How to put on a Bike Rack the correct way

Bike Rack on Car

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

  • EXTENDED WIRELESS COVERAGE: Adds Wi-Fi range coverage up to 1000 sq ft, and connects up to 15 devices such as laptops, smartphones, speakers, IP cameras, tablets, IoT devices, and more..Connectivity protocol:Ethernet,Wi-Fi
  • AC750 WI-FI SPEED: Provides up to 750Mbps performance using dual-band and patented FastLane(TM) technology.
  • UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: Works with any wireless router, gateway, or cable modem with Wi-Fi.
  • WIRED ETHERNET PORT: Simply plug in game consoles, streaming players, or other nearby wired devices using the one 10/100M port for maximum speed.
  • SAFE & SECURE: Supports WEP and WPA/WPA2 wireless security protocols.
  • SIMPLE TO SETUP: Press the WPS button to connect to your router. Use the NETGEAR WiFi Analyzer app for optimal location.
  • Car Top Carrier: Our convenient roof cargo carrier allows you to keep your gear up top, so you can transport belongings and passengers without compromising on safety, comfort, or convenience
  • Intuitive Features: Specially designed to keep your gear dry, our waterproof car roof cargo carrier features welded seams, an urethane-coated zipper, and a hook-and-loop-close zipper flap
  • Quality Construction: Constructed of UV-protected PVC semi-coated mesh, our durable vehicle cargo carriers are designed to keep your belongings dry and won't fly off your roof
  • Simple Setup: Simply attach the straps of the roof bag to your vehicle’s roof rack or use the included car clips to attach the straps to your vehicle’s door frame weather molding
  • Seamless Storage: Our rooftop cargo bag folds down for storage in the included stuff sack; Car roof bag, 4 attachment straps, 4 car clips, and stuff sack with sewn-in setup guide included
  • Car Top Carrier: Our convenient roof cargo carrier allows you to keep your gear up top, so you can transport belongings and passengers without compromising on safety, comfort, or convenience
  • Intuitive Features: Specially designed to keep your gear dry, our waterproof car roof cargo carrier features welded seams, an urethane-coated zipper, and a hook-and-loop-close zipper flap
  • Quality Construction: Constructed of UV-protected PVC semi-coated mesh, our durable vehicle cargo carriers are designed to keep your belongings dry and won't fly off your roof
  • Simple Setup: Simply attach the straps of the roof bag to your vehicle’s roof rack or use the included car clips to attach the straps to your vehicle’s door frame weather molding
  • Seamless Storage: Our rooftop cargo bag folds down for storage in the included stuff sack; Car roof bag, 4 attachment straps, 4 car clips, and stuff sack with a sewn-in set up guide included
  • Premium 18″ Ceramic Grill with Cast Iron Cart & Locking Wheels – The Kamado Joe Classic II gives the perfect cooking size of 18 inches along with its Premium cart that comes with the purchase of your grill, including locking casters and wheels.
  • 2-Tier Divide & Conquer - Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System transforms the humble grill grate into the most powerful cooking tool in your arsenal. The revolutionary multi-level, half-moon design frees you to cook different foods in different styles at different temperatures—all at the same time
  • Kontrol Tower Top Vent - Maintains consistent air setting for precise airflow management during dome opening and closing. Constructed of powder coated cast aluminum, the patent pending dual-adjustment top vent is rain resistant and allows you to smoke from 225F all the way to searing at 750F.
  • Air Lift Hinge – The air lift hinge significantly reduces dome weight. The grill dome can be lifted with a single finger giving the most comfortable grilling experience there is.
  • AMP (Advanced Multi-Panel) FireBox – The patent pending six-piece design eliminates breakage and increases grill efficiency.
  • This heavy duty Honeycomb mesh laundry bag is specially designed to wash delicate clothes without wearing, tearing and fur in washing machines and dryers.
