E-mountainbikes are powerful, agile and fast - as long as they are kept in the right conditions. But even with the motorised action radius, not every tour can start at the front door. But transporting cars to their destination is not one of the e-bikes' favourite disciplines. So where to put the bikes? If you want to do without the impractical and dirty solution in the car, you will inevitably end up with a carrier for the trailer coupling. This is where the electrified fun-seekers are bedded down like young birds in their parents' nest. We tested seven models.
What speaks against other carrier systems is quickly explained: Balancing a 23-kilo colossus above head height on the car roof is hardly possible alone and is also a dangerous feat of strength for two people - especially for the car roof. The classic roof rack is therefore a thing of the past. In the case of systems for the tailgate, the veto comes from the safety circle: The operating instructions of the carriers often do not allow more than 15 kilos per bike, and the load capacities of many tailgates quickly reach their limits with two e-bikes. However, the towbars must not be blindly packed full either. "With a small car, the drawbar load of the coupling can reach its limit with just two bikes - so be sure to check the papers," warns Heidi Atzler from TÜV Süd. As a rule, however, the payloads of 60 to 70 kilos are suitable for two e-MTBs plus carrier.
You can find these bike carriers for the towbar in the test
- MFT Euro-Select Compact
- Alutrans E-Bike
- Atera Strada E-Bike M (EMTB tip: value for money)
- Eufab Premium II
- Thule Velospace 917 (EMTB tip: test winner)
- Uebler X21S (EMTB tip: handling)
- Westfalia BC 70
It's not just the weight that makes motor-assisted bikes a problem when it comes to transport. Bulky batteries and motors make it difficult to position the support arms. Fullys in particular, where the swingarm and shock also block the frame triangle, are difficult to attach. Our tip: Try out the new carrier on your own bikes before buying. Only then can you be sure that everything fits satisfactorily.
The good news: Most engineers have now realised that mountain bikes no longer roll along on unprofiled 1.7-inch-wide tyres. With the exception of the Alutrans rack, even 2.8-inch wide Plus models have found a place on all carriers - and these are increasingly being used on e-MTBs. The tested models also offer more space than necessary in terms of wheelbase. Only on the Alutrans (1250 millimetres) can things get tight with extreme geometries. Manufacturers have also recognised the potential for scratches caused by bikes lying too close together and have increased the distance between the rails. With many racks in the test, there is no risk of contact between the bikes, even with hubs in the wide Boost standard. Orientation aid: Forks and rear triangle are safe from each other from a rail distance of 22 millimetres. When clamping the frame, a proper rubber coating on the claws is the key. Even gentler than clamping systems are circumferential ratchet straps, which manage with significantly less pressure - as used by Atera and MFT. Interesting: We discovered many outstanding detailed solutions during our test - but no manufacturer managed to impress in all areas. An aha moment is too often followed by disillusionment in the next step.
The towbar carriers tested can be divided into two categories: Eufab, MFT, Uebler and Westfalia have sophisticated folding mechanisms and - when folded to suitcase size - are real space savers. Perfect for tight cellar compartments. They are also easier to place on the coupling due to their manoeuvrability. The models from Alutrans, Atera and Thule are only minimally foldable and therefore require more storage space. The large, heavy but also luxurious Thule Velospace in particular is only recommended if it is parked close to the car in the garage.
Tips & tricks for bike transport
Avoid nasty surprises with our tips and tricks for transporting your bike on the rear carrier.
1 Overweight: Before buying, check the weight limit of the carrier and the towbar. The sum of the bikes and carrier must not exceed the car's drawbar load. Couplings are usually approved for up to 60 or 70 kilos, which is enough for two e-MTBs plus carrier. However, the drawbar load can be significantly lower for small cars!
2 Test fit: Even the most flexible carrier can reach its limits with unfavourable bike combinations. Motors, battery inserts and shocks block the frame triangle. You can only find out whether your bike combination will fit on the rack of your choice by trying it out at the dealer.
3 Accessories in the carThe battery and detachable control units or displays belong in the car during transport. Because a lost control centre can really spoil a holiday with the E-MTB.
4 Theft protection: The lock systems on bike carriers usually do not offer adequate protection against theft. Be sure to upgrade with a tested chain or U-lock if the bikes are left unattended.
5 test mark: When purchasing the carrier, look out for GS or TÜV test marks - this guarantees the basic safety of the carrier.
The details of the test products
Joy or sorrow is often decided by the details. EMTB shows you what you need to look out for in bike carriers for the towbar.
