5 Ways To Mount Your Bicycle While Traveling

You’ve packed your things and are ready to hit the road, but there’s one question buzzing in your mind—how are you going to bring your beloved bicycle along on your adventure? For outdoor enthusiasts like you, figuring out the best way to transport your bike can feel like solving a puzzle. Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with these five ways to mount your bicycle while traveling.

This guide will break down different ways to mount your bike, whether you’re heading to your favorite camping spot, seeking new trails, or crossing state lines. Armed with our expert advice, you’ll know exactly which method works best for your travel setup.

Mounting Bikes on a Roof Rack

Riding shotgun isn’t an option for your bike, but putting it on the roof? Now we’re talking. Roof racks are a dependable classic for transporting bikes if you value trunk space or have a packed car.

Why Roof Racks Work

Roof racks are ideal for campers and road warriors who don’t want to compromise on interior space. Roof racks keep your bike secure and out of the way. Plus, they’ll make you look awesome as you set off on your quest for adventure.

Pro Tip for Adventure Seekers

Roof racks tailored to outdoor enthusiasts can make all the difference, and the roof rack manufacturers at Black River are aware of this. Black River offers roof racks designed specifically to support your outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re transporting one bike or a fleet, we built these racks for stability and convenience.

Consider using padding or frame protection between your bike and the rack to minimize scratches or wear on your bike. Double-check the load capacity of your car’s roof to ensure you’re in the clear before hitting the highway.

Pros

• Saves trunk and interior space
• Secure positioning
• Suits active, adventure-packed trips

Cons

• Might be tricky to load if your car is tall
• Adds height to your vehicle, so watch out for tunnels and garages

Hitch-Mounting Your Bike

Got a hitch on the back of your car? Good news! Hitch-mounted bike racks are one of the easiest ways to transport your bike. These racks attach directly to your vehicle’s hitch receiver, making them quick and easy to install.

Why Hitch Racks Are Awesome

Hitch racks lower the loading effort—instead of hoisting your bike onto the roof, you can slide or lift it onto the rack with ease. These racks are a game-changer for those with heavier bikes or limited mobility.

Plus, most hitch racks are foldable, so you can swing them out of the way when you need to access your trunk without fully unmounting the rack. This convenience can make all the difference during long trips with frequent stops.

Pros

• Easy to load and unload
• Works for multiple bikes
• Stylish and functional design

Cons

• May block access to your trunk
• Hitch receivers are necessary

Mounting Bikes to Your Trunk

Park your bikes in the trunk for a quick and budget-friendly option. Trunk-mounted racks attach to the back of your vehicle using adjustable straps. These racks keep things simple and don’t require a hitch or roof rack setup.

Who Should Go for This Option?

Trunk racks are best friends of those who are casual travelers or road-tripping on a budget. They’re lightweight, portable, and easy to unmount when you’re not using them. However, they may not offer the same level of security as roof or hitch racks, so they’re best for short trips or city drives.

Apply protective padding between the rack and your vehicle to avoid damage to your car’s paint. Always ensure the adjustable straps are tight and secure before venturing out.

Pros

• Affordable solution
• Easy to install
• Doesn’t require extra hardware like hitch receivers

Cons

• Limited bike capacity (usually one to three bikes)
• It can potentially scratch your vehicle’s paint

Spare Tire Bike Racks

If you’re traveling with a spare tire on the back of your car, we’ve got great news for you! You can double up its functionality by mounting a bike rack to it. Spare tire bike racks clip onto your vehicle’s spare tire setup, giving you the ability to carry one or two bikes effortlessly.

The Case for Spare Tire Racks

If you’re rocking a Jeep, SUV, or off-road vehicle, spare tire racks are a fantastic option. These racks are generally compact and won’t eat up too much space on your vehicle. Perfect for trail-seeking campers heading off the beaten path.

Confirm that the rack is compatible with your specific tire size to ensure a snug fit when using this setup. Double-check that your tire mount can handle the added weight before setting off down the open road.

Pros

• Excellent for off-road vehicles
• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to remove and store

Cons

• Limited to carrying one or two bikes
• Not compatible with all vehicles

Inside the Car

This option doesn’t involve mounting anything at all, but hear us out! If you’ve got a spacious car, SUV, or van, you can fold down the seats and secure your bike inside the vehicle. It’s like giving your bike its own VIP area.

When To Choose This Option

Do you have a short drive or fewer passengers? Throwing your bike into the back may be the simplest option. Just make sure to secure it with bungee cords or straps to prevent it from shifting around during transit.

Disassemble your bike by removing the front wheel or flipping the handlebars for a more compact fit to avoid damage. This method prevents grease or dirt from transferring to your car’s interior.

Pros

• No extra equipment required
• Doesn’t expose your bike to weather conditions
• Super simple setup

Cons

• Eats into your cargo or passenger space
• Requires careful positioning to avoid damage to your bike or car interior

Make the Most of Your Next Trip

Transporting your bike doesn’t have to be a headache. You’re sure to find a mounting solution that suits your travel style, budget, and vehicle setup by experimenting with one of these five ways to mount your bicycle while traveling.

No matter how you mount it, the important thing is getting out there and having a blast on your bike! Don’t forget to visit the Black River website to explore our vast selection of outdoor essentials and gear up for adventures, big or small.