How to choose the best bike rack

Cyclists who travel long distances are well aware that it is something almost impossible to do without a bike rack. This is an indispensable accessory for those who want to be sure that they always carry everything they need.

In fact, the rack is also a valuable ally in the city, especially when the classic bike basket is not very large for loading.

In this guide we compare the various types of luggage racks and you will find out how to choose it and how to mount it.

You will eventually be able to find your way around the best one for you and you will be able to install it on your bike without any difficulty.

The different types of bike racks for bike

Each bike has its own characteristics, a different frame and above all a specific purpose. Whatever bike you choose to use, there is always a rack that can be adapted.

The shape of the rack can be extremely variable, but for simplicity we have divided them into 3 different categories: the rear ones, the front ones and the universal ones. Let's immediately see the peculiarity of each one.

The rear rack for bicycles

The first luggage racks that were invented were integrated into the frame and positioned above the rear wheel. It's been a long time, the technology has improved, but the rear bike rack still goes for the better. Let's try to understand why.

When the luggage is placed in the back of the bike, it doesn't disturb the view in any way. It is precisely for this reason that mtb bike racks are generally installed above the rear wheel.

Having a good view when you ride on the dirt road is of paramount importance, so you can see all the roughness of the ground and choose the best route.

Cycling enthusiasts and those who love the most demanding routes, such as the Paris Best Paris, make extensive use of this rack. In fact, it can be used to load bike bags and luggage of all kinds.

Often the most commonly used rack for racing bikes are the rear ones, but instead of being hooked to the frame, they are fixed on the seatpost. A classic example is the Arkel bike rack designed for randonneurs, but suitable for various needs. In this short video you can see how to use it and above all how easy it is to assemble it.

The front rack for bikes

The front version of the rack is less popular, but it has its own reason. It is also easily accessible for cyclists who do not want to move from the saddle, for example to munch on a snack on the fly.

In general, the front bike rack can carry a smaller and lighter piece of luggage than the rear one. After all, it is not advisable to place a bag in front of you that is too voluminous and would obstruct your view.

These luggage racks are attached to the front fork and even those who own a bike with a shock-absorbing fork will have no difficulty in finding the adaptable luggage rack.

The front models are widely used by those who travel long distances and often load luggage both in the front of the bike and in the rear. These luggage racks are also a valid solution for city bikes, as an alternative to the classic basket.

The universal bike rack that you can install anywhere you want

The most versatile bicycle rack ever is the universal one, which you can install either on the frame above the rear wheel or on the front fork. With a single accessory, you can change its location as often as you like.

This is also very easy to install, often without the need for screws or bolts. The Thule Pack N Pedal Tour universal bike rack is one of the most robust and efficient. It can carry heavy loads and can be used in combination with various types of bags, boxes and baskets.

If you are unsure whether to install a front or rear rack, the universal one is definitely the right choice for you.

Bike rack for bike: the materials available

The most important requirement you need to look for in a rack undoubtedly is its robustness. This accessory must guarantee you an excellent reliability, otherwise you risk sowing your luggage along the road.

Generally, the best products are made from a combination of metal and plastic. Companies in the sector are always committed to the development of increasingly high-performance luggage racks, which can be installed easily and sometimes without the need for special tools.

Aluminum bike racks offer the right combination of lightness and sturdiness, in fact they are the most used ones. Titanium luggage racks are even lighter and can weigh even less than 250 grams! For the titanium bike racks the sore point is the much higher price, in fact they are recommended only to those who face high-level competitions.

Another solutions are the steel bike racks, which guarantee maximum strength, but must be welded to the frame. It is certainly not the most practical and versatile solution!

How to install a bike rack for bike

The mounting of the roof racks varies depending on where they are to be placed and you just have to follow the instructions to place them in a few minutes. The advantage of the most advanced roof racks is that they can be installed on frames made of any material, from aluminum to titanium.

As you saw in the video I showed you above, installing a good quality seat post bike rack, like the ones of the Arkel brand, is really simple. Just place it under the saddle and rotate the bolt underneath until it is tight. Finally, you close the Velcro strap around the seat post and the bike is ready to be loaded and go.

To install the universal bike rack you see on the right, you'll need to place it in the desired position, for example above the rear wheel, and attach the mounting brackets to the frame. Then rotate the bolts with an Allen key and when the inclination is the one you want, tighten until it is completely fixed.

Whether you choose to install a universal bike rack, front or rear, you won't have any trouble understanding how to proceed. The products come with step-by-step instructions and if you're unsure about the internet, you'll also find lots of videos to show you all the steps.

If you find it difficult to assemble or, before that, to choose the rack that best suits your needs, you know that you can count on me. Contact me and I will give you the assistance you need.