Rameder explains the pros and cons of different bicycle carrier concepts

Europe’s garages and basements are full of millions of bicycles. It is no coincidence that bike carrier solutions are so popular. Rameder with its online web-shop www.rameder.eu is the leading supplier of transport solutions for cars. Rameder offers different systems and knows the advantages and disadvantages of every system. Whatever the customer decides the range of Rameder is extensive and he/she will find a good transport solution in every carrier solution category.

Roof carrier The classic. With prices starting around 20 Euros this is one of the cheaper solutions. However, this type of carrier can generally only carry one bicycle. If a second bicycle is needed you can usually add a second carrier. The transportation of three or four bicycle becomes difficult on the roof because of surface and weight limitations. In addition to the carrier the customer must also buy a base support. The roof carrier concept is not suitable for convertibles and many sports cars and micro cars. Another disadvantage is the difficult mounting of bicycles on the roof. Especially in the case of SUVs and vans, which generally have higher roofs, lifting becomes extremely heavy. The solution is unsuitable for electrical bikes. By placing the bike carrier on the roof the centre of gravity of the car becomes higher and this has an adverse effect on the driving experience. The aerodynamics of the body deteriorates and this significantly increases fuel consumption compared to a tow bar bike carrier. Reliable tests state that fuel consumption is 30 percent higher when transporting two bicycles on the roof.

Bike carrier on tow bar: With prices starting around 140 Euros these systems are more expensive than roof carriers. If the car is not equipped with a tow bar it must be installed. The average cost, including installation, is around 500 Euros. However, the range of towing possibilities increases and this is a significant benefit. Tow bar carrier solutions are very aerodynamic and only increase fuel consumption marginally. Your bicycles are also well protected and secured from the wind. Only the indoor carrier solution is better choice when only looking at these two points. The near ground mounting and bike supports are extremely easy to use. Many tow bar bike carriers can transport heavy electrical bikes or even light motorcycles. Special ramps can be bought to facilitate the handling of these heavier cycles. The bigger transport systems have a capacity of up to four bicycles, the smaller ones generally can expand from one up to two, three or four bikes. Some models even allow alternative mounting such as luggage boxes, baskets or holders for winter sports equipment. Another advantage: the extremely clever folding mechanism of this carrier ensures that the trunk remains accessible.

Tailgate bike carriers: Usually depending on the model this system can carry two or three bicycles. Prices start around 135 Euros. Mounting of a base support is not necessary and the system uses flexible mounting straps with hooks. This is of course uncomplicated however there is a disadvantage when used frequently. The bikes protrude the edge of the roof when mounted horizontally and the wind can tug violently on the bicycles. As a result of micro-movements of the carrier and the retaining hooks paint damage can occur. The sub-optimal aerodynamics results in an increased fuel consumption compared to a tow bar solution. In terms of handling the bikes the bikes need to be mounted to a higher height, which is a small disadvantage that also influences the driving dynamics. The tailgate carrier is still easier to use than a roof carrier in terms of mounting. However, it is not as easy to use as the tow bar bike carrier. This transport solution is a suitable and acceptable choice for the occasional user.

Internal carrier: For cars with a large interior like SUVs or vans the internal carrier is another alternative that is available. This type is cheaper and allows a clean and slip-proof transportation of bicycles. The disadvantages are that if your bicycles are dirty the car will become dirty too and the space for other luggage becomes limited.

In the end all of the features of these different carriers become clear. The roof or tailgate carrier is a good solution for occasional use or a smaller budget. If there is a lot of space in the car an internal carrier is a sensible choice. However, for most drivers the tow bar bike carrier is the best option. Your consumption only increases marginally, no internal space is lost and they are flexible and easy use.