When you travel by motorhome, a bike quickly becomes an essential companion. It allows you to stroll around picturesque villages, explore cycle paths, or simply run errands without having to move your entire house on wheels. Taking a bike means extending the adventure beyond the parking spot. But you still have to choose a reliable bike rack that is suitable for your vehicle, practical and complies with the law. In this article, we guide you to make the right choice.
The bike perfectly complements the freedom offered by a motorhome trip. It allows you to venture where motorized vehicles are not welcome: medieval alleyways, forest paths, riverbanks or quiet cycle paths. It is also an excellent means of transport for quickly accessing a local market, a slightly remote beach or a hidden monument.
Many of the CAMPING-CAR PARK network's stopover sites are located near greenways or cycle routes. By parking your vehicle in these areas, you benefit from an ideal starting point for bike rides. The bike then becomes the perfect extension of your freedom.
This model is the most common. Easy to install, it can accommodate up to four bikes depending on the model. It is generally attached to the rear walls of the motorhome. However, you must be careful not to block the opening of the doors and to respect the maximum authorized load.
Ideal for electric bikes, it stands out for its robustness. This type requires an approved tow bar and supports heavier loads. It is more expensive but very stable.
Suitable for converted vans, it is integrated into the storage compartment or attached to the rear doors. It distributes the loads well and facilitates access to the vehicle while offering good security.
Rare on motorhomes due to their height, it is more suitable for vans. Loading is more difficult but it can free up the rear of the vehicle.
To make the right choice, it is essential to determine how many bikes you want to transport, what type they are (classic or electric), and the configuration of your vehicle (storage compartment, tow bar, tailgate). Also think about the level of comfort you want: some models are equipped with pivoting arms, sliding rails or ramps to facilitate loading. Safety should not be neglected either: opt for a system with solid fixings and anti-theft devices.
Before setting off, make sure that the bike rack is CE approved and that you respect the maximum authorized total weight (PTAC) of your motorhome. If the bike rack exceeds the size of the vehicle, you must affix a reflective plate to the rear, and move the lighting and the license plate. Regularly check the stability of the bikes and the general condition of the equipment.
Failure to comply with these instructions may result in fines and endanger your safety.
Before each departure, check the fixings of the bike rack. A protective cover is recommended in case of rain or long journeys. To reduce wind resistance, consider removing the saddles or wheels if necessary. Even when stopped, secure your bikes with robust padlocks. Regular maintenance of your equipment will extend its lifespan.
Having a suitable bike rack opens up new travel opportunities. With the CAMPING-CAR PARK Privilege Pack, you can access more than 500 areas in France and Europe, often close to cycle paths.
The Damvix area in Vendée is located in the heart of the Marais Poitevin, an ideal spot for nature walk enthusiasts. Or there's the Remoulins area in Gard, offering easy access to the Pont du Gard via a safe cycle path.
Check out our interactive map to find areas near cycling routes and filter according to what you're looking for.
A bike rack is a true road companion. Choose the right one, and it'll take you on new, freer, and richer adventures.
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