MFT Euro-Select Compact
Price 379 Euro
Info www.mft.systems
Weight / stowage capacity 15.55 kg / 74.5x62x23.5 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilograms / 30 kilograms
Number of bikes 2
Plus tyres² / tilt yes / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1330 mm
Rail spacing 20 cm
Accessories / Special features GS, TÜV test seal and city crash-tested
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 6 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 7 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION The foldable MFT carrier almost looks like a toy UFO when you peel it out of the packaging. Not only visually, but also technically, the Euro-Select Compact goes its own way. Assembly is therefore not very intuitive. With the help of the operating instructions, mounting is easy, but requires many steps. The bike attachment is also special: only one frame is fixed to the carrier, the second bike is held between the frames by a connecting bone (1). Advantage: The distance between the bikes is standardised, and despite the relatively small distance between the rails, two bikes do not get in each other's way. Unfortunately, the base carrier is not particularly rigid. Other models offer a firmer stand. Annoying: The button, which has to be pressed firmly several times to mount and dismount, is located directly next to the spanner (2), and the ratchet straps show signs of wear after the first assembly.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Alutrans E-Bike
Price 377 Euro
Info www.alutrans.de
Weight / stowage capacity 17 kg / 68x115x23 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilogrammes / n. A.
Number of bikes 2 (Strada Vario 3 available for 3 bikes)
Plus tyres² / tilt no / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1250 mm
Rail spacing 19 cm
Accessories / Special features Biker XL model available for longer wheelbase and more space between the bikes
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 6 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 6 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION Take it in your hand and get started: The assembly of the Alutrans carrier is extremely self-explanatory and simple. Unfortunately, the first problems with bike mounting are not long in coming: the straps for fixing the wheels are far too short (1), so that we were no longer able to mount our standard bike with a wheelbase of 1233 millimetres and 2.35 inch wide tyres. The distance between the rails is also very small, which means that two bikes literally stick together. The space between the handlebars and the car is also very tight. The levers for tilting the carrier are hidden between the bikes (2) and are therefore difficult to reach. A positive feature is the solid, wide main bar, which gives the grab arms a large adjustment range and the parked bikes stability. The wide-opening claws with good rubber coating are also pleasing. The gripper arms are not removable and move a little awkwardly.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Atera Strada E-bike M
Price 395 Euro
Info www.atera.de
Weight / stowage capacity 15.2 kg / 71x100x20.5 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilograms / 30 kilograms
Number of bikes 2 (Strada Vario 3 available for 3 bikes)
Plus tyres² / tilt yes / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1315 mm
Rail spacing 23 cm
Accessories / Special features Ratchet straps in three lengths included, TÜV test seal and city crash-tested
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 9 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 9 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 9 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION The Atera does not have any serious weaknesses. Installation on the coupling is simple and self-explanatory. Even before locking, the carrier holds onto the coupling, which makes it easier to align and secure. Attention: The indicator for correct seating on the coupling head (1) is already green before the carrier is fixed ready to ride. Super: All attachment points are fitted with convenient ratchets. Unfortunately, the tyre ratchets on the outer bike are on the inside of the carrier and are therefore more difficult to reach. In addition, the levers are far away in rest mode (2), which favours accidental opening. In terms of tyre width and wheelbase, the Strada clears all hurdles and the distance between the bikes is also exemplary. Only the tailgate of our test vehicle should have more room for an 800 mm handlebar. Pleasant: wide, non-slip foot pedal for tipping.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Eufab Premium II
Price 399 Euro
Info www.eal-vertrieb.de
Weight / stowage capacity 17.3 kg / 69x54.5x30 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilogrammes / n. A.
