A Guide To Picking The Right Bike Rack

How to choose the right bike rack for you

Just like bikes, there is a huge number of options available when it comes to bike racks. It can be overwhelming, but this short guide will help you navigate through all the noise to find what is best for you. Whether you're a weekend warrior, a daily commuter, or an e-bike enthusiast, there's a perfect bike rack out there for your two-wheeled steed.

"With your vehicle type, bike count, and lifestyle in mind, selecting the right rack is a breeze."

Does your car have a towbar?

A towbar mounted bike rack is a must-have. Easy to install and capable of carrying some serious weight, towbar mounted bike racks come in three styles, each suited to different needs and budgets:

1. Platform Style Rack: This is the VIP section for your bikes, providing dedicated positions and keeping them nicely spaced apart. It's a bit pricier but offers ease of use and superior bike protection. Some platform style racks have additional features like locks for added security.
2. Prong Style Rack: If you're budget-conscious but still crave adventure, this robust option allows for flexible bike positioning which can take longer to set up. It's affordable and durable, perfect for the no-fuss cyclist.
3. Vertical Hanging Rack: For those carrying a small peloton of bikes, this rack lets them hang upright, offering high capacity in a user-friendly design. Like the platform rack, it's an investment but delivers on capacity.

Towbar mounted bike racks can also vary depending on how they attach to the towbar with two possible options, either a tow ball mount or a hitch mount.

Keep in mind that Australia has strict laws about how far equipment can hang out the back of your vehicle. The Australian Design Rules (ADR) stipulates that the overhang must not exceed 60% of the vehicle wheelbase. Be sure to check the bike rack dimensions before making a purchase.

Remember that tow bars do have load restrictions and when it comes to bike racks you need to pay attention to "downforce" or "tongue load". Generally a tow bar can support a downforce of 10% of the towing capacity. This means the bike rack plus the weight of the bikes must be less than this value.

Does your car have roof rails?

The roof bike rack is your lofty solution. Ideal for keeping your vehicle footprint nice and small since you won’t have any bulky loads hanging out back. This means easy compliance with Australian Design Rules. Roof racks are lightweight and versatile but they do require some upper body strength or a step stool to get those bikes stashed up top. Pay attention to your roof rails load capacity too.

No roof rails or towbar on your car?

No worries, a boot mounted bike rack is what you need. Forget the fancy towbar and roof rails, you can strap a bike rack directly to the trunk of your vehicle. Added bonus, these boot mounted bike racks are typically lighter and more compact than their cousins and make for a quick and affordable solution for those adventurous folk with minimal gear.

What bike do you want to carry?

Lucky enough to have an ebike? Check what the weight capacity is of the rack. You’ll need a solution that’s designed to handle the extra heft of your electric bike. With enhanced features to accommodate the weight, you’ll journey contentedly knowing that your e-bike is in safe hands, ready for wherever your adventures may lead.

Is it a road bike or a fat tyre shredder? Check the bike rack's wheel trays can fit your tire.

Is it an XXS or XXL bike frame? Then check if the bike rack can fit your bike’s wheelbase.

Making a choice

With your vehicle type, bike count, and lifestyle in mind, selecting the right rack is a breeze. Whether it's the space-saving roof bike rack or the versatile tow ball mounted options, the perfect bike rack enhances your cycling experiences, ensuring safety, convenience, and endless adventure.