The Benefits of Different Cargo Racks

A Cargo Rack is a bicycle accessory used to carry the stuff you need to bring. They are widely used by touring and utility bikes.

These bike racks can be customized to hold many bags.

There are many types of Cargo Racks available on the market.

This article will highlight the benefits of different Cargo Bike Racks.

Soft-shell cargo carriers

Here are some of the key benefits that platform-style bike racks provide:

• Support the bicycle at multiple points – Platform racks support the bike by two or more wheels as well as the frame, providing a very stable mount.
• Allow strange frame designs – Uniquely shaped bike frames and women’s bikes with slanted top tubes fit securely on a flat platform rack.
• Accommodate wide tires – Platforms easily fit wider mountain bike and fat bike tires without adjustments.
• Protect bike finish – With support along the wheels and ends of the bike, no frame contact could scratch the finish.
• Easy loading – Loading involves simply rolling the bike onto the platform; no need to lift the frame or hang bikes from hooks.
• Adaptable – Many platform racks allow carrying odd-shaped items along with bikes like kayaks, ski boxes, lumber, etc.
• Lower center of gravity – Keeping bikes low on a platform provides enhanced stability compared to hanging racks.
• Accessible – Getting to bikes on a platform is straightforward compared to lifting them off a vertical hanging rack.

Platform racks provide a versatile and secure mounting solution thanks to their stable support, protection from contact damage, and ease of use with all bike styles.

Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Most platform racks are compatible with a wider range of bicycles. They also sit lower to the ground, making them easier to access. Platform racks are also excellent for stability.

Most platforms come with two attachment points: a ratcheting arm on the front and a strap on the back, which allows you to load and unload your bicycle quickly and with minimal side-to-side movement.

Although the platform hitch rack is not cheap, it can provide many benefits for the price.

A platform bike rack is typically designed to fit bikes with a wheelbase between 26 and 29 inches. Some models are made for three-inch tires, but fat bikes with four to five-inch tires may not fit properly.

Be sure to measure your bike’s wheelbase before buying a platform rack to be sure it will fit.

If the bike is heavier than your current bike, you’ll want to upgrade to a sturdier model.

Although platform roof racks are excellent for storing gear, they also can be easily lost. It’s best to purchase a good-quality platform roof rack, such as the ROLA Titan Tray, to avoid the problem of losing your rack while on the road.

A quality platform roof rack will not detract from your vehicle’s overall payload or roof load rating. So consider buying a quality platform roof rack for your car.

Soft-shell cargo carriers

Soft-shell cargo carriers are among the most affordable and lightweight options. They require no additional hardware for mounting, and some models even include fitted duffel bags.

Hard-sided cargo carriers offer added protection from weather and theft but must be mounted to existing rails.

Here are some of the key benefits that soft-shell bike cargo carriers provide:

• Weather and scratch protection – Soft shells fully enclose and protect gear from rain, mud, road debris, etc.
• Security – Zippered enclosures deter tampering and provide discretion for valuables. Locks can further secure.
• Padding – Light interior padding cushions delicate items from shocks in transport.
• Adaptability – Many shapes and sizes adjust to fit different types of cargo.
• Increased capacity – Enclosed shells often offer more volume than open baskets or racks.
• Aerodynamics – Smoother shell exteriors reduce wind drag compared to open carriers.
• Portability – Soft shells are typically lightweight and some are collapsible for packing away when not bike mounted.
• Affordability – Simple vinyl and nylon constructions cost less than rigid plastic or metal shells.
• Style Options – Available in different colors to coordinate with bike aesthetics.

With their weather protection, security, and expanded carrying capacity, soft-shell cargo carriers keep items safe while providing an affordable way to increase bike hauling possibilities.

Benefits of a Rooftop Storage Cargo Box

Here are some of the benefits of a rooftop storage cargo box:

• Increased Storage Space: The primary benefit is the additional storage space. It’s especially useful for long trips, camping, or carrying sporting equipment.
• Protection from Elements: Cargo boxes are designed to protect your belongings from the elements like rain, snow, and sun.
• Aerodynamic Design: Many models come with an aerodynamic design, which helps reduce drag and can improve gas mileage compared to loose items or non-aerodynamic carriers.
• Security: Rooftop cargo boxes often come with locks, providing a secure spot to store items when you’re away from the vehicle.
• Ease of Access: Since they’re on top of the vehicle, they’re less likely to be in your way than items stored inside the vehicle.
• Versatility: They can carry a wide range of items, from luggage to skis to camping gear.
• Convenience: Once installed, they’re very easy to load and unload.

Remember that it’s important to install any rooftop storage box securely and properly to maintain safety.

Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Thule Sidekick Rooftop Storage Box is a lightweight, compact cargo carrier. Its capacity is eight cubic feet, and holds up to 75 lbs.

It opens on the passenger side and has two lock cores for security. This unit does not come with a Thule One Key system. It is recommended for drivers who do not want to share their roof rack.

The Thule Sidekick Rooftop Storage Box is ideal for small cars.

It is compatible with most roof rack systems and has eight cubic feet of storage.

This versatile roof rack accessory is ideal for golf clubs, camping gear, or other items. It is easy to install but requires some DIY skills.

Fortunately, if you aren’t comfortable installing accessories, you can hire a professional installer.

The Sidekick is a very practical and versatile storage solution. It is perfect for camping gear, golf clubs, or anything too bulky for a trunk.

While the Thule Sidekick is an excellent rooftop cargo box, it has disadvantages.

Although it is easy to install, larger cargo boxes can get in the way of the hatch opening and obstruct the hatch on some vehicles.

The Sidekick has all the mounting hardware, but you must install it yourself.

You’ll need U-bracket-type mounting hardware, two hinges, weatherproofing foam strip, and lock cores to install it.

A vinyl sticker is included to cover up unused mounting holes.

Fivklemnz cargo carrier

Last update on 2024-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Fivklemnz cargo carrier is popular with consumers who need extra storage space.

With 15 cubic feet of extra storage space, this carrier is large enough to fit four to six suitcases. When not in use, it can be folded into a carry bag. The carrier is made of 600D Oxford cloth with a waterproof zipper.

It is 100% waterproof, too. It also features a padded handle and double flap for added protection.

This cargo carrier is compatible with any SUV, truck, or car’s roof rack.

The roof bag features four-door hooks for easy installation. A twelve-month warranty covers the carrier and comes with a money-back guarantee.

This bag can accommodate 4-6 suitcases and a travel luggage case, tent, sleeping bag, and more.

The Fivklemnz cargo carrier is compatible with most vehicles, and it comes with a protective mat on the top to minimize noise.

Most Fivklemnz cargo carriers have eight adjustable straps to securely secure the bag and cargo, even at highway speeds.

The Fivklemnz cargo carrier is the perfect way to maximize your car’s cargo space without compromising the driver’s or passengers’ comfort.

The Fivklemnz cargo carrier is one of the top-rated rooftop cargo carriers on the market. It offers 15 cubic feet of storage space and has great consumer feedback.

This cargo carrier is constructed from 600D Oxford cloth and is heat-welded, making it tough enough to withstand rain and mud.

However, it has some issues with its waterproofing. The waterproofing may not be effective enough because of the security features.

As one Amazon review stated: “The little lock that came with the bag (which would stop no one determined to get your stuff) broke instantly when I tried to set a new code, so that was out of the picture. All a thief would need to do is drive up with a pickup truck, quickly cut the straps and shove the bag in his/her truck to get your stuff. It is not very secure. One of the motels we stayed at seemed to be in a not great area so I opted to take the bag off the car and keep it in the room with us.”

Safe Travels!