  • With our unique breathable mesh construction, you'll have a thoroughly clean wash in the washing machine and evenly dry process in the dryer.
  • Medium and extra strong: our 12" x 16" (30 x 40 cm) laundry bag made of a high-quality durable material (120g honey comb mesh) for a long-lasting usage.
  • Our premium anti-rust zipper with auto lock and smart zipper protection will prevent the bag from opening during washing and drying cycle. You’ll have a new quiet and a snag-free laundry experience.
  • It is the best to protect delicates, extend the life of your kids and baby clothes, socks and gloves, lingerie, yoga pants, scarves, jackets, jeans or even dog sweater, shoes, and stuffed animals. Great as a clothes storage organization bag when travel.
  • Textured jacquard elastic fits securely and prevents slipping
  • Silicone strip grips your hair and keeps band in place
  • Pack of 6, to mix and match
  • Width: 0. 5", 1. 25 cm
  • Famous SWOOSH for brand recognition
  • Sport type: Rugby
  • WORKS WITH EVERYTHING: Polar HRM works with many sports and smart watches (Polar, Garmin, Apple, Suunto, etc.), Polar Beat, fitness apps such as Strava and Nike, and ALL HRM compatible Cardio Equipment
  • SUPREME ACCURACY: Widely recognized for its top precision by many sources, Polar H10 is the most accurate heart rate sensor in Polar’s history. Polar H10 provides top quality heart rate measurement and it's the choice of many pro athletes.
  • CONNECTIVITY: Bluetooth, ANT+ and 5 kHz provide an excellent variety of connection options (e.g. with Peloton). You can use Bluetooth and ANT+ connections simultaneously as well as two Bluetooth connections simultaneously.
  • POLAR PRO CHEST STRAP: With improved electrodes, an easy-to-use buckle and silicone dots, the strap is comfortable and interference-free, and stays put when you're on the move.
  • VERSATILITY: Wear Polar HR monitor when rowing, cycling, running, training indoors or swimming. Polar H10 is fully waterproof and it has internal memory for one training session.
  • SOFTWARE UPDATES: Via Polar Beat app to keep your HRM up-to-date; Materials: Strap: 38% Polyamide, 29% Polyurethane, 20% Elastane, 13% Polyester, Silicone prints.
  • Operating temperature : -10 °C to +50 °C / 14 °F to 122 °F. Compatibility-iOS mobile devices: iPhone 5 and later, with iOS 11 or later; Android mobile devices with Bluetooth 4.0 capability and Android 5.0 or later
  • Mold cured rubber for consistent side wall–prevents high pressure blow outs
  • High quality, reliably tested inner tube. Schrader valve
  • Tube Weight - 160g
  • Valve type & length: Schrader; 35mm with cap
  • Great for kid and BMX tires
  • No Pill & Injection Relief: Avert pain, inflammation, and sports injury with our knee braces for knee pain. It offers optimum support for people with meniscus tear, ACL, arthritis, and post-surgery swelling
  • Premium Material: Made from a blend of nylon and latex, our knee braces for knee pain for men and women are lightweight and durable. It can be washed well without shrinking or losing compression
  • Breathable & Moisture-Wicking: Made suitable even for your active lifestyle, our knee braces for knee pain women & men won't trap sweat underneath! It will keep odors away and stay cool for all-day use
  • 7 Sizes Available: From petite knee brace sleeve up to plus size compression sleeve, we got you covered. We made a wide variation of sizes from XS to 3XL to give knee relief and protection for all sizes
  • Great Gift Idea: Our knee braces for knee pain meniscus tear is the one you're looking for when it comes to knee pain relief or a handy workout support. Get yours by clicking 'Add to Cart' now!
  • FULLY CERTIFIED for SAFETY – ASTM F963 Safety Certification by United States Childern’s Product Safety, easy ride for young toddlers. 4 Wheels Bike with Low center-of-gravity design for better stability
  • 135° steering limiter design to avoid sharp turns and fully&widen enclosed wheels will avoid side falling or feet damage, Low center-of-gravity design for toddlers to get on and off their own as well better stability
