Next weekend you are going to participate in a competition and need to transport your bicycle in the car. Or maybe you are planning a vacation and don't want to leave your adventure companion behind. Whether you travel with a mountain bike to explore off-road routes or with a road bike to ride through legendary mountain passes, transporting it in your vehicle can be a challenge.
The main goal is to avoid damage to the bicycle during the journey and, at the same time, ensure safety at the wheel. There are several ways to transport your bicycle in the car, each with its advantages depending on the type of bicycle and the distance to be traveled.
Before starting your trip, it is important to keep in mind some regulations. Mountain bikes and road bikes cannot extend beyond the width of the car, including the mirrors. In addition, it is essential to secure them properly to avoid sudden movements that could compromise their stability and the safety of the vehicle.
In this article we explain the best options for safely carrying your bike, whether inside the car, on a roof rack, on the rear hatch, or on a hitch platform. We will also give you tips on how to protect your bike during the journey and where to store it once you reach your destination.
Traveling with your road bike or mountain bike doesn't have to be complicated if you take the necessary precautions. Plan ahead and enjoy your trip with the peace of mind that your bike will arrive in perfect condition.
Neither in the trunk nor in the row of seats
First of all, it should be clarified that we have ruled out the system of carrying the bicycle inside the vehicle, whether in the trunk or placed in the interior seats with the seats folded down. In addition to being dangerous for the occupants, the bicycle can be damaged.
On the roof
It is ideal if you have a sedan-type car. In principle, it is a good place to put it, although you should pay close attention to underpasses, garages, etc., due to the new height of your vehicle. You can choose between a system where the front wheel is removed and the bike is held by the fork dropouts, or another that uses a rail on which the entire bike is mounted and the frame is supported by two arms. The downside of the latter is that the frame may get scratched.
On the rear hatch
Cheap and easy to install, this system is attached to the back of the vehicle and can carry up to four bikes, depending on the model. However, forget about rear window visibility and remember that you won’t be able to open the trunk with the bikes loaded. Also, the bikes may get damaged from contact with each other.
On a tow ball bike rack
Although this is a more expensive system, it is convenient and allows access to the trunk. It consists of attaching a bike rack to our vehicle that usually carries four bikes. Remember that, for driving, you must remove it when it is empty. It comes with its own license plate and lights.
On a trailer
This is the most recommended method if you have to transport many bikes. The trailer is safely attached to the vehicle, although it is the option that will most affect your driving due to the increased dimensions. They have their own license plate and lights.
Basic tips
To avoid compromising your safety and that of other vehicles, and to avoid fines and immobilizations by traffic officers, remember that:
- You must make sure the bike is well secured, otherwise you could cause a serious accident and also damage it.
- Try to make sure your visibility is compromised as little as possible.
Don’t forget that bikes can never stick out beyond the width of the car, including the side mirrors. The maximum height is 4 meters, and at the front or rear of the vehicle it can protrude up to a maximum of 10% of the car’s length. In this case, it is mandatory to signal the load with a V-20 plate. If the bikes take up the entire width of the vehicle, you must place two plates, one at each end of the load.
How does it affect driving?
Transporting your bike in the car brings a series of effects when driving. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Higher fuel consumption
Keep in mind that driving while carrying your bike will increase the load weight and the air resistance, two factors that directly affect the increase in your vehicle’s fuel consumption. It’s not an increase that’s going to break the bank, but don’t be surprised if, at the end of the trip, you stop at a service station and the numbers don’t add up.
Watch your tires
Regardless of the transportation method you choose, remember that the bicycle or bicycles will increase the weight of the vehicle. Before starting your trip, check the tire pressure to make sure it is correct, or you will dangerously increase the braking distance and raise the risk of punctures and blowouts.
Avoid sudden changes
With more weight and larger dimensions, your driving must change. Be moderate, take curves with caution and, in urban sections, watch out for bumps on speed bumps. In addition to reducing the danger of the trip, you will reduce your fuel bill and cause less harm to the environment.