Adventure Jones Blog - Archive for the ‘Bike Carriers’ Category

Got the itch to explore? With a bike carrier, you can take your bicycle almost anywhere and explore trails and terrain further from home. In order to get your bike there safely, however, you’ll need to find the right bike carrier for your vehicle.

Use a bike carrier to explore new trails.

Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

The cheapest option and the quickest to install is a trunk bike carrier. These types of bike carriers fit most types of vehicles, including minivans, hatchbacks, and SUVs without spare tires on the rear.

Choose a trunk bike carrier that fits the number of bikes you want to carry. The bikes will be easier to mount if you have extra room between them, so even if you only need to carry two bikes, you might want to buy a 3-bike carrier for easier mounting.

Roof Bike Carrier

If you already have a roof rack installed on your vehicle, a roof bike carrier makes the most sense. If you don’t have a roof rack, you can purchase a roof rack system for your specific vehicle, along with the roof bike carrier.

Some roof carriers allow you to mount the bike with both tires mounted. Others require you to remove the front wheel and either mount it separately or store it inside the vehicle. Storing one wheel inside the vehicle can reduce your chances of theft. You can also lock the carrier with a built-in lock system.

Hitch Mounted Bike Carrier

If you’ve got a hitch on your vehicle, another option is a hitch mounted bike carrier. Hitch mounted carriers make it easy to mount your bikes (no reaching overhead) and eliminate contact points with your vehicle, which means less risk of scratches. Hitch bike carriers can carry multiple bikes easily.

Bike Carriers

Adventure Jones offers free shipping on bike carriers from the most respected brands in the industry, including Yakima, Thule, and Saris. Use our Fit Wizard to choose the right bike carrier for your vehicle.

Choose the right bike carrier for your vehicle.

Are you ready for biking this spring? Taking a long bike ride is a great way to explore a new area, hang out with your friends, and get in some exercise while having fun. If you’re thinking about transporting your bikes to explore new trails, there are a few things you’ll want to think about when choosing a bike carrier.

1. Does the bike rack fit your vehicle?

If you’re looking for a bike rack, the best place to start is figuring out which bike carriers will fit your vehicle. For most vehicles, you can choose between a trunk bike rack or a roof bike rack. The trunk bike rack mounts straps to your trunk or the back of your SUV. The roof bike rack mounts to your roof rack system.

If you have a rear hitch, you have the option of installing a bike hitch rack or a platform carrier. If you own a truck, you’ll need a truck bike rack, and if you own an SUV with a spare tire in the rear, you’ll need a spare tire bike rack.

Use the Thule or Yakima fit system to make sure your bike rack will fit your specific vehicle make and model.

2. Is it secure?

Your bike carrier should mount securely on your vehicle. If the fit is a little “off,” you could risk scratching your vehicle or other bikes, losing your bike on the road, or losing both the carrier and bikes.

Read the installation instructions, and double check your carrier and bikes before heading out on the road.

You may also want to purchase a bike carrier that allows you to lock the bikes and carrier to your vehicle. This is especially important if you own an expensive bike and/or an expensive rack system.

3. Is it scratch proof?

The bike carrier that you choose should not scratch your vehicle or allow multiple bikes to scratch one another. Read the reviews for the bike carriers you are considering before making your purchase.

Bike Carriers

Need a bike carrier for your vehicle? Check out our selection of Yakima bike racks and Thule roof racks. Free shipping on all orders to the lower 48 U.S.!

Avoid overhead lifting with a hitch mounted bike rack.

There are many different type of bike carriers available on the market today. There are also many different types of vehicles on the road. Taking the time to find the right marriage between vehicle, carrier and bike will mean ease of use and a stable, reliable and safe transportation for your bike(s).

Hitch Mounted Bike Racks

One option that’s popular with the SUV crowd is a hanging hitch mounted bike rack. The popularity of SUVs means that there are more vehicles on the road with built-in trailer hitches. It was only logical that sporting goods companies would find a way to take advantage of this solid way of attaching a rack to a vehicle.

Why Use a Hitch Mounted Rack?

By using a hitch mounted bike rack, you’ll avoid having to lift the bike over your head to a roof rack. Some of the gigantic SUVs are practically impossible to use for loading a roof rack, and they are very cumbersome when loading bikes.

Another advantage of the hitch rack is the ability to easily carry more bikes. A bike hitch rack can accommodate up to 5 bikes. This is a real advantage for a family that rides together.

Other Advantages of a Hitch Bike Rack

• Very Little Lifting Required
• Protected From Road Hazards
• Easy Access to Cargo Area with a Swing-Away Rack
• Easy To Install/Uninstall and Store

No Overhead Lifting

Because a hitch mount is lower to the ground than other types of racks, you’ll have an easier time loading the bikes. You’ll only need to lift them from the ground onto the rack, which makes the job easier on your muscles and cuts down on the risk of lifting or dropping injuries. You also won’t need to bulk up just to load your bikes.

