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Are Bike Racks Waterproof? (All You Need to Know!)

Bike racks are fantastic whether you’re relocating or planning a trip. The specs of the bike racks should be studied while purchasing one. Buyer can choose their bike racks based on their needs.

Are bike racks waterproof?

Bike racks are not advertised as being waterproof. Bike racks are often composed of metal or alloys. Again, they are also composed of polymers. The outer coating of the rack determines its waterproofing. However, usual protocols do not recommend storing them without removing the moisture.

Bike racks might be waterproof or not. It is dependent on the specifications and how it is constructed. This is a question for which there is no conclusive answer.

If sufficient maintenance is not done, the bike racks will be corroded and ruined by moisture. They are waterproof as they do not usually get wet. But they are not certainly water-resistant.

Are Thule bike racks waterproof?

Bike racks from Thule are widely available on the market. The racks’ specifications make no indication of whether or not they are waterproof. 

So, the manufacturer does not sell them as waterproof bike racks. So, store them by removing any remaining amount of moisture. 

Are Yakima bike racks waterproof?

Yakima bike racks are pretty durable. They are common. They offer a variety of cost-effective, long-lasting choices.

If you’re looking for information about water resistance, you won’t find it in their product specifications. So you have to be careful while dealing with it. 

Can bike racks get wet? 

The wetting of a surface depends on the adhesive and cohesive force between the liquid molecules.

The material of the bike rack’s outside surface will determine whether it gets wet in the rain or not. Adhesion force is the force of attraction between two same molecules.

If the adhesion force is greater than the cohesive force (the attraction force between the identical molecules), the rain droplets will adhere to the surface.

If you want to buy a waterproof bike, the look can look it up. But in a much more generalized sense, bike racks do not get wet like a piece of cloth or some wood. The water does not penetrate inside and gets wet.

Can I go through a carwash with a bike rack?

You can go through a carwash with a bike rack. It depends on the type of car wash. It is highly advisable to avoid automatic car washes as the large brushes can get stuck in the rack and possibly cause significant damage to it.

Nevertheless, if someone were to keep the bike rack on the car while washing it, a touchless car wash can be a relatively good alternative. It is still best to take them off unless the car is washed manually.

How do I keep my bike rack from rusting?

Since you are investing a good amount of money in a bike rack, you should try to maintain it. If it rusts, its lifespan decreases. So you can follow some easy steps to prevent rusting.

Taking it off after use

You can take off the bike rack whenever you finish using it. Leaving it on can lead to exposure to moisture which will cause it to rust.

Washing the rack

You can wash the rack periodically. Washing the rack will remove the dirt accumulated on it after repeated use and indirectly prevent it from getting rusted.

Applying Lubricant

You can apply lubricant to the locks on your bike rack. It can make using the bike rack easier as well as protect it from rust.

Paint and coat

Painting and coating can effectively prevent rust on your bike rack.

Is it bad to leave the bike rack on your car

Leaving your bike rack on the car is not without its setbacks and sometimes can be bad. However, there are a few instances where one should be mindful. For example, a roof rack can noticeably reduce the fuel efficiency of your car. 

Even if the rack is not in use, the mechanics of aerodynamics can increase the resistance that the car must overcome. As a result, the mileage is lowered. This is unfavorable, and no auto owner desires it.

Unlike roof racks, hitch racks have a minor influence on fuel efficiency, making them a superior alternative if fuel efficiency is an issue.

Again, not taking off the bike rack when not using it may unnecessarily subject it to different unfavorable weather conditions. It faces the risk of corrosion or rusting because of moisture, rain, and snow. 

To prevent damage, the bike rack should be taken off after use and stored in a favorable place without the influence of moisture.

Another concern is the risk of the bike rack getting stolen. Not much is available to protect the rack from theft other than the car alarm. So, it is wise to take it off after use.

Where do you store your bike rack?

Most people store their bike racks in their garages on the floor. While it may seem to be the perfect place to keep it, you need to consider a few factors if you want to maximize the longevity of your bike rack. 

You need to make sure that it remains safe from the influence of the weather outside. Moisture can corrode the rack to a great extent. Moreover, you need to keep it in such a place that dirt cannot gather on it. 

Dirt and debris may cause it to harbor numerous harmful microbes, which make it a significant health risk. So, take extra care.

You can find some products in the market that are designed specifically to store bike racks. An example is the Kuat RackDock.

The extra expenditure on such products can prove to be very useful in the long run as it has the possibility of making your bike rack last longer.

Bike racks are on the expensive side. So, you have to choose wisely and intelligently. Choosing a model that fits the necessity is a must. Also, proper maintenance of your bike rack is necessary. So, buy smart and spend your hard earned money wisely.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are Bike Racks Worth It?

Do Bike Racks Need a Hitch Ball?

Do Bike Racks Need Lights?

Can You Open The Trunk with The Bike Rack?

Can You Put Electric, Carbon, or Other Bikes On a Bike Rack?