June 18, 2025 Dean Horton

Do You Need Roof Bars for a Bike Rack?

Not sure if you need roof bars to carry your bikes? You’re not alone — it’s one of the most common questions we get.

In short: it depends on the type of bike rack you choose.

This guide explains when roof bars are essential, when they’re optional, and what your alternatives are if you don’t have any.

🚲 1. Bike Rack Types — Which Need Roof Bars?

Rack Type	Roof Bars Required?	Notes
Roof-mounted	✅ Yes	Mounts directly to bars (T-track or clamp)
Tow bar-mounted	❌ No	Requires tow bar instead
Boot-mounted	❌ No	Uses straps to attach to rear boot
Rear door-mounted (van)	❌ No	Attaches to door or frame (usually high-roof vans)

🔧 2. When Roof Bars Are Needed

If you're planning to mount your bikes on the roof, you'll need:

A pair of compatible roof bars
T-track or clamp-style bike racks

✅ Pros:

Keeps boot accessible
Leaves tow bar free
Works with roof boxes (with enough bar width)

🚗 3. What If You Don’t Have Roof Bars?

No bars? No problem — you’ve got two main options:

➤ Tow Bar Bike Racks

Mount to your car’s tow ball — no bars needed.
✅ Easy to load
✅ Great for families and e-bikes
✅ Secure and stable

🔗 Read: How to Choose the Right Bike Rack

➤ Boot-Mounted Bike Racks

Strap to the tailgate or boot door using hooks and tensioning straps.

✅ Affordable
✅ Quick fit
⚠️ May block access to boot or lights
⚠️ Not suitable for all vehicles (especially those with spoilers or curved glass)

📏 4. Can You Fit Roof Bars Later?

Absolutely — if your car has:

Raised roof rails: easy clamp-on bars
Flush rails or fixed points: check for compatible kits
No rails: you’ll need door jamb/clamp kits made for your vehicle

🔗 See: Can You Fit Roof Bars Without Roof Rails?
🔗 Use the Vehicle Lookup Tool

🛡️ 5. Final Tips

✅ Check your vehicle’s compatibility before buying any rack
✅ Always follow the rack manufacturer’s fitting guide
✅ Don’t forget security — lock your bikes and racks

🔗 Roof Bar Accessories & Locks