Cover for bike while on car rack
 

Does anyone use a cover for a bike on a car rack? I'm starting to take longer trips to ride in different locations. I thought it might be nice to keep the rain and road spray off the bike while in transit. I'm thinking of something similar to a BBQ grill cover that sinches up at the bottom. I have a Thule platform rack.

Is it even worth messing with? I don't want to be "that guy" driving down the highway with a tarp half off blowing in the wind.

Thoughts?

It will cause drag. Your bike will be fine.

I used to have a cheap motorcycle cover that I think I bought at Walmart. Elastic on the bottom and had cinch straps to secure. If I were looking to cover my bike that is what I would use.

Most any bike rack for the car says in the manual specifically not to do this. Due to wind drag not just from motion of the car but from side winds or gusts from trucks also.

If you worry about rock chips for stuff going over the roof of a car, then get a rear mount instead.

But don't cover. The only time people really use those is if they lock a super beefy cable through the frames and a cover for storage overnight at a hotel or something.

Most people don't use covers because they block view of your brake lights and license plate.

That' said, Pro makes a decent one. The best is from Coverstore.

https://www.the-cover-store.com/vehi...rs/bike-covers

I own the Weathertite Prime from Coverstore. It is more than anyone would ever need but I would not use it on a vehicle for the reason stated above and because it is relatively baggy and would flap in the wind and get ruined over time.


-Tim-

Good points, especially about the brake lights being seen. Maybe I'll just keep a towel in the car and wipe them off when I get there. Lots cheaper too!!

Thanks!

I cover only the leather or fabric attachments like saddle and panniers.

Shower cap over the saddle, if it's raining.

you won't like the result. Wind and that cover will shred it and until this it will be like dragging a parachute! also as already said it will cover up the whole rear of the vehicle and that is just a bad idea. If I want to protect the bike on the rack I use plastic bags taped on with blue painters tape, no residue and protect the bike. but usually I just let it go naked......

Here is one from Arkel

You could also use shrink wrap.