Protection from Road Hazards

By loading the bikes behind the vehicle, you’ll keep them protected from wind and road hazards. This position will also reduce wind resistance, which ups your gas mileage.

Easy Cargo Access

Some bike racks, once installed, can completely cut off access to your cargo area from the back of the vehicle. Hitch style racks that drop or lower down and away (or swing away) from the rear cargo door allow easy access.

Quick Installation

The hitch mounted rack is one of the easiest options when it comes to installation and removal of the rack. The contact with the vehicle is minimal compared to carriers that need to be strapped to your spare tire or attached to your roof rack. Less contact means less chance of scratches or dents. There is also the option of a platform style of hitch mounted bike carrier.

If ease of use is a priority for you, then this type of rack should be given careful consideration.

Explore new trails with the right bike rack for your vehicle.

There’s a whole bunch of different types of bike racks out there for different types of vehicles. How do you know which type is best for your specific vehicle?

When choosing a bike rack for your car, SUV, or truck, here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Ease of Operation

Make sure the type of bike rack you choose is one that you can live with for some time. If loading the bike proves difficult or strenuous, maybe you should consider a different type. Make sure you’re comfortable with how to install and remove the bike rack.

2. Think About Access

Depending on the type of rear bike rack you choose, you might not be able to pop the hatch or trunk to access the back of your vehicle. Consider how you’re going to load and unload other equipment without the use of the rear door. If you can’t do this without rear access, it might be a good idea to investigate bike racks that can be easily moved to allow access.

3. Compatibility Issues

It’s important that you take into consideration how safely and securely the bike rack attaches to your vehicle. Ask an expert for advice to make sure you have the proper size and configuration for your car. Once you are loaded up and on the road, you’ll want the peace of mind that comes from knowing your rack is securely installed on your vehicle.

Types of Bike Racks

Some bike racks are easy to use. Some are a little more complicated. Part of that depends on the bike rack design, the type of vehicle you drive, and where you mount the rack (for example, on the roof or on a trailer hitch).

• Spare Tire Bike Racks

Will fit most spare tires under 10 inches across. Most type of bikes can be accommodated. Can be especially difficult to access cargo areas because in most cases it will need to be completely uninstalled. Once installed the rack can be removed separately and quickly.



A trunk bike rack is easy to install and remove.

• Trunk Mount Bike Racks

These racks will fit most vehicles and SUVs. Rear access could be compromised. Larger bikes can also be transported. They are easy to install and handle. They compact for easy storage as well.

• Hitch Bike Racks

Vehicle needs to have a trailer hitch. Spare tire carrier could interfere with operation. Can transport all types of bikes except tandem bikes. Styles available to allow back door access. They can be considered easy to install and operate.

• Roof Mount Bike Racks

Most racks require a roof rack system for installation. The roof rack system allows complete access to the vehicle. Loading by yourself could be difficult unless additional options are added. Installation can be considered more permanent, but most rack systems are fairly easy to install and remove.

• Truck Bed Bike Racks

Truck bike racks can be more difficult to install depending on the type of truck bed and rack design. For custom installation help, ask an expert. Once installed, truck bike racks allow easy access to the vehicle and are easy to use and store.

• Bike Racks for RVs

There are various different bike rack styles available for RVs, and most are easy to install and use. Plus they allow complete vehicle access. Securing bikes to racks can be difficult, and you should always take the RV and bike rack (with bikes mounted) on a “test drive” before hitting the road.

By making sure that your bike rack will be easy for you to live with, you can avoid second thoughts about your purchase. When you choose a bike rack that fits your needs, you’ll find yourself using it regularly and happily enjoying the great outdoors.

A trunk bike carrier is the easiest rack to install on your vehicle.

Every serious bicyclist has a need for bike carriers on his or her vehicle sooner or later. The specifics of installation depend on the manufacturer of the carrier. It can be a difficult task for a first timer, but using a carrier that attaches to the trunk is the simplest route since it requires no permanent modifications to the car and no reaching overhead.

Prep

Position the bike rack in front of the trunk on the ground in exactly the same position it will be attached to the car trunk. Inspect the hooks, levers and straps for imperfections. Make sure levers move easily and straps are free of knots and tangles.

Positioning

Raise the trunk and place the top hooks of the bike carrier into the opening of the top of the trunk lid near the back window, taking care to keep the straps from twisting. Leave the straps loose. With the top hooks in place, position the bike rack where it should be on the trunk. Place it where the weight of the bicycles will be evenly distributed across the trunk.

Fasten Down

Place the bottom hooks over the lower lip of the trunk lid. Tighten the straps only enough to hold the bike rack in place, and then close the trunk. Check the hooks to ensure they are snug and in place. Tighten each belt slowly, in increments. This allows the rack to stay centered on the trunk.

