How to choose the right bike rack?

In our opinion, there's no better way to discover the world than by bike. Whether you're exploring the trails of Quebec, heading off on an adventure elsewhere in Canada, or even crossing the United States, one thing is essential: being able to transport your bike easily, safely, and conveniently. And that all starts with a good bike rack, one that's suited to your vehicle and your type of bike.

The choice can seem overwhelming at first, but once you understand the differences between each type of media, everything becomes clearer. We'll guide you step by step through the main options available on the market, along with their strengths and limitations—so you can find the one that's perfect for you.

The towbar bike rack: the big favorite

When it comes to bike racks, the towbar model often comes to mind, especially among regular cyclists or those who travel frequently. It offers great stability on the road, a generous loading capacity (up to 6 bikes for some models), and, above all, it's compatible with even the heaviest bikes, such as fat bikes or electric bikes.

One of its biggest advantages is that it doesn't require lifting the bike too high, which is a real relief for many. You can even add a ramp to make loading easier and effortless. We also appreciate the tilting systems offered by several models, which allow you to open the trunk without having to remove the bikes.

Safety-wise, we're also well served. Many models offer locking options for both the bikes and the rack, and some even have integrated lights (brake, position, turn signals), which improves visibility and safety, especially on the highway. In addition, the bike is very stable, so there's no risk of damaging the frame.

Do you have an RV? Some racks may be compatible, under certain conditions. Don't hesitate to discuss this with one of our advisors to find the best option.

Of course, to use this type of rack, your car must be equipped with a towbar (a hitch in plain English). If you haven't already, expect to pay between $300 and $800 for the complete installation, including wiring harnesses if necessary. It's an investment, but one worth it if you drive often.

Our Favorites

Here are my favorite racks, tested and approved for various needs, from e-bikes to family outings, including great value deals:

Thule T2 Pro XTR

The overall winner: ultra-sturdy, easy to use, compatible with e-bikes, and expandable to carry up to 4 bikes.

See the product: here

Thule Epos

Specially designed for e-bikes, it offers quick installation and excellent support, perfect for those looking for a simple and effective solution.

See the product: here

RockyMounts GuideRail

A rack with a sleek, modern design that focuses on safety without compromise. It combines style and performance with a contactless frame retention system.

See the product: here

Swagman XTC2 Tilt

The budget choice: affordable, reliable, and even tilts for better access to the trunk. A nice surprise for the price!

See the product: here

For pickup trucks: the tailgate rack

If you drive a pickup truck, you have access to a simple and economical solution: the tailgate rack. It installs directly onto the pickup truck's tailgate using a padded mat and can carry between 4 and 6 bikes, depending on the width of your vehicle.

Installation takes just a few minutes and is very easy. Perfect for group or family outings. That said, since the bikes are simply strapped to the back of the truck, they're a little less well supported than with a hitch rack, and more vulnerable to theft if the vehicle is left unattended.

Another detail to consider: since the bikes are installed in the truck bed, you lose a good deal of cargo space. If you're going on a long road trip or a heavily loaded road trip, this option could quickly show its limitations. In these cases, a hitch rack might be a better option, even with a pickup truck.

Roof rack: for traveling light (or high)

A roof-mounted bike rack is a particularly attractive option for those who drive a compact car and want to maintain full access to their trunk. Once the bars are installed on the roof, you can use them year-round: summer and winter, they can be used to transport other equipment, such as a roof box for your skis.

That said, keep in mind that this type of rack requires lifting the bike to the roof of the vehicle. For a light bike, this isn't a problem, but with a heavier bike, it can quickly become a challenge. Additionally, some models require removing the front wheel of the bike, which adds an extra step to the installation.

This system also impacts your vehicle's aerodynamics. Carrying a bike on the roof slightly increases fuel consumption and can generate some noise at high speeds. But the most important aspect to consider is the overall height of your vehicle once the bikes are mounted. Many cyclists have unfortunately experienced hitting a low overpass or getting stuck at the entrance to an underground parking lot... This is a detail to always check before hitting the road!

The strap-on rack: for occasional outings

Finally, there's the strap-on bike rack, also known as a tailgate rack. It's installed using straps on the rear of the vehicle, usually on the trunk, making it a very affordable and relatively easy-to-install option. No towbar or roof rack is required.

This type of rack is well-suited for occasional cyclists or those looking for an economical solution. It's lightweight, folds easily, and can fit a wide variety of vehicles. However, it has some limitations. Less stable than other types of racks, it can rub against the bike frame or bodywork, potentially damaging them. It's also less secure and more vulnerable to theft. Furthermore, once installed, it blocks complete access to the trunk, which can be inconvenient when traveling.

In short, it's a good emergency option, but if you ride frequently or transport expensive bikes, it may be better to opt for a more robust and secure model.

A Bike Rack for Everyone

There's no such thing as a one-size-fits-all bike rack. The right choice depends on your vehicle, the type of bike you carry, how often you ride... and, of course, your budget. But no matter which option you choose, one thing is certain: with the right equipment, you're ready to go on an adventure wherever you want, whenever you want, without compromise.

And if you need help choosing the right model, come see us in store! That's what we're here for—and we love talking bikes.

Psst. We also offer assembly and installation services!