How do you install a bike car rack?

Answer 1

First step is to consult the manual for the specific rack that you want to install. If you do not have access to the manual, you can visit the manufacture's website and typically the site will have copies of the manual in a PDF format. If you can not find the specific product's manual than at least use a manual from a rack that is the closest match. Below are some general guidelines that can help anyone with some tips for installing a rear mount bike rack.

There are many styles of trunk/hatch mount bicycle racks, however, in general they have "legs" that rest on the trunk/hatch surface, straps with metal hooks on the ends that connect to the parameter of the trunk/hatch and "arms" that extend out to support the bicycle or bicycles.

To install the rack, the legs must be positioned apart in a supportive stance. Typically the lower legs rest on the bumper and the upper legs rest on the top of the trunk lid. Went attaching the rack the a more vertical hatch the legs will have to be separated apart more and the upper leg may even rest on the vehicle's rear window.

Once the legs are set to the best position for the particular vehicle, centered from side to side, attach the upper hook and straps to the top of the trunk/hatch, this will keep the rack in place allowing the racks weight to be supported by the upper straps. Next attach the lower straps to the bottom edge of the trunk/hatch. In some cases the lower straps and side straps are one continuous strap with one buckle each. Connect the side straps to the side edge of the truck/hatch and pull the excess strap through the buckle.

With the rack in place and all straps and hooks in place, began to tension up the straps a little each until the straps have even tension and the rack is held snugly in place.

Finally, adjust the arms of the rack to be about 10 degrees greater than level. This will offer the best support for the bicycle.

Answer 2

To install a BSI bike rack, open the trunk. Attach the two top straps to the trunk lid and close the trunk. Then adjust the straps so that the two lower straps will fit on the bottom of the trunk lid near the key hole. The bike rack should sit level with the ground. Tighten down all of the straps so that it does not wobble.

Answer 3

I would suggest placing it on the very end. Roll the bike wheel onto the space you choose. You may need a bike lock, if you want to keep your bike from being stolen on the rack. Wrap the lock around one of the poles. Then, wrap the lock through the frame of the bike, and then into the spokes of the wheel, for extra security. When the lock is through the front wheel, nobody can take your front wheel off and steal the frame. You do not need a kickstand to put a bike on a rack, though you can use one.

Answer 4

Duct Tape and zip-ties are quite effective. Especially when coupled with velcro straps, thus achieving the fabled "red neck trifecta".

Answer 5

http://www.ehow.com/how_4914079_install-bell-bike-rack.html