Next weekend you will participate in a competition and you have to move your bicycles in the car. Or you want to take your two -wheeled friend to your holiday destination and the only way to do it is using your vehicle.
Traveling with your bicycle in the car sometimes is a headache. We want the bike not to suffer any blow during transport and, at the same time, we don't want to compromise safety at the wheel.
In this article we want to tell you several ways to transport your bicycle in the car, but first you should know that traveling with your bike in tow always implies a certain forecast and that you also think where and how you will keep it when you get to the place of destination.
Bicycles can never excel beyond the width of the car, including mirrors
Neither in the trunk nor in the row of seats
In the first place, we must clarify that we have ruled out the system of carrying the bicycle inside the vehicle, either in the trunk or accommodated in the interior seats with the seats dejected. In addition to being dangerous for occupants, the bicycle can be damaged.
In the roof
It is ideal if you have a Berlina car. In principle it is a good place where to place it, although you must pay close attention to the underground steps, garages, etc., due to the new height of your vehicle.
You can choose between a system with which the front wheel is disassembled and the bicycle is fastened by the fork's toe, or on the other that uses a raíl in which the complete bicycle is attached and the box is supported by two arms. The inconvenience of the latter is that the painting can be scratched.
On the back gate
Cheap and simple to install, this system is added to the vehicle behind and with it can be moved, according to the model, up to four bicycles. Of course, forget about visibility through the rear moon and remember that you will not be able to open the trunk with loaded bicycles. In addition, bicycles can be damaged by the contact of each other.
In a ball carrier
Although it is a more expensive system, it is comfortable and allows you to access the trunk. It consists of assembling a carrier to our vehicle that usually carries four bicycles. Remember that, to circulate, you must uninstall when it is empty. It incorporates registration and own lights.
In a trailer
It is the most recommended method if you have to transport many bicycles. The trailer is attached to the vehicle safely, although it is the mode that will most affect your driving due to the increase in dimensions. They have registration and their own lights.
Basic tips
In order not to see your safety and that of the rest of the vehicles compromised, and avoid sanctions and immobilizations by the traffic agents, remember that:
- You must make sure that the bicycle is well grabbed, otherwise you could cause a serious accident and also damage it.
- Try that your visibility looks as most compromised as possible.
Do not forget that bicycles can never excel beyond the width of the car, including mirrors.
Above the maximum will be 4 meters, and ahead or behind the vehicle can excel, up to 10% of the length of the car. In this case it is mandatory to signal the load with a V-20 plate.
If the bicycles occupy all the width of the vehicle, two plates must be placed, each at one end of the load.
How does driving affect?
Transporting your bicycle in the car entails a series of effects when driving. This is what you owe in mind:
More fuel consumption
Keep in mind that
driving carrying your bicycle will increase the weight of the load and increase air resistance, two factors that directly affect the increase in fuel consumption that your vehicle will make.
It is not an increase that will make a hole in your pocket, but you don't take a scare if, at the end of the trip, you go to a service station and the accounts do not come out.
Watch the tires
Regardless of the transport method you choose, remember that the bicycle or bicycles will increase the weight of the vehicle. Before embarking on the trip, check the pressure of the tires to make sure it is correct, or you will dangerously increase the braking distance and increase the risk of punctures and bursts.
Avoid sudden changes
With more weight and more dimensions, your driving should change. Be moderate, take the curves with caution and, in the urban sections, monitor the jumps in the Badenes.
In addition to reducing the danger of the trip, you will reduce your bill in fuel and damage the environment less.