Number of bikes 2 (Premium III available for 3 bikes)
Plus tyres² / tilt yes / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1460 mm
Rail spacing 22 cm
Accessories / Special features Plus version available for vans for opening large tailgates, TÜV and GS test seal
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION No carrier can be lifted onto the coupling as easily as the Premium II from Eufab. This is made possible by the comfortable carrying handle (1) and the favourable lever ratios when holding the stowage miracle. However, a few hand movements are required to unfold it, but these are quickly done once you have internalised the procedure. The wheel arches are comparatively narrow, but 2.8 mm Nobby Nics can still be fitted just fine. A small detail with a big impact: the clever plug holder (2) keeps the cable out of the way during transport and storage. Practical when mounting the bike: The grip arms can be easily removed. On the other hand, the straps for wheel fastening reduce comfort somewhat compared to a ratchet. The clamp for the second bike is on the inside, which makes it difficult to access. The licence plate holder and the lighting could be more solid.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Thule Velospace 917
Price 589 Euro
Info www.thule.com
Weight / stowage capacity 18.45 kg / 67x133x81 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilograms / 30 kilograms
Number of bikes 2
Plus tyres² / tilt yes / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1330 mm
Rail spacing 25 cm
Accessories / Special features Transport wheel available for pulling the carrier, TÜV, GS test seal and city crash-tested
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 9 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 10 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 10 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 10 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION The Velospace 917 is the cruise liner among towbar carriers: elegant and comfortable, but somewhat unwieldy. The bikes are stored at a safe distance (1) and are securely lashed down so that scratches to the bike or car are virtually impossible. Plus or even fat bike tyres have plenty of space - no rack offers more versatility. This is mainly due to the flat rails, which do not require wheel shoes. Solid and well thought-out ratchets, which are easy to operate, secure the wheels. Good detailed solution: the straps can be stowed away and are not in the way when loading (2). The Velospace comes at the price of its advantages in terms of weight and bulky stowage dimensions, which makes assembly time-consuming. However, once the carrier is balanced on the coupling head, it lies securely in the flat guide. The folding system is simple: only the solid bracket can be folded down, there is no quick-release fastener.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Uebler X21S
Price 557 Euro
Info www.uebler.com
Weight / stowage capacity 14 kg / 63.5x63x26 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilogrammes / n. A.
Number of bikes 2 (X31S available for 3 bikes)
Plus tyres² / tilt yes / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1360 mm
Rail spacing 22 cm
Accessories / Special features Various. Optional grab rails available, TÜV, GS test seal and city crash-tested
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 10 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 10 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 8 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 8 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION Attaching and loading the X21S is a joy - and not just because of its record weight. The clamping mechanism is self-explanatory and functional, and the ratchets are easy to operate. The handling of the gripper arms (1), which can be removed with one hand, remains unrivalled by the competition - a big plus in terms of comfort. The wheel attachment does not require wheel shoes, which has a negative effect on the tight fit - but has an even more positive effect on tyre clearance. The carrier has no problem even with 2.8 tyres. The rubberisation of the frame mount could be more comfortable and better finished, but two bikes can be parked on the rails at a safe distance. When folded, the lightweight rack is a storage marvel and easy to carry. Thanks to the quick-release fastener (2), rest mode is also reached quickly. There is some criticism of the lighting, which is a little wobbly and poorly finished.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Westfalia BC 70
Price 499 Euro
Info www.westfalia-automotive.com
Weight / stowage capacity 17.55 kg / 69x55x21.5 cm
Max. payload ¹ / per bike 60 kilograms / 30 kilograms
Number of bikes 2, expandable to 3
Plus tyres² / tilt yes / yes
Wheelbase³ max.1245 mm
Rail spacing 20 cm
Accessories / Special features Transport box can be optionally retrofitted, TÜV test seal and city crash-tested
Valuation
Assembly (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
Handling (25 %) 7 out of 10 points
BIKE fastening (25 %) 8 out of 10 points
Scratch risk (15 %) 7 out of 10 points
Processing (10 %) 9 out of 10 points
EMTB JUDGEMENT VERY GOOD⁴
CONCLUSION The bikes are perfectly lashed down on the high-quality Westfalia carrier. This is due to the very good wheel attachment via solid ratchets (1). Unfortunately, it is somewhat more difficult to position the gripper arms for securing the frame, as the main bracket is narrow and the arms cannot be moved very smoothly on the bracket. On the other hand, the rubber coating on the claws (2) and the enclosed rim protectors, which can be pulled over the ratchet straps, are exemplary - the icing on the cake of the impeccable workmanship. It is a pity that the distance between the rails is too small and the bikes are therefore dangerously close together. The tilting mechanism has to be disconnected by hand from under the carrier, which is relatively inconvenient. Releasing the ratchets is also a little tricky. The Bc-70 successor Bikelander has been announced for spring 2017, in which some of the points of criticism mentioned have been optimised.
Manufacturer's specification, also observe the drawbar load of the towbar.
²Tested with Schwalbe Nobby Nic 27.5x2.8.
Measured with 27.5x2.35" tyres.
⁴The BIKE judgement is independent of price. BIKE judgements: super, very good, good, satisfactory, with weaknesses, unsatisfactory.
Florentin Vesenbeckh
Editor CvD
