Are you a van owner or a pick-up truck owner and did you make that choice for mountain biking? If you're not an owner of either of these styles of vehicle, how do you choose to get around with your mountain bikes?
Cyber Truck? 😅 Failing that, bike carrier on 4x4/SUV Problem with open pickup truck beds, especially in the UK, is they are a VERY temporary storage location 😂
Maybe if you are young and poor, but I can afford a nice car and nice bikes. My ride is a pimped out LWB Vito 116 van, bikes are a Doggie with EPS and a 2020 Kenevo Expert. Together they are 1/3 the cost of my modest van.
For the last 20 years I have had both a Van (cargo van converted into Moto van) and a Pickup, I can honestly say I drive my van much much more than drive the pickup, it's just so convenient to have everything inside all locked up and out of plain site, I can sleep in it, change in it, haul stuff in it, it is extremely handy, even things like hauling furniture, I don't have to go through the process of strapping everything down like I do with my truck, everything is contained so if it fits in the van that's what I use. To be fair I have a full size Ford cargo van, it,s not a compact mini van, it's a van on a truck frame and even though it's not 4 wheel drive I go just about anywhere my truck goes, for snow and really muddy places I'll use my 4X4 truck, otherwise I use my truck mainly for towing my toy hauler when going on extended trips. I bought my 1st van (a Chevy Astro) when I was tired of hearing of all the theft that was going on with high end mountain bikes and had friends stop just to get a cup of coffee in the morning an had their bikes ripped off and have had a van ever since. And lets not forget what else you can do in the back of a van...!
gmh6477 which is actually a Renault in every which way! So if you buy a Mercedes pick up truck then you must be mental! To pay even more for a navara which is essentially a Renault underneath!
Well, I have a Navara. I have had two of them. And everything you touch in the mercedes is better. It just is. While stil being incredibly durable like the Navara. So next time around I'm getting one of those.
@@churchofsighandthology have your super durable chassis rails cracked yet? My friends Navara nearly broke in half when it wasn't even 2 years old... It was written off and replaced by Nissan... a common fault apparently
I laughed out loud when he said utilitarian. Kinda wish they would do more head to head comparisons that aren't just advertisements for a single brand that sponsors them
As the police and insurabce companies say, you can stick a Porsche engine in a Beetle, it still doesn't make it a Porsche. Bet you can get a Chinese rebadge kit to make it look like a Merc.
Even here in the rocky mountains, our riding season is year round. Unless we've had a major snowstorm in the last week, I can pretty much always find somewhere to ride that doesn't require a fatbike. GMBN also has the budget to travel to places that are nice during northern hemisphere winter.
I have a pick up, my mates got a van. Day trips we take the pick up because it’s easier to just throw the bikes in. Weekends away we take his van. But if you had to pick one it would be the van I think.
I rate a station wagon. it's more secure than the ute, but doesn't stick out like a sore thumb like the van. Heaps of room in the back with the seats down to have bikes and gear.
You guys hit all the points! As a van and pick up owner the van wins for me (and the family) by far. Only negatives are the two you hit on. No 4x4- most* trail heads in the US are easily accessible in 4x2. Dirty bike- I can rinse down at the trail head but don't usually need to. Knock off all the loose bits and roll, no carpet or cover it. Clean up everything when home. Reload and ready for the next ride. Way too many bonuses with the van! Everything always inside just jump in and go! Can stop anywhere and have no worries about the bikes! Lifestyle wise it's definitely pushing the easy button...
You forget about us people who live in a snowy tundra during the winter. If I want to freeze to death in a ditch or wrap my car around a pole/tree I guess I'd get a rwd van. Also you know you get a tent mounted on top of the cab or suspended over the bed of a truck right?
an old hilux anywhere or old tacoma in the U.S. would be a far better place to put your money. stop buying hot hatches that depreciate quickly and cost you tons at the mechanic. an old truck wont be fast or comfortable but its a no brainer on a budget. what people dont realize is the real cost of a car isnt the sticker price - the real cost of a car is depreciation and maintenance because everything else you get back when you sell the car. be smart.
