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Every time the whole family went on holiday in my childhood, my father would puzzle our five bikes onto the roof of his old E-Class. The whole thing followed an ingenious system that had been perfected over the years. The distances between the rails were balanced with millimetre precision. Handlebars, forks and cranks were interwoven like a Gordian knot. At 18, it wasn't just the type of holiday that changed - I preferred going to the mountains with friends rather than roasting on the beach with my parents - but also the way the bike travelled. From then on, I stowed the precious cargo in the boot, protected from all weathers, with the luggage and fellow travellers draped around it like Tetris blocks. In the meantime, the family has grown again and more important things occupy the boot: hordes of cuddly toys, sand toys and water pistols, for example. The bikes therefore had to move to the tailgate of our family car.
There are many different ways to transport your sports equipment in and on the car - each has its advantages and disadvantages. We explain which one is right for you in our buying guide.
You will find these topics in this article:
Bicycle rack for the roof
The car roof has always been used to transport a wide variety of things. Suitcases, boats, couches and, of course, bicycles. Although the latter are less and less likely to protrude from holiday caravans on the motorway. There are not too many arguments in favour of buying a roof rack. If you already have the necessary crossbars, the purchase price is usually limited. In addition, the boot remains freely accessible and the view to the rear is unrestricted. However, the bike racks on the vehicle roof are only comfortable to load if the vehicle height is as low as possible and the bikes weigh as little as possible. Only cars that are no higher than 1.50 metres are really suitable. And even here, people of normal height often have difficulty lifting the bikes into the brackets without scratching the paintwork.
Basic requirement: Cross member on the roof
Depending on whether your vehicle has roof rails or not, there are different crossbar systems. Inexpensive basic carriers for the roof rails are available from just over 50 euros. If you do not have roof rails, you will need a crossbar that fits your vehicle. These systems are usually a little more expensive to purchase. For our test, we were provided with a Thrubar set from Yakima. The high-quality crossbar can be adapted to various vehicle types using adapters, is very flexible in terms of width and has a T-slot. Roof racks or other transport systems such as roof boxes can be easily inserted here. The price for the Thrubar carrier is approx. 250 euros.
Bike rack on the roof: not very suitable for E-MTBs
This type of bike transport is generally not an option for e-bikes. This is also because most roof racks are only approved for a maximum of 20 kilos. Nevertheless, a lot has changed in this type of bike rack in recent years: rails for wide tyres, adapters for the various thru-axle systems or practical quick-release fasteners - most current models have little in common with the rickety racks of the past, with a simple U-profile rail and twist lock on two thin retaining bars.
Advantages & disadvantages of roof-mounted bike racks
+ Good value: Roof racks are often relatively inexpensive to purchase compared to other systems.
+ At eye level: Once the bikes have been hoisted onto the roof rack, the secure fit can be checked conveniently at eye level.
+ Versatile: To use a roof rack, you also need a base rack for the roof rails. However, this can be used in a variety of ways and is suitable for transporting a roof box, surfboard or roof tent, among other things.
+ Accessible: The roof rack is the only externally mounted system that provides easy access to the boot. In addition, the view to the rear remains clear and the licence plate and lights remain visible.
- Consumption: The exposed position on the roof significantly increases fuel consumption. Annoying wind noise is also not uncommon above a certain speed when using roof racks.
- Loaded: Probably the biggest disadvantage of this system is the high loading sill. Short people in particular quickly run into problems here. The heavier the bikes, the more uncomfortable it is to load the carrier.
- Weight: The weight limit for many roof racks is around 18 to 20 kilos. This system is therefore out of the question for heavy e-bikes.
- Height: The load on the roof limits the clearance height, which is something you should always bear in mind. And in the event of an accident, the bikes can become projectiles.
4 Roof rack systems in detail
Yakima Highspeed - Top for thru axles
249.90 euros / weight 4.35 kg / payload 18.1 kg / wheelbase/tyre width max. 122 cm/5"
Very high-quality bike carrier that can be mounted on the crossbars in just a few minutes without tools. Conversion to a T-slot carrier is also possible. Loading is extremely simple: the thru axle of the bike is inserted into the bracket and secured with a twist lock. Both 9-millimetre quick-release skewers and all standard thru-axle formats can be clamped without any problems. The rear wheel mount even offers enough space for fat bike tyres. The limiting factor for the Highspeed is the maximum wheelbase of just over 120 centimetres.
