Roof Rack -- With Wheel or Without?
 

I've been putting together a Yakima roof rack system via Craigslist, and all I need is one more bike carrier. The one carrier I have is the Rapter Aero, and I find that it's easy lifting the bike up with both wheels on. It's nice not to have to remove the wheel or find someplace to put it.

So what is the advantage of the fork mount system? Also, Yakima has no less than 10 different bike carriers attachments -- are some better than others?

Just my feelings, but for a road bike I feel the fork mount is more sturdy and solid. Plus the bike doesn't look like it sits ridiculously high.

For a mountain bike I would think the mounts allowing both wheels to stay on would be beneficial. I don't like taking off and putting on my mountain bike wheels for car transportation, and am always afraid of accidently squeezing the brake pads without the disc and wheel in place. I still use the fork mount though.

I have a Yakima system. The fork mount system I have is either the 2nd or 3rd best one...not the best one that is prettier looking. I forget the name; either viper or copperhead or something.

fork mounts are generally more stable and sit lower (as noted above)

I don't believe they sell the Viper anymore, but they came out with a replacement for it. I have 2 vipers and they serve me good! Plus, it's shaped in a way that a mtb with disc brakes can fit as well

Without.