6 best bike rack roof mount

A roof-mounted bike rack is a type of bike rack that is designed to be installed on the roof of a vehicle, allowing for the secure transportation of bicycles. Here's some information about roof-mounted bike racks:

  1. Installation:

    • Roof-mounted bike racks are typically installed on the crossbars or roof rails of a vehicle. They may require assembly and attachment using clamps, brackets, or other mounting hardware.
  2. Types of Roof Racks:

    • There are different types of roof racks, including:
      • Fork Mount: These racks require the removal of the front wheel and secure the bike by the fork dropouts.
      • Upright Mount: Bikes are secured in an upright position with both wheels attached.
      • Wheel Mount: Bikes are secured by their wheels, and no removal of the front wheel is necessary.
  3. Compatibility:

    • Roof-mounted bike racks are compatible with a wide range of vehicle types, including sedans, SUVs, trucks, and station wagons, provided the vehicle has appropriate crossbars or roof rails.
  4. Number of Bikes:

    • Roof-mounted racks can typically carry one to several bikes, depending on the design and model of the rack.
  5. Bike Protection:

    • Roof-mounted racks often have features to protect the bikes, such as cushioned cradles, straps, and locks.These features help prevent damage during transportation and secure the bikes in place.
  6. Aerodynamics:

    • Roof-mounted racks can affect the aerodynamics of the vehicle, potentially impacting fuel efficiency and creating additional wind noise. Some racks are designed with aerodynamics in mind to mitigate these effects.
  7. Clearance:

    • When using a roof-mounted bike rack, be mindful of height clearance, especially when entering garages, low tunnels, or underpasses. Always remember that your vehicle's height increases with the bikes mounted on the roof.
  8. Loading and Unloading:

    • Loading and unloading bikes onto a roof-mounted rack may require lifting the bikes overhead, which could be challenging for some individuals. Consider your physical capabilities and comfort with this before choosing this type of rack.
  9. Security:

    • Many roof-mounted racks come with locking systems to secure the bikes to the rack and the rack to the vehicle, enhancing security and deterring theft.
  10. Versatility:

    • Roof-mounted racks can also be used to transport other outdoor equipment, such as kayaks, skis, or snowboards, with appropriate attachments.

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for installing, securing, and using a roof-mounted bike rack to ensure a safe and secure transportation of your bicycles.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best bike rack roof mount on the market
  

YAKIMA - HighRoad Wheel-On Mount Upright Bike Carrier for Roof Racks, 1 Bike Capacity

YAKIMA

Based on 154 reviews Check latest price
  • CARRY ANY BIKE: Secure, sleek and simple to use; Carry almost any road or mountain bike; Fits 26" to 29" wheels and 23 mm to 4" tires with no adjustment
  • STREAMLINED PROTECTION: Low profile tray minimizes hatch interference; No wheel removal and no contact with the bike frame (an ideal option for carbon fiber bikes and custom paint jobs)
  • ROOF RACK REQUIRED: Crossbar spread must be between 18" and 35"; Tool-free, universal mounting hardware fits most roof racks; T-Slot compatible with SmarT-Slot conversion kit (sold separately)
  • EASY TO USE: New integrated TorqueRight tightening knob is quick and easy to adjust and secures your bike with precision
  • PROTECT YOUR GEAR: 2 SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) can be added to lock your bike to the mount and the mount to the base rack

User questions & answers

Question: Will this fit 4" tire? Yakima website says so, but not here in the specifications
Answer: I am sorry, I do not see the chart. Try to find out from the manufacture or seller of your kayak what size you need. Also, I purchased different sizes to see what will work for a kayak but our kayak does not work with this type so go to the seller or brand web site of the kayak you have to see what size & what type you need. Hope this info helps you.
Question: what do I need to make this mount onto Whispbar Rail Bars with t-channels
Answer: I don't know the size of those, because i use the bigger blue scupper stoppers. Go to the Ocean Kayak website itself. It is difficult to find ( navigate) , but their is a Specification Sheet that gives the diameters. If you can't find it, call the 800 number for them, so they can direct you to it .I finally stumbled on it myslef
Question: What keeps the wheel hoop secure when a bike is not attached? I don't want to take the rack off when I am not carrying a bike
Answer: search for: "oce_productmanual_scupper_size_chart.pdf"
Question: Whats the difference betwen this and the frontloader
Answer: What size do I need for my Ocean Kayak Ambush model

Product features

ROOFTOP MOUNT - FORK MOUNT

Fork mounts make it easy to load and unload your bike and require you to remove the front wheel (which can be stored in your vehicle or on the roof with a wheel fork).

