How To Mount A Bell Bike Rack: Step-by-Step Guide

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How To Mount A Bell Bike Rack: Step-by-Step Guide

Can I mount a Bell bike rack myself? Yes, you can mount a Bell bike rack yourself with basic tools and a little patience. This guide will walk you through the process of Bell bicycle rack installation, from unboxing to securely attaching bike carrier components to your vehicle. We’ll cover everything you need to know for a successful rear bike rack mounting and how to fit a bike rack correctly.

Bell offers a range of bike racks designed for ease of use and reliability, whether you’re looking to transport a single bike or multiple. This comprehensive guide aims to simplify the bike rack assembly and the crucial step of mounting bike rack to car. By following these instructions, you’ll be ready for your next cycling adventure in no time.

Gathering Your Tools and Supplies

Before you begin installing Bell bike mount, it’s essential to have all the necessary tools and supplies readily available. This preparation ensures a smooth and efficient process.

• Bell Bike Rack: Ensure you have the correct model for your vehicle and bike type.
• Vehicle Owner’s Manual: This is vital for locating anchor points and understanding your car’s specific mounting capabilities.
• Included Hardware: Double-check that all bolts, screws, straps, and any specialized tools that came with your Bell bike rack are present.
• Adjustable Wrench or Socket Set: For tightening bolts securely.
• Phillips Head Screwdriver: For any screw-based attachments.
• Measuring Tape: To ensure proper alignment and spacing.
• Soft Cloth or Towel: To protect your vehicle’s paintwork from scratches during the process.
• Gloves (Optional): For a better grip and to keep your hands clean.
• A Helper (Recommended): Especially for larger or heavier racks, an extra pair of hands can be invaluable for stability and maneuvering.

Deciphering Your Bell Bike Rack Model

Bell manufactures various types of bike racks, each with its own specific installation method. It’s crucial to identify your model to follow the correct bicycle rack setup. Common types include:

• Trunk Mount Racks: These attach directly to the trunk lid or rear of your vehicle using adjustable straps and padded feet. They are popular for sedans and coupes.
• Hitch Mount Racks: These slide into a trailer hitch receiver. They are generally more robust and can carry more weight but require your vehicle to have a hitch.
• Roof Mount Racks: These attach to your vehicle’s existing roof rails or crossbars. They require a separate base rack system.

Important: Always refer to the specific instruction manual that came with your Bell bike rack. This guide provides general steps, but your model’s manual will have the most precise information.

Trunk Mount Rack Installation

Trunk mount racks are one of the most common types and are relatively straightforward to install. The key is to ensure a secure and stable fit.

Step 1: Preparing Your Vehicle’s Trunk

1. Clean the Trunk Area: Use a soft cloth to clean the areas of the trunk lid where the rack’s feet will rest. This removes dirt and debris that could scratch your paint.
2. Open the Trunk: Fully open your vehicle’s trunk lid.

Step 2: Positioning the Rack

1. Initial Placement: Gently place the Bell bike rack onto the rear of your trunk. Position it so the support arms are spread apart, providing a stable base.
2. Check for Obstructions: Ensure the rack is not blocking any lights, license plates, or other essential vehicle components.

Step 3: Attaching the Straps

This is the most critical part of rear bike rack mounting. Bell racks typically have several straps that secure the rack to the trunk.

• Upper Straps (or Cams): These usually attach to the top edge of the trunk lid.
  • Feed the straps over the trunk lid and around the top edge.
  • Secure them tightly using the provided cam levers or buckles. Ensure the webbing is taut and there is no slack.
• Lower Straps: These typically attach to the bottom edge of the trunk lid or the bumper area.
  • Thread the lower straps under the trunk lid and secure them. Depending on the rack model, this might involve looping them through specific slots or securing them to a lower lip.
  • Adjust these straps to pull the rack firmly against the trunk.
• Side Straps (if applicable): Some models have additional side straps that connect to the sides of the trunk or bumper.
  • Follow the same process of feeding, securing, and tightening these straps.