  • Bike body is made of high end sturdy carbon steel, soft non-slip EVA handlebar and cushioned seat to provide a stable and comfortable position for your baby to hold and sit. Silent wheels works indoor and outdoors
  • 95% ready assembled to save the hasstle, Just attach the handle to the frame and you are good to go, Easy to carry even for toddler with just 4 lbs, Package comes with Installation instructions and multi-language manual includes Spanish
  • 1 YEAR MANUFACTURER WARRANTY & RISK-FREE PURCHASE for your Balance Bike Baby. For any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, Try out our world class customer service
  • AMERICAN OWNED, FAMILY OPERATED - Join the Rhino Family & Support a USA based Father/Son Business!
  • ANTI-THEFT HITCH PIN - Solid Forged Steel Ensures Protection to Your Trailer & Hitch From Theft
  • COMMON HITCH SIZES - Our Unique Hitch Pin Fits all Class III & IV Hitches (2" x 2") With Ease.
  • PATENT PENDING DESIGN - Newly Added Weatherproof Slide Cap Protects From Dirt, Mud & Gunk
  • GUARANTEED 5-STAR EXPERIENCE - If you aren't 100% Satisfied for any Reason, We'll Refund your Money
  • Valve caps can protect the valve, prevent the water, dust or sand into the tire; preventing the valve from leaking, ensure the safe driving.
  • Easy to install, 12pcs valve stem caps, it's can easily tightened use your hand. Beautiful appearance, fits vehicles of various colors.
  • The valve cap is made of good quality and durable aluminum alloy, enhanced seal to help prevent air leakage.
  • Universal size fits more cars, bus trucks, SUVs, motorcycle, bike or bicycle.
  • Any issues or questions please feel free to contact us, we are always here to satisfy all of you.
  • Patented design fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUV's consult manufacturer web site for specific vehicle fit information
  • Side straps for increased lateral stability. Single configuration design eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation
  • Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles
  • Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from vehicle
  • Ships in certified frustration free packaging 70 pounds max capacity
  • Comes fully assembled set up and installs in seconds 12 inch long carry arms easily accommodate a wide range of bicycle styles and 115 inch wide carry arms for greater bike compatibility
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit
  • Car Top Carrier: Our convenient roof cargo carrier allows you to keep your gear up top, so you can transport belongings and passengers without compromising on safety, comfort, or convenience
  • Intuitive Features: Specially designed to keep your gear dry, our waterproof car roof cargo carrier features welded seams, an urethane-coated zipper, and a hook-and-loop-close zipper flap
  • Quality Construction: Constructed of UV-protected PVC semi-coated mesh, our durable vehicle cargo carriers are designed to keep your belongings dry and won't fly off your roof
  • Simple Setup: Simply attach the straps of the roof bag to your vehicle’s roof rack or use the included car clips to attach the straps to your vehicle’s door frame weather molding
  • Seamless Storage: Our rooftop cargo bag folds down for storage in the included stuff sack; Car roof bag, 4 attachment straps, 4 car clips, and stuff sack with sewn-in setup guide included
  • Car Top Carrier: Our convenient roof cargo carrier allows you to keep your gear up top, so you can transport belongings and passengers without compromising on safety, comfort, or convenience
  • Intuitive Features: Specially designed to keep your gear dry, our waterproof car roof cargo carrier features welded seams, an urethane-coated zipper, and a hook-and-loop-close zipper flap
  • Quality Construction: Constructed of UV-protected PVC semi-coated mesh, our durable vehicle cargo carriers are designed to keep your belongings dry and won't fly off your roof
  • Simple Setup: Simply attach the straps of the roof bag to your vehicle’s roof rack or use the included car clips to attach the straps to your vehicle’s door frame weather molding
