How to Choose the Right Bike Rack for Your Car, SUV or Van

Looking to carry bikes safely on your next adventure? The right bike rack depends on your vehicle, your bike type — and how often you hit the road.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about choosing a bike rack that’s secure, convenient, and road-trip ready.

🚗 1. What Type of Vehicle Do You Have?

Before choosing a bike rack, consider what your vehicle allows:

🔗 Check your roof setup: What Roof Bar Mount Do I Have?

🔧 2. Know the Main Types of Bike Racks

🚲 Roof-Mounted Bike Racks

• Mount to roof bars

• Ideal if you’re already using a roof box or tent

• Keep rear access clear

• Carry 1–4 bikes depending on the setup

✅ Great for aerodynamic setups
✅ Compatible with most roof bar types

🔗 Browse Roof-Mounted Racks

🔄 Tow Bar-Mounted Bike Racks

• Attach to a tow bar (if your car has one)

• Strong, secure & easy to load

• Hold 2–4 bikes

• Some tilt for boot access

✅ Ideal for heavier e-bikes
✅ No need to lift bikes overhead

🔗 Tow Bar Racks Coming Soon to MyRoofBars.co.uk

🧳 Boot-Mounted Bike Racks

• Strap to the boot of your vehicle

• Affordable and quick to install

• Fit 1–3 bikes

• May block boot access or rear lights

✅ Ideal for occasional cyclists
✅ Great entry-level option

❗ Check vehicle compatibility — not suitable for all hatchbacks or SUVs.

🔋 3. Got an E-Bike? Choose Carefully

E-bikes are heavier than standard bikes, so not all racks are suitable.
Look for racks with:

• Higher load limits

• Strong clamps

• Tow-bar mounting (recommended)

🔧 Tip: Always remove the battery before transport to reduce weight.

🔒 4. Think About Security

Whatever rack you choose, make sure it offers bike locking and/or rack locking.

• Roof racks: Lockable frame arms

• Tow bar racks: Integrated locks + tilt access

• Boot racks: Use separate bike locks

🔗 See Anti-Theft Accessories

🎯 5. Bonus Tips Before You Buy

✅ Check if your car has roof bars or a tow bar already
✅ Make sure your bike frame size fits the rack style
✅ Consider how often you’ll load/unload
✅ Think about future upgrades (e.g. e-bikes, more family bikes)

🔗 Need roof bars first? Find Your Vehicle’s Roof Bar Kit

📚 Related Posts:

• Top Roof Bar Accessories for Everyday Use

• Can You Fit Roof Bars Without Rails?

• How to Fit Roof Bars Like a Pro

🔗 Useful Links:

• Bike Racks Collection (coming soon)

• Roof Bar Fitment Tool

• Contact Us for Fitting Advice