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Carrying bikes on your car

  • 04-06-2019 11:38am
    #1
    duffyshuffle
    Registered Users Posts: 767 ✭✭✭


    Hi,
    I've got a strap based bike rack for the back of the car, had my new road bike on it earlier and after it seems like the back wheel is a bit buckled - not sure if it was from my last ride or has that happened anyone from transporting on a bike rack?

    Going to buy either a towbar or roof rack - have a Volvo V50 with roof rails but no roof rack yet, and don't have a towbar (not a good start here!) - so what are peoples preferences/suggestions for either choice? And suggested racks etc...

    I've heard Mick's garage are good, or worth popping to Halfords and asking them?

    Thanks!


«1

Comments

  • #2
    thejaguar
    Registered Users Posts: 730 ✭✭✭thejaguar


    If you strapped the wheel or bike awkwardly it could have buckled the wheel as you drove. They do hop around a bit so you need to be careful how they're strapped on.

    I have a tow bar rack and I think it's the business - so easy to just stick it on and pop the bike(s) on it.

    I've never had the bikes on the roof - someone once told me water and dirt can get into places it normally wouldn't if you're driving on the motorway. Not sure how true that is but it always put me off. The tow bar rack is probably the same, but the car itself may offer some protection.

    Personally I stay away from Halfords - pretty much any bike shop will give better advice, even if it means paying a little extra.


  • #3
    ednwireland
    Registered Users Posts: 14,277 ✭✭✭✭ednwireland


    depends on the halfords but its where i have bought most of my roof rack bits from recently, just changed car needed new footpacks so cost a bit, but the people in sligo always seem to sort me out !

    i personally like the thule 598 carrier as the down tube clamp stops you overtightening it

    the 561 where you take off the front wheel always feels slightly more secure

    My weather

    https://www.ecowitt.net/home/share?authorize=96CT1F



  • #4
    fondriest
    Registered Users Posts: 657 ✭✭✭fondriest


    I’ve always used fork mount roof carriers and never had an issue.
    Changed the car last year and got a pair of aero alloy roof bars and 2x Thule 561 for approx €300 . Won’t suit all bike types though but a lot cheaper than fitting a tow bar and buying a tow bar mounted rack , unless of course you were fitting the tow bar regardless.


  • #5
    duffyshuffle
    Registered Users Posts: 767 ✭✭✭duffyshuffle


    fondriest wrote: »
    I’ve always used fork mount roof carriers and never had an issue.
    Changed the car last year and got a pair of aero alloy roof bars and 2x Thule 561 for approx €300 . Won’t suit all bike types though but a lot cheaper than fitting a tow bar and buying a tow bar mounted rack , unless of course you were fitting the tow bar regardless.

    Yeah, i've no other use for the towbar really, and largely don't know much about either option - thanks for the info, where did you get the roof bars & Thules?


  • #6
    ridelikeaturtle
    Registered Users Posts: 312 ✭✭ridelikeaturtle


    Another vote for the Thule Outride 561 fork mount roof rack. Very solid and easy to use.

    I got mine off eBay; if you're patient you may find one locally.

    For the roof bars, do some research and know what model you need, then you should be able to get them from Mick's Garage or eBay. We got a new car 4 yrs ago, so I budgeted in factory roof bars in the purchase. (Apparently Thule makes the racks for Renault, so it all worked out well in my case.)


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  • #7
    Hurrache
    Registered Users Posts: 10,146 ✭✭✭✭Hurrache


    duffyshuffle wrote: »
    Yeah, i've no other use for the towbar really, and largely don't know much about either option - thanks for the info, where did you get the roof bars & Thules?

    I've been using a couple of 591s for a good few years, they're pretty good. There's videos on YouTube of lads driving with speed over some pretty rough ground to test them without issue.

    I got mine from Cycle Superstore at the time, and roof bars from Halfords. The Thule website has a pretty good calculator which will guide you as to what footpads and bards you should get based on your car.


