Mounting Options
Bikes are generally too large to fit inside your vehicle without dismantling, which makes the whole process of getting going quite a fuss. Mounting bikes on roof racks is one option, but due to the excess drag, and lack of security (unless fitted with a security device) is less favoured by tourers who tend to favour rear mounted bike carriers.
There are literally tons of different rear mounted models available, but it is hard to find a solution that suits many 4WDs, and even more difficult to find a solution to mount on the back of a caravan or motorhome.
Extension arms are required if you need to contend with a protruding spare wheels carrier, or tray back doors.
Strength for Off Road
The strength of the structure needs to be investigated if you intend to go offroad. The rigours of constant corrugations is well known to break bike carriers that are not designed specifically for offroad application. In fact, for this reason, single pole carriers are not suitable to mount on the rear of a trailer, instead an A frame bike carrier is recommended to be the only option that provides sufficient strength.
The structure of the bike carrier is critical. When it is left cantilevered out on the tow bar it is subjected to far higher forces than anything else in the vehicle. Bikes, and the rack need to be well engineered and looked after for long trips.
Further, the weight on the rear is exacerbated by the distance from the wheels increasing your tendency to bottom out going into dips, for example.
The bike rack and bikes reduces your angle of departure considerably too in most designs of bike racks which can be an issue even on bitumen roads.
Catering for Ladies Bikes
Bikes should ideally be carried with wheels level to the ground. If you need to carry ladies frames with angled cross-bars, many carriers will only allow those bikes to sit at an angle, which will lower the ground clearance. Some manufacturers, and certainly those that custom-make, will cater for ladies frames enabling the bike to sit level.
Custom Bike Carriers
Mountain bikes have thicker frame tubes than many standard bike carriers will allow so make sure you measure the circumference of your bike frame and check the various models. If you can't find one that fits, then custom-made may be the way to go. You'll also find that the brake cables that run alongside the frame tube can be crushed by some models that clamp the frame tightly and this could scratch the paintwork and impair the cable. Some models will have additional cushioning to contend with brake cables, which is a nice feature.
How Many Bikes?
Whether you carry 1, 2, 3 or more bikes, will depend on how long the extension bars need to be. Some off-the-shelf brands cater well for these options with individual locks for each bike, else you can have anything you desire custom-made.
Bike Carriers and Trailers
For those that travel with a trailer in tow, you'll also need to look for a solution that doesn't require the towball for mounting. Single pole carriers are suitable for mounting on the drawbar but check there is enough room to turn without interference from the bikes.
And finally, if your 4WD is quite a high vehicle, look out for models with a fold-down bar to load bikes into the cradles before raising the bar to the travel position.
UHF Radio
If you are considering a trip into Australia’s vast outback, then a UHF Radio is an important communications device to have. Besides the entertainment value, such as chatting with other travellers, this radio can be a valuable part of your contingency list.
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Accessories
This topic contains detailed articles on the complete list of vehicle accessories and equipment on today's market - includes basic essentials for weekend camping and must-have gear for setting up a 4WD for serious offroad use.
Winches
All travellers should be capable and equipped for winching so in this article we will discuss the various winching methods and equipment on the market. Written in conjunction with one of Australia's most noted experts in winch gear, we will also discuss some important safety issues along with providing some practical tips to suit everyone from traveller to competitor.
HF Radio
HF Radios are a wise consideration if you intend to travel throughout remote regions of Australia. In this article we discuss the usefulness of HF radio in practical situations and explain the many features and services available to enhance your use of the equipment including links to suppliers and manufacturers.
Suspension
There is an unfortunate but realistic fact about purchasing a new 4WD - it won't come fitted with a suspension system designed to carry the kind of load you'll pack for a serious outback trip. In this article we explain why it is important to consider fitting a new suspension system and what is involved.
Portable Fridges
The debate over which fridge is the best on the market is one of the most contested discussions in the camping recreation. In this article we look at the range of features and the major issues to consider when comparing brands and models.
Long Range Fuel Tanks
A large number of outback treks involve long distances between fuel outlets. Jerry cans are dangerous, difficult to store and not as convenient as a long range fuel tank. Fitting a long range fuel tank is a common modification and there are many good manufacturers.
Driving Lights
If you plan to do any night driving in the outback then a strong reliable light source is a must. Bad weather, night driving and the possibility of stray animals all demand the need for a clear view of the road and the standard vehicle high beam is not enough.
Topics Index
Each Topic contains a range of detailed and useful articles on products, services and issues. This section is full of practical tips, ideas, photos and factual information. Each topic has links to relevant Manufacturers, Retailers and Operators that can be found in our Directory; plus links to relevant Posts in our Forum; and links to related Trader listings.
Water Tank
Water storage is a critical issue for all four wheel drivers. Not only do you need to carry large amounts of fresh water, you also need 2 alternate supplies in case of contamination from one source. We suggest a couple of small plastic jerry cans for backup but for the main supply, the best water carrying solution is a stainless steel water tank.
Roof Racks, Luggage Trays & Boxes
In this article we look at the pros and cons of using the roof of your vehicle for storage when travelling; discuss what not to carry on your roof; provide some helpful packing hints and finally some useful buying tips.
HF Radio Installation
In this article, we discuss the procedures for installing a HF radio and the modifications that can be considered for a successful installation. We look at the different options and locations on the vehicle to mount the antenna base and provide some cabling and console tips to give that professional look.
Aftermarket Seats
Unfortunately, car manufacturers don't always expect us to actually take our vehicles offroad - so when it comes to fitting out your vehicle for a major trip you replace your suspension to improve the ride so ... why not replace your seats?
Recovery Gear Needs
The majority of situations that will stop a 4WD from moving are tyre punctures or getting yourself bogged in mud or sand - and these can happen in the simplest of situations, and for no real fault of the driver.
Bull Bars, Rails & Steps
A vehicle's bull bar, sides steps and rails are known as its "bar work". Some critics might suggest that bar work is not necessary but for people actually using their vehicles for offroad touring, the bar work provides critical strength and protection and should therefore be considered as essentials.
Vehicle Shower
Water is the single most precious commodity you need to carry for your trip. Although heavy, we need to carry it for drinking, cooking and washing. When it comes to personal hygiene during remote travels, we often scrimp on the luxuries and make do with a quick wash of the arm pits and other spots. It's this sort of roughing it that puts off some travel partners, but there is a solution.
Snorkel
Although significantly different, both petrol and diesel engines require a steady flow of air to operate. If the vehicle is not fitted with a snorkel, they do this by sucking air through the inner guard of the bonnet or just behind the grill. These open airways will also allow water to enter the engine if submerged - with disastrous results!
Cargo Drawers
This Article looks at gearing up for a 4WD camping trip and the need to find a sturdy, compact storage solution that won't rattle, break or allow loose items to fly around the cabin. We look at cargo drawers and list the features you should look for.