ROOFTOP MOUNT - WHEEL-ON MOUNT

Wheel-on mounts allow you to load and unload your bike fully assembled, meaning it’s ready to go as soon as you get to the trail.

HITCH MOUNT - HANGING TILT RACK

Hanging racks tilt or swing out of the way to access your vehicle’s trunk or hatch. They’re great options for carrying multiple bikes (fit up to 5 bikes), but be aware of the type of bike - anything without traditional geometry may need a top tube adapter.

HITCH MOUNT - TRAY RACK

Tray racks can carry virtually any type of bike (and fit up 2 bikes or 4 with an extension). They offer more spacing between bikes to minimize interference and can either tilt or swing (with an adapter) out of the way while loaded.

CyclingDeal Steel Car Roof Bike Bicycle Carrier Rack for 1 Bike Max Load 33 lbs - SUV Rooftop Mounted

CyclingDeal

Based on 352 reviews Check latest price
  • FORK MOUNT: Bike roof top carrier; Steel powder coating; The fork holder is easily secured to the frame of the bicycle and holds it steadily in place.
  • COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with bikes with quick release front wheel ONLY. Thru-axle needs an adapter (NOT included).
  • CROSS BARS SPECS: Will fit the bars Max. height: 30 mm Max width: 80 mm; Fit square and aero crossbars brands: Thule, Rhino, Ralo, Prorack. Max loads: 15kg or 33 lbs.
  • QUALITY: Good solid steel construction. Another valuable option to carry bikes on the top of the car roof. Friendly reminder: please always remember there is a bike when you drive into an under cover car park or garage. Weight: 2.12kg = 4.65lbs.
  • ORDER NOW, WORRY FREE! We're so confident about our product quality that we can provide 5-year warranty! Made in Taiwan.

User questions & answers

Question: Does this scar up the crossbars at all
Answer: Yes. I ordered two of these and my husband and I have carried both our bikes at the same time. It will be more crowded on the Impreza, but it should still fit comfortably.
Question: I'm new to bike racks -- how many of these can you fit on a toyota rav 4 (small suv). do you think you can fit three? thanks in advance
Answer: The product is not worth it , front and rear cap won’t stay on place. I never buy or recommend this product.
Question: one wheel has to be removed to install
Answer: Possibly/probably, because Crosstrek and Impreza are same body, however the model year might change the fit. Best to check with google and model year and part #
Question: Will it work on factory cross bars for a Subaru CrossTrek
Answer: I have a 2011 Outback and my daughter has a 2017 Cross Trek.. I have no doubt it will, the Thule has slideable clamps to receive the Subaru rack crossbars.

Product features

Secure Fork Mount

Mounting on the front fork to lower the bike for more secure traveling.

Strap

Quality strap for rear wheel.

Tough and Stiff

The bikes looks nice on the roof of the car.

BICYCLE EXPERTS

We design and develop premium bicycle parts and accessories.

WIDE SELECTION

With more than 2000 high quality and good value products, you will always find what you need.

SOURCING TOP PRODUCTS

All the products we stock are carefully selected from the factories in the cycling industry.

PRODUCT VIDEOS

Our team are working hard to try add videos of all the products we are selling. This will allow customers to have a visual image of the products and learn how to use it before purchasing.

