What kind of bicycle rack should I look for?
 

I was reading about bicycle racks to carry the bicycle with car. There are many mounts available. Its little over whaling and I need some guidance regarding it.

I drive Toyota Avalon and ride Look 566(XL size)

Preference would be reliable and less expensive one.

Thank you

Roof or hitch?

Hitch: 1UpUSA
Roof: Thule echelon fork mount.

J.

1UP also makes a roof rack and is what I will probably get.

Thule makes great racks. I got this one: http://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Bike-R...e/TH990XT.html they make less expensive models but I wanted something with a lock and cradle for the wheels.

I decided early on, I'm too forgetful and a roof rack would end taking out my bikes when pulling into the garage.

I have a Thule roof rack. It does the job, but generates quite a bit of wind noise. Also, I find I have to be very aware of its state when entering the garage. I dare not be lost in thought or conversation with a bike on the roof. Though I've never sheared one off, I know people who have. It's ruined their bikes and not exactly done wonders for their garage doors either.

I have a Saris Bones on the back of my Prius and it's pretty stable. Will have it until I can afford a Thule Aeroblade roof rack.

that car has a pretty big trunk....just sayin

I picked up a Saris Bones in a craigslist deal earlier this year, and it serves my needs just fine. Easy to take off/on, and no problem transporting two bikes. It does hurt gas mileage a bit when I'm using it on the highway, perhaps 5mpg with my Camry (about 15% loss). I've read some tests where roof racks caused up to 25% gas mileage decrease, but since I've never tried one on my Camry I can't fairly compare.

http://store.azproducts.net/B000QJC4P4_350.jpg
You see that bar at the bottom of the bike rack? That's called an anti-sway bar. If you carry more than one bike at a time and find that they scratch, I highly recommend that you get one with this feature.

Personally, I'd put a hitch on it and get a hitch mount rack that supports the bike by the tires. Many are available. Check out the eTrailer website for hitch and bike rack options, including roof, trunk mount, etc....

Why fork mount for roof tops? Seems like extra work needlessly?

All my cars have trailer hitches. I have used both a Yakima and THule racks. My favorite is the THule XTR series. It supports the bike by the wheels - nice for high end bikes. It makes loading and unloading the bikes easy.

Thank you for your responses. I will look into racks suggested here.

I agree try to keep bike inside car if possible.

Kuat:
http://www.socaltrailriders.org/foru...0&d=1330493007

If you don't already have a hitch installed, a class 1 hitch will run you about $130. The bike rack I purchased was the Kuat Sherpa ~ $400. I've been very pleased with it. Not cheap, but very good quality, reliable and breeze to get the bike on and off. I wanted a rack that kept the restraints off the top tube. You might be able to shop for better pricing. Read the reviews. The 1UpUSA is probably the nicest and highest rated rack, but didn't want to spend another $100. I've seen it and its very nice quality. You'll figure it out.

Raxter is another place to consider for hitch mount.

They have good options for 1.25" hitches and fold very compactly.

I had both, and can say that the fork mount seems far more secure. The bike seemed to move around a bit with the frame mounted rack.

I currently have 2 Thule fork mounted Echelon bike trays on a roof rack of my sedan. It removes easily with the help of a second person and I store it away during winter or when I am going on a long drive and don't want the wind noise and loss of mpgs. Otherwise, I prefer the roof rack because my bike does not fit easily in my car (need to put seats down and really wiggle it in there) and I still have use of the interior of my car. I drive a Saab and there are no reasonably priced trailer hitches available for it (awd model 9-3)

I would like to find a rack to use with my old hatchback Camaro. I see someone on the internet used a Saris Bones, but he had to get creative with the attachment points. I am thinking about the Saris Gran Fondo, though. Because it is higher up, it would be easier to hook onto my car. Not sure about how secure it is, though.
http://brimages.bikeboardmedia.netdn...-Side-View.jpg

A big Plus 1 on hitch and Kuat rack systems. I have the Kuat NV NOT Cheap but talk about a good ride for your pride and joy. Worth every penny. I have hitches installed on my smart 451, fiat 500c, audi TT plus my motorhome. Use the same rack on all three. It has been from the FL Keys to Prince Edward Island and every place in-between. You will not find a better system even has keyed alike built in locks and hitch pin. Plus the build-in work stand is great for traveling. Here's a picture on the rack on my smart… Usually I take the work stand off when local.

http://www.smartcarofamerica.com/gal...?imageid=15230