How Many Bikes Can You Carry on a Car? Rules, Limits & Safe Setup

Planning a family ride or group trip? It’s tempting to load up as many bikes as possible — but there are legal, safety, and vehicle load limits to think about first.

Here’s what UK drivers need to know about how many bikes you can legally and safely carry on your car, SUV, or van.

🚲 1. What’s the Maximum Number of Bikes You Can Carry?

There’s no fixed UK law on the number of bikes you can transport — but you must not:

• Obscure your number plate or lights

• Exceed the vehicle’s max load

• Let bikes overhang dangerously

• Block your rear view (unless using mirrors or cameras)

Most setups carry 1–4 bikes safely, depending on:

• Rack type

• Bar or tow bar strength

• Bike size & weight

🔧 2. Bike Rack Type & Capacity

🔗 See: Choosing the Right Bike Rack

⚖️ 3. Weight Limits: Roof Load vs Tow Bar Load

Your car has a max roof load, usually 50–100kg — including bars + bikes + racks.

Example:

• Roof bars: 6kg

• Bike rack: 5kg

• 2 bikes (15kg each): 30kg
  ➡️ Total: 41kg — under the 50kg limit ✅

Tow bar racks usually support more — but check:

• Tow bar nose weight limit

• Rack capacity (usually 60–70kg max)

🔧 Check your vehicle manual or manufacturer site for roof/tow limits.

📏 4. Overhang Rules (and What to Avoid)

The DVSA states:

• Bikes must not extend excessively past the width or length of the vehicle

• Anything that does must be secure and visible

• If lights or number plate are blocked — use a lighting board

🔗 Tow Bar Light Boards (coming soon)

🧳 5. Long Trips? Consider Weight Distribution

For motorway trips or heavy bikes:

• Keep heavier bikes closest to the car (on tow bar racks)

• Use frame clamps or anti-sway arms

• Strap down wheels to prevent movement

• Check fittings every 1–2 hours on long drives

🔒 6. Don’t Forget Security

More bikes = more risk of theft.

• Use a rack with built-in locks

• Lock bikes to each other when stopped

• Never leave your vehicle unattended for long

🔗 Anti-Theft Accessories

📚 Related Posts:

• How to Choose the Right Bike Rack

• Best Roof Bar Add-Ons for Holiday Travel

• Top Roof Bar Accessories for Everyday Use

🔗 Useful Links:

• Find Roof Bars for Your Car

• Browse Bike Racks (coming soon)

• Need Help? Contact Us