Thule UpRide - without frame contact
279.95 euros / dimensions 163 x 31.5 x 10.5 cm / weight 7.7 kg / max. load 20 kg / wheelbase/tyre width max. 130 cm/3" (5" with adapter) >> available here
Thanks to its clever clamping system, the Thule UpRide bike carrier is particularly gentle on carbon frames. The fact that the front tyre remains mounted also saves space in the boot. The variable mount is even suitable for fat bike tyres and children's bikes up to around 20 inches. The Thule bike rack also accommodates long wheelbases without any problems. The desired wheel size is preset on the bracket, then the front tyre is fixed in place using a ratchet. There is a cable lock on the back of the rail to secure the bike, and the Thule UpRide carrier itself is also lockable.
Rockbros XP1001 - Suction cup mounting
from 159.99 euros / weight 2.1 kg / max. load 20 kg / wheelbase/tyre width dependent on vehicle/variable >> available here
The Rockbros bike carrier can be mounted on any car roof without a base carrier thanks to suction cups. The flexible retaining rail adapts to curves. The prerequisite for a stable connection is clean, dust-free contact surfaces without edges, such as at the transition to the sunroof. Handling with the vacuum pump is simple and the connection is bombproof - even if the design of the Rockbros bike mount initially does not seem very trustworthy. All current thru-axle systems can be attached using the separately available adapters.
Elite Sanremo 40 / for sliding roof racks
59 Euro / weight 1.47 kg / max. load 16 kg / wheelbase/tyre width depending on
depending on roof rack/2.6" >> available here
The Elite San Remo impresses with its compact design and can be mounted in both directions on the basic racks of most well-known manufacturers. The clamping principle is practical and easy to use and works like the quick release on a bicycle. Adapters for 15-millimetre thru axles are available separately. The rear wheel mount and the permissible total weight show that the Elite was designed more for road and gravel bikes. However, the Sanremo is also a sensible option for carbon bikes. The manufacturer limits the maximum permissible speed to 110 km/h.
Bicycle carrier for the trailer coupling
Anyone who has a towbar on their car is lucky. This is because the towbar carrier is one of the most convenient ways to transport your bike from A to B. High-quality bike carriers usually come almost completely pre-assembled from the packaging and are usually attached to the ball head of the towbar in just a few simple steps. Loading is also convenient due to the low lifting height. Many manufacturers also offer access rails as accessories, which make it easier to load heavy bikes.
Clutch carrier: Fully E-MTB-compatible
All clutch carriers in our latest test The trailer coupling offers a maximum payload of 30 kilos per rail, which means that even the heaviest e-bikes can be transported. The limiting factor is then the drawbar load of the trailer coupling. But there are also a few points to consider with the bike rack itself: The distance between the rails should not be less than 190 millimetres. Otherwise the bikes will crowd together like sardines in a tin and the frame and rear end will rub against each other or be difficult to position optimally. Particularly long wheelbases also pose a problem for some bike carriers because the wheels can then no longer be secured properly. If you have bikes with particularly angled frames, you should check before buying whether the bike carrier can be securely attached at all. In addition to the usual claw grippers, holding arms with ratchet straps often offer better fastening options. They are also the first choice for pressure-sensitive carbon frames.
Tip: travelling safely
To minimise the load during the journey, you should mount the heaviest bike in the first position on the bike carrier - i.e. as close to the car as possible. After driving a few kilometres, check that the carrier is securely attached to the coupling and check all the attachment points on the bikes. Even though most bike carriers have lockable gripping arms, you should also secure the cargo with a high-quality lock even when the bike is only parked for a short time. Lock the frame to the bike carrier and secure the wheels with a suitable cable lock. If the protection is inadequate, the insurance company may refuse to pay compensation.
Advantages & disadvantages of bike racks for the trailer coupling
+ assembly: Provided the ball head of the coupling is grease-free, the bike carrier can usually be clamped to the rear of the vehicle in just a few simple steps. Many models can be folded up after use to save space and stored in the basement.
+ lifting height: The bikes only need to be lifted a few centimetres for loading. This is a big plus compared to other systems, especially for heavy models or e-bikes. The bikes can be conveniently rolled onto the rack via access rails.
+ consumption: Because the bikes are mostly travelling in the slipstream of the car, fuel consumption increases only slightly with this type of bike carrier.
- Boot: Thanks to the clever fold-down function, the boot of most towbar carriers remains accessible. However, the carrier still gets in the way when loading heavy objects. For buses or vans, you need a bike carrier that folds down extra far.
- Visibility: The bikes on the coupling carrier are directly in front of the rear window and impair the view to the rear. In addition, the load at the rear must be labelled in many countries.
- Dirt: On the hitch carrier, the bikes are fully immersed in the dirt of your own vehicle. Not a nice thing, especially in rainy weather or on winter days, and not exactly gentle on the material.
