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Date: Wed, 26 Jun 2002 00:30:35 GMT
From: John Davies <johndaviesNOSPAMnopsam.net>
Subject: Re: Which bike rack for 4 bikes


On Tue, 25 Jun 2002 08:52:44 -0700, "Craig" <CBobchinXXXXXXSPAMBlockerXXXXXnopsamcom> wrote: >I'll need to carry 3 - 4 bikes (Mine, Wife's and 2 kids) none of which have >a quick release front wheel. >Would a roof rack work for this many bikes, or should I get a hitch and rear >rack. I'm new to transporting bikes. I think that the answer probably is no, for several reasons. What car do you drive? - that is kind of important info for us to know.....I will assume a normal sized wagon, for the heck of it. First, if the bikes don't have quick release front wheels, you will have to use upright type trays, and there is likely no way 4 bikes will fit up there without wider than standard crossbars - there just isn't enough width. (Extra wide bars on a low car roof are very awkward and a hazard to your head.) I can carry 2 adult/ 2 kid mountain bikes facing forward, all with QR front wheels, on standard width bars on my 9-5 Wagon because the handlebars nest properly if you position the bikes alternately big/ little. I just don't see four upright mounts fitting up there. Two, I suspect your bikes are pretty heavy. Do any of them say "Huffy" on the frame? If they are all over 30 pounds, then you may be overloading your roof rack, depending on what model car you have. The 9-5 Wagon has a load limit of 130 pounds, if I remember correctly. The crossbars and trays have to be figured into this amount, so you may not have enough saftey margin. My 4 good quality bikes each weigh 25 pounds, or less, without the front wheels. The wheels travel in back, taking up a heck of a lot of luggage space. If you do not already have a roof crossbars, and you don't plan on replacing the bikes soon, I suggest a 2 inch receiver on your car and a hitch mounted 4 bike carrier. If you select the right one, you can carry 4 of any type bike. It will be expensive, but that is the price you pay to carry that many awkward shaped toys. A sport rack specialist can advise you and show you your options. Just remember to buy quality products. Having your rack depart the car at 70 mph with all bikes attached is the stuff of nightmares. John Davies Monroe WA USA 2001 Saab 9-5 Aero Wagon 2000 Audi A4 quattro 1.8T 1991 Jeep Cherokee Laredo 4x4

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