  • Seamless Storage: Our rooftop cargo bag folds down for storage in the included stuff sack; Car roof bag, 4 attachment straps, 4 car clips, and stuff sack with a sewn-in set up guide included
  • Patented design fits sedans, hatchbacks, minivans, and SUV's consult manufacturer web site for specific vehicle fit information
  • Side straps for increased lateral stability. Single configuration design eliminates setup hassles and headaches during installation
  • Individual tie downs secure and protect bicycles
  • Padded lower frame keeps bicycles away from vehicle
  • Ships in certified frustration free packaging 70 pounds max capacity
  • Comes fully assembled set up and installs in seconds 12 inch long carry arms easily accommodate a wide range of bicycle styles and 115 inch wide carry arms for greater bike compatibility
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • Important, please consult manufacturer web page for specific vehicle fit
  • Improved durable hitch adapter to fit standard 1-1/4" and 2" hitch receivers.100 lb - Maximum capacity is 50 lbs per bikeNOTE : The pad color may slightly differ
  • Can be used on Class I, II, III and IV hitches
  • Securely transport 2 bikes with improved bike cradles and buckle type straps
  • Built-in locking knob keep main upright sturdy to reduce wobble during transport
  • 100 lb - Maximum capacity is 50 lbs per bike
  • NOTE : The pad color may slightly differ
  • Socket mounts with a retaining nut, not a press fit that can vibrate loose. Can be used with a locking plug. Easy to install, “+” to the positive pole. “-” to the negative pole.Fit Type: Universal Fit
  • Works with any standard cigarette lighter plug and suitable for any 12V - 24V vehicles (motorcycle, boat, truck, ATV, RV) in need of extra and heavy duty cigarette lighter plug sockets
  • The safety Charging design will prevent your devices from over-heat, over-current, over-voltage, over-load, and short-circuit
  • Waterproof and dustproof by a rubber cover, protects the internal circuit, effectively enhance its lifespan
  • Package includes: 2 pack Car cigarette lighter, 4 Insulated Terminals, 4 screws, 2 Black/Red wires with 10Afuse
  • Fit Type: Universal Fit
  • Hitch insert fits either 1 1/4 inch or 2 inch receiver hitches (2 and 3 bike models) or 2 inch receiver hitches (4 and 5 bike models). Important installation note: never use on trailers
  • 22 inch long carry arms individually secure bicycles with Allen's patented tie down system
  • Folding carry arms quickly drop out of the way when rack is not in use. Minor assembly required.
  • Rack sets up and installs in less than 5 minutes; Included no wobble bolt secures rack inside of receiver hitch with a movement free installation
  • Allen's warranty does not cover items purchased through third-party sellers
  • DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. It is rated for 500 lbs.
  • OVERALL DIMENSIONS - 60"(L) x 20"(W) x 6"(H).It also features a mesh base to easily clean up messes.
  • ADDED GROUND CLEARANCE. This cargo hitch carrier is equipped with an angled shank. This provides additional ground clearance for offroad vehicles or low-riding vehicles
  • MORE SAFETY AT NIGHT - The reflectors add visibility to the cargo carrier and your vehicle.
  • ACCESSORY INCLUDED - Waterproof Cargo Bag 16 Cubic Feet (58" 19" 24"), Hitch Stabilizer, Reduce noise and movement while driving. Cargo net with attachment hooks. Ratchet Straps.



NH Lodging Picks | Weddings
Products | NH Town Guides


New England Living Magazine | New England Attractions

Free World Mall

Country Weddings | New England Recipes
VT Inns | Red Sox Gifts | Travel Destinations

Visit NH Living Magazine

Click for the latest Manchester weather forecast.
NH WX Maps

Contact Us

We SHARE
the Best of
NEW HAMPSHIRE

NH Living Magazine Advertising

Shop Virtual Mall - Free World Mall
Shop Free World Mall



Shop Walgreens Online

Shop Online 24/7 Free World Mall



Red Sox Gifts at
Red Sox Network

New England vacations

Shop Boston Red Sox Wear Gear and Gifts





Secure Server WebHosting Hosting Packages