Could anyone possibly recommend a carrier/rack that might work for a fatbike - 3.8” size. Only need it for one bike, and we have a c-class estate.
I’m not sure whether to go with roof or boot mounted. In my mind, boot mounted seems a lot less exposed to the elements and hence less chance of flying off. But I’m also worried about covering the number plate and rear lights..
There’s a lot of driving involved so ideally the most secure solution would be best. Has anyone got any experience transporting fat bikes like this?
Thule do a wide wheel tray for their 598 roof carrier which I’ve used with 4.6” tyres no problem.
Thule roof carriers have a ‘fat’ adaptor channels or simply use a long webbing strap to secure the wheels. I’ve seen people just use some guttering to mod other racks. Thule also do a high-mount rear rack that doesn’t obscure the rear lights.
I stick my Surly ICT with 4.8"s on a regular (non-fat) Thule 591 roof rack and use Voile straps to lash it to the channels. I loop another strap through the front wheel and upright support to help stop it twisting as the fat tyres perhaps understandably catch the wind a bit more than a skinny wheel.
I also use a regular Fiamma rack on the back of the van if I'm carrying it on that, again with Voile straps for their extra length. That's nice and high out the way of lights and number plate.
Standard rack.
Voile straps.
I've got an Aiston towbar rack with the fat bike wheel supports. Not available new anymore but they crop up on eBay from time to time.
I've never liked non tow bar rear racks. They're a faff to install, rub on the paint, pull on the edge of the panel, and invariably obscure the lights to some extent.
Then again fat tyres aren't going to be aerodynamic on the roof!
I like old fashioned toe straps for securing bikes to bike racks. They’re bombproof. Voile straps work just as well but they feel a bit more vulnerable and are prob twice the price. Used to strap my fatty to a normal bike rack with prob two toe straps per wheel, I guess a decent length voile would cost about the same!