Follow the instruction manual on your bike carrier for exact instructions related to the manufacturer. Ensure that the straps are not frayed or near anything sharp that may slice through them during travel.

"Love the fold down design." - WI boy

With all the options out there, choosing a bike rack can be overwhelming. Reading customer reviews is just one more way to help you make the right choice. Below are a few bike rack reviews we wrangled up for the Yakima DoubleDown 4 hitch-mounted carrier. Enjoy!

“I drive a Honda Element and had been putting my bike in my vehicle for 2+ years. It can be a little labor intensive and can take an 15+ minutes of my day taking out my kid’s car seats, folding up the rear seats, taking off the bike’s front wheel (and then putting everything back again before the family can go out again). I finally talked my wife into letting me get a hitch mount rack and I’m glad I bought the DoubleDown. I almost made the mistake of buying “cheaper” and I’m glad I didn’t; this thing is a well made cycling tool. I’ve kept the rack on for a few weeks now – it tilts out more than enough for me to open the back of my Element. Now, I have my bike with me 5 or 6 days a week for rides instead of just 2 or 3 times a week.

I was initially concerned because for the first 24 hours it sounded like the rack was rattling around too much but I simply hadn’t tightened it enough. A few quick turns with the corresponding socket/ratchet and I can’t even tell the rack is back there. I should also mention that Yakima provides a few tools to assemble the rack; all you really need is a screwdriver. You should have a few wrenches and maybe a socket set ready to make sure everything is nice and tight – it comes together in a few minutes. Assembly = piece of cake.

It might be a good idea to visit a store like REI to touch a few of these racks in person first – Thule makes a similar product. Shop around to see who might have the best prices and then come back to Amazon – You’ll find a few vendors with free shipping.

*Well built
*Convenient
*Easy to assemble
*Well built (to me, that’s the best part)”

- Alfredo Mar

“Purchased this product one year ago. Rack is used for road and mountain bikes, all frames are different shapes and sizes. Securely holds bikes without damaging them. Bikes will not move when all straps are used. Well built heavy duty unit. Very little wear and tear after one year of use. Fold down arms and fold down mast feature work well. Individual bike cradles are movable and adjustable for any frame or spacing between bikes. Fold down mast allows access to back hatch (Jeep Cherokee) with no problem. I have even folded it down with bikes on to access the hatch (not recommended, but it will work). Previously owned a Rhode Gear rack mount which was good, but this is a much better product by far. Also purchased lock for hitch pin which works well. I would highly recommend this product.”

- Brian Borcherding

“Love the fold down design. Bought the BuckHorn 4 carrier first because it was $70 less. I realized that storing the Buckhorn and having it sit on our vehicles for any period of time was inconvenient and sometimes hazardous as you walk around the back of the vehicle and clothesline yourself on the bars sticking out. The Buckhorn rack is fine and operates exactly like this DoubleDown, but the convenience of being able to flip down the bars is well worth the price difference. The Doubledown rack gets tight into the hitch once you tighten the bold through the hitch and it folds down great by easily pulling up on the lever, as opposed to messing with the pin-method on the Buckhorn. Great design, we are able to use the rack more easily and keep it on our vehicles longer which is a great benefit and time saver when it comes to those last minute rides with the family.”

- WI Boy

“I purchased this rack based on the positive reviews. Have now used it for a year, have not been disappointed, and love it. I am a 47 year old mom, and go biking 2 – 3 times per week. It only takes me a couple of minutes to strap on and secure either my road bike or mountain bike all by myself. Pop it on the rack, strap it tight, and I add a cable lock at the bottom thru the tires to secure the bike tighter to the rack and minimize movement. We also purchased the security deadbolt but haven’t seen a need to use it yet. I can easily put the rack on myself with the wrench (provided) and unless a random person is really ambitious it’s secure enough for the rural area we live in.”

- Kel

This hitch bike carrier swings away for rear door access.

Exploring new trails on your bike is a great way to spend the weekend. With a bike carrier, you can explore just about any area you want. Here are some tips on choosing the right bike carrier for your vehicle.

What Type of Bike Carrier?

The type of bike carrier you choose will depend partly on what type of vehicle you own. For example, hitch racks require a hitch, and trunk racks won’t fit on a truck or an SUV with a spare tire on the rear door.

Choosing a bike carrier style also depends on how much you want to spend, how easily you want to be able to pop the bike rack on and off your vehicle, and whether you want to be able to use the rack for other sports equipment.

A roof rack gives you the option of carrying other equipment besides your bike. You can use the rack year-round for skiing, snowboarding, boating, biking, and surfing.

A trunk bike rack provides a cheaper alternative—plus it’s easier to install and remove. Trunk racks are your most affordable option for transporting bikes.

