountain Bikes, Road Bikes, Kids Bikes, Hybrid Bikes, Cyclocross, and Lady Beach Cruiser Bicycles. Fit all wheels size from 14" to 29" in the range of the following: Max Tire width: 2.3”. Max rim depth for 700c: 50mm with Max tire width: 25C. Each hanger can hold up to 20kg/44lbs (each bike), and the whole rack can hold up to 100kg/220lbs, 5 bikes in total.
- HEAVY-DUTY PATENTED DESIGN RACK: Easy to install, suitable for both outdoor and indoor use. Great for shed corner and garage storage. This rack is fixed to mount on the wall with 4 screws, making installation a breeze! To ensure a secure and stable mount, For plaster wall and drywall, this MUST mount on studs ONLY. This rack is compatible with standard wood studs and solid walls, which is a flexible option for all spaces. Please watch the video in our listing for installation information.
- PRACTICAL & DURABLE: Made of premium Aluminium alloy. High-quality stainless steel screws and nylon anchors are included. As the hooks on the rack are covered with rubber, there's no need for you to worry that the hook will scratch the rim of your bike. Also comes with bonus hooks for hanging your helmets and other accessories. The holder position on the rack can be adjusted as well.
- ORDER NOW, WORRY-FREE! We're so confident about our product quality that we can provide a lifetime warranty!
- ★【Durable Material】- Made of 600D twill fabric, abrasion-resistant and water-repellent. Can provide maximum protection for the contents of the bag. Reflective strip for increased visibility and safety at night.
- ★【Like the Warm or Cold Bag】- The insulated main compartment keeps food and drinks warm or cold. It's well insulated and will keep drinks very cold for hours with an ice pack. Allows you to enjoy the coolness on long journeys.
- ★【Create More Space】- Elastic bungee cord on the top to keep your clothes or cards securely on the bag and increase storage space. With a detachable, adjustable shoulder strap, this bicycle case bag can also be used as a shoulder bag.
- ★【Easy Installation】- Don't worry about the stability while driving. Simple attachment to the bike rack with two adjustable Velcro straps for quick installation and removal.
- ★【Versatile】- It's huge, it's simple, it's isolated. Ideal for packing lunch on the go, groceries, snacks, groceries, hot or cold drinks, bike tools, jersey, towel, etc, no space is wasted here!
NH Lodging Guide | Weddings
Products | NH Town Guides
New England Living Magazine | New England Attractions
Free World Mall
Country Weddings | New England Recipes
Paradise Coast Living | Boston Red Sox Gifts
Vermont Living | ME Living | MA Living
We SHARE
the Best of
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Contact Us
Shop Free World Mall
Today's Deals
Today's Deals