500+ mile trip...ok with a bike on a trunk rack?
 

I know, stupid question.

Just curious what the consensus is for a trip that far with a bike on a trunk rack.

No problem?

I'm most concerned with stops for fuel as I'll be driving solo. I've got a lock to secure the bike to the rack, but not to the car.

I CAN put it in the trunk with the front tire off and the rear seats folded down, but that really limits my space inside.

THoughts??

I've done it a number of times naver any problems. I have gotten some funny looks bringing my bike up the elevator to my hotel room. I've always just locked the bike to the rack. I don't think anyone will work that hard to steal the rack W/attached bike. Make sure the rack is on the car securely. I've heard stories of racks flying off the car.

500 mile trip - no overnights. Easy. Keep the car in sight when you go into a place to eat/pay for fuel. 99% of the time, no issues if you've cable-locked the bike to the rack in my experience.

If you're worried about the bike bouncing off while driving, then you have issues with securing the bike to the rack itself. Seriously, the bike can bounce off going around the corner if you don't secure it properly.

My method involves velcro strips/straps AND bungees. I use 6 - some people claim it's overkill. They could be right but I've never lost a bike while driving, only a bungee cord or two when I used those instead of the Velcro straps.

find a way to lock the bike to the car -- a thick cable isn't as expensive as the bike.

Stop after the first half-hour or so and check the straps. Things tend to settle from the vibration. After that, check them at every fuel stop.

I always take the bike in overnight, regardless of the parking situation. I sleep better.

+1

Great advice. Definitely stop very early in your trip just to cinch everything down one more time. Once you do that, the bike should do great for the entire trip.

i've driven from north carolina to california and back with my bikes on my trunk. never had a problem. listen to the advice given above and don't worry, have a good trip.