There’s nothing better than heading out for a weekend ride, especially when new trails or scenic routes are calling your name. But before you hit the road, there’s one thing that can make or break your entire trip: how you transport your bikes. It might seem straightforward, but you’d be surprised how often bike transportation mishaps lead to damaged bikes, scratched vehicles, or worse—a bike flying off mid-drive.

Whether you’re heading out for a casual ride or a multi-day biking adventure, avoiding these common mistakes can save you time, money, and headaches. Here’s what to look out for when transporting your bikes by car.

1. Using the Wrong Type of Rack for Your Vehicle

Not all bike racks fit every vehicle or travel situation. The rack you choose should match your vehicle type and how often you plan to transport bikes. For instance, roof racks are popular, but they can be challenging to load, especially on taller vehicles. Trunk-mounted racks might be affordable, but they often lack the stability needed for longer trips or heavier bikes.

If you’re transporting multiple bikes or want a sturdy, easy-to-use solution, a hitch bike rack is a great option. It attaches securely to the tow hitch, keeps bikes upright, and makes loading and unloading a breeze—no heavy lifting required.

2. Failing to Properly Secure the Bikes

Even the best rack can’t protect your bikes if they’re not properly secured. Loose straps, twisted tie-downs, or a quick rush job can lead to bikes swaying, bumping into each other, or worse, falling off mid-transit.

Always double-check each bike before hitting the road. Use all provided securing mechanisms, including wheel straps, frame clamps, and anti-sway cradles if available. For added protection, consider using extra bungee cords or padding between bikes to prevent contact damage.

3. Overloading the Rack

Every rack has a weight limit, and it’s crucial not to exceed it. Overloading can cause the rack to fail or place excessive strain on your hitch or trunk. This is especially true for families or groups transporting multiple bikes, or for riders using e-bikes, which are significantly heavier than standard mountain or road bikes.

Check your rack’s weight capacity and make sure you’re within the guidelines. If you’re riding with a crew, split bikes between vehicles or consider a higher-capacity rack designed specifically for group rides.

4. Blocking License Plates or Rear Lights

Some rack setups, especially trunk-mounted or large vertical racks, can block your license plate or rear lights—a safety hazard and often a legal issue. Many drivers don’t realize this until they’re pulled over or hit in low visibility conditions.

If your rack or bikes obstruct the rear of your vehicle, consider using auxiliary light kits or a license plate relocation bracket. Visibility matters, not just for your own safety, but for everyone else on the road.

5. Forgetting to Check the Rack Mid-Trip

It’s easy to assume that once your bikes are loaded and strapped down, you’re good to go for hours. But road vibrations, weather, and uneven terrain can shift things around. Bolts loosen. Straps stretch.

Make it a habit to stop and inspect your setup during longer trips. Every couple of hours, pull over and check the stability of the rack and security of the bikes. A five-minute check could prevent a major accident.

6. Ignoring Bike-to-Bike Clearance

Bikes rubbing against each other during transport is a recipe for scratches, paint chips, or bent components. It’s not just about securing the bikes to the rack; it’s about making sure they don’t knock into each other.

Use racks with adequate spacing between bikes, or consider adding spacers or soft foam sleeves between contact points. For racks where handlebars and pedals are close together, alternate bike directions or adjust saddle heights to avoid interference.

7. Not Considering Garage Clearance (or Drive-Thrus)

If you’re using a roof-mounted bike rack, it’s essential to remember the extra height added to your vehicle. Countless bikes (and garage doors) have been victims of this oversight.

Before entering a garage, drive-thru, or parking structure, double-check your clearance. Consider putting a reminder sticker on your dashboard or steering wheel—just in case.

Bonus Tips for Smooth Bike Transport

• Lock It Up: Even when you’re just grabbing coffee or a quick meal, always lock your bikes. Use a cable lock or rack-integrated lock system.
• Protect Your Paint: Use microfiber cloths or padding between bike frames and your vehicle’s paint to prevent scratches.
• Watch the Weather: Rain, road salt, and mud can wreak havoc on your bike components. Wipe down your bikes after transit if they’ve been exposed.

Conclusion

Transporting bikes by car doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require a bit of planning. By avoiding these seven common mistakes, you’ll not only protect your bikes and vehicle but also enjoy peace of mind during every ride. Whether you’re driving ten minutes to your local trail or heading out for a cross-country mountain biking trip, the right setup can make your cycling experience that much smoother. Happy riding!