Roof rack question...
 

I've never had a roof rack before, but does it take two people to get the bike up there? I'm getting a Ford Escape, and i'm 5'5. I don't see how this is possible. HELP!! Thank you :)

I'm 5' 6" and I used to drive an SUV and the first time I tried I said NO WAY! I went and got a wagon instead.

So it's not possible?

An Escape isn't that tall for an SUV. Why not try lifting your bike up there and see how it works for you? You can do this without the racks up there - just leave both wheels on and see how easy/hard it is for you to get the bike on the roof.

Well, i don't have it yet... but i need to be able to bring my bike with me when i'm driving... i am considering a hitch rack but i hear too many horror and regret stories. I'll just carry a stool in my cargo area. thanks for the reply...

Are you buying from a dealership? If so, take the bike down there and try it if they'll let you. Otherwise, I'd just wait until you have the car before making a decision. You can always just carry the bike inside the car until you figure out the best solution. :D

You'll hear horror stories about all kinds of bike racks. My advice is to buy a high quality rack, and just buy the type that suits your needs best. I prefer roof mounts, but there are plenty of horrow stories about people having a brain fart and driving into a garage and doing a lot of damage to the bikes! With hitch mounts, there is sometimes a higher risk of scratching the frame, and the bikes tend to get dirtier. Swings and roundabouts...

I have a station wagon and I carry a step ladder in the back to put the bikes on the roof rack - I am short and it is the only way I could ever get them up there. It works okay for me - although sometimes I provide amusement for others while doing it.

I have a Mustang convertible so neither a roof rack nor hitch rack will work. I got a Saris Bones two-bike rack and it works great. I believe it works on SUVs, too. It's quick and easy to install and uninstall, though I keep it on most of the time since I do a "park-and-ride" commute.

Another possibility is to get a low to the ground car to attach to your roof rack. This car would provide LOTS of amusement.
See the attached pictures I took at Hockenheim, home of the German Formula 1 Race. Pretty nice bike carrier, eh?