How to Use a Bike Rack to Transport an Ebike
January 14, 2025
One of the pleasures of riding an ebike is the accessibility to ride faster and farther than ever before. With that being said, there’s still some places you can’t get to without transporting them via car, trailer or RV.
For many folks, it’s not always easy or convenient to get to those remote places to ride. They need to do a bit of driving to get “off the grid.” Many ebike riders often take their ebikes with them on vacation and weekend getaways to add a little more adventure to their trips.
Part of bringing your beloved ebike with you on the road is learning how to transport it safely. Luckily, there's more than one solution designed to help you load and transport your ebike between locations quickly, safely, and conveniently. We hope these tips help you next time you travel with your ebike.
Here’s what we’ll be discussing in this blog:
Installing and Securing a Hitch-Mount Bike Rack
If you're wondering "How to carry an ebike on a car?", a bike rack is your best bet.
What Is the Best Way to Transport an Electric Bike?
The best way to transport your electric bike is by using a hitch rack. These types of racks mount into a hitch on the back of your vehicle, ensuring safe and sturdy storage throughout the drive.
These racks typically have high payload capacities, ensuring they can handle the weight of your electric bicycle. They’re ideal for heavy ebikes, and you’ll find options for fat tire ebikes that can fit the wider width of your bike wheels.
Hitch racks also require less effort when loading compared to roof racks. You don’t have to worry about removing the front or rear wheel, and you won’t have to heft the ebike into your car trunk, pickup bed, or on top of your hatchback.
How Do You Transport an Ebike on a Car?
While hitch-mount bike racks are the best choice, there are other options for transporting an ebike on a car. The most common ones include roof racks and trunk or bed racks.
Roof racks aren’t the best option for the heaviest ebikes since you need to lift the entire bike on top of the vehicle. However, they can be an option for riders who have lightweight ebikes.
Trunk racks or truck bed racks allow you to mount the bike on the rear of the vehicle. These racks tend to have lower weight capacities than hitch racks but can work for lighter ebikes.
How Do You Secure a Bike to a Rack?
The most secure, easiest, and most versatile method for transporting ebikes is on the rear of your vehicle. The Aventon hitch-mounted rack is sturdy, reliable, easy to load, and has little risk of damaging your vehicle. It's also a great ebike rack for trucks.
In order to install the hitch rack, you’ll need to have a receiver hitch installed on your vehicle. This can be done at your local U-Haul. The two most common hitch sizes are 1-¼” and 2”.
Make sure that the ebike car rack you purchase is the same hitch size as the hitch receiver installed on your vehicle. The Aventon Hitch Rack is equipped with a 2-inch bar, making it suitable for most vehicles. If you’re unsure, it’s best to have your bike rack professionally installed and inspected.
Here are tips for securing your bike to your bike carrier:
- ✓ Use a high-quality lock: A U-lock or high-quality chain lock is best for securing your bike's frame. Avoid cable locks as your main lock because they are easy to cut.
- ✓ Use two locks: The most secure way to lock your bike is with two locks. One lock should go around the front wheel, frame, and bike rack, and the other should go around the back wheel, frame, and bike rack.
- ✓ Lock the frame: Lock the frame to the rack, not just a wheel.
- ✓ Consider the rack: Avoid using bike racks where you can't lock the frame to the rack.
- ✓ Consider the location: Choose a busy location with lots of witnesses, rather than a deserted area.
- ✓ Use a well-installed rack: A well-installed commercial bike rack can help discourage thieves.
- ✓ Consider quick release wheels: If your bike has quick release wheels, you can lock them with a cable, a second U-lock, or locking skewers.
- ✓ Remove the lock: If you're using your bike with a car rack, make sure to remove the lock before driving again.
Can I Put My Ebike on a Regular Bike Rack?
You can put your ebike on a regular bike rack if it weighs less than the maximum payload capacity and fits into the tire slots. Some bikes, like those with fat tires, may be harder to fit into regular ebike racks.
How Do I Travel With My Ebike?
Traveling with an ebike can be easier than you think. If you’re on a cross-country road trip, ebike hitch racks let you bring your bike along for the adventures. You can look into locks, covers, and other accessories to keep your bike protected during transit. Consider removing electrical components like the bike battery and transporting it inside the car if your drive involves inclement weather.
Things get trickier if you want to fly with your ebike. That’s because many airlines have restrictions on transporting lithium-ion batteries. With limited transportation options via air, it’s better to rent an ebike at your destination or remove the electric battery from your bike. You can rent a compatible ebike battery or ride without one to make traveling with your bike easier.
Can an Ebike Fit in a Car?
Some ebikes will fit in a car, depending on the size of both the bike and the car. In most cases, you’ll need to lower the rear seats and you may need to remove one or both bike tires. While it’s certainly an option, it requires more work upfront and at the trailhead when you have to piece your bike back together.
