How do you properly attach a rear-mounted bicycle carrier?
To transport bicycles safely and comfortably, a rear-mounted bike rack is the most practical solution. There are various mounting options for transporting bicycles, which differ depending on the vehicle type and the rear-mounted bike rack model. Generally, rear-mounted bike racks are attached either to the tailgate, the trunk lid, the spare tire, or – most commonly and safely – to the trailer hitch.
Safe on the road: The towbar-mounted bike carrier
The simplest way to transport bikes is by mounting a towbar-mounted bike carrier. This solution is considered particularly convenient and user-friendly. With this type of mounting, the carrier is placed directly onto the tow ball of the towbar. Installation is tool-free: The carrier is placed on the tow ball and then secured – depending on the model – with a tension lever or, for example, a clamping device. Modern systems now feature an integrated locking mechanism that prevents the carrier from coming loose while driving and also protects it against theft.
A major advantage of towbar-mounted bike racks is their versatility. They easily accommodate multiple bicycles, often including e-bikes, and are generally quite easy to load, especially when using loading ramps. Furthermore, such a rack sits very securely on the vehicle, significantly reducing the impact on handling compared to other mounting methods. Many models are also foldable, allowing access to the trunk even when loaded.
When mounting, ensure that the tow ball of the trailer hitch is clean and free of grease, otherwise the clamp will not engage reliably. To mount, place the rear bike carrier onto the tow ball and engage the clamping mechanism so that the carrier securely grips the ball. After mounting, the carrier should be firmly secured and checked for tightness. Only then should the bicycles be placed in the designated rails and secured.
Alternatively: Mounting on the tailgate or the spare wheel
One option is a rear-mounted bike rack. This is attached to the top and bottom edges of the tailgate or trunk lid using straps and hooks. The straps must be pulled taut so that the rack fits as securely as possible against the vehicle. It is particularly important to protect any contact points between the rack and the car with protective film or rubber bumpers to prevent any paint damage. This transport solution is relatively inexpensive and flexible, but often has a limited load capacity and is not suitable for every vehicle.
Another option is a rear-mounted spare tire carrier, which is primarily used on SUVs or vehicles with an externally mounted spare tire. The carrier is mounted directly onto the spare tire and secured with screws. This option is stable, but only suitable for vehicles with a compatible design.
