How To Put a Bike On a Bike Rack: Trunk, Hitch & Roof Racks

Written By: Jonathan
Fact Checked By: Caroline Dezendorf
Reviewed By: Matt Tanner

The basic job of a bike rack is to carry your bicycle safely on your car, it doesn’t really matter if it’s on the back or on the roof.

There are a lot of people who use it, especially regular riders and families who really enjoy cycling.

In fact, most serious cyclists use bike racks as a way to have the ability to move the bike without scratching the car or damaging the bike in the slightest.

But here’s the thing, if you don’t place the bike on the bike rack correctly, it might fall off your bicycle or get damaged while driving, which is why it becomes very important to learn How To Put a Bike On a Bike Rack correctly.

Yes, different racks work differently, and bikes come in different shapes and sizes: some are bulky like e-bikes, and some have unusual frames.

So just follow the simple tips and you will learn how to easily load a bicycle on a bike rack, without getting even a scratch and without getting tired.

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Types of Racks and Their Features, Capacity & Difficulties

Feature	Trunk-Mounted Rack	Hitch-Mounted Rack	Roof-Mounted Rack
Mounts To	It attaches to the Car trunk or hatch (with the help of straps)	It do installed on Rear trailer hitch area.	Roof crossbars, the name itself says it attaches on the rooftop area of the vehicle.
Vehicle Type	It supports Sedans, hatchbacks and small SUVs.	You can attach it on SUVs, trucks and vans but hitch should be available.	It is compatible with Cars, wagons and SUVs that comes with roof bars.
Bike Capacity	1 to 3 bikes	1 to 5 bikes	1 to 2 bikes, you can attach more with the help of add-ons.
Weight Limit (Per Bike)	Around 30 to 35 lbs	Up to 60 to 80 lbs, which makes it ideal for e-bikes.	Around 30 to 40 lbs
Cost Range	$40 to $100	$150 to $800+	$100 to $300 per bike
Ease of Installation	You can easily install it without using any kind of tools.	Installation difficulty is Medium as you do needs hitch receiver for it.	It needs a roof bars to install this and that’s why it has Medium difficulty level.
Lifting Required	You have to list your bicycle at Low, just on to the waist height only.	You have to lift it from waist height to the shoulder level to mount it.	To attach the bike on the roof rack you need to lift it above the head which makes it harder to do it.
Access to Trunk	Usually blocked	Some of the rack do tilt down that gives you access.	Fully accessible
License Plate Visibility	May be blocked	Usually visible	Not blocked at all
Best For	Budget users, casual riders	Regular riders or who has heavy/e-bikes.	Great for One-bike users who uses roof cargo area effectively.
Common Issues	If done wrong it can literally scratch car and block the view as well.	These are Expensive products and also it needs hitch for installation.	You have to lift it to the top of your head which is Hard to lift also you have height clearance risk and you have to be alert always going down the bridge or billboards.

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2. Preparing to Load Your Bike

It’s very important to take a few simple steps before mounting your bike to the rack, as this ensures that everything is secure and ready.

These small checks can actually prevent any damage to your bike, your car and even help you avoid any potential accidents while driving due to the bicycle or bike rack, so let’s know them one by one.

1. Inspect the Bike Rack

Yes, you need to check your bike rack before using it to make sure it is installed correctly, it only takes a few moments to check.

It doesn’t really matter what type of bike rack you are using, whether it is a trunk rack, hitch rack, or roof rack, you need to make sure that its parts should be tight and secure.

Trunk Racks

You will need to check the straps and hooks for the trunk rack to ensure they are not loose or worn and are in good condition.

Hitch Racks

All you need to do is check the bolts and locking pins on the hitch rack to confirm that they are installed correctly and that the rack will not move while riding.

Roof Racks

Now, you have to test the roof mounts whether they are firmly attached to the crossbars or not, you have to shake the rack a little and if it shakes too much then tighten it before using them.

It’s a fact: many bike rack accidents don’t happen because the bike fell off, they happen because the rack wasn’t fully tightened, so even if you don’t have time to check it or you’re in a rush, this step is a must.

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2. Remove Loose Items for Your Bike

You will need to take off anything that you think might fall off while you are driving, and even something small can be dangerous if it falls onto the road or goes flying at high speeds while you are driving.

