On top, on the back, inside - no problem at all. With e-MTBs too? Basically, the same requirements apply when transporting e-mountainbikes by car as for normal bikes: As a load, they must be secured in such a way that they do not pose a danger to the occupants and other road users, even during heavy braking and evasive manoeuvres. In the case of e-bikes, however, the high weight adds to the problem. Standard e-MTBs generally weigh between 18 and 24 kg - around 7 kg more than their non-motorised counterparts.
It is almost impossible to balance such a bike precisely on a roof rack without damaging the car or the spinal discs - even if the permissible roof load would still allow it. Tailgate carriers are also usually ruled out as an option. The reason: their low capacity of often only 15 kg per bike, which is exceeded even after removing the battery. The battery should be removed from the outside of the car for transport anyway. The second limitation is that the battery mount and motor severely restrict the clamping or fastening options on the bike, especially on fullys. Such barricaded frames make life difficult even for the otherwise recommendable clutch carriers. The least complicated option is to transport the bike inside the car. However, not everyone likes the bike in the car. The space for passengers and luggage is severely restricted, and you also have to put up with dirt.
RESOURCEFUL ACCESSORIES
The Frame adapter 982 from Thule is a possible solution when the often sparse clamping options of E-MTB frames run out. It is clamped between the head tube and the seat post using the two rubberised hooks, thus creating an additional clamping option that is gentle on the frame. Price 25.95 euros.
The Evoc Bike Cover helps to protect the car interior (or even the hotel room) from dirty bikes. All bike formats fit into the waterproof bag with all kinds of functional details, whether in one piece or (partially) dismantled. Price 140 euros.
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CLUTCH CARRIER
The most recommended transport option for e-MTBs on the outside of the car is the carrier system attached to the trailer coupling. As a rule, these have permissible payloads of 60-70 kg and are therefore suitable for transporting up to three e-MTBs. The only requirement: a trailer coupling with sufficient drawbar load (noted in the car documents). Most carriers are easy to fit to the vehicle, often even without tools. Make absolutely sure that the coupling ball is free of grease, otherwise the mechanism cannot clamp optimally. Although there is no official speed limit, manufacturers recommend a maximum speed of 120-130 km/h, depending on the model.
Tip 1 - Clamping
The clamping system for bike mounting should definitely be tested with your own E-MTBs before purchasing. Caution: Never clamp carbon frames directly to the frame tubes!
Tip 2 - Display
Without the control centre, even the best e-drive is helpless. It is therefore essential to remove external control elements before transport and transport them safely in the car.
Tip 3 - Warning sign
In Italy and Spain, a 50x50 cm red and white striped warning sign is mandatory as soon as anything protrudes beyond the vehicle's floor plan! Anyone who omits this must expect severe penalties.
TRANSPORT IN THE INTERIOR
Provided the car offers the necessary space and you can do without one or more second-row seats, the transport option inside the car is often the easiest and safest - theft protection included. Even with smaller station wagons, it is often enough to remove the front wheel and get the seat post out of the way (push it all the way in or take it out). If you then also remove the pedals, you gain additional space and avoid scratching your neighbour's bike and the interior. Because nothing changes on the outside of the car, the driving dynamics and fuel consumption remain largely unchanged. You can also park and enter the underground car park as usual. The only disadvantage: the interior often suffers.
Tip 1 - Load securing
Often neglected, but just as important as for external transport is securing the load in the car. Therefore, secure both the bike and the accessories with lashing straps to prevent them from slipping.
Tip 2 - Invite
Lifting the e-MTB into the car is not always easy. Pushing it into the car with the rear wheel in front makes it much easier to manoeuvre the bike inside the car. Alternative: the Veloboy bike platform (pictured above, from 249 euros).
Tip 3 - Dirt/protection
Care is needed to reduce soiling of the interior and avoid damage to the car or neighbouring bikes: a few blankets, mats or special bike bags can help.
COMPARISON OF THE SYSTEMS: PROS & CONS
INTERIOR TRANSPORT
PRO Simple load securing/theft protection, driving dynamics/vehicle layout unchanged, no additional consumption
CONTRA Reduced load volume/space, possible soiling in the interior, more relevant for larger cars (estate cars and vans)
CLUTCH CARRIER
PRO Easy installation & handling, low lifting height, seats & boot remain intact, no dirt in the interior
CONTRA Carrier quite expensive (400 to 600 euros), larger floor plan (parking!), higher fuel consumption (7-12%), load-bearing trailer coupling required
ROOF CARRIER*
PRO Inexpensive (100 to 200 euros plus base carrier), seats & boot remain intact, no dirt in the interior
CONTRA Handling/lifting work (!), additional consumption (up to 25 %), poorer driving dynamics/vehicle height, additional payload (17 kg per bike) borderline. Payload (17 kg per bike) borderline
TAILGATE CARRIER*
PRO Seats & boot remain intact, no dirt in the interior
CONTRA Licences. Payload (15 kg per bike) usually too low, in some cases lack of approval from car manufacturers, higher fuel consumption (9-15 %)
* not sensible or practicable
