The rear of many SUVS are vertical and this provides quite a challenge for mounting some bicycle carriers to them, many bike racks for cars will not fit them. Bike racks for SUVs tend to be specialised for that particular type of vehicle but there are a few racks that can be universally mount. This article takes a look at the best types of bicycle carries for suvs and list them in order of usability.
Roof Mounted Bike Racks
Roof mounted bike racks really are not suitable for SUVs for a number of reasons, but the main reason is one of access. Because SUVs tend to be higher of the ground reaching the roof can be rather difficult, trying to lift a bike up this high and align it with the mounting points on the rack can be challenging ever for tall people. Using a roof mounted bike racks for SUVs increases the likely hood of your damaging your vehicle significantly. The other disadvantage of using a roof mounted bike carrier on an SUV is that it increases the height of the vehicle which can decrease fuel efficiency and restrict access to places. All in all roof mounted bike racks for SUVs are not a great idea, but if you have no alternatives take a look at the Thule bike racks article.
Trunk Rear/ Rear Mounted Bike Racks for SUV’s
Trunk mounted bike racks like the Bones Saris bike rack is not a bad solution but it is not ideal by any means. Trunk mounted racks usually fit to the rear door or sometimes in the case of Yakima bike racks to the rear externally mounted tyre. The problem with using a trunk mounted bike rack is that they severely restrict access to the rear of your vehicle so if you are planning a long road trip you need to make sure that you have everything you need in the cabin. The advantages of trunk mounted bike racks for SUVs through are that your can easily put your bike on the rack and this means no damage to you, your vehicle or your bicycles. In terms of cost, rear mounted bike carriers for cars and SUVs are one of the cheapest options.
Tow Bar/Hitch Mounted Bike Racks
Without a doubt the best bike racks for SUVs are those that fit to the hitch or tow bar and pivot out of the way – but they cost a lot typically around $400. These hitch mounted bicycle carriers for cars and SUVs give you the best of both worlds – they are easy to put bikes on, easy to take bikes off and you can get access to the rear of your vehicle. Obviously the big disadvantage is the cost but they do make a great type of bike rack for suv type vehicles.
