Moving a bike by car usually comes down to one of three options, each with a real trade-off.

A roof rack keeps the bike fully off the car body and out of the way of luggage, but adds height you need to remember before driving into a low car park, and affects fuel economy slightly at highway speed. A trunk-mounted rack is cheaper and easier to fit and remove, but needs care to make sure straps don't rub against the car's paint over a long drive.

For a short trip, removing the front wheel and laying the bike flat in a boot or back seat (protected by an old sheet or blanket) works fine for many hatchbacks and SUVs. Whichever method, double-check every strap or clamp is tight before setting off, and again after the first few minutes of driving — vibration can loosen a strap that felt secure standing still.