[Gus Berges]

I know this thread is about the bikes themselves, but I was wondering if some would like to chime in regarding bike racks... My twin boys just got new bikes (29" XC hardtails with modern bike geometry/slanted top tube) and we have no way to transport them safely.

I've seen the suction cup mounts and like them, but not 100% sure if they would be the best solution due to the fact that the front wheels need to be removed every time and then there is the issue of the racks and bikes not being secured to the vehicle (theft prevention). Their car has a panoramic (all glass) roof, so they have to be extra careful going into places due to the total overall height of the vehicle with the bikes mounted on the roof. The cost of them seems on par with the higher end hitch mounted racks, but at least I wouldn't have to "invest" on a hitch and if they change vehicles, they could use the suction cup type racks on any other vehicle.

Their car doesn't have a hitch, but $250 will take care of that "problem". I do like the 1Up bike racks, but their website is blocking me for unknown reason, so I can't price out what I need! I'd like to get a 4 bike carrier... Hitch mounts are easier to load and unload the bikes, better against theft (lockable), but not sure if anything else.

So, anyone care to share experiences and points of views regarding why X is better than Y regarding racks?