Tow Bars and bike carriers

[kaiser]

What should I be looking out for? Decided the best way to carry the bikes is by tow bar. ANy hints and tips appreciated

 

[Ernie]

What should I be looking out for? Decided the best way to carry the bikes is by tow bar. ANy hints and tips appreciated

Ok bud..i have this..got on the van as well..you get the stansion holder which fits behind the towball..you might have to get longer bolts.

I only got this one as it leaves the tow bar free for towing

http://www.witter-towbars.co.uk/cycle_c ... artNo=ZX88

Ernie

 

[BerthaPog]

I've a pendle 3 bike wheel support. They come in two styles, one that clamps on the ball, and the one I've got that adds a plate between the the towbar bracket and the ball.

Neither will allow you to tow a trailer at the same time as having the rack mounted. They also do one that will allow towing (crossbars of bikes sits on two prongs a bit like strap-on racks).

Only downer with them is opening the tailgate/bootcan be problematical with bikes fitted, though they now do one that tilts.

Nice people to do business with, my light units failed (after ten years), new set with wiring loom was only fifteen quid.

 

[MikeD]

Have you got a tow bar already? 'cos on some modern cars they can get kind of pricey to fit.

 

[hamster]

I've got a towball mount one, and thoroughly recommend it. Make sure it tilts though, which allows the tailgate to open.

 

[kaiser]

Have you got a tow bar already? 'cos on some modern cars they can get kind of pricey to fit.

I haven't got the towbar yet and I would just be getting it for bikes :? Will research a bit further methinks.

 

[legrandefromage]

Please, please make sure you have it fitted properly!

Common sense, I know, but we've had 3 people come in last month asking for insurance quotes as their bikes have fallen off the racks.

You risk potential insurance claims from other drivers if they hit your bike on the road as well as the obvious accidents.

 

[kaiser]

Thanks for the replies folks, doing some sums I've decided against the tow bar. Was looking at at least £600 for a bar and rack. I've switched to a boot mounted one the Thule 973. Or similar. Reason being I actually have enough space in the car and when I need to load lug I'll use the carrier.