Finding the right bike rack depends on many factors which include the number of bikes you need to carry, your budget for the rack, features you desire, and brand, but possibly the most driving issue is the type of vehicle you have and what other use it will have in addition to transporting bikes.
A spare tire bike rack is a great option for those with Jeep type vehicles and other styles which have a spare tire mounted on the back. Using a spare tire bike rack means that the tow hitch is free to be used to tow a vehicle, trailer or boat at the same time. It doesn’t matter if the spare tire is center mounted or off center if a spare tire bike rack is chosen with adjustable arms that can center the bikes regardless of the tire position.
The least expensive kind of spare tire bike rack uses straps to attach it to the tire assembly. These straps must be carefully secured to secure the bikes properly and prevent damage to them as well as to the vehicle. The higher grades of spare tire bike racks will have steel plate mounts that are very secure and stable and will be more expensive but much more durable and reliable.
For maximum protection for both the vehicle and the bikes, it is best to choose a brand of spare tire bike rack that features an anti-sway cradle or cradles for the ultimate in stability. Another choice to consider is whether to get a single arm or dual arm support in your spare tire bike rack. While there are excellent single arm models, many prefer the additional support points in the dual arm racks.
For the best security, a spare tire bike rack will have locking mechanisms both to secure the rack itself as well as each bike that it holds. Whether all needed locks are included in the purchase price or whether they need to be purchased separately varies from brand to bran.
You can find a spare tire bike rack for a single bike or you can choose a model that will hold as many as three bikes. Some racks will accommodate bikes of different sizes, but if this is an issue, consult with a sales representative to be sure your model will meet your needs.
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