What would you choose: Roof-top or trunk-mounted bike racks?

Answer 1

I prefer trunk mounted racks because they are more accessible, cheaper, not permanently attached (a plus if you have a nice car). Roof racks are very noisy, even with optional wind deflectors. Roof racks are also expensive and there is always the possibility of the costly accident if you forget your bikes are on top.

My favorite though are hitch mounted racks. They combine the best qualities of roof racks and trunk mounted racks. They are very secure, easily removed, allow access to the trunk or tail gate (even more so if it swivels or rotates out), are lockable, cost less that roof racks.

Answer 2

there are pros and cons to both, but i would rather have the roof rack system. it looks very professional and is the most secure system because it locks into the dropouts and there is no bar to rub off the paint (a big deal if you have an expensive bike!). they have more drag for the car causing increased gas usage (but not much) and if you forget theres a bike on your roof and you go through a low tunnel or pull into your garage.....

trunck mounts on the other hand, hide the bike from the wind so it wont collect a bunch of bugs. they make you trunk inaccessible, or if you have a minivan, then its more difficult to get into the hatch. its easier to get the bikes on and off the bars though. simple construction and a few retension straps hold the rack onto the car. hold the bike down with a bungee cord and your all set to go.

another point to look at is cost. roof racks cost about $100 to hold one bike. the bars on most cars need to be replaced because the stock roof bars are not strong enough (or maybe its just Toyota...). alternately, $80 will get you a very strong and secure trunk mount. there are also hitch mounts for trucks and SUVs that cost a bit more but provide more security than a trunk mount. most even fold down to give you access to the rear hatch.

its really up to you. do you want to cheaper, easier to use rack, or the one that looks cool?

Answer 3

I had a trunk-mount for years and hated it but dealt with it. When I got my new car I got a Thule roof rack and let me tell you, it's INSANELY better!!!

Roofracks are far more stable and more useful. I can carry up to four bikes plus wheels up there and still open my hatch for gear, etc. It's easier to get the bikes on and off and you don't have to "stack" them so you can pick which bike you want when you want it. Also, the roofrack has attachments for my surfboard and skis so it's incredibly versatile. It hasn't left any marks on my car the way the truck rack did and it doesn't move or interfere with my vision in any way. I can drive off road and through a mess without worrying about my bikes and that is enough for me.

Of course, it depends on what kind of vehicle you're driving and how often you are biking and how serious you are about it. Choose what works best for you.

Good luck!

Answer 4

Depends on what type of car and how frequently you ride. If you ride often, like daily, definitely a roof mounted. They are more permanent, stable, and don't interfere when you need to get to your trunk, they are also less abusive to the car. If you ride on occasion, some weekends, etc. I would get a trunk mount. They are normally less money and are designed for a more temporary solution. Also depending on what kind of car? If it's a truck/SUV a roof mount can be a awkward since it's high. If you do decide on a roof mount I would discuss with the auto dealer first, Thule is a good rack.

Answer 5

Trunk-mounted. Easier to get the bikes off when you get where you're going. If you have a roof-mount, you might forget the bikes are there and if you encounter a low bridge or drive-thru bank......Well, let's just say it won't be pretty.

Answer 6

Trunk Mounted. It's easier to put on and take off your bike. Plus, you can take the rack off if you need to for any reason. I just throw mine on and go.

Answer 7

trunk-mounted--- theres some great ones out there w/detachable assemblies. try your local sporting goods store