If you own a Ford Transit Custom and love to go biking, a bike carrier is an absolute must-have accessory. With the right bike carrier, you can easily transport your bikes to your favorite biking trails without having to worry about fitting them inside your van. However, with so many options available on the market, choosing the perfect Ford Transit Custom bike carrier can be a daunting task. To help you make an informed decision, we have put together this ultimate guide to choosing the perfect bike carrier for your Ford Transit Custom.
Types of Bike Carriers
Before we dive into the specifics of choosing the perfect bike carrier for your Ford Transit Custom, it’s important to understand the different types of bike carriers available on the market. The two most common types of bike carriers are roof-mounted carriers and rear-mounted carriers.
Roof-mounted carriers are mounted on the roof of your Ford Transit Custom. They are a great option if you want to free up space inside your van for passengers or luggage. However, they can be difficult to load and unload, especially if you have a tall van. Rear-mounted carriers, on the other hand, are mounted on the rear of your Ford Transit Custom. They are easier to load and unload but can obstruct access to the rear doors of your van.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Bike Carrier
When choosing a bike carrier for your Ford Transit Custom, there are several factors you need to consider:
1. Capacity: The first thing you need to consider is how many bikes you need to transport. Make sure the bike carrier you choose has enough capacity to accommodate all your bikes.
2. Compatibility: Not all bike carriers are compatible with all Ford Transit Custom models. Make sure the bike carrier you choose is compatible with your specific van model.
3. Ease of Use: Look for a bike carrier that is easy to install and use. You don’t want to spend a lot of time and effort trying to assemble and attach the carrier to your van.
4. Security: Make sure the bike carrier you choose has a secure locking mechanism to prevent theft. The last thing you want is for your bikes to be stolen while you’re out biking.
5. Durability: Choose a bike carrier that is made from high-quality materials and can withstand rough handling and weather conditions.
Best ford transit custom bike carriers
Now that you know what factors to consider when choosing a bike carrier for your Ford Transit Custom, let’s take a look at some of the best bike carriers available on the market:
1. Thule ProRide 598: The Thule ProRide 598 is a roof-mounted bike carrier that is compatible with most Ford Transit Custom models. It can accommodate bikes weighing up to 20 kg and comes with an easy-to-use mounting system.
2. Atera Strada DL 3: The Atera Strada DL 3 is a rear-mounted bike carrier that can accommodate up to three bikes. It has a unique tilt function that allows you to access the rear doors of your van without removing the bikes.
3. Yakima HangOver 4: The Yakima HangOver 4 is a vertical bike carrier that can accommodate up to four bikes. It is easy to load and unload and comes with adjustable trays to fit different bike sizes.
4. Thule EasyFold XT 2: The Thule EasyFold XT 2 is a foldable bike carrier that can accommodate up to two bikes. It is easy to install and use and comes with an integrated locking system for added security.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect bike carrier for your Ford Transit Custom doesn’t have to be difficult. By considering factors like capacity, compatibility, ease of use, security, and durability, you can find a bike carrier that meets all your needs. Whether you opt for a roof-mounted carrier or a rear-mounted carrier, make sure to choose a high-quality carrier from a reputable brand like Thule, Atera, or Yakima. With the right bike carrier, you can easily transport your bikes to your favorite biking trails and enjoy endless hours of biking fun.