Is it normal for handlebars to turn when on bike rack?

Question

I just bought a Saris bike rack for my sedan and I am wondering if it is normal for the handlebars to turn while I am driving. It seems like it would bang up against my car. I love my bike but I love my car more.

Answer 1

I had this problem with my trunk rack (before I switched to a roof rack).  If you are worried about scratches secure your front tire to the rack ( this will stop the swinging and tire spinning).

Good Luck

Answer 2

my local bike shop sells some extendable poles (about the size of my pinky finger) with rubber straps on each end.  One end butts up against your seat post (and the rubber wraps around and snaps in place).  Then the other end attaches to your handlebars (and again, the rubber wraps around and snaps in place.  Then you straighten the handlebars and lock the extendable rod in position.  Voila, no handlebars turning and my expensive wheels aren't smashing into my car.

Oh, my new bike is worth more than my car (which is a 2002)

Answer 3

not normal ask your local bicycle shop owner

Answer 4

Hello,

Yes this is normal.  I use a velcro strap to secure the wheel to the downtube and prevent it from swinging.  

BTW, the first person answering got confused.  It is not normal for the handlebars to move (up/down) but it is normal for the wheel and to move left to right and also spin.

Answer 5

first, get your priorities straight! <<each>> of my bikes is worth more than my car! last year, I put new rubber on my road bike and drove with an expired inspection sticker, cuz I still needed new tires for my car! as for the wheel moving. it's called gravity. you need to secure you'r front wheel to avoid its turning and spinning..