Tips for Strap Attachment:

• Tightness is Key: The straps must be pulled very taut. A loose rack can shift during travel, potentially damaging your vehicle or the rack itself, and most importantly, your bikes.
• Avoid Pinching: Be careful not to pinch wires or brake lines with the straps.
• Paint Protection: If your rack comes with protective pads or sleeves for the straps, use them, especially on the upper straps that rest on the paint.

Step 4: Securing the Support Arms

The support arms are where your bikes will rest.

1. Position Arms: Adjust the angle of the support arms so they sit evenly on the trunk lid.
2. Secure Arms (if adjustable): Some models have adjustable arms that need to be locked into place. Ensure any locking mechanisms are engaged.

Step 5: Testing the Fit

Before loading any bikes, perform a stability test.

1. Gentle Push and Pull: Gently try to rock the rack. It should not move significantly. If it does, re-adjust and tighten the straps further.
2. Check Clearance: Ensure the rack doesn’t interfere with the trunk opening or closing.

Hitch Mount Rack Installation

Hitch mount racks are designed for vehicles equipped with a trailer hitch. This method offers excellent stability and ease of loading.

Step 1: Preparing the Hitch Receiver

1. Identify Hitch Size: Bell hitch racks are usually designed for standard 1.25-inch or 2-inch hitch receivers. Ensure your vehicle’s hitch matches the rack.
2. Clean the Receiver: Remove any dirt or debris from inside the hitch receiver.

Step 2: Inserting the Rack Shank

1. Slide In: Carefully slide the shank (the part that inserts into the hitch) of the Bell bike rack into the receiver.
2. Align Holes: Align the holes on the rack shank with the corresponding holes on the hitch receiver.

Step 3: Securing the Rack

1. Insert Hitch Pin: Slide the provided hitch pin through the aligned holes. This is a crucial step in attaching bike carrier securely.
2. Add Clip or Lock: Secure the hitch pin with the attached clip or use a locking pin if your rack came with one. This prevents the rack from being stolen or accidentally falling out.

Step 4: Assembling the Rack (if needed)

Some hitch mount racks require minor bike rack assembly upon initial setup. This might involve attaching the upright mast to the base, or connecting the bike trays. Follow your specific model’s instructions carefully.

Step 5: Testing the Stability

1. Firmly Grasp: Grab the upright part of the rack and try to shake it. There should be minimal movement.
2. Check for Looseness: Ensure the hitch pin is fully seated and the clip is in place.

Roof Mount Rack Installation

Roof mount racks are ideal for keeping the rear of your vehicle clear but require a proper base rack system.

Step 1: Installing the Base Rack System

This is the prerequisite for any roof rack.

1. Refer to Base Rack Manual: The installation of the base rack (crossbars and towers) is specific to your vehicle and its roof type (bare roof, rain gutters, factory rails). Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the base rack system.
2. Secure Towers: Ensure the towers are firmly clamped to your vehicle’s roof.
3. Attach Crossbars: Secure the crossbars to the towers, ensuring they are parallel and at the recommended distance apart.

Step 2: Mounting the Bell Bike Carrier to Crossbars

1. Position the Rack: Place the Bell bike rack (often a fork-mount or wheel-mount style) onto the crossbars.
2. Secure Clamps: Use the clamps or mounting hardware provided with the Bell bike rack to attach it to the crossbars. Ensure these clamps are tightened securely around the crossbars.
3. Check Tightness: Make sure the rack cannot slide or rotate on the crossbars.

Step 3: Testing the Fit

1. Wiggle Test: Gently try to move the rack. It should feel solid and immovable.
2. Inspect Connections: Double-check all clamp and bolt connections.

Loading Your Bikes

Once the rack is securely mounted, you can load your bikes. This is a crucial part of how to fit a bike rack for use.

