When it comes to bike racks, there are three traditional types: roof-mounted, rear-mounted, and towbar-mounted. With the rise of electric bikes, a new type of carrier has also emerged — the e-bike compatible rack, built to withstand much heavier loads.
To keep it simple, we’ve pulled together our top four favourite cycle carriers to help you decide which one is right for you, your bike and your vehicle.
Roof Mounted
Halfords Advanced Roof-Mounted Carrier
Maximum capacity: 20kg
Our favourite roof-mounted bike rack is the Halfords Advanced Roof Mounted Bike Rack, and it can hold one bike at a time (up to 20kg). Its sturdy construction ensures stability, and the wheel holders and secure ratchet strap will keep your bike firmly in place as you travel far and wide to explore new roads and trails. This rack ensures maximum security as it features an anti-theft locking system, protecting both the bike and the carrier from the risk of being stolen.
The oversized wheel holders can accommodate tyres up to 2.8 inches, making this rack suitable for e-bikes, though we always recommend removing the battery before travelling to stay within the weight limit.
Rear-Mounted
Halfords 3 Bike Rear-Mounted Bike Rack v2
Maximum capacity: 45kg (15kg per bike)
For families or groups of cycling pals, the Halfords 3 Bike Rear-Mounted Bike Rack v2 is a practical choice. It can carry three bikes with a total maximum weight of 45kg, or 15kg per bike, and attaches neatly to the rear of your vehicle. When not in use, the rack folds down flat for easy storage in your garage.
It features clever design touches such as, individual bike holders with anti-scratch rubber inserts to reduce the risk of damage, side straps for extra stability, and a wheel-locking system to avoid bike wheels bashing about.
Note: This cycle carrier is not suitable for electric bikes.
Towbar Mounted
Halfords 4 Bike Tow Bar Cycle Carrier
The Halfords 4 Bike Tow Cycle Carrier is a great option, as it can hold up to four bikes, while leaving the roof free, making this perfect for families or friends going away on holiday who might also want to take a roof box with them. This cycle carrier will require a vehicle that features a 50mm towball so it can be securely attached. You’ll also need to get an additional rear number plate when using this carrier loaded to ensure that your registration plate is visible.
This Halfords Cycle Carrier has strong, adjustable, and padded arms to keep bikes safe and secure, and is fitted with a 7-pin lighting board plug so you can stay safe and seen while you’re on the road in the day and at night.
Note: This cycle carrier is not suitable for electric bikes.
E-bike Compatible
Halfords Advanced 2 E Bike Tow Bar Mount Bike Rack
If you’re looking to take an electric bike with you on your next weekend away, then you’ll need to get a bike rack that can withstand the weight of an e-bike.
If you have a car that has a towbar, then the Halfords Advanced 2 Bike Towbar Mounted Bike Rack is just what you need. The cycle carrier attaches neatly to your towbar and can support up to two bikes with a maximum weight of 60kgs, including e-bikes and heavy mountain bikes.
The clever tilting function means you can still gain access to the boot while you’re on the road, so if you’ve got sandwiches in the back and you need a quick pit stop on the way to your next holiday destination, then you’ll always be able to have access to the all-important essentials. There’s also a robust locking mechanism in place to lock your bikes to the rack and the rack to the tow ball, for maximum security when in transit and parked. Plus, this cycle carrier comes with a 5-year guarantee – so there’s loads to love about this cycle carrier!
Vehicle Checker
When choosing a bike rack, vehicle compatibility is one of the most important factors to consider. The easiest way to check is by using Halfords’ online car registration tool, which will confirm whether a particular rack will fit your car.
Cycle Carrier Fitting Service
If you don’t have the tools or the time to fit the carrier yourself, Halfords offers a professional fitting service for £25. Our experts will not only install the rack for you but also demonstrate how to do it yourself for future trips. When you’re at checkout, just add fitting to your click & collect order and pick the best time and store location for you.