  • #8
    duffyshuffle
    Registered Users Posts: 767 ✭✭✭duffyshuffle


    ridelikeaturtle wrote: »
    Another vote for the Thule Outride 561 fork mount roof rack. Very solid and easy to use.

    I got mine off eBay; if you're patient you may find one locally.

    For the roof bars, do some research and know what model you need, then you should be able to get them from Mick's Garage or eBay. We got a new car 4 yrs ago, so I budgeted in factory roof bars in the purchase. (Apparently Thule makes the racks for Renault, so it all worked out well in my case.)

    Thanks - for fork mount, i've got disc brakes - do I need to get mounts specific to those for a thru axle or are yours adjustable or compatible for both? Haven't seen the fork mount in use before so may be a stupid question!


  • #9
    ridelikeaturtle
    Registered Users Posts: 312 ✭✭ridelikeaturtle


    duffyshuffle wrote: »
    Thanks - for fork mount, i've got disc brakes - do I need to get mounts specific to those for a thru axle or are yours adjustable or compatible for both? Haven't seen the fork mount in use before so may be a stupid question!

    IIRC the 561 comes with an adapter for larger thru axles - 10mm maybe (actually I see it's probably 15mm)? None of my stuff is disc so I tossed it into the glove box (I think) and have never used it.


  • #10
    duffyshuffle
    Registered Users Posts: 767 ✭✭✭duffyshuffle


    ridelikeaturtle wrote: »
    IIRC the 561 comes with an adapter for larger thru axles - 10mm maybe (actually I see it's probably 15mm)? None of my stuff is disc so I tossed it into the glove box (I think) and have never used it.

    thanks a lot


  • #11
    corks finest
    Registered Users Posts: 8,627 ✭✭✭corks finest


    duffyshuffle wrote: »
    Hi,
    I've got a strap based bike rack for the back of the car, had my new road bike on it earlier and after it seems like the back wheel is a bit buckled - not sure if it was from my last ride or has that happened anyone from transporting on a bike rack?

    Going to buy either a towbar or roof rack - have a Volvo V50 with roof rails but no roof rack yet, and don't have a towbar (not a good start here!) - so what are peoples preferences/suggestions for either choice? And suggested racks etc...

    I've heard Mick's garage are good, or worth popping to Halfords and asking them?

    Thanks!
    A tow bar is your man


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  • #12
    corks finest
    Registered Users Posts: 8,627 ✭✭✭corks finest


    Had one on a previous car but too expensive to put on my insight,mine went straight on,2 minutes - wheels all secure - off u go ,if near Cork Billy Murray's your man, Bishoptown,across from the cit


  • #13
    ridelikeaturtle
    Registered Users Posts: 312 ✭✭ridelikeaturtle


    A few more thoughts on this (though I think you've probably been swayed already!) is that a towbar, if you don't already have one, may be expensive; also, roof bars allow you to stick on a top box, which can be very handy for long trips to free up space in your car; finally, the Thule OutRide 561 fits & coexists nicely next to a top box.


  • #14
    corks finest
    Registered Users Posts: 8,627 ✭✭✭corks finest


    duffyshuffle wrote: »
    ridelikeaturtle wrote: »
    Another vote for the Thule Outride 561 fork mount roof rack. Very solid and easy to use.

    I got mine off eBay; if you're patient you may find one locally.

    For the roof bars, do some research and know what model you need, then you should be able to get them from Mick's Garage or eBay. We got a new car 4 yrs ago, so I budgeted in factory roof bars in the purchase. (Apparently Thule makes the racks for Renault, so it all worked out well in my case.)

