Car bike carriers

Towbar, roof or rear-mounted: the first decision

It all starts with how the carrier mounts, because that depends on your car before it depends on your bikes. The three types differ in price, capacity and practical constraints.

Towbar-mounted

It's the most convenient and popular option when carrying two or more bikes. You load the bikes at hip height, wind resistance stays low and fuel consumption increases only slightly. It does, however, require an approved towball and an electrical socket on the vehicle.

• The models platform models (Thule VeloCompact, VeloSpace, EasyFold) support bikes by their wheels: this provides the most secure hold and is the only option truly suited to delicate or unusually shaped frames.
• The models hanging models (Thule HangOn) hold bikes by the frame. Cheaper and lighter, they are poorly suited to carbon frames and full-suspension mountain bikes.
• The tilting mechanism gives you access to the boot without unloading the bikes. On an estate car or SUV, it's the detail that makes all the difference day to day.
• The versions folding models (EasyFold XT) fold flat and fit in a car boot — a good compromise when the garage is already full.

Roof-mounted

A roof-mounted bike carrier requires roof bars already fitted and compatible. It leaves the boot and number plate completely unobstructed, and lets you add one bike per roof bar. Its drawbacks are well known: you have to lift the bike above your head, fuel consumption rises noticeably, and the vehicle's overall height becomes a real concern — including underground car parks, archways and toll booths.

Rear-mounted

The cheapest option, secured to the boot with straps. It needs neither a towbar nor roof bars, but it obscures the number plate and lights — so a number plate holder with lights is then mandatory — and you need to check that it fits the exact shape of the tailgate, including any spoiler.

The easily overlooked factor: weight

Two figures determine everything. The bike carrier's maximum load, and above all the permitted towball load of your car, shown on the manufacturer's plate — often 50 to 75 kg, including the weight of the bike carrier. An e-bike typically weighs 22 to 28 kg: with two electric bikes, you reach the limit. Reinforced models (Peruzzo Atlantis, Thule VeloSpace) are designed for this use, and a loading ramp means you don't have to lift the bike.

Driving abroad

Bike carrier marking requirements are not harmonised across Europe. A striped reflective warning panel is mandatory in Italy and Spain, while other countries have their own rules on sideways overhang. It's another thing to check before a holiday drive.

To find out more: How to choose a bike carrier

See also: Bike carrier parts and accessories · Bike travel bags · Locks