Cycling on the road: Tips for safe bicycle transport

Whether it's a summer vacation by the sea, a weekend trip to the mountains, or a bike tour along the North Sea – your own bike is welcome to travel with you. But transporting it to your destination isn't always that easy. To ensure your bike arrives safely and without damage, this article provides you with a few options and tips for transporting your bike correctly in your car, campervan, or by train .

Transporting bicycles by car

If you're traveling by car, you have many options for transporting your bike—whether in, on, or on the car. The decisive factors are the type of vehicle, the number of wheels, and, of course, the weight (especially for e-bikes). Here's an overview of the options:

1. The classic roof rack: bike rack on the car roof

Advantages: Your trunk space remains free for additional luggage, and a good rack ensures stable support. Ideal for light bikes like racing bikes.

Disadvantages: The increased air resistance leads to higher fuel consumption for your car. Furthermore, loading and unloading heavy bikes can be laborious and lead to paint damage.

Tip: Be sure to pay attention to the maximum roof load of your vehicle!

2. Bicycle carrier for the tow bar

Advantages: Very popular because the wheels are attached close to the ground – convenient charging, stable transport, low impact on fuel consumption.

Disadvantages: Relatively expensive to purchase, and a trailer hitch is essential for this type of transport. When fully loaded, maneuvering can become more difficult.

Tip: Pay attention to the load capacity here too – this is especially important for e-bikes, which are significantly heavier.

3. Bicycle rack for the trunk (tailgate)

Advantages: This design can be used without a trailer hitch, and the purchase price is usually lower. Ideal for occasional users.

Disadvantages: Taillights or license plates may be obscured. Furthermore, the rear window may be subjected to strain, limiting rearward visibility.

Tip: Check the approval for your vehicle model. There are certainly restrictions here.

Important: Always secure bicycles properly, secure moving parts (e.g. wheels, pedals) and check that they are securely fastened before setting off.

To summarize, here are a few tips for car transport:

• Check fastening before every trip
• Secure moving parts such as pedals or wheels
• Do not carry loose objects in the car
• Always transport e-bike batteries and displays separately

Bicycle transport with the motorhome

A motorhome is the ideal base for many cyclists—it allows you to have both your bike and accommodation at your fingertips. Depending on the vehicle type, rear carriers or an integrated "garage" are available. It's also important to keep an eye on weight and dimensions.

1. Rear carrier

The most common solution for transporting bikes in a motorhome is a rear bike rack. The advantages are simple: stable support, often designed for multiple bikes, and easily accessible. Ideal for families, too.

Disadvantages: Wheels hang freely in the air and are exposed to wind, rain, and dirt. Furthermore, a rearward overhang may require additional markings in other countries.

Tip: Pay attention to the overhang to the rear – and find out whether a warning sign (e.g. in Italy or Spain) or something similar is required in the country you are traveling to.

2. Garage in the motorhome

A "garage" in a motorhome refers to a large storage area in the rear, accessible from the outside and often offering enough space for bicycles, scooters, or sports equipment. This can be particularly practical if one is available: it stores the bikes safely and protected from the weather. Practical for high-quality bikes or e-bikes.

Disadvantages: Takes up storage space in the motorhome, often only fits certain wheel sizes. Heavy wheels can be cumbersome when loading and unloading.

Tip: Measure beforehand! E-bikes are often taller and longer than expected.

Tips for motorhome transport:

• Observe the permissible total load and axle load
• Secure wheels with tensioning straps
• Transport e-bike batteries and accessories separately
• Obtain warning signs for foreign countries in good time
• Special note for e-bikes: Always transport batteries separately and never mount them permanently on the carrier – they are too sensitive to heat and vibrations.

Bicycle transport by train

Traveling by train is convenient and environmentally friendly – ​​especially for city trips or when the car can stay at home.

But there are a few rules and restrictions you should know.

1. Taking bicycles on regional trains

Possible in many regions, often cheap bike tickets.

Advantages: Cheap tickets, easy boarding and alighting. Good for short distances or day trips.

Cons: Spaces are limited, especially during peak times. No guaranteed parking if the bike compartment is full.

Tip: Space is limited – get in early on weekends and during holidays.

2. Long-distance transport (ICE, IC, EC)

On long-distance trains, bicycle transport is only possible with a parking space reservation !

Advantages: Cover long distances quickly and comfortably, with designated parking spaces for bicycles.

Disadvantages: Only possible with reservation, parking spaces are very limited, spontaneous trips almost impossible.

Tip: Book early as places are very limited.

3. Bicycle in a transport bag

Practical alternative: Packed in a bag, the bike is often considered normal luggage. This can be a cost-effective and flexible solution, especially for folding or racing bikes .

Disadvantages: The bike must be partially disassembled, transport bags are bulky and offer little protection against impacts.

Tip: Check the respective track rules beforehand.

Tips for rail transport:

• Buy your bicycle ticket in good time
• Allow sufficient time for boarding and disembarking
• Secure the bike with a tensioning strap or blanket to avoid damage
• Store luggage separately to keep space free

Checklist: How to travel safely with your bike

• Before driving , clean the chain and moving parts, wipe off any oil residue
• Remove attachments such as baskets, bags or child seats
• Check tire pressure (do not overinflate in hot weather)
• Take a bike lock with you – for stopovers or parking times
• Check the fastening regularly during longer journeys

Well prepared, relaxed travel

Whether by car, campervan, or train – with proper preparation, your bike will travel safely and securely. For e-bikes, always transport batteries and displays separately to avoid damage.

On our platform reparadius.de you are sure to find a workshop in your area that will be happy to install the right carrier system for you or check your bike again before your vacation.

So nothing stands in the way of the next tour!