    Thanks - for fork mount, i've got disc brakes - do I need to get mounts specific to those for a thru axle or are yours adjustable or compatible for both? Haven't seen the fork mount in use before so may be a stupid question!
    Thule was the make of the tow bar attachment aswell,do whatever you choose Thule is quality


  • #15
    duffyshuffle
    Registered Users Posts: 767 ✭✭✭duffyshuffle


    Thanks everyone - Think I can use a mate's https://www.thule.com/en-gb/gb/bike-rack/roof-bike-racks/thule-proride-_-598001 rack - and have an all4one that works on Mick's Garage so will buy this later https://www.micksgarage.com/d/roof-racks-and-bars/Volvo/Volvo-V50/V50-2004-to-2012/products/2345215-5090/aluminium-roof-bars-for-volvo-v50-2004-to-2012-with-raised-roof-rails- and see how I go!


  • #16
    duffyshuffle
    Registered Users Posts: 767 ✭✭✭duffyshuffle


    ridelikeaturtle wrote: »
    A few more thoughts on this (though I think you've probably been swayed already!) is that a towbar, if you don't already have one, may be expensive; also, roof bars allow you to stick on a top box, which can be very handy for long trips to free up space in your car; finally, the Thule OutRide 561 fits & coexists nicely next to a top box.

    A top box sounds great too, and don't think the tow bar would have any other use, so seems to make more sense, just need to not become another 'I know this guy that used a roof rack and drove in to XYZ...' story!


  • #17
    fondriest
    Registered Users Posts: 657 ✭✭✭fondriest


    duffyshuffle wrote: »
    Yeah, i've no other use for the towbar really, and largely don't know much about either option - thanks for the info, where did you get the roof bars & Thules?

    Think I got the roofbars from either Micks garage or roofbox.co.uk cant remember, got the thules from alltricks.com .


  • #18
    CramCycle
    Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 24,419 Mod ✭✭✭✭CramCycle


    Just to say on the towbar, it's now tested by the NCT so you can't just attach one, it needs the electrics wired up as well as they are tested now.


  • #19
    saccades
    Registered Users Posts: 1,252 ✭✭✭saccades


    Stick a baby mirror on the dashboard so you can see your bikes if on the roof to remind you that they are there.


  • #20
    a148pro
    Registered Users Posts: 2,204 ✭✭✭a148pro


    Is it not a pain in the hole getting your bike up onto the roof? Granted if you've a light racer, but I have a chunky hybrid with kids seats which I would like to bring on holidays - it would be a massive pain getting that onto a roof?

    My brother had a bar one which kind of folded away. It also swiveled down to allow you to open the boot. Probably more expensive but less hassle. Although it only takes 2 bikes and I'm fast approaching a place where I might want more.


  • #21
    Tigerandahalf
    Registered Users Posts: 7,811 ✭✭✭Tigerandahalf


    I have a towbar one that is tiltable. So handy when you are on the road with kids. Expensive when you add in the towbar cost. But it supposedly can take 4 bikes.

    You also need to be mindful of obscuring your rear lights and number plate with a towbar carrier.


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  • #22
    DeepBlue
    Registered Users Posts: 3,668 ✭✭✭DeepBlue


    duffyshuffle wrote: »
    Going to buy either a towbar or roof rack - have a Volvo V50 with roof rails but no roof rack yet, and don't have a towbar (not a good start here!) - so what are peoples preferences/suggestions for either choice? And suggested racks etc...
    Perhaps factor in how convenient each option is and how often you would use it.
    I've the v50 also and went with the towbar and thule option over two years ago.

    Previously I'd been using one of those halford frames bike racks that you attach to the car with straps all over the place. I found it stressful driving with them as you often had half an eye on the back to make sure they were still connected. Usually I would arrive to find at least one of the hooks and straps had come loose.

    The towbar cost me 300 and another 100 for the thule. Putting on the bikes and taking them off takes no more than a couple of minutes vs maybe 10 minutes or more with the halford's bike rack. I don't know how long it takes with the roof rack but that time saving is great especially when you're already late for the group ride. :D


  • #23
    boege
    Registered Users Posts: 469 ✭✭boege


    CramCycle wrote: »
    Just to say on the towbar, it's now tested by the NCT so you can't just attach one, it needs the electrics wired up as well as they are tested now.


    I was told this as well but my mechanic said that if you have electrics they must be working but that you dont have to have electrics. If you have them then they will test them.