1. If your bike has these items on it you should remove them, such as: water bottles, bike computers, pumps, lights, bags or anything else hanging from the handlebars or seat.
2. You should also make sure that the rear rack or basket is completely empty.
3. In addition, you can take off any quick-release accessories, which may come loose while driving due to unstable movement.

As, you can keep these items inside your car or in a small travel bag until you reach your destination.

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3. Know Your Bike’s Frame Type

Yes, it is very important to know what type of bicycle frame you actually have, as it really helps to understand how to place it correctly on the rack or whether you need adapters to make your bike stable.

Traditional Frame

The traditional frame means it has a straight top bar that you’ll find on most men’s bikes, and these are bikes that are very easy to fit onto almost all racks.

Step-Through Frame

These frames are popular on women’s bikes, kids’ bikes, or cruiser bikes because they don’t have a straight top bar, which is why it can be difficult to mount on a hanging-style rack.

Frame-Adapter Bar

If you find that your bike is not compatible with a bike rack, in that case you may need a frame adapter bar, which is a device that creates a straight line between the seat post and the handlebars to allow you to fit your bicycle better and provide it with a much stable position.

Note: If you have platform-style hitch racks you don’t have to worry about frame size at all, but if you have hanging racks you should always check your bicycle’s frame before loading it.

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3. How to Put a Bike on a Trunk-Mounted Rack

These are a very popular option as many cyclists use them and one of the reasons is that they are affordable, plus they are easy to use as they don’t really require any special tools on your car.

However, it is very important to follow the right steps to carry your bike safely while riding, and if you have not placed and secured it properly then it is obvious that the bike may fall or it may scratch or swing your car while driving, So you have to follow these steps carefully and it will take some time, don’t worry about the time at all.

1. Lift the Bike & Position It

You’ll need to stand behind your car and then carefully lift the bike up by its frame, as most trunk racks have two arms that stick out and this is where your bike’s frame will rest.

1. You’ll need to position the bike so that the top of the frame, which is the horizontal part between the seat and the handlebars, sits evenly on both rack arms.
2. You also need to make sure that the bike is in the center, so that the weight of the bike is balanced on both sides.
3. If your bicycle has a step-through frame but no top bar, you may need a frame adapter bar to help it rest properly on the arms.

IMPORTANT: If you feel the bike is not balanced enough as they can tilt, twist or even fall during the drive, you just have to put it on the center which will help to avoid shaking and rubbing.

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2. Secure the Frame

Now that your bike is properly resting on the rack arms it’s time to lock it in place.

1. Most trunk racks come with cradles with rubber straps or Velcro straps, so loop the straps over the bike’s top tube and into the cradle slots as well.
2. You’ll need to pull the straps tight enough so that the bike doesn’t move or bounce while you’re riding.
3. If your rack comes with anti-sway cradles you can use them to prevent the bike from swinging from side to side while driving, which proves to be very important and effective.
4. Finally, double-check that the straps are not bent and that they hold the bike very firmly and in the ideal position.

So just make sure the straps are not loose, as this could cause the bike to shake or slip while driving, especially when going over bumps or turning around corners, and everything is fine for now.

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3. Double-Check for Stability

You should always stop for a minute to check that everything is in place and secure before you begin driving.

1. Now, gently shake the bike from different angles like: shake it up and down, side to side, and if it barely moves then it is a good sign.
2. You should also check all the straps and hooks, as they should not be loose.
3. Also, also check if the pedals or wheels are touching your car and if so then simply adjust the position of the bike or use a soft cloth or foam pad for complete protection.
4. Not only this, the bike should not block your license plate or brake lights as this is required by law in some states or countries and that is why you have to make sure about it.

Additionally, some cyclists use additional bungee cords or straps for greater security and stability, especially when riding longer cycles.

Read More:

How To Choose A Bike Rack

How To Attach Bike Rack On Car

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4. How to Put a Bike on a Hitch-Mounted Rack

These are one of the most stable and easy-to-use options for carrying bicycles as these hitch-mounted bike racks are specially designed for people who travel more frequently or have heavier bikes like e-bikes or mountain bikes.

Out of all the different types of bike racks, hitch racks are really gaining popularity due to their robustness and ease of use, plus they attach directly to the chassis of the vehicle, which is why it provides a secure and stable platform for transporting bicycles.[¹]

Plus, these racks attach to the trailer hitch on the back of your vehicle and come in two main types: platform-style and hanging-style, so you can tell which type you have just by how you know how to load and secure your bikes.

