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BIKE RACK

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A car bike rack is an accessory designed to transport bicycles safely and conveniently during car journeys.

There are different types of bike racks, each with specific features to suit various types of vehicles and modes of transport:

1. Roof Bike Rack
  • Advantages : Keeps the rear and trunk of the car clear. It's a good solution for cars with roof racks already installed.
  • Compatibility : It is compatible with most bicycles, including road bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes (depending on the capacity of the bike rack).
2. Towbar Bike Rack
  • Advantages : Allows you to transport multiple bikes stably and safely, ideal for long trips. It's also easier to load and unload than roof-mounted bike racks, especially for heavy bikes.
  • Compatibility : It is suitable for vehicles with a towbar, but compatibility depends on the type of towbar and the number of bicycles.
3. Rear bike rack
  • Advantages : It is suitable for those who do not have a towbar or roof rack. It is easy to install and remove.
  • Compatibility : It is compatible with many types of cars, but may not fit all shapes of hatches or vehicles with rear spoilers.
4. Window or Trunk Bike Rack
  • Advantages : They are practical and compact, excellent for lightweight bikes or short trips.

FAQ

Which bike racks are legal?

Circular no. 25981 of September 6, 2023, and the subsequent clarifying circular no. 30187 of October 12, 2023, state that bike racks may only be installed and used under certain conditions.

  • The length must not exceed 1.20 m , including transported bicycles.
  • The width must not exceed that of the motor vehicle , including bicycles.
  • The height must not exceed 2.50 m , always including bicycles.

How far can the bike rack protrude?

Protruding load is permitted only at the rear and must not exceed 30% of the vehicle length .

When is the protruding load sign mandatory?

When the load protrudes longitudinally across the entire width of the rear part of the vehicle, there must be two warning panels, placed transversely, each at one end of the load , or of the protruding shape.

Should the license plate be placed on the bike rack?

The vehicle's license plate must be clearly visible and unobstructed . If the bike rack and/or bicycles obscure the license plate, even marginally, it is essential to install a repeating license plate. This license plate cannot be "homemade" but must be requested from the Vehicle Licensing Authority, displaying the "R" symbol.

How to choose the right bike rack?

Considerations to make when looking to purchase a bike rack are the following:

  • Vehicle type

Check if your car has a tow bar or roof rack to determine what type of bike rack you can use.

  • Number of bicycles

If you need to transport multiple bikes, consider a model that supports a larger number.

  • Ease of use

Choose a bike rack that is easy to attach and remove, and that offers a good balance between safety and practicality.

  • Access to the trunk

If you need to access the trunk frequently while traveling, a tilt or towbar model may be the best choice.
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