Towbar Mounted Bike Racks

How do you attach a towbar mounted bike rack?

Most towbar mounted bike racks come flat-packed and piecing any loose parts together with a screwdriver shouldn't take too long and only a first-time requirement. There's normally a box or a lock that sits at the middle-rear on the towbar bike rack, this wraps around the towball, you'll find this at the top of the towbar extending from the rear (under the boot) of your vehicle. Screws and various locking mechanisms will help stabilise the bike rack into place and you can apply some weight to the bike rack to ensure it's prepared to roll on your first bicycle.

 

How does the tilting mechanism of a towbar bike rack work?

Some of the more premium towbar mounted bike racks come with a unique tilting mechanism. If you notice the word 'tilt' in the title or description of a product then this highlights a beneficial feature for those who want access to their boot without having to detach the entire bike rack. When transporting your bikes, they'll be secured in an upright position, when your car is stationary a click-clack function will enable you to tilt (as the title suggests) the bike rack (and sometimes with the bikes on) to a 90 degree angle so the bikes or the core rack structure is lying flat. This is great for those wanting full access to their boot, perhaps to let a dog out or grab luggage/equipment you've been storing away.

 

Can I put a towbar bike rack on a caravan?

We don't recommend attaching our towbar bike racks to caravans, mainly because caravans are designed to be transported without any additional weight at the rear of them. Any additional weight may cause disruption to the balance & aerodynamics of the caravan when on the road. We do however stock van bike racks for those specific vehicles, and you could also consider transporting your bikes on the roof of your car if your towbar is already in use. Do check manufacturer's guidelines before purchasing and you can click here for roof mounted bike racks and car roof bar sets.