Bike racks are any type of secure rack that a bike can be fastened to for either safe storage or safe transportation. Stationary outdoor bike racks are typically large metal framed stand-alone pieces of equipment with bars that bike locks can attach to. Such bike racks are commonly found at schools, libraries, and other public places.
Bike racks for cars allow people to transport multiple bikes securely at one time on the outside of the car. There are four basic types of bike racks for cars: Roof racks, truck bed racks, hitch carriers, and trunk mount racks.
Types of Bike Racks and Costs
The following information describes different types of basic bike racks, and some of the advantages and disadvantages of each. Price ranges are also included to aid in shopping for bike racks.
Roof Racks -
($175-500)http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/tires-auto-parts/auto-parts/bike-racks/overview/index.htm
These can often carry up to four bikes, and may be able to support additional types of luggage. The downside to their use is usually that they are high maintenance to attach and because they cause the bikes to sit erect, driving under low overpasses or into low-ceiling garages may pose a problem and could result in damage.http://www.bikeracksforcarsandtrucks.com/
Trunk Racks -
($40-140)http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/tires-auto-parts/auto-parts/bike-racks/overview/index.htm
These can often carry up to three bikes, and are easy to access since they sit right against the trunk of the car. These are also known as some of the cheapest types of bike racks on the market. The problem this can pose, of course, is that trunk access is inhibited when the bikes and rack are in place.http://www.bikeracksforcarsandtrucks.com/
Hitch Carriers -
($80-400)http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/tires-auto-parts/auto-parts/bike-racks/overview/index.htm
These can carry up to five bikes, and require a hitch attachment on the back of a car. Although these carriers allow easier trunk access than trunk racks and do not have the clearance issues of roof racks, some consumers report stability issues with these racks due to swaying.http://www.bikeracksforcarsandtrucks.com/
Truck Carriers -
These can carry up to four bikes, and are meant for use only in pickup trucks.http://www.bikeracksforcarsandtrucks.com/
Using a Bike Rack on a Bus
In this video, a simple demonstration is given on how to use a typical bike rack located on the front of most public buses. In this case, the rack on the front of the bus needs to be folded down, the bike placed on it, and then a bar swings up over the front wheel. Caution should always be observed so the driver is aware of who is loading or unloading bikes.
References
Fast Facts
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Purpose
To secure bikes to vehicles or to keep them locked up in public
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Types of car bike racks
Roof racks, truck bed racks, hitch carriers, and trunk mount racks.
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Price ranges
$40-500
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Public transportation
Bike racks are on most public city buses
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Capacity
Some bike racks can carry up to 5 bikes