1. Platform Vs Hanging Style

This is pretty much the basic thing you need to know to understand what type of hitch rack you actually have:

Platform-Style Racks

They consist of flat trays that you can place your bike’s wheels in, and these racks typically hold the bicycle in an upright position, with adjustable arms that simply clip onto the frame or front wheel.

• No, you can easily load your bicycles on it as you don’t have to lift them up.
• Moreover, these are suitable for all types of bicycles like e-bikes, fat bikes, and step-through frames, so you don’t have to worry about compatibility with your bicycle type.
• Also, these are more stable but yes indeed a more expensive option as well.

Hanging-Style Racks

These racks come with arms where your bike hangs from its top frame tube and this is its mounting style and hence it is named as hanging-style rack.

• These are a lighter and cheaper option than platform style racks.
• And it works well if you have a traditional bike frame or a regular bike with a straight top tube.
• But if you do not tie it tightly then the bike may swing during driving and this is the thing you must ensure before riding the bike.

Note: Platform-style racks are often preferred by families, people with expensive or heavy bikes, and mountain bikers because they’re strong enough to hold them easily, while hanging racks are good for casual riders with lighter bikes.

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2. Load the Bike

Now, you need to load the bike onto the platform or arms (whatever type of rack you have).

Platform-Style

1. In case of loading the bicycle on a platform style you will need to roll the bike towards the rack
2. Then lift the bike a little and place both wheels comfortably in the tray
3. Then you have to make sure that the bike should be in centered and straight position.
4. If your bike rack has adjustable trays or arms, adjust them to the size and shape of your bicycle, and all is well and good.

Hanging Style

1. Simply lift the bike and rest it on the two rack arms of your hanging style bike rack, spaced evenly across the top tube of the frame.
2. Now, move it to the middle of the bike so that both wheels hang evenly.
3. If your bike doesn’t have a top bar, like a step-through frame, you’ll just need a frame adapter bar to create a direct mounting point.

Yes, loading your bike is much easier with these mounting options, but for heavier bikes or if your hitch is high off the ground you will need two people.

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3. Secure the Wheels and Frame

It doesn’t really matter what style your rack is, you just have to secure your bikes as this is the most important step that makes them truly stable.

Platform-Style

You have to use the built-in clamps or arms that simply hold the frame or front wheel in place, and then tighten straps around each wheel tray that actually serve to keep the bike from moving or bouncing while you drive.

Hanging-Style

Now, you will need to use rubber straps or cradles that are wrapped tightly around the top tube of your bicycle frame, and all you have to do is make sure the bike isn’t swinging at all, and if your rack includes anti-sway cradles that’s great, then simply use them to minimize the movement.

IMPORTANT: If you have secured the bicycle correctly, you will not have to worry about more than a small amount of movement when moving during a drive, so you will need to pay special attention to stabilizing them.

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4. Use Additional Straps

Even if your rack has built-in straps or clamps, it’s good practice to use extra straps, But adding extra support is always a good idea and especially when you go for long drives you will have to face rough roads or if you want to have multiple cycles with you.

Such as you can use:

Bungee cords or extra tie-down straps that actually keep the wheels stable and never allow them to move during the drive.

If you have a carbon fiber bike you should avoid over-tightening the frame clamps and also you can use a frame protector if possible.

If you are transporting more than one bicycle, use straps that keep the bicycles from touching or rubbing against each other.

IMPORTANT: If you want theft protection for your bicycles you can purchase special hitch rack security straps that go through the bike frame and onto your car or hitch, which can really deter any potential theft.

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5. How to Put a Bike on a Roof-Mounted Rack

These roof mounted bike racks are the perfect thing if you want to keep your car trunk and hitch completely clutter free, and these racks hold your bike on top of the car using a tray and locking system and are especially popular among people who also keep other gear in the back of their car.

However, when you use a roof rack it really does require a bit more effort and attention, especially when it comes to lifting your bike onto the roof.

1. Safely Reach the Roof

You will need to make sure that you can comfortably and safely access the roof of your vehicle, as roof racks are best used on sedans, wagons, and smaller SUVs where the roof isn’t too high, so it will be a little easier to do so.

• If you frequently need a ladder, you can use a small step stool or keep a foldable ladder in your trunk area.
• If you are a short person or your vehicle is tall like a full-sized SUV or a truck then you should not opt ​​for a roof rack as it might not be the best choice unless you are very sure about it.
• You should avoid standing on the door or seat of your car as it can be dangerous and can also damage your car.

