Roof rack - hoow to put bikes on?

[justlivyalife]

I've just got ordered a roof rack and Thule Bike Carrier for my Mondeo, and was wondering what layout I put the bike onto the car - ie does the bike need to go in the middle, to one side etc?

Thanks in advance!

[tjdixon911]

I usually carry 2 bikes but when I do carry a single bike I carry it over the drivers side.

[neil_bolton]

You serious

Absolutely up to you

Usually end up on the passenger side if only carrying one bike, as its generally on the pavement side. But not really a concious choice at all though...

[BOR]

Build up the rack off the car, on a flat area of ground.

Position the bike / bikes on the rack so you can pre-install the various brackets in the right position and try out the clamping/locking mechanism before you have to do it whilst stopping the bike toppling on to the roof of your car.

Position bike as much as possible to one side or other, simply because it's easier to reach.

DO ALL THIS IN ADVANCE OF YOUR JOURNEY COS' IT WILL TAKE A LOT LONGER THAN YOU EXPECT !

[mat205125]

Great advice BOR. Plenty of dings to the roof will be saved from following that advice.

[justlivyalife]

Cheers for the advice

Just wondered if there was a particular way that was "better" than others. Just need to find out if I can fit a bike & roof-box on the car at the same time now! .