3 Easy Ways to Transport Your Bike Compliant Car Bike Racks in Singapore

Cycling is a great way to get outside and explore your surroundings, but sometimes you need to transport your bike to a new location to access different routes or trails. If you want to take your bike on a road trip or travel to a cycling event, having a rack on your car can make transportation much easier.

Transporting Your Bike Safely and Securely

One of the main reasons to have a rack on your car is to transport your bike safely and securely. Without a rack, you might have to take your bike apart and store it in your car, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient. Plus, if you have a large or heavy bike, it may be difficult to lift it in and out of your car. With a rack, you can easily transport your bike without having to take it apart, and it will be securely fastened to your car.

Another benefit of having a rack on your car is that it can allow you to travel further and access new cycling routes. If you have a favourite cycling destination that's too far to ride to, having a rack on your car means you can drive there with your bike and then cycle once you arrive. This can also be useful if you're planning a cycling trip with friends or family, as you can transport multiple bikes on your car.

Get to East Coast Park with ease or explore one of the newer cycling trails in Jurong Lake Gardens or even in Changi and beyond! with a bike rack, you can go for longer distances, especially if you have little ones with you, without having to worry about not being able to cycle back home.

Types of Bike Racks for your Car

When it comes to choosing a rack for your car, there are several options to consider. Roof racks, trunk-mounted racks, hitch-mounted racks, rear-mounted bike racks, and bike carriers are all popular choices. Each type of rack has its pros and cons, and the best one for you will depend on your car, your intended use, your bike, and your budget.

Roof rack

Image credit: Flatbike

To use a roof rack, you'll need a compatible roof rack system that attaches to the crossbars on your car's roof. You'll also need a bike mount that attaches to the roof rack and holds your bike securely in place. To use this system, place the bike mount on the roof rack and secure it in place. Then, lift your bike onto the mount and secure it with straps or a locking mechanism.

Pros: Keeps your bike out of the way of traffic, unobstructed access to your trunk, and can accommodate multiple bikes.

Cons: Can be challenging to lift your bike onto the roof and secure it safely, can reduce fuel efficiency, may require additional crossbars or adapters for your car.

Cost: $$$ (typically more expensive than other options)

Trunk-mounted rack

Image Credit: Bikes Reviewed

Trunk-mounted racks attach to your car's trunk or hatch. The rack should come with straps or hooks to secure the bike in place. To get your bike on this rack, place the rack on your car's trunk or hatch and secure it in place with the straps or hooks. Then, lift your bike onto the rack and secure it with additional straps or hooks.

Pros: Easy to install and remove, can accommodate up to three bikes, and doesn't require a roof rack or trailer hitch.

Cons: Virtually none!

Cost: $ (typically less expensive than roof and hitch-mounted racks)

If you're in the market for a trunk rack, we would recommend the Bones Bike Trunk Rack, which comes in an Ex-3 Bike Car Rack version which holds 3 bikes and a compact 2 Bikes Car Rack version.

Hitch-mounted rack

Image Credit: Walmart

To use a hitch-mounted rack, you'll need a compatible rack that attaches to your car's trailer hitch. The rack typically comes with arms or hooks to hold your bike in place. Slide the rack into your car's trailer hitch and secure it in place with a locking mechanism. Then, lift your bike onto the rack and secure it with the arms or hooks.

Pros: Easy to install and remove, can accommodate up to five bikes, and provides easy access to your trunk. Making it one of the most convenient options in this list.

Cons: Can obstruct your car's license plate and tail lights, requires a trailer hitch, can reduce ground clearance.

Cost: $$ (typically more expensive than trunk-mounted racks)

Which Bike Rack is Best for you?

This all boils down to your personal needs. The type of car you have plays a big role as some racks are more compatible with certain car models.

You'll also want to consider the type of bike you have and ensure that the rack can securely hold your bike in place and accommodate its size and weight. Also think about how you'll be transporting your bike and how many bikes you'll need to carry, as some racks can accommodate multiple bikes while others are designed for just one.

Finally, you'll want to consider your budget and choose a high-quality rack that fits within your price range. 

Always check with the manufacturer of the bike rack or your local bike shop if you're in doubt about the compatibility of the product!

What to look out for when using a bike rack on your car

When using a bike rack to transport your bike, there are several things to look out for to ensure a safe and secure ride:

1. Proper installation: Make sure the rack is properly installed on your car and that your bike is securely fastened to the rack.

2. Obstructions: Ensure that the bike rack does not obstruct any lights, license plates or rearview mirrors.

3. Weight limit: Check the weight limit of the rack and make sure that your bike does not exceed it.

4. Clearances: Be aware of the height and width of your car when your bike is mounted, especially when driving through low clearance areas like garages or underpasses.

5. Speed: Do not exceed the speed limit when driving with a bike rack and be extra cautious when driving around corners or over bumps.

6. Check regularly: Inspect the rack and the bike regularly during transportation to ensure that everything is secure and in good condition.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and stress-free ride when using a bike rack to transport your bike.

Overall, the best method for carrying your bike on your car will depend on your car model, the type of bike you have, and your budget. The important thing here is to get out on your bicycle more and go riding with the people you love!