How to Install a Bike Rack on an SUV in 4 Simple Steps

How to install a bike rack on an SUV – Bike racks are designed to hold bikes safely while driving. You can choose from different types of racks according to your needs. Each model may be more or less complicated than others.

Some require drilling holes into your vehicle whereas others are easy to install. Whichever type of bike rack you use, it is important that you know how to install them properly so that they will last for a long time and not damage your SUV.

For many bike riders, a well mounted, secure rack for their bikes is an essential part of the whole experience! Mounting your bikes onto a vehicle can mean that you’re able to take them to much further places – meaning you get to see so much more of the world! Therefore, you might well be wondering just how you can mount a bike rack onto your SUV.

Well, don’t worry, with this quick and handy guide, you’ll learn exactly what you need to know to get a bike rack successfully installed on your SUV!

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Table of Contents

Can You Use An SUV Bike Rack On An SUV?

Yes, you can use a bike rack on your SUV. However, there are some things you should keep in mind before installing one.

For example, if the back of your SUV has no support, then you won’t be able to attach the bike rack securely. Also, make sure that the rack’s mounting points are placed at least two inches away from any part of your vehicle. If you do these simple steps, you’re good to go!

Step 1: Choose The Right Type Of Bike Rack For Your Vehicle

There are many types of bike racks available in the market today. Most of these models come with brackets that must be attached to the SUV before installing the rack itself. There are also some models that do not need any attachments as they are self-contained.

However, if you want to attach the rack to your vehicle, then you should make sure that the bracket is compatible with your vehicle. If you have an older SUV, then you might find that only certain brands of bike racks work well with your vehicle. In this case, you should check the compatibility first before going ahead with the installation process.

You can buy bike racks online or from local stores. Online shopping has become very popular among people who like to save money when buying products. Local stores usually offer better deals, but they may charge higher prices. It is always best to shop around before making a purchase like this Ultra Compact Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

Step 2: Attach The Bracket To Your SUV

Once you have chosen the right type of bike rack, you will need to attach the bracket to your SUV. This step requires two things: screws and drill bits.

First, you will need to remove the wheel covers and locate the bolts that secure the wheels to the hub. Then, you will need to loosen the nuts and bolts using a wrench and screwdriver.

Next, you will need to drill three small holes at the front corners of your SUV where the bracket will go.

Finally, you will need to tighten the nuts and bolts again. When done correctly, you should see the bracket securely attached to your SUV.

Step 3: Place The Bike Rack Onto The Mounting Brackets

After completing all the previous steps, you will now need to place the bike rack onto the mounting brackets. Once you have done this, you will need to adjust the position of the bike rack until it fits snugly. It is recommended that you buy a bike rack that has been specifically made for SUVs since there are no universal mounts for such vehicles.

Step 4: Secure The Bike Racks With Screws And Nuts

Finally, once everything is set up correctly, you will need to secure the mountings with screws. Make sure that you donâ€™t overdo this because you donâ€™t want the bike rack to fall off during normal operation.

The above-mentioned tips will help you get started with the installation process. Remember to follow them carefully, so you donâ€™t end up damaging your SUV. Have fun and enjoy riding your bike!

Should You Get Professional Help?

If you feel that you cannot handle the installation process by yourself, then you can hire professionals to help you out. Hiring professional services is definitely worth it because they will take care of everything for you. They will even give you tips on how to maintain your bike rack after installation.

So, if you think that you can’t handle the installation process, then you should consider hiring a professional instead.

Use Tie Down Ratchet Straps to safely secure while transporting your bicycle

how to install a bike rack on an suv bicycle mechanic

After all, installing a bike rack yourself often means that you’ll have to drill into your SUV. This is something that not everybody is comfortable doing! Also, not everybody has the correct tools to drill into their SUV – you need a good quality drill and the correct bit. And, of course, you need to be sure that you’re not going to damage your SUV, or make a mess of it!

Furthermore, if you don’t get the installation done right, your rack can end up loose and poorly fitting. This in itself can cause long term damage to the SUV – and could even end up with your bikes falling off the rack.

Therefore, if you don’t feel confident in performing the installation yourself, it’s definitely worth getting a professional to do it for you. The peace of mind that comes with knowing that the job is done correctly can be well worth it!

Keep this handy Bicycle Repair Bag with you at all times for dismantling and repairs

Conclusion

You should hopefully now understand how to install a bike rack on an SUV. It needn’t necessarily be a difficult or laborious process to install, and can really help you get the most out of your bikes. Mounted onto a vehicle, you can take them to places much more distant from home – always knowing that you won’t have to ride home entirely under your own power!