If you want an ebike that’s easy to transport in a car, consider a folding ebike like the Aventon Sinch.2. These bikes are designed to fold down into a compact form, making it easy to load them in the trunk of a sedan or the backseat of a wagon.
Is It Okay to Lay an Electric Bike on Its Side?
Yes, you can lay your ebike on its side as long as you do so cautiously. Always lay the bike down with the chain and derailleur facing upward to prevent damage. Be careful not to scratch your bike pedals if you lay it on a hard surface. If you’re transporting your ebike laying down in a truck bed or inside a vehicle, it’s a good idea to cover it with a blanket to prevent scratches.
What Is the Best Way to Transport an eMTB?
Like other bikes, the best way to transport an EMTB is by using a rear hitch rack. These racks make it easy to load and unload the bike, and keep it secure as you drive to the trailhead.
Loading an Ebike on a Bike Rack
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to put an ebike on a bike rack, typically the type mounted on the rear of a vehicle.
1. Check the Rack Type
Ensure your bike rack is designed for the type of bike you're loading. Most racks accommodate road bikes, mountain bikes, or hybrids, but check if your rack needs adjustments for larger frames, ebikes, or children’s bikes.
Another important thing to keep in mind is the weight rating of the bike rack you are purchasing. All bike racks have a weight limit. If your budget allows, you should try to buy the bike rack with the highest weight limit possible. Ebikes are generally heavier than traditional bikes, so it’s especially important that the bike rack you purchase can handle the weight. Understanding weight distribution is important as well. When loading more than one bike, place the heavier one closest to the car.
Before each trip, inspect the bike rack or carrier system, including straps, mounts, and connections, to ensure they are secure and in good condition. Tighten any loose fastenings and replace any worn or damaged parts.
2. Prepare the Bike
Remove any loose items (water bottles, lights, etc.) from the bike to prevent them from falling off while driving.
3. Position the Rack
If it’s a trunk-mounted rack, ensure it is securely attached to the vehicle, and double-check the straps for tightness. For hitch-mounted racks, slide it into the hitch receiver and lock it in place.
4. Lift the Bike
- ✓ For a hanging rack: Lift the bike by its frame (usually by the top tube), and place the top tube over the arms of the rack.
- ✓ For a platform rack: Lift the bike and set the wheels into the cradles provided on the platform.
5. Secure the Bike
- ✓ For hanging racks: Use the provided straps to secure the top tube and ensure the bike is stable.
- ✓ For platform racks: Secure the wheels using the provided straps, and then use the arm clamp to hold the bike frame or front tire in place.
6. Double-Check Stability
Give the bike a firm shake to ensure it’s secure. Make sure nothing is loose and that the bike isn’t wobbling.
7. Lock the Bike (If Necessary)
If you’ll be leaving the bike unattended, use a lock to secure it to the rack.
How to Load a Step-Through Frame
One of the main aspects that keeps your bike securely attached to your hitch rack is a top tube. If you have a traditional bike model, you’re in luck because most bike racks should be able to mount on this frame without issue. Step-through bikes do not have a top bar, so an adaptor is necessary.
A “top tube adapter” or a “bike frame adapter” is needed to keep your bike mounted to the rack. This adapter attaches to your seatpost and your handlebars, creating a top tube on your bike. An accessory such as this is not too expensive, costing about $30-$50, a small price to pay for the freedom of traveling anywhere with electric bikes.
The Aventon Hitch Rack Adapter costs $34.99 MSRP and is adjustable from 25 inches to 32 inches to accommodate all Aventon ebikes. Made of durable steel, it creates an instant top tube while molded collar ends protect your frame from scratches.
Storing Your Foldable Ebike
Looking for ways to store a foldable ebike, like the Aventon Sinch.2 or Sinch 2.5? You’re in luck, because these compact bikes fit just about anywhere. To store a folding ebike, start by collapsing the bike per the manufacturer’s instructions. In most cases, the handlebars will fold down, and the wheels will tuck in toward the frame.
Once you’ve folded your ebike, you can choose to store it in your home, garage, or bike shed. Remove the ebike battery, and keep it in a dark area at room temperature. You may want to use a cover to protect your bike from dust.
Protecting Your Ebike and Its Components on the Go
During transportation on a bike rack or in a vehicle (or while storing your ebike), using padding and protective covers is paramount. These can act as a buffer against accidental impacts, shielding your ebike from unsightly scratches, dings and weather that can harm the appearance and functionality of your ebike. Opt for durable covers specifically designed for ebikes to ensure a snug fit and adequate protection.
Here are a few more things to consider when transporting your ebike.
Secure the Battery
When transporting your ebike, it's important to protect your battery from possible damage that could prevent you from enjoying your ebike when you arrive at your destination.
