Not every car has a trailer hitch.
Read here which transport systems you can still use to transport your bikes safely.
Note to our readers:
We create product comparisons and deals for you.
To make this possible, we receive a commission from partners.
This changes nothing for you.
In the bicycle accessories you will find many bike carriers (the big bike carrier comparison 2022) that you can mount directly on the trailer hitch.
However, if this is not possible with your vehicle, there are other alternatives: Bicycle racks
for mounting on the roof or tailgate
.
Models from Thule, such as the currently reduced EuroWay G2 920 for two wheels, and other brands can mostly be attached in a few simple steps.
To load and unload the luggage compartment, you can also open the tailgate with the bike rack mounted.
What role does the shape of the tailgate play?
Not every vehicle is built identically: Before you buy, therefore, pay attention to the
shape of the rear of your car
.
Basically, the majority of bike racks are suitable for most vehicle types - from sedans with hatchbacks to station wagons or minivans.
However, if you own a sedan with a notchback, a VW bus or a vehicle with a different rear shape,
special bike racks
are also available for this.
We recommend checking that the bike rack is compatible with your vehicle before purchasing.
What do I have to pay attention to when it comes to the safety of the bicycle carrier?
Are you worried about paint scratches on the car or that the wheels will slip while driving?
The test engineer for bicycle carriers at TÜV Süd says: "If you
pay attention to safety when making your selection and install
and use everything as specified, then today's models are safe."
Manufacturers usually include detailed installation instructions.
Many models are
attached to the vehicle using straps
.
You can quickly attach it to the vehicle and start your Sunday trip with your family right away.
Can I transport e-bikes with the bike rack?
Most rear carriers are approved for bicycles up to 15 kg.
However, some e-bikes weigh more than 20 kg.
To transport them, you need special bike racks that are approved for this weight.
For example, the Atera e-bike carrier.
Therefore, check
the total weight of your bike
including the attached accessories.
Our tip:
Is the e-bike battery removable?
Then the bike may fit on a standard carrier, because the battery is usually one of the heaviest components.
So you have a bigger choice.
What is the maximum number of bikes allowed?
Bicycle carriers that are mounted on the trailer hitch are usually designed for several bicycles.
Many tailgate carriers, on the other hand,
only offer space for two to three bicycles
.
If you want to transport more bikes, there are a few models that can accommodate four bikes.
You can also add one or two bicycle parking spaces to some models.
As an alternative, you can retrofit it with a trailer hitch.
Benefits of tailgate carriers
Universal:
A trailer hitch is not necessary.
The carriers are available for almost all vehicles, such as sedans, station wagons, vans and minibuses.
Expandable:
Some systems can be expanded to accommodate up to 4 bicycles.
Disadvantages of tailgate carriers
The dimensions of the car change:
the car is longer and slightly higher due to the bike rack on the tailgate.
Take this into account for low passageways and narrow parking spaces.
Limited trunk access:
You can usually open the trunk.
Due to the weight of the wheels and the carrier, however, the trunk lid only goes up with a great deal of effort.
Bicycle carrier for the tailgate: You have to pay attention to these things
Note the following points to avoid negative surprises after the purchase and to be able to go on your cycling holiday relaxed:
Compatibility with the vehicle | Make sure that the bike carrier is approved for the rear shape of your vehicle. |
|---|---|
number of wheels | Check in advance how many bikes you want to transport on a regular basis. |
maximum weight | The weight of your bikes is below the maximum load of the bike carrier. |
Special case “carbon bike” | Since carbon bicycles are particularly sensitive, you should not attach them to the frame. The danger of cracks is great here. According to Dirk Zedler, Managing Director of the Institute for Bicycle Technology and Safety, it is best to attach these bikes to an inexpensive aluminum support that is sunk at least 10 cm into the frame. |
In the following we present some
well-known and recommendable
bike carriers without a trailer hitch.
Thule BackPac 973 tailgate bike carrier - stable and safe
+
Thule BackPac 973 tailgate bike carrier
© Thule
Thule bike carrier - view now
Special features and additional functions | Specially for vans and station wagons, raised mounting, rear lights and license plates are not covered, vehicle-specific mounting kit available separately for a perfect fit and a stable hold of the carrier |
|---|---|
Maximum weight per wheel | 30kg |
number of bikes | 2 (expandable to 3 - 4 bikes) |
satisfaction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 out of 5 |
MENABO Steel Bike 2 - suitable for bikes with oversize and Y frames
+
MENABO Steel Bike 2 bike carrier
© MENABO
MENABO bike racks – view now
Special features and additional functions | Easy to stow, quick loading and unloading of the bikes, also suitable for bikes with oversize and Y frames, attachment to the vehicle with 6 tear-resistant straps |
|---|---|
Maximum weight per wheel | 15kg |
number of bikes | 2 |
satisfaction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 3.9 out of 5 |
Allen Sports Ultra - compact bike carrier
+
Allen Sports Ultra bike rack
© Allen Sports
Allen Sports Ultra Bike Racks - see now
Special features and additional functions | Extremely easy to stow away, low dead weight, quick to assemble |
|---|---|
Maximum weight per wheel | 16kg |
number of bikes | 2 |
satisfaction | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐4.2 out of 5 |
