Deciding how to transport your bikes with your sedan often boils down to choosing between a roof rack and a trunk rack. Both systems offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. This guide breaks down the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
Roof Bike Racks for Sedans
Roof bike racks attach to the roof of your sedan, typically using crossbars. They hold bikes securely on top of the vehicle, freeing up access to the trunk.
Pros of Roof Racks
- Unobstructed Trunk Access: A major advantage of roof racks is that they leave your trunk completely accessible, even when bikes are mounted. This is incredibly convenient for accessing gear, groceries, or luggage without having to unload your bikes.
- Cleaner Bikes: Positioning bikes on the roof keeps them cleaner, especially in wet conditions. Trunk-mounted bikes are often exposed to road spray and grime kicked up by the car’s rear wheels, which can get into the bike’s components.
Cons of Roof Racks
- Lifting and Loading: Mounting bikes on a roof rack requires lifting them overhead, which can be challenging, especially for heavier bikes or for individuals with limited strength or taller sedans.
- Aerodynamics and Fuel Efficiency: Roof racks significantly alter your sedan’s aerodynamics. This increased wind resistance leads to higher fuel consumption, particularly at highway speeds. You may also notice changes in handling and increased wind noise.
- Height Clearance Issues: Adding bikes to your roof increases your vehicle’s overall height. This raises the risk of hitting low-hanging obstacles like garage doors, tree branches, and low bridges. It’s crucial to be mindful of height restrictions when driving with roof-mounted bikes. A visual reminder inside the car, like a sticker on the windshield, can be a helpful safety measure.
Trunk Bike Racks for Sedans
Trunk bike racks attach to the rear of your sedan using straps and hooks that secure to the trunk lid and sometimes the bumper. They offer a more accessible loading height compared to roof racks.
Pros of Trunk Racks
- Easier Loading and Unloading: Trunk racks are generally easier to load and unload as bikes are mounted at a lower, more accessible height. This is particularly beneficial for those who find lifting bikes onto the roof difficult.
- Improved Aerodynamics and Fuel Economy: Trunk racks typically have less impact on your sedan’s aerodynamics compared to roof racks. This results in better fuel economy and less noticeable changes in handling, especially at higher speeds.
- Visibility of Bikes: With a trunk rack, you can often see your bikes in your rearview mirror, allowing you to quickly check if they are secure during your journey.
Cons of Trunk Racks
- Potential Trunk Access Issues: Depending on the sedan model and rack design, trunk access can be limited or completely blocked when bikes are mounted on a trunk rack. Some racks offer a tilt-away feature to allow partial trunk access, but this is not always convenient or possible with bikes loaded.
- Rear Visibility Obstruction: Trunk racks and mounted bikes can obstruct your rear view, making it harder to see out of the back window. This can be a safety concern, especially when reversing or changing lanes.
- Obstructed Lights and License Plate: Trunk racks often cover your sedan’s rear lights and license plate, which is illegal in many regions. You may need to purchase and install a light bar and license plate holder to comply with legal requirements.
- Bike and Car Vulnerability: Bikes on trunk racks are more exposed to potential damage. They are more vulnerable in rear-end collisions, and there’s a risk of bikes dragging on the ground when driving over steep inclines or dips. Cosmetic damage from the rack itself is also a consideration, although quality racks usually incorporate padding to minimize this risk.
Scratch Prevention and Rack Quality
Both roof and trunk racks, when properly installed and of good quality, pose minimal risk of scratching your sedan. Roof racks typically utilize dedicated mounting points on the car’s roof, designed to accommodate racks without causing damage. Trunk racks usually have foam or rubber padding on contact points to protect the car’s paint. Investing in a reputable brand and ensuring correct installation are key to preventing scratches with either type of rack.
Safety and Recommendations
Regardless of whether you choose a roof or trunk rack, safety is paramount. Always ensure bikes are securely fastened to the rack and the rack is properly mounted to your sedan. Regularly check the tightness of straps and mounting points, especially on longer journeys. While both types can be safe at highway speeds when correctly used, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and weight limits.
Some organizations, like the German technical control board (TÜV) and automobile clubs, sometimes recommend trunk racks over roof racks when feasible, primarily due to the trunk rack’s lesser impact on vehicle handling. However, the best choice ultimately depends on your individual needs, sedan type, and how frequently you plan to transport bikes. Consider factors like lifting capability, trunk access requirements, and driving conditions to determine whether a roof rack or trunk rack is the more suitable “Bike Rack On Sedan” solution for you.