CyclingDeal Alloy Car Roof Bike Bicycle Carrier Rack for 2 Bikes Max Load 66 lbs - SUV Rooftop Mounted

CyclingDeal

Based on 188 reviews Check latest price
  • LIGHT & STRONG ALUMINUM – This beautiful bike rack is made of finest 6063 aluminum. It’s light, strong , stunning finish and never rust. Max bike load weight is 30kg or 66 lbs total for 2 bikes
  • EASY INSTALL TAKE OFF – Very easy to install on the car roof crossbars. It fits most aero or square crossbars, Max. thickness: 30mm or 1.18" , Max Width: 110mm or 4.3”. Simply clamp the metal brackets on the crossbars, no tools needed. The bracket position could be fully adjusted to fit the different distance of the car crossbars.
  • FIT MOST BIKES – Keeps wheels on the bike ensures that all bikes could be quickly secured on the rack.Maximum rim deep 50mm, Maximum downtube and seat tube perimeter 19cm/7.48inch
  • ORDER NOW, WORRY FREE! We're so confident about our product quality that we can provide a LIFETIME WARRANTY!
  • NOTE: Please use the brake tie strap which is included in the package to steadily fix the bike position. Product Weight: 5.25kg

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a weight limit for this roof rack? Looking for something hold two mopeds. They weigh maybe 100 pounds each but are smaller than most bikes
Answer: Yes there seem to be a weight limit for this racket. According to the product description the maximum weight is 30kg or 66lbs.
Question: Will this fit on Brightlines aero cross bars for a Jeep Cherokee
Answer: I’m not sure it does fit on my high liner
Question: Can you put two on a car? (4 bikes total
Answer: Yes. I have done this. In fact, I had 2 of these on my car (one on each side for a total of 4 bikes), and a single bike one for my road bike, in between, for a total of 5 bikes on the roof. Not a problem at all.
Question: How fast can I go on the highway with this
Answer: I drove the speed limit (65 mph) for about 200 miles and had no problems with stability.

Product features

Please use the brake tie strap which is included in the package to steadily fix the bike position.

  • This beautiful bike rack is made of finest 6063 alloy aluminum.
  • It’s light, strong with stunning anodized finish and never rusted.
  • Maximum load weight is 30kg or 66 lbs total for 2 bikes
  • Recommendation: 2 bikes in opposite directions with the crank facing outside for easier loading

EASY INSTALL & TAKE OFF

Very easy to install on the car roof crossbars.

It fits most aero or square crossbars, Max. thickness: 30mm or 1.18" , Max Width: 110mm or 4.3”.

Simply clamp the metal brackets on the crossbars, no tools needed.

The bracket position could be fully adjusted to fit the different distance of the car crossbars.

FIT ALL BIKES

Keeps wheels on the bike ensures that all bikes could be quickly secured on the rack. Product Weight: 5.25kg

WHEEL SECURED

Easy to use adjustable one-hand operation wheel strap enable you to load the bike by your own.

FRAME STRAP

The frame down tube clamp strap position is also adjustable and with 360 degree turning futures. It is fully compatible with all different shape frames.

PRO SUPPORT

You will be looked after by our USA support team. If you have any questions or inquiries, please contact our team at any time.

WIDE SELECTION

With more than 2000 high quality and good value products, you will always find what you need.

SOURCING GOOD PRODUCTS

All the products we stock are carefully selected from the factories in the cycling industry.

PRODUCT VIDEOS

Our team are working hard to try add videos of all the products we are selling. This will allow customers to have a visual image of the products and learn how to use it before purchasing.

Rage Powersports Apex 1-Bike Upright SUV Roof Rack Locking Bicycle Carrier

Rage Powersports

Based on 64 reviews Check latest price
  • Transports a single bicycle on an existing vehicle roof rack
  • Fits crossbars up to 3.25"W x 1-5/8"H with a minimum of 1" from roof to crossbar
  • Recommended to be positioned at least 28" apart for maximum stability
  • Adjustable clamping arm attaches to bicycle down-tube
  • Steel construction with a glossy black paint finish