Hitch bike racks are an option for vehicles with a tow hitch installed. They are typically the easiest for loading bikes, and some models swing out of the way to allow rear access.

Spare tire bike racks and truck bike racks are also available for these types of vehicles.

How Many Bikes?

The size of your bike carrier will depend on how many bikes you plan to carry. We recommend adding an extra bike space just in case you need it.

Also, trunk bike racks are sometimes easier to load with a space between bikes—for example, using a 3-bike carrier for only two bikes. The extra space in between makes it easier to load and keeps the bikes from knocking into each other and scratching the frames.

The simplest and most affordable way to carry your bike is with a trunk-mounted carrier.

Need a way to haul your bike around? The simplest and most affordable way to carry your bike is with a trunk-mounted carrier. Just strap it on your car, secure your bike, and you’re ready to roll.

Trunk bike racks are quick to install and just as easy to remove. They fold for storage, taking up as little space as possible in your garage or closet…a big advantage for apartment dwellers.

3 Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Bike Rack:

1) Does it fit your vehicle?
If you have a spoiler on your car, make sure the rack is compatible with spoilers. Most racks are adjustable to fit most cars or hatchbacks, but it’s still important to do your research up front to save yourself the hassle of an exchange or return.

2) Does it fit your bike?
If you have an odd-shaped frame or a bicycle that is smaller or larger than average, you might need a special rack.

3) How many bikes do you need to haul?
Get a bike rack that fits the most bikes you expect to haul. Sometimes a larger capacity rack is better. A 3-bike mount makes it easier to fit 2 bikes, since you can space them out further. It also reduces the chance of scratching the frames or your vehicle.

Installation

To install a trunk bike rack, just rest the padded rack on the back of your car, hook the straps onto the trunk or hatchback, and tighten the straps.

Riding bike on the road requires staying alert to what's around you.

Spring is here, and the bikes are out on the road in full force. The rules of the road might differ from state to state, but there are a few general and common sense tips that apply to almost any situation. Here are a few of those tips on keeping the peace between bikers and drivers.

Tips for Drivers:

• Watch for bikers on the road, at intersections, and at crosswalks. Check your blind spot before turning right, and don’t cut bikers off at the turn. They are often moving faster than you expect.
• Give bikers a wide berth when passing. If it’s not safe to pass, don’t. Wait until the time is right.

Tips for Bikers:

• Don’t ride in a way that expects drivers to see you. Be especially alert at intersections and when passing parked cars, where someone could open their door in front of you as you approach.
• Avoid riding on busy streets when possible. It clogs up traffic and puts you at higher risk for accidents. Choose roads with lower speed limits, neighborhood streets, and dedicated bike paths whenever possible.
• Stay visible. Especially at night. Always use a strong headlight and/or headlamp at dusk or in the dark. Get a flashing red light for the back of your bike. Brightly colored, reflective clothing is another good idea—both at night and during the day.
• Signal your turns. Let drivers and other bikers around you know your intentions well ahead of your actions. Don’t take motorists by surprise.
• Let’s face it—at some point in time, a driver will take a sudden turn without signaling, cut you off at an intersection, or honk when they think you’re in the way. Just take a deep breath, keep doing what you know you should do, and let it go.
• If you’re like most of us, you drive and bike both. The benefit is that you understand what it’s like on both sides. So when you’re a driver, be considerate and aware of those on bikes. And when you’re a biker, do the same for cars around you.

A bike repair stand keeps your bike steady while you work.

Tired of working on your bike upside down? A bicycle repair stand can make your job easier by holding your bike steady at the height you need it and keeping the pressure off your bike’s parts.

Racing stands

Racing stands are lightweight, portable, and designed to hold ultra-light frames and racing bikes. If you’re an elite racer, this type of stand is for you. It’s small enough to bring along for races and sturdy enough to use outdoors.

Home mechanic stands

Home repair bike stands are built for stability but light enough and small enough for home storage. Most come with a tripod or split base. They hold the bike frame with a spring clamp or screw-down clamp. The spring clamp is quick and easy. The screw-down clamp allows more customized adjustment, which comes in handy for odd-sized frames.

A folding repair stand lets you store the bike stand in your closet or throw it in your vehicle for road trips and biking events. Some stands allow you to rotate the bike 360 degrees to make it easier to work on all parts of the bicycle.

Miniature stands

Although miniature bike repair stands are cheaper, lighter, and smaller than regular repair stands, they are not as stable. However, if you live in a small apartment, only use the stand occasionally, and don’t want to drop the dough on a more expensive bike stand, a miniature stand might be your best option.

A wall mount stand is another option for limited space, as long as you can put screws in the wall. The downside of a wall-mounted stand is that you can’t rotate the bike as you’re working on it.