What are some different styles of bicycle carriers?

Bicycle carriers are typically available in three types: roof racks, hitch-mount racks and strap-on trunk racks. Two important factors when selecting a bicycle carrier are the intended car type and the number of bikes to transport.

Roof rack bicycle carriers use mounting feet and clips that attach to a vehicle's upper door frame or rain gutters, or they attach to a vehicle's existing rack and crossbars. Roof racks require lifting the bike and placing it into the rack mounts on the roof of the car.

Hitch-mount racks are available in a variety of sizes to match the class of hitch on the vehicle. A hitch-mount rack requires lifting the bicycle about waist-high to place it on the tire tray or strap it to the carrier arm.

Strap-on trunk racks attach to a car's trunk, hatchback or rear bumper. Mount a bicycle on the plastic-coated carrier arms by lifting it about waist-high.