Keep a Low Profile With a Fork Mount
Choose a fork mount bike rack if you are traveling into an area where high winds threaten vehicles with top loads. This holds true especially for Colorado or the high deserts of California and Nevada. A good example is the Copper Head bike rack that weighs 4 lbs. and mounts to an already existing roof rack quickly and easily. Carry the bike's front tire in your trunk and mount the rear tire and fork to the rooftop bike carrier.
Transport a Bike Whole for Quick Use
Consider the King Cobra and similar bike racks that allow for the bike to be mounted to the rooftop bike carrier whole. This technology makes it possible to take the bike off the roof and go riding within minutes of arrival at your destination. A high impact locking mechanism and reinforced bars counteract the potential for high wind damage. While these are the best rooftop bike carriers for quick and easy transport and immediate use, they also add 14 lbs. of weight to your car's roof.
Moving a Tandem Cross Country
Look for a different setup if you are transporting a tandem. While the best rooftop bike carrier will make loading and unloading your tandem relatively easy, it is also one of the more expensive ways of hitching up the tandem. A good example is the Side Winder fork mount tandem roof carrier that is designed specifically for these longer bikes. If you have already invested in a good tandem, spending the extra money to securely transport it to and from the locations of your choice only makes sense.
Article Written By Sylvia Cochran
Based in the Los Angeles area, Sylvia Cochran is a seasoned freelance writer focusing on home and garden, travel and parenting articles. Her work has appeared in "Families Online Magazine" and assorted print and Internet publications.
