Firstly I know others will flame you for it but a simple search would have resulted in many many many threads on this topic. The ones that many people often suggest are Sea Suckers

https://www.seasucker.com/

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"Train so you have no regrets @ the finish line"

I use a hitch rack, mainly because it's easy for me to transfer between our Sienna and Corolla (Corolla with aftermarket hitch).

The main difference to me is possible ease of mounting. Easier hitch than roof, but this is specific to the Sienna and my 5'9" height.

Another difference is risk of damaging bike. Low clearances on roof vs. being rear ended on hitch.

Lastly, the one thing I dislike about hitch racks is that with rainy weather, specifically drizzle, all the mud/crud flies from the rear onto the bike. Last time, I had to really clean the front derailler since it wouldn't shift with all the crud on there.

Perhaps I gave you more pros/cons than recommendations. Hope some of it helps.

Depends on what you want the racks for.... I have a versatile one (Saris) that fits on any car. It can hold up 3 bikes and is very highly rated. It has survived ice storms to the summers heat with no damage on the car. Not a hitch but can very sturdy and easy to pack away when not in use. Since you have an SUV, i would use a hitch.

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2020 Team Zoot MTN

Just for piece of mind, I would get a hitch rack. So many stories about people forgetting their bike is on top of their car and going into their garage, etc. and smashing up their bike(s). Plus it is easier to mount and dismount the bike from the hitch mount vs roof rack.

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"Just don’t abandon everything you’ve ever learned because of something someone said on the internet." - Eric McGinnis

Until the car behind you at the gas station runs taps your big buck wheels...

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The Doctor (#12)

I personally have never heard of anyone being rear ended in the hitch (I'm sure it has happened), but I know several people who have scalped their bike on a roof rack and it usually was a disaster for the bike AND the car. John Howard used start his lecture by saying that he was going to save you more than you paid to get in. "Do you have a roof rack? Take it off. There, I just saved you a LOT of money."

I have had my wheel ruined when in a rear hitch. Came out after having it parked on side on street to find some paralelle parking had hit it & then of course left.

I prefer to have my bike stored inside my car. It's worked well. We just got a new Ford Escape & will be hard to do both.
I've had a roof rack & it was a pain. If I decide to buy a hitch rack Everyone said the 1up usa is the best out there.

But I think I've found a better option. Get a Stowaway2 Max cargo carrier. Then can I keep the bike inside & carry the luggage & gear in there. Plus there are some photos of it with a bike inside.
Barb

I've been using a roof rack for a couple years and works well, plus you can keep an eye on your rig via occasional sunroof opening. I've just bought the felt IA and having transported a venge with 808s or 404s without a problem, I'm worried about the IA with 808s, regarding crosswinds on the car at 70mph+ for example. The IA clearly acts more like a sail on the few occasions I've riden her since buying, hence my concern. I'm sure the worry is unwarranted given the ridiculously aero design but any thoughts of the felt fairing worse (or better) in crosswinds while stuck in a fixed position i.e. roof rack? Worst nightmare would be a strong cross wind vs roof rack mount and the IA stuck in the middle.

1. I've used Yakima roof mounts in the past and it works fine. It's more of a hassle to put up on the rack and I don't like the swaying at freeway speeds. Plus, wiping off the road kill is inconvenient.

I currently own a Thule hitch rack and am very pleased with it. Faster to put on and my carrier can hold up to 5 bikes. It is true however that you need to secure the bikes otherwise they will scratch and rub against things. Usually some bungees are all you need.

2. If using a roof rack, I found that the ones with the front tire removed are much more stable at higher speeds.

If you can, I'd say get a Thule roof box for luggage and random gear, and keep the bike in the car. My kids are used to squishing in there with mine. ;)

I've had two Thule roof racks for 10+ years without any issues. Used them to transport my bikes many times without any issues, including a trip from MA to NC and back.

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I don't think you'd be able to get an ia on the majority of roof racks. Most that I have seen grab onto the down tube which would be far too big on the ia to fit. Thule do one that you lock the front fork to, but then you'd still have to put the front wheel in the car. Also if you use a disc wheel you can't lock the back wheel down on a roof rack.

Iain

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