How to use your tow bar ski rack correctly?
If you don't want to transport your skis inside your vehicle, you need a ski rack. However, there are different ski rack systems. But if you already have a tow hitch installed on your vehicle, it will be even easier to install your ski rack than with models that attach to the roof. Here are the different steps to learn how to use your tow bar ski rack, as well as some recommendations to properly prepare your ski trip before taking the car.
In summary
Are you transporting your skis by car and want to travel safely? A tow bar ski rack is a practical solution to free up space in your vehicle, provided you install it correctly. Sport 2000 explains how to choose, attach, and load your ski rack, respect load limits, and secure your equipment before departure. Also discover best practices for driving calmly to the resort and protecting your equipment during the journey. Read on to use your tow bar ski rack with confidence.
What are the different car racks for skis and snowboards?
As with bikes, there are several solutions for transporting ski equipment to your destination. Each has its own operating mode and you will find racks at prices generally ranging from forty euros to over 200 euros depending on the type of rack and its features (anti-theft, capacity, etc.).
The roof bar ski rack
For transporting skis, you can use a type of ski rack that works with roof bars. Fix it by fitting it onto your car's roof bars and activate the security to avoid losing it on the road. You can transport up to 6 pairs of skis with it, and even take a snowboard. But its installation is quite long and, for obvious safety reasons, must not suffer from any defect. Furthermore, if your vehicle is already quite tall, you sometimes risk getting stuck at the entrance of a parking lot with a height barrier, or even being classified as class 2 at the highway toll booth.
The magnetic roof ski rack
There are also magnetic ski racks that do not require roof bars, but they have a smaller capacity than roof bar ski racks: you will only be able to transport a maximum of 3 pairs of skis (or 2 snowboards). On the other hand, this type of magnetic model is easier to install than the previous one.
The tow bar ski rack
A tow bar ski rack system will be very useful when many people already occupy the vehicle, the trunk is full of luggage, and the roof is already used by a roof rack.
Here is a very practical solution if your car has a tow hitch: attach a ski rack designed for this specific use.
Once folded, it takes up little space and can easily be stored in your garage, basement, or attic.
How to use the tow bar ski rack?
Have you opted for the tow bar ski rack solution for transporting your equipment? Here's how to properly install it on your car:
Strap your skis correctly, so they don't clash in the ski rack.
Be sure to strictly respect the maximum load the ski rack can support, as well as the admissible load on the tow hitch.
To use your tow bar ski rack, you must first open the clamping handle. To unlock the locking device, use the key designed for this purpose.
Place the ski rack on the tow ball. Most ski racks of this type are equipped with a simple clamping system (with a side handle).
Push the handle to tighten the ski rack. If you feel that you are tightening without making a real effort, it is likely that the ski rack is too loose. Then use an Allen key to tighten the device.
Activate the safety latch once the ski rack is fixed.
The next step to install the tow bar ski rack is to lift the ski rack arm upwards, then stabilize it by turning the side clamping knobs.
Adjust the height of the plate holder and open the ski rack arms by loosening the knobs provided for this purpose, then spread the arms.
Insert skis and snowboards, strictly adhering to the different distribution diagrams in the installation manual.
Tighten the arm knobs.
Tighten the straps by crossing them around the skis and snowboards, until a good tension is achieved for optimal fastening.
Fold down the safety bar and lock it with the key provided for this purpose, which acts as an anti-theft device (as on many tow bar bike racks).
Finally, tighten the skis and snowboards just before your departure. If it's a long journey, knowing how to adjust a tow bar ski rack before departure is not enough; you must also remember to check during your stops that your skis are still securely attached.
Distribute the load correctly on your ski rack. It should be as low as possible, but not too close to the ground, so as not to prevent your vehicle from crossing certain frequent obstacles on the road: puddles, speed bumps...
Final recommendations for using a tow bar ski rack
To avoid any unpleasant surprises on the way to winter sports, it is important to observe certain safety and common sense instructions:
Do not use your ski rack to transport equipment other than skis or snowboards.
Check how to attach your license plate and lights to your tow bar ski rack.
Ensure that the metal parts of the ski rack are not in contact with your vehicle's bodywork, so as not to damage the paint.
Before leaving, check the snow forecast to find out if the road leading to the ski resort you are going to is open.
Finally, plan how to unload your skis and luggage upon arrival, as some resorts, such as Avoriaz or Les Arcs, prohibit vehicle access to their town center.
You now know the different types of racks available and tips for properly installing the tow bar ski rack: it's your turn, head for a snowy vacation!
And don't forget: if you don't have your own equipment or if you don't want to transport all your gear by car, there's the practical solution of ski rental with Sport 2000 and its stores present in many winter sports resorts!