An extra battery is also a great idea. More power means more fun on the go without worrying if you have a place to charge up. Spend less time charging and more time riding!
Should You Remove the Battery When Transporting an Ebike?
While you don’t have to remove the battery when transporting an ebike, it’s a good idea to do so. This helps prevent damage to the bike and can protect it from inclement weather such as heavy downpours.
If you remove your battery for transit, securely store the battery in a temperature-controlled area when not in use. Avoid leaving the battery in the sun for long periods of time, especially in warmer climates. Read more about taking care of your ebike battery.
How Do You Transport Electric Bikes in the Rain?
To transport ebikes in the rain, remove your bike battery and carry it in the car or truck instead. The ebike can still be loaded on a rear hitch rack as normal. For added protection, you can invest in a weatherproof cover to keep your ebike safe and dry during transport.
While most ebikes are water-resistant, it’s important to understand the certification on your ebike. All Aventon ebikes are IPX4 certified, meaning they can stand up to light water splashes and spray from all directions. In addition to its IPX4 rating, the Aventon Ramblas has a motor that is rated IP67, meaning it’s protected against dust and water, and can be fully submerged in three feet of water for up to 30 minutes.
Knowing how well your ebike is protected can impact how you transport it in the rain.
Remove Valuables and Accessories
Take off any removable accessories, such as lights, bags, or water bottle holders, and store them separately. This reduces the risk of theft and prevents damage to the accessories during transport.
Drive With Caution
Adjust your driving style when transporting your ebike. Be mindful of the increased height and weight of your vehicle, and maintain safe stopping distances. Avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and sharp turns that could cause the ebike or rack to shift or fall.
Periodically Check the Ebike
During breaks or rest stops, inspect the ebike and its fastenings to ensure everything remains secure. Pay attention to any signs of damage or loosening, especially if traveling over rough terrain.
Check Local Transportation Laws
Familiarize yourself with the specific laws and regulations regarding ebike transportation in your region. Some areas may have restrictions on where and how ebikes can be transported, such as speed limits, specific routes, or the need for additional signaling devices.
Protect Against Theft
When transporting ebikes, you may cruise past some interesting destinations. Bike locks for electric bikes are a must-have during your expeditions and allow you some peace of mind to explore that farmers market or street fair you stumbled upon without worrying about your bike.
The most common ebike lock is the traditional U-shaped lock that can usually be mounted onto your bike frame. This allows you to ride your bike anywhere and really explore the areas of the town you may have missed from your car window.
The U-Lock should secure the frame and be anchored to a sturdy object, like a bike rack or street sign. Don’t forget to secure your wheels! Looping a cable lock through the wheels and then through the U-Lock is an easy way to secure them.
It is also important to secure your bikes to the bike rack with an electric bike lock when leaving them on the bike rack overnight while traveling. This ensures you will wake up to find your bikes still in place so you can enjoy your trip without the frustration or worry.
Travel Essentials While on the Road
Always bring your helmet along for the ride! That’s first on Aventon’s travel essentials. There’s no fun in riding if you’re not protected first.
Unfortunately, accidents can happen. But what good is it to have an Aventon ebike with you without the proper equipment to keep you safe? We recommend keeping a first-aid kit handy when traveling with your bike. This will ensure that any minor cuts or scrapes can be treated quickly without ruining your ride time.
A water bottle seems like a no brainer but is often overlooked when heading out on a cruise. Luckily water bottles and bottle cages are an inexpensive way to stay hydrated through longer rides. Riding an ebike with no dedicated space for a water bottle? A hydration pack you can strap on your back and sip throughout your adventure is a great alternative. Staying hydrated is really important, especially in warmer climates! Don't go riding without proper hydration methods!
Tools of the Trade
Learning how to transport electric bikes isn't limited to just the act of moving it from one place to another. You need to think further ahead and be prepared for anything. We’ve all been there—you’re enjoying a ride when you get a flat. Don’t let this ruin your expedition. Before heading out make sure you’re stocked up on the essentials needed to continue cruising throughout your trip. A bike pump to keep your tires inflated is a must-have when traveling.
Additionally the slim stand up design of tire pumps allows you to lay it in your trunk and forget about it until needed. Or hopefully you’ll never have to worry about it. Additionally, the hex key that was given to you when purchasing your bike is a great tool to throw into your glovebox in case you need to adjust any aspect of your bike.
Adventure More With Aventon
Knowing how to transport an ebike correctly not only keeps you and those around you safe, it keeps your bike from being damaged or stolen. Don't spend your vacation worrying—start preparing to transport your ebike ahead of time so you can enjoy those trails without a worry in the world!
When we carried our earlier bikes on the Kuat behind our camper van, they’d get filthy dusty; sure didn’t want that on our Pace 500s. We’ve found the full Velosock covers fit well and keep our bikes clean. Lotsa great trails out there.