how to install a bike rack

bike riding in city with buick encore trunk mounted bike rike

Installing a bike rack on your SUV makes it easier for you to bring your bike along when you go on a road trip. Usually, you should be able to assemble and install a bike rack without any tools. However, the process can vary depending on the type, brand, and model of rack you choose. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to properly install a bike rack on your SUV.

How To Install a Roof-Mounted Bike Rack

2019 Buick Regal TourX with roof mounted bike rack

If your SUV has crossbars on its roof, you might want to consider getting a roof-mounted bike rack. A roof bike rack attaches to the crossbars and usually clamps around the down tube of the bike. It allows you to easily access your vehicle's cargo area and gives you an unobstructed rear view. However, it exposes your bikes to wind, dirt, and debris as you drive. Typically, you can only store one bike per rack, but you can install multiple racks if you want to transport two or more bikes.

Most roof-mounted bike racks are adjustable and marketed as universal. However, measure the length of your crossbars and the distance between them to make sure the rack you buy will fit your SUV. Check the manufacturer's website to find out if a particular model will work for your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn't have crossbars, you can install them.

If necessary, assemble your roof bike rack on the ground first before you install it on top of your SUV. Then, lay the bike rack on the crossbars, and line it up with the tracks in the bars. Make sure the front of the rack is facing the windshield. Next, wrap the front strap around the front crossbar and the back strap around the back crossbar. Lock the attachments to set the rack in place.

How To Install a Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack

Buick Encore with truck mounted Bike Rack

A trunk-mounted bike rack hangs under the lip of your SUV's cargo door and attaches to the top of the rear. It can typically hold one or two bikes. This type of bike rack is a good option if you want to be able to drive under low underpasses and low-hanging branches or put a kayak or sled on top of your SUV. However, it can leave scratches or marks on your rear door even if it's properly installed. If you want to keep your vehicle in mint condition, it's better to get a roof or hitch bike rack.

Regardless of which brand or model you choose, make sure you check the manufacturer's website to determine if your preferred trunk rack will fit your vehicle. It's important to carefully read the instructions before you start the installation. Generally, a trunk-mounted bike rack comes in one piece and doesn't have a complicated assembly, but try to follow the manufacturer's installation instructions exactly.

In most cases, a trunk bike rack has straps on the top, sides, and bottom. Open the rear door of your SUV, and hook each strap onto the edge of the corresponding side of the rear door. Adjust the rack to make sure the pads that rest on the door are centered. Then, tighten each strap by adjusting the slide or pulling on the buckle.

Many trunk-mounted bike racks have straps that go all the way around and lock together on the inside of the rear door. Such racks are typically more secure. If you drive a compact crossover or need to park your vehicle in a tight space, opt for a compact trunk bike rack, which is easy to put on and take off. Nonetheless, a compact trunk rack is usually weaker and can only store one bike.

How To Install a Hitch-Mounted Bike Rack

SUV trailer hitch for bike

Some SUVs have a trailer hitch, while others don't. If your vehicle has one, it might be a good idea to get a hitch-mounted bike rack. This type of bike rack uses the trailer hitch to anchor and stabilize your bikes behind the rear door. It's an easy-to-install rack that attaches to a part of your SUV that's designed to withstand heavy loads. As such, it offers the largest weight capacity among the three main styles of bike rack. Usually, a hitch bike rack can hold two to four bikes.

When it comes to choosing a properly fitting hitch-mounted bike rack, the shape and design of the rack matter more than its size. Make sure the frame of your SUV and the shape of its rear bumper don't interfere with the rack you intend to buy. Visit the manufacturer's website to find out if your chosen model is suitable for your vehicle.

If your SUV has a pre-installed trailer hitch, you'll probably find it very easy to install a hitch-mounted bike rack. A hitch rack usually requires minimal assembly and can be installed in just one or two steps. However, because it's typically installed below your SUV's rear door, you might have to get underneath your vehicle.

You can install a hitch bike rack in a number of ways. In general, you'll attach it to your SUV by inserting a pole into the opening of the trailer hitch and screwing a bolt through both the opening and the rack. Another type of hitch rack requires you to get under your SUV and screw vertically into the frame. To do this, you must slide the bike rack into the hitch and line up the bolt hole with the opening in the frame. Then, use a socket wrench to tighten the bolt.

While it doesn't cost much, a bike rack serves the important purpose of securing your bike to your SUV. As such, it's worthwhile to invest in a high-quality rack, especially if you have an expensive bike. Also, make sure your bike rack is properly installed and your bike is securely fastened before you start driving. If your bike rack or bike falls off your SUV, it can cause damage to the vehicle behind you or lead to an accident.