User questions & answers

Question: How many of these can you fit side-by-side on standard roof (minivan). I have to transport 5 bikes and only five bike racks I've seen are hitch-mount
Answer: if the width of your bikes side to side is smaller than the width of your minivan rack, then your good to go. I would think it can fit, I put 4 on my Subaru Outback.
Question: The bars on the roof of my car are vertical, making the bikes horizontal on the roof. Is that okay or do bikes have to be vertical on the top
Answer: yes most be vertical
Question: How many of these will fit side-by-side on standard car roof (minivan)? Need to transport 5 bikes and don't have hookup for hitch mounted carrier
Answer: I have a 4' wide trailer and was able to fit four across by staggering front to back. I have a Toyota Mini van and feel I could easily fit four, five would be pushing it. You have the ability to stagger them and the size (adult or kids) of the bikes matter also. Good luck, these were very sturdy and I would recommend them.
Question: hi i will like to find out if this racks are good to set a small bikes for kids 16 and 14 inch wheels thanks
Answer: I used this carrier for my son's 26" mountain bike for a 500+ mile trip (most at 70mph) back from college. The rack was on the roof with a clamshell carrier so it sat to one side and appeared to be falling away when viewed from the back. But this carrier held it firmly the entire trip. The only concern I might voice is that with smaller (14 & 16") bikes it may push the bike further back away from the front roof rack because the bike is shorter (and the pivoting arm which connects to the bike frame post stays the same length). But that will probably not be a real problem as the bike will also not be as long as a larger bike. Some adjustment in the location of the front roof rack mount relative to the total length of the trough (for tire) may be needed.

Product features

Elevate Outdoor Adjustable 1-Bike Roof Rack

The Elevate Outdoor Adjustable 1-Bike Roof Rack is designed to work with existing crossbars up to 3.25"W x 1.625"H with a minimum of 1" from roof to crossbar with an integrated U-bolt attachment system. It's also recommended that the roof cross bars are positioned at least 28" apart for maximum stability. The adjustable clamping arm attaches to bicycle down-tube. The carrier is lockable and comes with two keys. The durable steel construction has a sleek glossy black paint finish.

Arm grips frame securely
Key lockable for safer bike transportation
Vehicle footprint remains the same
Bike Carriers and More

Elevate Outdoor provides affordable automotive accessories for hauling, loading and transporting commercial or recreational cargo. In addition to bike carriers, Elevate Outdoor offers cargo carriers and rack, cargo control bars, tire steps, truck racks and truck bed extenders, and more.

YAKIMA - FrontLoader Wheel-On Mount Upright Bike Carrier for Roof Racks, 1 Bike Capacity

YAKIMA

Based on 440 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Friends will double-take when they see our most versatile, aerodynamic bike mount on your car. It carries your complete bike - no wheel removal needed. The universal mounting system fits nearly any crossbars you can think of. Capacity: 1 bike, up to 40 lbs at min of 18" crossbar spread; or up to 30 lbs at min of 16" crossbar spread. Weight: 13.00 lbs. Dimensions: L 56.00 in x W 7.00 in x H 7.50 in.

  • CARRY ANY BIKE: Fits virtually any type of bike, including disc brakes, thru axles, and full suspension bikes; Fits 20" to 29" wheels and tires up to 3"
  • EASY LOADING: Load your bike fully assembled on this wheel-on mount; FrontLoader holds your bike upright as you secure it
  • ROOF RACK REQUIRED: Crossbar spread must be between 16" and 48"; Fits Yakima round, square, factory or aerodynamic crossbars; Fully assembled out of the box and easy, tool-free installation
  • NO FRAME CONTACT: FrontLoader holds the bike by the front and rear wheel; No frame contact makes it a great option for carbon fiber and custom paint jobs
  • PROTECT YOUR GEAR: 2 SKS (Same Key System) locks (sold separately) can be added to lock your bike to the mount and the mount to the base rack

User questions & answers

Question: Will this rack accommodate a Fat Bike with 4.5" wide tires. Do I need to purchase the cross braces from Yakima or VW and Chevy as we have a VW TiguanR
Answer: No it won't accomodate a fat bike unfortunately. I am using ford factory cross bars it will work with I think most aftermarket cross bars
Question: Will it fit a Prius V
Answer: The ForkLift is compatible with the Prius V with a base rack (Crossbar) system installed. There are no known issues that would prevent installation. Please refer to rack manufacturer specifications for weight load/carrying capacity restrictions.
Question: How many SKS lock cores will I need for this rack
Answer: Terri,The Front loader will require 2 locks for each bike. 1 will lock the bike to the rack, the other will lock the rack to the vehicle.Thanks,RAck Attack
Question: Can you install the frontloader and the fairing together at the same time
Answer: not sure what you mean. the unit is one piece which easily clamps to the cross bars. Then very easy to secure the bike. I use this carrier to get a fourth bike on my car (3 on a Thule back rack) and one on top. Works great. If the bike is heavy can be a bit of a bear to get it up on the roof by yourself but otherwise an easy deal. As someone else mentioned, I have to install it "backwards to get proper clearance from the back hatch.