4 bike carriers for the towbar in detail
Yakima JustClick2
629 euros / storage dimensions 78 x 100 x 30 cm / weight 17.4 kg / load per rail/total 30/60 kg / wheelbase/tyre width max. 132 cm/2.75"
In our last test, Yakima JustClick landed in second place. Mounting on the clutch is excellent: attach, align, fold down - without any levers. The workmanship is also appealing. The rails are easy to extend and swallow wide tyres just as easily as long wheelbases. The solid rubberised grippers can be removed effortlessly and the bracket offers many mounting positions. The slightly raised second rail creates plenty of space between the bikes. Practical: small castors for transport, wide pedal for tipping and the holder for the optional access rail. The Yakima bike carrier can be extended to three bikes using an additional rail.
Thule EasyFold XT3
999 euros / storage dimensions 83 x 86 x 31 cm / weight 23.1 kg / load per rail/total 30/60 kg / wheelbase/tyre width max. 130 cm/3" (4.7" with toothed conversion strap) >> available here
Despite its heavy weight, the Thule EasyFold XT3 bike carrier is easy to mount on the towbar. The bike carrier has a great finish, requires hardly any assembly work and is very versatile. The wide rails even offer enough space for fat bike tyres. The sturdy and handy grab arms with torque limiter can be removed and all ratchets for the wheels are easy to operate. The straps can be stowed to the side for loading and are therefore not in the way. However, modern frames quickly bump into each other on the outer seats. After use, simply fold the rails upwards, stow the plug on its holder and roll the Thule to its storage place without straining your back.
Westfalia Bikelander
721 euros / stowage dimensions 69 x 58 x 22 cm / weight 17.5 kg / load per rail/total 30/60 kg / wheelbase/tyre width max. 130 cm/2.75"
The neatly finished Westfalia Bikelander bike carrier is folded compactly onto the towbar. The lever on the side makes locking a little more difficult, but it engages securely. Solid ratchets and adjustable wheel holders securely lash the MTB to the bike carrier. The rubberised grippers and the additional rim protectors are exemplary. Unfortunately, the narrow bracket makes it somewhat difficult to position the gripper arms correctly. The folding mechanism of the Bikelander also has to be operated manually from the inside. Since the distance between the rails has been increased to 22.5 cm and the maximum tyre width to 7 cm, modern bikes can also be mounted on the Bikelander bike rack.
Uebler i21 Z
849 Euro / stowage dimensions 69 x 61 x 20.5 cm / weight 13.5 kg / load per rail/total 30/60 kg / wheelbase/tyre width max. 132 cm/2.8" (4.5" with toothed conversion strap) >> available here
The test winner from our last comparison test is compact, lightweight and comfortable to handle. Clever solution: The clamp on the Uebler i21 Z does not require the usual lever and locks securely and audibly into place on the towbar. In the Z version, the i21 offers plenty of space for wide tyres and long wheelbases as well as a slightly larger rail spacing. Perfect for massive forks and wide rear triangles. In addition, the Uebler i21 Z can be folded down by 90° - interesting for "bus drivers". The gripper arms can be moved very variably on the wide bracket and protect the carbon frame - it couldn't be better. The ratchets for the wheels are somewhat difficult to reach.
Bicycle carrier for the vehicle interior
There is room in even the smallest cabin, they say. But when it comes to transporting bicycles inside a car, plenty of space is definitely an advantage. Even though cars are getting bigger and bigger - the Mercedes E-Class, for example, has grown by 283 millimetres in length and 66 millimetres in width in 44 years - the interior space does not always grow with it. Minibuses and vans are still the most suitable for the safest way to transport your bike. In estate cars and SUVs, sloping roof lines and narrow boot doors often cause problems.
Not every vehicle is suitable
Before looking for a suitable bike carrier, you should therefore check whether your bike will even fit through the hatch and into the boot in an upright position. A telescopic support naturally simplifies loading enormously. Depending on the vehicle model, rails or retaining eyes embedded in the floor serve as fastening anchors for the interior carriers, in some cases also eyelets on folded-down rear seats. All systems use the same principle to secure the bike: with the front wheel removed, the thru axle or quick-release clamps the fork in the holder. Lashing straps additionally secure the load and the removed wheel. If you want to transport several bikes, we recommend using holders that can be moved along a rail. This is the only way to make optimum use of the space inside.
