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CHOOSING A BICYCLE CARRIER FOR YOUR CAR - There are basically 4 types of cycle
carrier: Roof mounted carrier, Tow-ball mounted carrier, Rear mounted and Spare wheel-mounting racks.
As with most things they each have their Pros & Cons, all of which will be
listed here.
At this stage you need to consider how many bikes you want to carry. You
may have a young child who will soon grow into a larger bike, in which case it
would be wise and more cost effective to make provision now. You may also want
to include a couple of friends in the future.
Unless you have a large powerful car such as a 4 X 4 [with a tow-bar nose
weight of at least 100kg] you will be restricted to a maximum of 4 bikes on a
tow-ball or roof mounted carrier unit. It is wise to check the maximum permitted tow-
ball nose weight of any unit you are considering.
Tow-ball mounted cycle carriers are by far the most popular. They are
available in 2, 3 and 4 bike versions. There are also two types of tow-ball: a
standard 50mm bolt on type and the swan neck type which includes a detachable
tow-ball. Some bike carriers only fit one or the other. The more versatile
models fit both. Many tow-ball units include a very useful tilt function that
allow for easy boot access.
Models are available which, in addition to carrying up to 4 bikes, leave
the tow-ball free for towing a caravan or trailer. These models are fixed
behind the bolt on style tow ball using the existing nuts and bolts. Removing
the cycle rack is simple and the coupling ca remain on the vehicle. A number
of these models are also suitable for 4 X 4 vehicles with rear door mounted
spare wheels. Several models come complete with an integrated 7 pin lighting
board.
Frame adaptor units are readily available for certain mountain bikes and
bikes without a cross bar.
ROOF MOUNTED CYCLE RACKS
The question here is do the cons outweigh the pros?
In addition to the rack you will have the added expense of roof bars.
Having struggled to load the bikes onto the rack, running the risk of
scratching you car, you may find yourself with restricted headroom problems in
some car parks. Low bridges are also a potential problem. Some of the ferries
add a surcharge.
Check that the rack is capable of accommodating bikes with wide tyres.
In every case check that the unit you are considering is up to the weight
it will be carrying and, that it is compatible with your type of vehicle.
You will find that the specialist retailers will give you all the help you
need.
Finally, whatever model you choose, check the fitting instructions before
you part with your money. In many cases they are designed to become your
worst nightmare.
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