GUIDES
Getting Started
Rhino-Rack makes a bike carrier for everyone's needs. From bike type, vehicle type and number of bikes to be transported this is your guide to deciding which Rhino-Rack bike carrier best suits you. Whether you have Road Bikes, Cyclocross Bikes, Mountain Bikes, Fat Bikes, Kids Bikes, Cruiser Bikes, BMX, or Folding Bikes Rhino-Rack will get you out on your next adventure faster!
Where do you want to carry your bike?
The type of accessories you have on your vehicle or thinking of adding to your vehicle, will determine the type of bike carrier you can use.
1. Roof Mounted – a set of crossbars or a platform is required. These will allow any one of our roof mounted bike carriers to be added. The roof is a great option when it is at a reasonable height for loading a bike.
2. Hitch Mounted – a 2-inch hitch receiver is required on the back of the car. These come factory fitted or can be installed at any time.
3. Tow Ball Mounted – a 50mm tow ball is required. These come factory fitted or can be installed at any time.
4. Ute/Pick-Up Tub – a set of crossbars or platform over the tub will enable a similar set up to the roof or, bikes can be stored securely in the tub.
5. Spare Wheel – If your vehicle has the spare wheel mounted on the back door then Rhino-Rack have an option.
How do you want to attach your bike?
In addition to thinking about where you want the bike mounted, it is also important to consider how you would like to attach your bike to the bike carrier.
The 3 options available include;
1. Fork mounted – In this case the front wheel is removed, and the bike is attached via the front hub with a Thru Axle or Skewer and the rear wheel is fixed with a strap. This is a good option for bikes with a quick release axle or Thru Axle.
2. Wheel mounted – In this case the front wheel is left on and fixed in place with a ratcheting clamp and the rear wheel is fixed with a strap. This is a great option when you want to avoid bike frame contact with the carrier.
3. Frame mounted – In this case the bike is loaded over the bike carrier prongs and strapped at various points on the bike frame. This is a great option for carrying multiple bikes of all shapes and sizes.
How strong do you feel?
If you have trouble lifting a bike up and onto your roof of the vehicle then it may be a good idea to use a Hitch, Spare wheel or Tow Bar mounted carrier.
Do you want to carry bikes while your trailer or caravan is fitted?
Rhino-Rack don’t recommend fixing bike carriers on the back of a caravan. The best option for carrying bikes with a caravan attached would be on the roof of the car, or on a rear spare tyre.
Security for your bike
It is a good idea to consider the safety of your bike from theft. All Rhino-Rack bike carriers come with some form of anti-theft device so you can feel confident leaving your bike unattended.
Regulatory Compliance
When carrying a bike on the back of a vehicle be mindful that the rear lights and number plate may be covered by the bikes. Each state has its own road use regulations concerning transport of bikes on a vehicle, so it is wise to be familiar with your local laws. Rhino-Rack have an optional light bar and number plate holder available if required.