Which car has a built-in bike rack?
For cycling enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys the convenience of transporting bikes without the hassle of external racks, cars with built-in bike racks are a game-changer. These vehicles are designed to integrate bike storage seamlessly, offering both practicality and style. In this article, we’ll explore which cars come equipped with built-in bike racks and why they might be the perfect choice for your active lifestyle.
Cars with Built-In Bike Racks
While most vehicles require aftermarket bike racks, a few manufacturers have taken the initiative to include built-in bike racks as part of their design. These cars cater to cyclists who value convenience and security. Here are some notable examples:
- Honda Element: The Honda Element, particularly in its earlier models, was designed with an optional built-in bike rack. Its spacious interior and modular design made it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
- Volvo V60 Cross Country: Volvo offers an integrated bike rack as an accessory for some of its models, including the V60 Cross Country. This rack is designed to fold away when not in use, maintaining the car's sleek appearance.
- BMW X5: Certain trims of the BMW X5 come with an optional rear-mounted bike rack that integrates seamlessly with the vehicle's design.
- Subaru Outback: While not a built-in feature, Subaru offers factory-installed bike rack options for the Outback, making it a popular choice for cyclists.
These vehicles demonstrate how manufacturers are responding to the needs of active drivers by incorporating bike-friendly features directly into their designs.
Why Choose a Car with a Built-In Bike Rack?
Opting for a car with a built-in bike rack offers several advantages over traditional external racks. Here’s why they’re worth considering:
- Convenience: Built-in racks eliminate the need for additional equipment, saving time and effort when loading and unloading bikes.
- Security: These racks are often more secure than aftermarket options, reducing the risk of theft or damage.
- Aerodynamics: Integrated racks are designed to minimize wind resistance, improving fuel efficiency compared to external racks.
- Style: Built-in racks maintain the vehicle's aesthetic appeal, avoiding the bulky look of external attachments.
For those who frequently transport bikes, these benefits can make a significant difference in both convenience and overall driving experience.
Conclusion
Cars with built-in bike racks are a fantastic option for cyclists who value convenience, security, and style. While the selection of such vehicles is currently limited, manufacturers like Honda, Volvo, BMW, and Subaru are leading the way in offering bike-friendly features. If you’re in the market for a new car and love cycling, consider one of these models to make your adventures even more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put a bike rack on a car without a tow bar?
Thule boot bike racks are easy to install and even easier to use. Perfect for vehicles without a towbar or hitch, boot bike racks let you load your bikes at a convenient height.
Do car bike racks get stolen?
Even worse, if your bike is worth a lot of money, some thieves will take both the rack and the bike if the bike is locked to the rack. You may want to consider insuring both your bike and your rack. Although this won't prevent theft, it will be a big relief if your bike (and your rack) ever get stolen.
Can you put a bike rack on an SUV?
Hitch-mounted bike racks are a great choice for SUVs and pickup trucks. They are designed to be an add-on for existing tow hitches. These are one of the most popular options because their height makes it easy to load and unload bikes.
What car has a built-in bike rack?
I love all the unexpected, overdone, absurd gimmicky features of cars, so when I just recently found out about a particular optional feature on some Opels and Vauxhalls, I was delighted. So delighted I want to be sure you see this, too. It's an integrated bike rack system called Flex-Fix.
Are there bike racks that don't require a hitch?
Need to transport your bikes on a car rack but you don't have a hitch on your car? Trunk bike racks to the rescue! Designed to attach to the rear of a vehicle with a strap system, a trunk-mounted bike rack makes using a car rack possible for basically any car – no hitch required!
What cars can you fit a bike in?
Best Cars For Carrying A Bike
- Skoda Superb Estate. If you're after a truly practical and affordable estate car that will easily fit your bike, the Skoda Superb Estate is the standout choice.
- Land Rover Discovery.
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate.
- Volkswagen Tiguan.
- Honda Jazz.
- Volkswagen Golf Estate.
- Dacia Duster.
- SEAT Ateca.
Is it illegal to have a bike rack on your car?
Any item that obstructs the view of a car's license plate violates California law (and the laws of most other states). This would include bike racks, tow hitches, and anything else that could interfere with the ability to read a vehicle's license plate.
Can a car bike rack fit on a SUV?
Hitch-Mount Car Rack
The next is the hitch-mount. These racks come in all price points and fit into the hitches (also called "receivers") welded onto the frame on the rear of many SUVs, trucks and some cars (if you don't have one, one can be installed).
Can any car have a bike rack?
Most cars can have a hitch bike rack installed on them; the car only needs to have a receiver.
Which SUV can fit a bicycle?
2023 Honda Passport
Honda's two-row Passport SUV shaves about 10 inches of length from the three-row Pilot. Folding the rear seats opens 100.8 cu-ft of cargo space. The Passport's design emphasizes a tall and wide tailgate opening and a low load floor that can accommodate most bikes with ease.