Pack a dirty MTB in the car? - Tip from the BIKE editors
Good for the bike - dirty for the car: For bikes, the interior is the cleanest way to travel, but not usually for the car itself. If you are sensitive to dirt, you should have a mobile cleaning device or a tarpaulin in the boot. - Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor
Advantages & disadvantages of wheel brackets for car interiors
+ protection: Inside, the bikes travel protected from all weather conditions. This is certainly a sensible solution, especially for high-quality carbon models. In addition, all common carrier systems clamp the bike to the fork and not to the sensitive frame.
+ External dimensions: The dimensions of the vehicle do not change during transport in the interior. The clearance height and parking length remain the same. There is also no need to accept increased fuel consumption.
- Storage space: The bikes take up a lot of space in the boot and therefore limit the load capacity. This means that more than two bikes can hardly be transported in most vehicles.
- Dirt: After a muddy ride, the dirt trickles off the frame like cake crumbs. Not for cleaners or leased vehicles. A tarpaulin as a base or a shower before setting off are almost mandatory here.
- Assembly: Installing the systems in the vehicle is sometimes somewhat complex. In addition, seats usually have to be folded away or removed. The front wheels must be removed for all systems. The additional securing of the frame or wheels with lashing straps is often tricky.
3 Interior supports in detail
Radfazz aluminium rail + 2 holders - many models
251 euros* / variants: many aluminium profiles tailored to very different vehicle types, for quick release and thru axles
The Radfazz system is based on an aluminium profile that is attached to rails or eyelets in the vehicle floor or rear seat backrest. The bikes can therefore travel with or against the direction of travel. The fork holders are available for all common axle systems, are bolted to the base carrier and can be moved freely. Thanks to their modular design, the Radfazz bike holders can also be used after a vehicle change. Only the base carrier may need to be replaced. Extensions for the mount may be necessary, especially with large-travel suspension forks - be sure to measure exactly before purchasing.
Bikeinside set with two brackets - clamps everywhere
198 Euro* / Variants: three expander lengths, holder and extender for quick release and thru axles >> available here
With Bikeinside, the base carrier is braced to the side walls of the vehicle. This makes the system suitable for use on the flatbed of a pick-up, for example. The carrier can be installed and removed from the vehicle in just a few simple steps. The fork holders can be adjusted laterally, but not at an angle, which limits the flexibility somewhat. The mounts are generally designed for quick-release systems. Adapters for all standard thru-axle sizes must be ordered separately. As with Radfazz, an extender enables the clamping of large travel suspension forks or a slightly offset installation of the bikes to be transported.
Veloboy T3 + 3 holders - easy loading
547 euros* / variants: three different basic carriers for up to three bikes, optional maintenance support
The Veloboy T3 is a bike rack and loading aid in one. Depending on the model, up to three bikes (maximum total weight 45 kg) can be mounted on the aluminium base carrier. This is pulled out of the rear using rollers and supported by a folding foot. The bikes can then be loaded at a comfortable working height. As with the other models, the fork holders are selected according to the respective thru-axle system. An optional telescopic bar is also available for vehicles with a high loading sill. Clever bike carrier system that also works without any possible holding points in the rear of the car.
Rear carrier for the bus or van
If you don't have a towbar on your bus or van and are afraid of the cost of fitting one, a carrier for the tailgate may be an alternative. There is a wide range on offer, the costs are manageable and they are very popular with bus or camper van owners. Initial installation is often relatively time-consuming. In addition, the contact points should be protected from scratches with adhesive film. Owners of leased vehicles should be aware that minimal paint scratches may remain from the mounting points and may incur costs when the vehicle is returned. The weight of the carrier and wheels affects the operation of the tailgate. It may be necessary to retrofit firmer gas pressure dampers to the tailgate.
Thule WanderWay2 / for the VW Bus
649.95 Euro / weight 13.1 kg / load per rail/total 30/60 kg, tyre width max. 3" / can be upgraded to 4 wheels, holding arms with torque limiter >> available here
Thanks to its precise design and detailed instructions, the cleanly finished Thule WanderWay2 can be attached to the rear in five minutes and removed just as quickly. The grippers sit comfortably in the hand, are easy to remove and protect the frame thanks to the torque limiter. The wheel holders are also pleasing: they can be moved with one hand, are equipped with a non-slip ratchet and are wide enough for plus tyres. The rails of the bike carrier can be moved sideways without tools, leaving plenty of space when loaded with two bikes, but it gets tight with four bikes. When not in use, the platform locks securely into place on the base carrier. It's a shame that the Thule WanderWay2 is only available for the VW T6. It is the test winner from our last comparison test.