For Trunk Mount Racks

1. Place First Bike: Lift the first bike onto the rack and position its frame into the cradles or against the support arms.
2. Secure Bike: Use the integrated straps or provided Velcro ties to secure the bike frame to the rack’s support arms. Ensure the straps are snug but not overly tight, which could damage the bike frame.
3. Load Subsequent Bikes: Load the next bike, ensuring it does not make contact with the first bike or the vehicle. Alternate the direction of the bikes (front fork one way, next bike front fork the other way) to improve spacing and stability.
4. Secure All Bikes: Secure each bike individually to the rack.
5. Check for Movement: Gently rock each bike to ensure it is stable and securely attached.

For Hitch Mount Racks

1. Position Bike: Lift the bike and place its frame or wheels into the rack’s designated holders or onto the trays.
2. Secure Bike: Use the rack’s built-in straps or arms to hold the bike in place. For trays, this often involves securing the front wheel and then a frame hook. For platform racks, you might strap down both wheels.
3. Load Remaining Bikes: Load additional bikes, spacing them to prevent contact.
4. Final Check: Ensure all bikes are firmly secured and stable.

For Roof Mount Racks

1. Lift Bike: This can be the most physically demanding step. Lift the bike carefully onto the roof.
2. Secure Front Fork (Fork Mount): If it’s a fork-mount rack, remove the front wheel of your bike, place the fork dropouts into the fork mount on the rack, and secure the skewer.
3. Secure Wheels: If it’s a wheel-mount rack, place both wheels into the wheel trays and secure them with straps.
4. Secure Frame: Use the frame-securing strap to hold the bike’s frame firmly against the rack’s body.
5. Check Stability: Ensure the bike is stable and cannot wobble.

Final Checks Before Driving

Before you hit the road, a thorough final check is essential for safe bike rack attachment guide.

• Rack Stability: Give the entire rack a good push and pull from various angles. It should feel solid with no significant play.
• Bike Security: Gently try to move each bike. They should not shift or detach.
• Strap Tension: Re-check all straps and buckles for proper tightness.
• Vehicle Clearance: Ensure the rack and bikes do not obstruct your view, lights, or license plate. Check that the trunk or tailgate can still open sufficiently if needed.
• Road Conditions: Be mindful of how the rack and bikes might affect your vehicle’s handling, especially in wind or during turns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: Will a Bell bike rack fit my car?

  • A: Bell offers various rack types designed for different vehicles. Trunk mount racks are generally universal but depend on trunk lid shape. Hitch mount racks require a specific hitch size. Always check the product description and your vehicle’s compatibility before purchasing.

• Q: How do I know if my trunk lid can support a bike rack?

  • A: Most trunk lids can support a properly installed trunk mount rack. However, it’s crucial to follow the installation instructions precisely and perform a stability test. Avoid using on convertibles with plastic spoilers or on vehicles with unusual trunk designs without consulting the rack’s manual or Bell customer support.

• Q: Can I use a trunk mount rack on a hatchback or SUV?

  • A: Some hatchbacks and SUVs have rear-mounted spare tires or spoilers that can interfere with trunk mount racks. Bell offers specific designs or alternative rack types (like hitch mounts) that are better suited for these vehicles. Always verify compatibility.

• Q: How do I prevent my bikes from scratching each other?

  • A: Load bikes in alternating directions (front fork one way, next bike the other). Use padding where bikes might touch. Ensure all bikes are securely strapped to the rack so they don’t sway into each other.

• Q: What is the weight limit for my Bell bike rack?

  • A: Each Bell bike rack has a specific weight limit. This information is usually found on the product packaging or in the instruction manual. Do not exceed this limit, as it can damage the rack and your vehicle, and is a safety hazard.

• Q: Do I need a trailer hitch to use a hitch mount bike rack?

  • A: Yes, a trailer hitch receiver is absolutely necessary for hitch mount bike racks. If your vehicle does not have one, you would need to have one installed professionally.

• Q: How often should I check the rack and bike security?

  • A: It’s recommended to check the security of the rack and bikes at the start of your journey and at any fuel stops or breaks along the way. Straps can loosen over time due to vibrations.

This detailed guide covers the essential steps for Bell bicycle rack installation. By carefully following these instructions and referring to your specific model’s manual, you can confidently mount your Bell bike rack and enjoy worry-free travel with your bicycles.