    As my electrics had been cut in the past (chasing a blown fuse) thy were not working so my mechanic just removed the electric socket and tidied away the cabling out of sight. All I can say is that the car passed.


  • #24
    listermint
    Registered Users Posts: 33,576 ✭✭✭✭listermint


    I've a V60 and bought the G3 roof rack from Mick's garage last year. it's aero style bars with lock mechanism for the volvo roof rails.
    They were 70 euro when I bought them and frankly knock the arse out of the Thule ones for weight and value . I've had 2 sets of Thule in the past for BMWs.

    Check Mick's garage out


  • #25
    fryup
    Registered Users Posts: 18,069 ✭✭✭✭fryup


    anyone ever hit a low lying barrier whilst carrying bikes on the roof?

    in a moment of forgetfulness/spacing out?


  • #26
    listermint
    Registered Users Posts: 33,576 ✭✭✭✭listermint


    fryup wrote: »
    anyone ever hit a low lying barrier whilst carrying bikes on the roof?

    No.

    But you should know your roof height with them on.


  • #27
    CramCycle
    Moderators, Sports Moderators Posts: 24,419 Mod ✭✭✭✭CramCycle


    boege wrote: »
    I was told this as well but my mechanic said that if you have electrics they must be working but that you dont have to have electrics. If you have them then they will test them.

    As my electrics had been cut in the past (chasing a blown fuse) thy were not working so my mechanic just removed the electric socket and tidied away the cabling out of sight. All I can say is that the car passed.
    My electrics were faulty, so I removed the socket. Tester said if the socket wasn't there it would be a visual retest and I'd pass. Different tester came out and said if the bar was there, the electrics had to be(after he went in and double checked). It only took another 5 minutes to remove but I guess it's so new, they are not certain on the specifics yet.

    I am tempted to put it back on as I have an aldi tow bar mount but haven't been arsed.


  • #28
    cletus
    Registered Users Posts: 7,858 ✭✭✭cletus


    CramCycle wrote: »
    My electrics were faulty, so I removed the socket. Tester said if the socket wasn't there it would be a visual retest and I'd pass. Different tester came out and said if the bar was there, the electrics had to be(after he went in and double checked). It only took another 5 minutes to remove but I guess it's so new, they are not certain on the specifics yet.

    I am tempted to put it back on as I have an aldi tow bar mount but haven't been arsed.

    Interesting, I just bought a car with a towbar, must check the electrics.

    Also bought an Aldi towbar rack, more stable than the straps and good setup is been using


  • #29
    Hurrache
    Registered Users Posts: 10,146 ✭✭✭✭Hurrache


    boege wrote: »
    I was told this as well but my mechanic said that if you have electrics they must be working but that you dont have to have electrics. If you have them then they will test them.

    As my electrics had been cut in the past (chasing a blown fuse) thy were not working so my mechanic just removed the electric socket and tidied away the cabling out of sight. All I can say is that the car passed.

    You need the electrical socket in working order if the tow hitch is present. The alternative is to remove the hitch at each NCT.

    As can be seen there's still some confusion though. I did ring the NCT help line twice to seek clarification and both times they had to get back to me.

    Essentially they said that a working electrical socket has to be present as I did suggest that I'll just remove it otherwise. You could be lucky with a tester and they'll see it differently, but it was a no no for me so I ultimately removed the hitch, passed the NCT, and put it back on again.


  • #30
    Doop
    Registered Users Posts: 1,465 ✭✭✭Doop


    cletus wrote: »
    Interesting, I just bought a car with a towbar, must check the electrics.

    Also bought an Aldi towbar rack, more stable than the straps and good setup is been using

    I assume the Aldi towbar racks were available previously? I cant find them available on the website now...


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  • #31
    _Brian
    Registered Users Posts: 18,468 ✭✭✭✭_Brian


    We bring 4 bikes and I’ve a bad back.

    Towbar mounted carrier is easy and quickly loaded.


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