Shopping Cart
There are no more items in your cart
Italiano
Deutsch
Español
Français
English.png){kind=icon}
Car bike rack
Car bike racks: choose the right Menabo solution to transport your bikes safely
Transporting bikes by car requires the right bike rack: a solution that fits your vehicle, the number of bicycles, the available mounting system and, increasingly, the weight of modern e-bikes and fat bikes. Menabo has been designing car bike racks for over 50 years, offering certified, robust solutions designed for every transport need: from weekend mountain trips to competitive cycling events.
Tutti i prodotti di questa categoria sono compatibili con la tua auto
All types of car bike racks
The choice of bike rack mainly depends on your vehicle and how you plan to use it. Here are the available categories. Roof bike racks: they attach to cross roof bars. Ideal for keeping the rear of the car free while transporting bikes with traditional frames or MTBs. Versions are available with fork mount, frame mount and wheel mount.
Rear bike racks: attach to the tailgate or body of the vehicle using brackets and straps. They do not require a tow hitch and are compatible with most cars. They typically carry 2 to 3 bikes.
Tow bar bike racks: represent the most stable and versatile solution, especially for eBikes which, weighing 20–30 kg, require reinforced mounting systems. Menabo models include foldable and tilting versions for easier parking access.
Drawbar bike racks: designed specifically for campers and caravans, they attach to the trailer drawbar. A robust solution for recreational vehicles.
Bike racks for campers and vans: designed for rear doors or dedicated camper supports. Available in versions for up to 2 bikes, with lightweight structures resistant to corrosion.
Bike rack accessories: anchoring systems, anti-theft devices, license plate holders and safety kits to complete and optimize your transport system.
How to choose the right car bike rack
Three questions guide the right choice:
Do you have a tow bar? If yes, a tow bar bike rack is the safest solution with the highest load capacity, often over 70 kg. If not, consider rear tailgate models or roof-mounted ones if you have roof bars.
Do you transport eBikes? Electric bikes weigh roughly twice as much as traditional bicycles. Always check the maximum load capacity of the bike rack and choose models specifically tested for e-bikes and fat bikes.
How many bikes do you need to carry? Menabo bike racks support from 1 to 3 bicycles depending on the model. Choose based on the maximum number you plan to transport.
Bike rack regulations 2026: what to know before buying
The MIT Decree of December 19, 2024 (published in the Official Gazette on January 21, 2025) simplified and finalized the rules for transporting bikes using rear-mounted bike racks. Here are the key points to know before purchasing.
No mandatory testing. For tow bar or rear overhang bike racks it is no longer necessary to visit the Motor Vehicle Department or update the vehicle registration, provided that the load does not obstruct the license plate and lights. The tow hitch must still be installed by a certified workshop which issues the installation documentation.
License plate and lights must always be visible. If the rack or bikes partially or totally cover the plate or rear lights, it is mandatory to install an official duplicate license plate mounted on the rack and a dedicated lighting system (position lights, brake lights and indicators) connected to the vehicle.
Size limits. The load width must not exceed the vehicle width including mirrors. The bike rack length cannot exceed 30% of the vehicle length. If the rack or bikes extend beyond the rear outline (within this limit), a 50×50 cm reflective warning panel must be displayed.
CE certification required. The bike rack must have CE certification and include the manufacturer's certificate of conformity indicating maximum load capacity and compatibility with the vehicle. All Menabo bike racks meet this requirement.
Explore the categories above to find the model compatible with your vehicle and your style of use.
FAQ — Main category: car bike racks
What is the difference between roof, rear and tow bar bike racks?
The three systems differ in mounting position, ease of use and vehicle compatibility. Roof bike racks attach to roof bars and keep the rear of the car free, but require lifting bikes up to roof height, which can be difficult with heavy eBikes.
Rear bike racks attach to the tailgate using straps: they are the most economical and versatile solution but reduce rear visibility and may require a duplicate plate if they cover the original one.
Tow bar bike racks are the most stable and practical system for transporting eBikes or fat bikes: they use the car’s tow hitch, keep the center of gravity low and often allow opening the trunk without removing the bikes.
Does a bike rack need to be certified?
No individual approval or testing at the Motor Vehicle Department is required. It is sufficient that the product has a CE conformity certificate issued by the manufacturer.
The MIT Decree of December 19, 2024 clarified that no additional inspection is required provided that the rack does not obstruct the license plate and lights, or that a duplicate plate and lighting system are installed.
Can I transport an eBike with a normal bike rack?
It depends on the load capacity of the rack and its mounting system. An eBike typically weighs between 20 and 30 kg: it is essential to choose a rack capable of supporting the total weight of the bikes.
Tow bar bike racks are usually the best choice for eBikes thanks to their low loading height and stronger structure.
If the rack covers the license plate, what should I do?
If the rack obscures the original license plate, Italian regulations require installing an official duplicate plate issued by the Motor Vehicle Department.
The rack must also have a lighting system connected to the vehicle replicating position lights, brake lights and indicators.
The duplicate bike rack plate is white.
How many bikes can be transported on a bike rack?
There is no fixed legal limit. The real limit depends on the maximum load capacity of the rack and the size of the vehicle.
In practice, tow bar racks usually carry 2 or 3 bikes while roof racks can generally carry up to 4 bikes.
Made in Italy Leisure Time Car Accessories
Menabo is the Italian brand appreciated for its distinctive design and superior quality. For over 50 years, we have been producing car accessories such as bike racks, ski racks, roof boxes and baskets, roof racks, and water sport solutions. Each of our products, made entirely in Italy, is certified according to the strictest safety standards. Innovation, safety and quality are our main goals, guaranteeing customers reliable and stylish accessories.
Menabo Quality and Safety
Every detail of Menabo's products is carefully considered, from design to production. Our accessories for pick-ups, commercial vehicles, 4x4, and garage organisation, as well as backpacks, bags and outdoor living solutions, reflect our commitment to quality. Made from selected materials and subjected to rigorous safety tests, Menabo products represent the excellence of Made in Italy for leisure and sport.
download the catalog
.png){kind=small}
customer care
Download our catalog to stay up-to-date on all new product releases.
Do you need help?
For faster assistance, please contact us by email at: customercare@flli-menabo.it, always including the batch number and part codes. The same information is required for phone support at +39 0522 1750280 (Hours: 8:15–12:15, 12:45–16:45).
download the catalog
Download our catalog to stay up-to-date on all new product releases.
customer care
Do you need help?
For faster assistance, please contact us by email at: customercare@flli-menabo.it, always including the batch number and part codes. The same information is required for phone support at +39 0522 1750280 (Hours: 8:15–12:15, 12:45–16:45).