Fiamma Carry-Bike fitment: get the right rack first time

The short answer

• Identify rear door type first. Tailgate and barn-door vans use different rack frames.
  (Internal link idea: [Link: /pages/fitment-by-vehicle])

• Count bikes and total weight. E-bikes need higher load ratings and careful lifting plans.
  (Internal link idea: [Link: /collections/fiamma-carry-bike])

• Choose drilling or no-drill brackets based on your bodywork and usage.
  (Internal link idea: [Link: /collections/fiamma-adapters])

Step 1: confirm your rear door type

• Tailgate vans use racks shaped to the single lifting door.

• Barn doors use split-door frames with specific hinge and plate clearances.
  Open the doors fully and note hinges, wipers, badges and camera placements before you select a rack.

(Internal link ideas: [Link: /collections/fiamma-carry-bike], [Link: /pages/install-checklist])

Step 2: bikes and weight rating

• Number of bikes now and later. Many frames take add-on rails but check the load ceiling.

• E-bikes weigh more. Consider removing batteries for lifting and transport.

• Rail spacing and wheelbase matter for kids bikes and long MTBs.
  Check the rack’s maximum load and the rail type before checkout.

(Internal link idea: [Link: /collections/fiamma-bike-accessories])

Step 3: drilling vs no-drill brackets

• No-drill kits spread load through shaped brackets on hinges or reinforced zones and keep bodywork untouched.

• Drilled fixes can feel more permanent and rigid but only when installed to specified hard points with reinforcement plates.
  Use only the Fiamma hardware listed for your exact body style and year.

(Internal link ideas: [Link: /collections/fiamma-adapters], [Link: /collections/fiamma-spares])

Platform pointers you can validate against your van

These are typical patterns not rules. Always confirm by year body style and trim.

• VW Transporter T5 T6 T6.1
  Tailgate and barn-door frames are different. Parking sensors and cameras may affect plate board placement.
  (Internal link idea: [Link: /collections/vw-transporter-carry-bike])

• Ford Transit Custom
  Check door type and spoiler height on tailgate models. Pop-top conversions may change rear clearances when the roof is up.
  (Internal link idea: [Link: /collections/transit-custom-carry-bike])

• Fiat Ducato Peugeot Boxer Citroën Relay
  Tall barn doors with upper hinges need the correct upper brackets. Check for step bumpers that may influence load height.
  (Internal link idea: [Link: /collections/ducato-carry-bike])

Visibility number plates and lights

When bikes cover the original plate or lamps fit a lighting board with number plate and wire it to a compatible socket. Requirements vary so check local regulations before travel.

(Internal link ideas: [Link: /collections/lighting-boards], [Link: /pages/road-visibility-guide])

Security and tie-down

• Use frame straps and anti-theft locks that fit the rail profile.

• Add a top strap to reduce rack bounce on rough roads.

• Re-torque fixings after the first few trips.

(Internal link ideas: [Link: /collections/fiamma-security], [Link: /collections/fiamma-bike-accessories])

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Buying a tailgate rack for barn doors or vice versa

• Exceeding the rack’s load with E-bikes

• Mixing non-matching brackets and fasteners

• Forgetting a plate and lighting board when bikes hide the rear lamps

• Mounting without reinforcement where specified

(Internal link idea: [Link: /pages/install-checklist])

Quick checklist before you buy

• Door type confirmed tailgate or barn doors

• Bike count now plus future add-on rails

• Total weight within rated limit

• Bracket style chosen drilled or no-drill as specified

• Visibility plan plate board and lighting if needed

• Security straps and lock added to basket

What to add to your order

• Correct Fiamma bracket or adapter kit

• Extra Quick rails or blocks if carrying more bikes later

• Plate and lighting board with wiring kit

• Security lock and transport covers if you tour in poor weather

(Internal link ideas: [Link: /collections/fiamma-adapters], [Link: /collections/fiamma-bike-accessories], [Link: /collections/fiamma-security])

Ready to choose your rack Confirm door type and bike weight then pick the Fiamma Carry-Bike that fits Add the right brackets plate board and security so you are set for the season.