Product features

ROOFTOP MOUNT - FORK MOUNT

Fork mounts make it easy to load and unload your bike and require you to remove the front wheel (which can be stored in your vehicle or on the roof with a wheel fork).

ROOFTOP MOUNT - WHEEL-ON MOUNT

Wheel-on mounts allow you to load and unload your bike fully assembled, meaning it’s ready to go as soon as you get to the trail.

HITCH MOUNT - HANGING TILT RACK

Hanging racks tilt or swing out of the way to access your vehicle’s trunk or hatch. They’re great options for carrying multiple bikes (fit up to 5 bikes), but be aware of the type of bike - anything without traditional geometry may need a top tube adapter.

HITCH MOUNT - TRAY RACK

Tray racks can carry virtually any type of bike (and fit up 2 bikes or 4 with an extension). They offer more spacing between bikes to minimize interference and can either tilt or swing (with an adapter) out of the way while loaded.

CyclingDeal Alloy Car Roof Bike Bicycle Fork Mount Carrier Rack Max Load 44 lbs

CyclingDeal

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price
  • LIGHT & STRONG ALUMINUM – This beautiful bike rack is made of finest 6063 aluminum. It’s light, strong , stunning finish and never rust. Max bike load weight is 20kg or 44 lbs which is far above the average bike weight.
  • EASY INSTALL & TAKE OFF – Very easy to install on the car roof crossbars. It fits most aero or square crossbars, Max. thickness: 30mm or 1.18" , Max Width: 110mm or 4.3”. Simply clamp the metal brackets on the crossbars, no tools needed. The bracket position could be fully adjusted to fit the different distance of the car crossbars.
  • FIT ALL BIKES – Fork mounted design ensures that all bikes with 9mm front quick release could be quickly secured on the rack. If the bike has 15mm or 20mm front thru axle, then an adaptor is needed. The rear wheel strap uses simple pulling and one way locking system with one pushing release button. It also could be twisted to the side of the channel when loading the bike. Surely this is the one-person loading roof rack.
  • ORDER NOW, WORRY FREE! We're so confident about our product quality that we can provide a LIFETIME WARRANTY!
  • Made in Taiwan

User questions & answers

Question: Does it fit 12 mm front axle? For mountain bike
Answer: then you need to buy an adapter
Question: Will this attach to round cross bars securely
Answer: I would not suggest it based on it will not likely get tight enough. It’s my opinion. The manufacturer may say otherwise. Sorry not much help
Question: Will this fit a mountian bike
Answer: Yes it will fit a mountain bike.

Product features

LIGHT & STRONG ALUMINUM

his beautiful bike rack is made of finest 6063 aluminum.

It’s light, strong , stunning finish and never rust.

Max bike load weight is 20kg or 44 lbs which is far above the average bike weight.

EASY INSTALL & TAKE OFF

Very easy to install on the car roof crossbars.

It fits most aero or square crossbars, Max. thickness: 30mm or 1.18" , Max Width: 110mm or 4.3”.

Simply clamp the metal brackets on the crossbars, no tools needed.

The bracket position could be fully adjusted to fit the different distance of the car crossbars.

FIT ALL BIKES

Fork mounted design ensures that all bikes with 9mm front quick release could be quickly secured on the rack.

If the bike has 15mm or 20mm front thru axle, then an adaptor is needed.

The rear wheel strap uses simple pulling and one way locking system with one pushing release button.

It also could be twisted to the side of the channel when loading the bike. Surely this is the one-person loading roof rack.

Latest Reviews

View all