Alternatives and accessories
Access rail
A loading ramp can be an enormous relief, especially for heavy bikes or e-MTBs. The bikes can simply be rolled onto the bike rack from the side and do not have to be lifted. Most manufacturers (here Uebler 19940) now have suitable ramps in their range. Prices start at around 60 euros >> e.g. available here.
Frame adapter
With unconventional frame designs, it is sometimes difficult to find a position for the mounting arms. Thule or Yakima offer adapters for their bike mounts, which are clamped between the head tube and seat post to create a straight connection. We also recommend this type of attachment for sensitive carbon frames. Price: from approx. 35 euros
XXL ratchet straps
The standard ratchet straps are often too short for voluminous tyres or high-profile rims. Many manufacturers offer extra-long ratchet straps so that you can still mount such bikes on the bike rack. Make sure you buy a strap that matches the carrier. Prices from approx. 15 euros
Spacer with ratchet strap
High punctual pressure should be avoided on carbon frames as far as possible. An old bicycle inner tube between the gripper and the frame protects the material. Even better: spacers with ratchet straps, like this one from Uebler, which distribute the pressure on the carbon frame better. They are already standard on some models. As a retrofit part from approx. 70 euros
Systems for camper vans, pick-ups and co.
North Shore Racks 6-Bike Straight
This type of bike rack is widely used by shuttle providers, particularly in America and Canada. Your advantage: up to six bikes can be transported even on a pick-up or van. Attaching the bikes to the fork and rear tyres is quick and uncomplicated.
The disadvantage: the systems are generally designed for 2-inch couplings, which are rarely found in Germany. In addition, the carriers lack the light and licence plate strip required in Germany to be allowed to ride on public roads. Professional biker Kathi Kuypers has come up with a home-made solution for lights and licence plates. Yakima is currently working on a StVZO-approved version.
Push Components Pushrack
The Miesbach-based company has come up with a clever solution for camper vans. So-called airline rails are bolted to the tailgate. They serve as a mount for the bike carrier, which consists of a handlebar and a rear wheel holder. The bikes are simply hooked in vertically with the handlebars and secured.
Thanks to the high degree of flexibility, neither wide handlebars, carbon frames nor long wheelbases are a problem. Two bikes weighing up to 25 kilos can be mounted on each door. The racks cost 149.99 euros without airline rails - due to high demand, there is currently a longer delivery time.
Days on Tracks DOT bike hooks
Days on Tracks also offers a clever bike mount to which bikes can be easily attached. Regardless of frame size or tyre width, the DOT bike hooks can be used to transport any type of bike, from children's bikes to e-MTBs. The hooks are approved for loads of up to 50 kilos. The scope of delivery also includes the appropriate fastening material for the rear tyre.
The manufacturer recommends a ladder or a rear carrier, for example, for mounting on the vehicle. The bike holder can simply be screwed onto these. Alternatively, the whole thing also works with airline rails. The price for the holder including accessories is 99 euros.
FAQ: Bicycle carrier - good to know!
Before you set off on holiday with your mountain bikes on your vehicle, there are a few things you should bear in mind. We have summarised the most important tips for bike transport.
Labelling and securing
If the bike carrier covers the licence plate, a so-called follow-on licence plate is required. In addition, towbar carriers must have their own lights. If there is too much lateral overhang, the load must be secured with white lights at the front and red lights at the rear. The wheels must not protrude more than 40 centimetres to the side and the loaded vehicle must not be wider than 2.55 metres. Very different regulations apply in other European countries.
In Italy, the load must be labelled with a Warning sign must be secured to the rear. While an unstamped licence plate may also be affixed in Germany, this is not officially permitted in Croatia or Slovenia. Before starting your journey, you should inform yourself about the applicable regulations in holiday and transit countries.
Support and roof load
Even if the bike rack offers sufficient payload for your bikes: The limiting factor is always the permissible drawbar load or roof load of the vehicle. Simple calculation: With a drawbar load of 50 kilos for the trailer coupling and a carrier weight of 17 kilos, the bikes to be transported together must not weigh more than 33 kilos.
Plug connection
You need the right plug connection (7 or 13 poles) so that the light strip of the coupling support can be connected to the vehicle. Current models usually have 13-pin plugs.
Spacing and protrusions
Wide rear triangles and fat forks often lead to problems if the rail spacing on the bike carrier is too small - paint chipping is then not uncommon. The rail width and length of the ratchet straps must match the width and circumference of the tyres. Before buying, you should test mount your bikes on the desired bike rack.
Secure load
All objects that are not firmly attached to the bike - computers, water bottles, batteries, etc. - should be removed before the journey and transported in the car.
Stefan Frey
Editor