Be careful because the average roof rack literally adds 6 to 12 inches to the height of your vehicle, which is why you always have to keep an eye on garage entrances, drive-thru’s, or low-height tree branches as this also affects your vehicle’s clearance.

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2. Lift and Align

Now, you need to lift the bicycle and then align it in the tray of the rack and carefully place the bike in the rack.

You will need to hold the bike by the frame or bottom tube, and if it feels heavy you may need to ask for help or lift one wheel at a time, without hurrying.

Now, place the wheels in the trays on the roof rack and then align the bike so it’s upright and centered between the rack rails.

Now, you’ll need to make sure the bike is facing the right way, as some racks require the front wheel to be removed, while others leave both wheels on.

Note: If you are using a fork-mount rack that actually holds your bicycle or front fork, you will first need to remove the front wheel and then secure it to a wheel holder mounted either inside your car or on the roof, and this is a must for this kind of rack.

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3. Secure the Wheel & Frame

Now you have set up the bicycle properly it is time to lock it securely.

Studies show that certain types of bike racks can pose a risk to pedestrians in the event of a collision, for example front-mounted bicycle racks on buses increase the risk of pedestrians suffering fatal head and chest injuries, This is why it’s important to tighten them securely.[²]

For Upright Racks

You will need to use a built-in arm or clamp that holds the down tube or front wheel of your bicycle and then tighten the straps on both wheels so that the bicycle does not roll or move while riding.

For Fork-Mount Racks

Now, you need to insert the front fork into the quick-release skiver or thru-axle clamp and then lock it tightly, after that you need to secure the rear wheel snugly to the tray with the provided buckle or ratchet strap.

For Wheel-Only Racks

You’ll need to secure both wheels directly using holders and wheel straps, as these racks are very popular for carbon bikes because they don’t damage them with an overly tightened mounting method.

Once you have everything strapped down, you need to check the stability by gently shaking the bike, and if there is any movement, wobble, or shift, re-tighten the straps or clamps.

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6. Safety Checks Before Driving

Check Point	What to Do	Why It Matters
1. Tug on the Bike	You should shake the bike vigorously in all directions, whether it’s up, down, or side to side.	It must be ensured that the bike is locked well and does not fall or move while riding.
2. Check Straps & Clamps	You will need to pull on each strap, as this ensures that all clamps are completely secure.	The most common cause of damaged bike racks is loose straps, so checking this is very important.
3. Confirm Locks Are Closed	If your rack has locks, this ensures they are fully engaged and secure.	This should be done to protect your bike from theft and to keep it safe during long journeys.
4. Inspect for Rubbing/Contact	Just see if the wheels, pedals or handlebars are actually touching your car or other bike.	This step prevents scratches, dents or damage from vibration and contact during travel.
5. Secure Extra Movement	You should always use extra straps or padding to prevent bouncing or swinging parts.	It really keeps your bike and car safe, specially on rough roads or highways.
6. Re-check at Stops	After driving for a while, you should re-check the stripes at rest stops or gas stations.	As straps and mounts can become loose over time and this is normal, this can be prevented by checking and keeping everything secure on long trips.

You must properly secure the bicycle to the rack mounted on the car and it is also very important to ensure the safety of all road users, as the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found, more than 200,000 crashes from 2011 to 2014 were caused by road debris, resulting in nearly 39,000 injuries and 500 deaths nationwide.[³]

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Conclusion

Yes, it’s true that each rack works a little differently, so you’ll need to take the time to learn how your rack actually works.

If you have read this guide carefully then you now know How To Put a Bike On a Bike Rack, everything from loading techniques to tightening all the straps is covered in this guide.

Now, you are all set to enjoy a stress-free ride and if you really have any queries regarding this, please feel free to ask in the comment section.

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FAQ’s On How To Put a Bike On a Bike Rack

References:

[1] UnivDatos Market Insights. (2022). Car Bike Rack Market Share, Size, Trends & Forecast (2022-2030). Retrieved from https://univdatos.com/reports/car-bike-rack-market

[2] Transport Research Laboratory. (2004). A study of front-mounted bicycle racks on buses. Retrieved from https://www.trl.co.uk/uploads/trl/documents/TRL592.pdf

[3] AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. (2016). Unsecured Loads: A National Overview. Retrieved from https://letrigo.com/blogs/knowledge/trunk-racks-regulations