Table of Contents
How do you size a bike rack?
Length. The length of the bike rack should be 27 inches long (24-30 inches allowable), measured 18 inches from the ground. Each rack should provide parking for two standard bikes parked on opposite sides of the rack in opposing directions.
Are bike rear racks universal?
Not all rear bike racks work with all bikes so be careful when shopping. For example, if your bike has disc brakes, you need to make sure you choose a model specifically designed to work on disc brakes. Most racks feature stays that attach to braze-on mounts or eyelets near the bottom rear of your frame.
What does a bike rack attach to?
However, here’s some general information to help you get started. Bike carriers mount in one of three places on a vehicle: the trunk (or hatch), the roof, or trailer hitch. They carry from two to five bicycles depending on the type of rack and depending on what type racks fits your car.
What kind of hitch do I need for a bike rack?
Do you need a trailer hitch for a bike rack? To use a hitch mount bike rack, you do need a trailer hitch on your vehicle, while roof and trunk racks don’t require a trailer hitch. A trailer hitch can be installed on just about any vehicle – from small hatchbacks to minivans to oversized SUVs.
How much space does a bike rack need?
In general, the optimum spacing of a rack from anything else is 4 feet, and the minimum is 3 feet, measured from the center of the rack. A rack should never be closer than 2 feet to a wall or 1.5 feet to a curb edge. Racks should also be placed near the destinations where people want to go.
How do you measure a hitch on a bike rack?
If you have the rack, measure the shank at the bottom of the rack. If it measures 2 X 2 inches, then you will need a Class III or higher 2 inch receiver. If it measures 1-1/4 X 1-1/4 inches, you will need to determine whether or not it will fit a Class I or Class II hitch.