Try them before buying if possible (Halfords Deluxe Roof Mount Cycle Carrier)

Member Name: mwl001

Product:	Halfords Deluxe Roof Mount Cycle Carrier
Date:	09/10/03 (1374 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Cheaper than some

Disadvantages: A bit weak in a couple of places

I have 2 of these cycle carriers and have used them a fair bit in the last couple of years.

Once you are used to fitting them it really doesn't take long to fit them to the roof bars (fitting the bars takes longer).
I have had no real problems with them, although the first time of using them took a while to work out the best combination of mounting for the 2 bikes (one has a womans frame). The best solution I have found was to mount one in the normal way and one backwards, so that the arms are both on the inside, this makes putting the bikes on easier and just happens to provide suitable positions for each if the bikes (even with bottle cages). I always use the use the straps to hold the front wheel straight as this makes putting the bikes on much less prone to problems. I have never tried fitting more than 2 but can understand why in would be difficult if not impossible!

The pivot point in the middle, whilst making them easier to store, is a bit of weakpoint in the design. Both carriers have cracks in the plastic, although neither has broken (not yet anyway!). Also be careful not to overtighten the wheel straps as the metal bits at the ends are not that strong.

They are lockable, both to the roof bars and to the bikes, however I wouldn't like to rely on the locks stopping a determined thief, although they are likely to be more secure than on a boot mounted carrier.

Personally I prefer roof mounter carriers as they avoid any problems with lights/number plates being obscured and still allow access to the boot while the bikes are on the car. I am sure there is an increase in fuel consumption when driving with the bikes on the car but have not found it to be that noticeable.

All on all, not a bad cycle carrier, but if you can, try them out with your bike(s) first and wait until Halfords reduce them (which they seem to do once a year) before buying.

Summary: