Cyclists who drive to routes outside their local area have several options for transporting a bike, but carrying it loose inside the car can result in a fine. Spanish traffic law classifies driving with an improperly secured load or one at risk of falling as a serious offence, punishable by a €200 fine.
A bike can be carried inside the vehicle if it is properly secured. Adjustable straps attached to the car’s anchor loops or other fixing points can help keep it in place. Folding bikes may fit in the boot without lowering the rear seats, separating the load from the passenger compartment; securing one is still recommended.
Rear-mounted bike carriers must not obscure the vehicle’s rear lights or number plate. Some carriers fitted to a tow bar include their own lights and a plate holder. The load must also be marked with a V-20 warning panel. One panel is required if the bikes do not extend across the vehicle’s full width, measured to the outer edges of the mirrors; if they span the full rear width, two panels must be fitted at either end. The load must not protrude.
An incorrectly secured bike on a carrier can also lead to a €200 fine. Covering the number plate or vehicle lights, or failing to display the V-20 panel, can each result in an €80 fine. If a load falls onto the road and creates a serious risk, the fine can reach €500.
A roof-mounted bike carrier is another option. It does not require a V-20 panel unless the load extends beyond the rear of the vehicle. However, loading a bike onto the roof can be difficult, and the added height may prevent access to many underground car parks. A roof carrier can also worsen the car’s aerodynamics and fuel consumption.
Sources: Motorpasión.