Towbar mounted cycle carriers and roof bar mounted cycle carriers are two popular options for transporting bicycles on vehicles. Here are some differences between the two:
Placement
As the name suggests,
towbar mounted cycle carriers are attached to the towbar of the vehicle, while
roof bar mounted cycle carriers are attached to the roof bars. This means that towbar mounted carriers are positioned at the rear of the vehicle, while roof bar mounted carriers are on the roof.
Accessibility
Towbar mounted carriers are typically easier to load and unload, as the bikes are positioned at a lower height and do not require lifting overhead. Roof bar mounted carriers, on the other hand, require lifting the bike onto the roof, which may be challenging for some people.
Capacity
Towbar mounted carriers can typically carry more bikes than roof bar mounted carriers, with some models capable of carrying up to four bikes. Roof bar mounted carriers typically have a capacity of one to three bikes, depending on the model.
Clearance
Roof bar mounted carriers add height to the vehicle, which may be a concern for drivers who need to pass under low clearance areas, such as parking garages or bridges. Towbar mounted carriers do not add height to the vehicle, making them a better option in this situation.
Wind resistance
Roof bar mounted carriers can create wind resistance, which can affect the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Towbar mounted carriers do not have this issue, as they are positioned at the rear of the vehicle.
Cost
Towbar mounted carriers tend to be more expensive than roof bar mounted carriers, as they require additional equipment, such as a towbar, to be installed on the vehicle. Roof bar mounted carriers, on the other hand, can be attached to the existing roof bars of the vehicle.
In summary, towbar mounted cycle carriers and roof bar mounted cycle carriers have different placement, accessibility, capacity, clearance, wind resistance, and cost. It is important to consider these factors when choosing a carrier to ensure that it meets your needs and preferences.