
If you're looking to transport multiple bikes on your roof rack, a bike carrier is a must-have. There are two main types of bike carriers: roof-mounted carriers and hitch-mounted carriers.
Roof-mounted carriers are ideal for small to medium-sized vehicles, as they don't require a hitch to attach to the vehicle. They're also great for compact spaces, like city streets.
A roof-mounted bike carrier can hold up to 4 bikes, depending on the size and type of bikes. This is a great option for families or groups of friends who need to transport multiple bikes at once.
Bike carriers come in different materials, including aluminum and steel. Aluminum carriers are lighter and more corrosion-resistant, while steel carriers are stronger and more durable.
Related reading: Box Wine Carrier
Types of Bike Carriers
There are three main types of roof bike carriers to choose from: fork-mounted, wheel-mounted, and frame-mounted. Each type has its own unique benefits.
Fork-mounted roof bike racks offer a very stable ride and are ideal for road bikes or bikes with quick-release wheels. They require you to remove the front wheel of your bike, securing the fork to the rack.
For your interest: Rad Power Cargo Bike
Wheel-mounted roof bike racks allow you to secure your bike with both wheels still attached, making it quicker to load and unload. This type is great for those who frequently transport their bikes.
Frame-mounted roof bike racks hold the bike by its frame, offering a versatile solution that works with various bike sizes and styles. This option is perfect for mountain bikes or bikes with non-traditional frames.
Here are the three main types of roof bike carriers summarized in a table:
Choosing a Roof Rack
Consider your vehicle's roof type, as roof bike racks are compatible with most vehicles that have a roof rack system installed.
Roof bike racks offer easy access to your vehicle's trunk, making them ideal for cyclists who prioritize convenience. They're also beneficial for cars with low roofs, where lifting a bike onto the roof isn't a challenge.
There are three main types of roof bike racks: fork-mounted, wheel-mounted, and frame-mounted. Each type has its unique benefits.
Here's a brief rundown of the three types:
Installation and Application
Roof mounted bike racks are a popular choice for cyclists who frequently travel further afield to ride.
Unlike a towbar mounted or rear mounted bike rack, it's possible to leave a roof rack fitted to your car and access your boot without worry.
Roof bars can be locked, putting your mind at rest while travelling.
Our Thule products feature a torque indicator which prevents overtightening.
The how to fit a cycle carrier guide makes installation of roof bars relatively straightforward.
Within our range, you'll find top brands Thule, Exodus and Seasucker.
Seasucker makes up our premium roof mounted bike racks.
Product Information
Our roof bike racks are designed to be versatile, accommodating not only bikes but also skis, snowboards, paddleboards, surfboards, and cargo boxes during different seasons.
They're a great choice for anyone who needs to transport multiple types of gear, eliminating worries about how to get everything to and from a trip.

Our range of roof bike racks includes fork-mounted options for streamlined road bikes and frame-mounted racks for versatile mountain bikes.
To ensure a secure and convenient way to transport your bike, consider our comprehensive guide on choosing the best bike rack for your car.
From road cyclists to mountain bikers, and casual riders, there's a roof bike rack that fits your needs and preferences.
Introduction and Overview
If you're looking to transport your bike safely and efficiently, a bike carrier for your roof is a great option. Roof bike carriers come in different types, including roof racks and roof boxes, which can be mounted on most vehicles.
Most roof bike carriers can support a maximum weight capacity of 35-40 kg (77-88 lbs), making them suitable for carrying multiple bikes or heavier bikes.
Some roof bike carriers are designed to be compact and foldable, making them easy to store when not in use. This is especially useful for people with limited garage space or those who only need to transport their bike occasionally.

A good roof bike carrier should be easy to install and secure, with most models taking around 10-15 minutes to set up. This can vary depending on the type of carrier and the vehicle it's being installed on.
For added security, consider a roof bike carrier with a locking mechanism, such as a cable lock or a padlock, to prevent theft. Many roof bike carriers also come with additional features like reflectors and lights to increase visibility while driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are roof bike carriers safe?
Yes, roof bike carriers are safe, even the most basic models can securely hold a bike. However, the number of carriers you can safely use depends on your car's size.
Can I put a bike on a roof rack?
Yes, you can put a bike on a roof rack, but consider a roof bike rack for easy access and flexibility, especially for cars with low roofs.
What is the best bike roof rack for a car?
Choosing the best bike roof rack for your car depends on your specific needs and preferences, but popular options include fork-mounted carriers like the Thule ProRide and PeruzzoPure Instinct, which offer a balance of security, ease of use, and durability.
What is the best roof bar bike carrier?
The Thule ProRide 598 is a top-rated roof bar bike carrier that offers a great all-round choice for most cyclists. However, it requires clamping directly onto the down tube of your bike.
Sources
- https://yakima.com/collections/roof-mounted-bike-racks
- https://erkulautousa.com/products/erkul-bike-rack-for-car-bike-roof-rack
- https://www.outdoorplay.com/collections/bike-roof-rack
- https://www.halfords.com/cycling/bike-racks/roof-mounted-bike-racks/
- https://www.thule.com/en-us/bike-rack/roof-bike-racks
Featured Images: pexels.com