Is there a reason why most folks on here put bikes in cars, rather than on it? (Genuine question, not being a peeeeenarse)
We did a good few years of bikes outside:
– Strap on rack (should be illegal, almost impossible to fit without them resting on, or having straps running over, a flexible bumper. Never felt completely comfortable).
– Roof mounted, complete bike. Quick, keeps inside of car clean but if the bikes muddy and you drive in the rain you have a roof covered in mud. Never *look* that secure (in the ‘are they going to fall off sense’) – bikes rock from side to side more than I like even with top end racks. Low car park barriers are an issue.
– fork mount racks (and wheel rack on roof). Significantly more secure, lower profile and less wind resistance but otherwise same disadvantages as above.
– tow ball rack. Easier to load, but less easy to avoid bikes rubbing on each other. Makes car longer and more difficult to park. Car parks are an issue (but height isn’t). If you drive any distance in the wet the bikes end up covered in road filth which can contaminate discs. You need to store it (though expensive ones now fold up small ours was a basic Thule that needed two people to carry it back from the car.
All outside solutions mean keeping your fingers crossed every time you park at a motorway service station, or faffing with locks (which of course are still no defence against a cordless angle grinder.
Bikes in vehicle means they’re secure *enough* for service stations, a pub meal, overnight at a French hotel. (Dont’ cover your vehicle in bike brand stickers, tinted rear windows and blankets mean they’re not visible unless someone walks right up and peers in). Maybe not in a city centre, but most of the time it’s ok. You bring the mud home with you in the vehicle but a brush is enough most of the time, and a Worx Hydroshot in winter. Rubber floor mat helps. Flat floor of a van based people carrier helps. No kids helps.
