How to Fit a Cycle Carrier

Cycle carriers, also known as bike racks, are a safe way to transport your bike whilst saving space inside the car. Here's a quick guide on how to fit your Halfords high mount cycle carrier to your car.

Get your cycle carrier in place

Once you've unboxed your new car bike rack, you'll need to fit the security straps. Take the boot mount top strap and fit it inside the vehicle. Thread it through the boot, leaving 1 to 2 inches of space between the toggle and the top of the boot. Repeat this on the other side - making sure the straps are between the hinges. With the boot still open, wrap the middle strap around the boot lid, threading this strap between the boot struts and the boot lid. Once that's done, close the boot.

Now it's time to place the carrier onto the boot, making sure the lower horizontal bar fits nicely on the upper part of the bumper. Then, move it upwards to leave a 5cm gap between the bar and the top of the bumper. The main carrier should be angled towards the vehicle and the stop bars should be slightly over horizontal, but this can vary depending on the vehicle shape.

How to secure your car bike rack

Next, thread the straps through the cam buckles, ensuring they are threaded in the right direction. Do this on both sides.

Next, secure the lower straps on either of the vehicle chassis or on the tailgate, depending on your car. If you are fitting it on the vehicle chassis, thread the strap and find a strong steel section on the bottom of your vehicle to secure the hook. Make sure the strap is away from the exhaust. Repeat this for the second mount hook.

Now attach the two side straps using the cam buckles, ensuring they thread through the right direction and the rack is positioned centrally. Then repeat on the other side - securing in the centre. You should alternate the tightening process - making sure there's a minimum of 8 centimetres between the frame and the vehicle.

How to mount your bike on your cycle carrier

Lastly, position the frame locators so you're good to mount the bike. Lift the bike and ensure it sits securely in the frame locator, then use the locator straps to attach the top tube to the carrier. Tighten and secure to the carrier. If you're using a second bike, use the same straps to secure them. Take care not to obscure your lights or number plate with your bikes. If you find they are being obscured, you may need to use a cycle carrier lighting board or attach an additional number plate.

Once that's done, you're ready to go! If you're worried about fitting your own cycle carrier or don't have time, then pop into your local Halfords store and one of our bike experts will fit it for you for a small service fee. Book your appointment now at Halfords.com