Roof racks are an optimal choice for transporting bikes without worrying about limited access to your vehicle’s trunk. Although some lifting and hoisting is often required to get the roof rack on top of your car, the end result is a secure transportation option. The roof rack is generally a very secure and stable system and can work with a number of bikes and configurations. For example, you can carry your road bike with the front wheel on or off, or move a hybrid or mountain bike from one place to the next. Here are some of the top roof racks for bikes currently on the market.
1. CyclingDeal 1 Bike Car Roof Carrier Rack Bicycle Racks with Lock
A sturdy steel powder coating makes this bike rack better at handling inclement weather conditions. Another highlight is the frame holder, which hugs the bike’s frame and holds it tightly in place. If you’ve ever struggled with having to remove your bike’s front wheel then reassemble it when you’ve arrived at your destination, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to mount and secure your bike without taking off the front wheel. A locking feature keeps the bike tightly in place on the go. As an added bonus, this bike rack works well with bikes of just about any size.
Price: $49.00 (16 percent off MSRP)
Buy the CyclingDeal 1 Bike Car Roof Carrier Rack Bicycle Racks with Lock here.
Pros:
- Durable steel powder coating
- Holds frame tightly in place
- No need to remove front wheel
Cons:
- Larger bikes may wobble
- Rack can be removed from roof without any tools
- Tire tray is a bit thin
Find more CyclingDeal 1 Bike Car Roof Carrier Rack Bicycle Racks with Lock information and reviews here.
2. Yakima ForkLift Fork Mount Rooftop Bike Rack
Yakima’s forklift-style roof rack accomplishes many different tasks. For example, you can effortlessly install and remove the rack from your vehicle’s roof at any time. It also fits most disc brakes. This rack’s skewer is easy to lock and secure thanks to an adjustable knob. In fact, you can even manage it with one hand if necessary. Customers appreciate how the sliding wheel tray is easy to adjust, which makes positioning the rear wheel of your bike a breeze. The rack doesn’t come into contact with the paint on your bike, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about scratches. It’s a particularly good choice for those with carbon bikes.
Price: $127.19 (20 percent off MSRP)
Buy the Yakima ForkLift Fork Mount Rooftop Bike Rack here.
Pros:
- Unique forklift style
- Easy to install and remove
- Won’t scratch bike paint
Cons:
- Could use more rear wheel support
- Can get in the way of some SUV and hatch trunks
- Some components may rust
Find more Yakima ForkLift Fork Mount Rooftop Bike Rack information and reviews here.
3. Inno Racks Fork Lock III Universal Mount
A slim, lightweight design makes this bike roof rack a great choice for anyone looking for an alternative to heavy and cumbersome bike racks. You also don’t have to use any tools. This universal mount fits the majority of cross, square, and round bars. It also works with bikes that have up to a 2.5-inch wide tire. The Inno rack includes locks and keys. Customers really like how solid the bike remains on top once. There’s a quick release option if you need to rapidly get to your bike.
Price: $119.99
Buy the Inno Racks Fork Lock III Universal Mount here.
Pros:
- Slim and lightweight design
- No tools required
- Holds bike securely in place
Cons:
- Might not fit on some vehicle crossbars
- Some users had to buy an additional screw kit
- Back strap may not work with some road bikes
Find more Inno Racks Fork Lock III Universal Mount information and reviews here.
4. Thule 594XT Sidearm Rooftop Upright Bike Carrier
Frame contact is eliminated thanks to a handy SecureHook feature, which holds the front wheel firmly in place. The back wheel is also secured with a ratcheting wheel strap. You can feel better about using this roof carrier during inclement weather conditions, as it’s designed with a corrosion-resistant aluminum tray. The same tray ensures ultimate strength and rigidity, making it a good choice for bikes of various sizes. There’s a single key lock cylinder to lock the bike to the carrier and the carrier to the rack, although the key is sold separately. This rack will work with most 20 to 29-inch wheel diameters and tires up to 2.6 inches wide.
Price: $199.95
Buy the Thule 594XT Sidearm Rooftop Upright Bike Carrier here.
Pros:
- No frame contact
- Corrosion-resistant aluminum tray
- Accommodates many different bikes
Cons:
- Have to pay extra for single key lock cylinder
- Difficult tray configuration
- Locking system could be more secure
Find more Thule 594XT Sidearm Rooftop Upright Bike Carrier information and reviews here.
5. Yakima FrontLoader Rooftop Bike Rack
This rack will fit the majority of factory, round, square, and aerodynamic crossbars thanks to its universal built-in hardware. It also promises zero contact with the bike frame and easily accommodates disc brakes and full suspension. If you don’t want to remove your bike’s front wheel each time, you’ll enjoy how this rooftop bike rack carries the entire bike. Another bonus is that it doesn’t require any tools, ensuring a fast and easy assembly. While this Yakima rack fits most 20 to 29 inch mountain and road bike wheels, it won’t work with tandems or recumbent bikes.
Price: $143.19 (20 percent off MSRP)
Buy the Yakima FrontLoader Rooftop Bike Rack here.
Pros:
- Fits most crossbars
- No contact with bike frame
- Carries the entire bike
Cons:
- Not made for tandem or recumbent bikes
- A bit heavy
- Shorter individuals may struggle with this rack
Find more Yakima FrontLoader Rooftop Bike Rack information and reviews here.