I doubt you'll see one. As far as I know there aren't any commercial racks for that... No way gmbn could deal with the liability of custom making a rack
@Cliff J I used to do it with a Ventura rack on my GSXR 7/11 and plenty of padding. Turn the bag so it's over the pillion seat and fill it with your riding gear. With the bike, take the wheels out, seatpost out, then top tube on the rack and slot the wheels into the spaces on the rack to hold it all in. Apply lots of straps and you are good to go. I used to do a 600+km commute with it and it was sweet. Good at the ton too. My LWB Toyota van is more convenient, but less fun.
I own a 1986 caprice classic. I just pop the front wheel off and lay it down in the trunk. Its the ultimate mountain bikers vehicle. My bike cost more than my car so im doin something right.
ive had several Land Rovers (Disco & Defender) in the past but have ended with the ideal solution...VW T5 Kombi van....throw the bikes in the back and still has seats for kids / family life. love it!!!
Love the cinimatography and 21:9 ratio! One thing I would do though is actually upload it in 21:9, because it's 16:9 it makes it annoying for people with 21:9 monitors as we get black bars at the top and sides.
A category that was missing on the video is "mtb related activities", like trail building. I use my pick up a lot to carry tools up the hills for 20 to 30 trailbuilders in south Brazil. Said that, I had already both, the pick up and a van. Now I have a pick up with a canopy. So I think I got the best of the 2 worlds. I do travel to race with my bike and to have it locked inside my pick up canopy is a must!!
Yeah but them things used to snap in 2 after a few years use the one pickup/crewcab I would never buy or advice someone to buy wouldn't buy the merc for same reason
Are you allowed to cover the number in most countries? If I had an ute (pick up) I wouldn't sling the bikes over the back. I'd have lockable fork mounts plus another lock for the front wheels and frame. The Mercedes Benz vechile I'd have is a Sprinter SWB 4x4 crew cab.
Love the cinematic 21:9 shots, but can you guys make it so it will actually show as full screen on an actual 21:9 monitor? half the time i'm looking at a small movie with Massive black bars all around it.
I’ve been driving my V-class for three years now and still loving it. Have been to French alps with 4 bikes & luggage for three week holiday with room to spare. Also wide roof can fit 6 racks on top so With my 4 bike hitch rack it carries 10 bikes on the outside as well. Best car for Mountainbikers!
I have a Toyota 4Runner with a hitch carrier. Useful for mountain biking and dirtbikes too (500 pound max weight). Back seat folds flat so you can sleep in the car if you don't feel like setting up a tent. In a perfect world though, a van would be amazing, but it's a lot of $$.
I bought a van and had it converted so I can put my bikes in it and sleep in it. It has a separate garage for dirty bikes and gear and then a clean, insulated and carpeted area to sleep in. Absolutely love it.
Ok guys, you 've made it official: MTBiking can be a ridiculous expensive activity. I mean, come on now, just take whatever car you drive daily, put your bike in the trunk (or buy a dedicated rack- not so expensive if you're not alone) and go for it!
No one going to suggest a large SUV like a Suburban? Just as off-road capable as the truck with all the advantages of having the big internal space of the van. Even a smaller one like a Taho if you want a shorter vehicle and willing to sacrifice cargo or seating space.
Certain pick ups are better than others. For example a Tacoma has two slots in the bed that fit a 2x6 board. Newer Chevy S-10 has slots for 2x4s. I'm sure there are others with similar features with the bed, I only know these from personal experience. With either of these you can get a front wheel mount to attach the board. Then just strap the bikes down. This is a great set up for up to 3 bikes. If you aren't worried about scratched paint, you can fit 2 bikes between the three mounted bikes. If it wasn't clear, I am a crew cap pick up fan.
Blake knows the answer... Its a Jeep Wrangler. I love mine for MTB. With the right hitch rack that tilts down you have full access to the cargo area. Yea for long trips the bike is a bit exposed (unlike a van), but having the ability to take the Jeep places a van cannot go is a total bonus.
Defo a van for our British weather, love my van, chuck the bikes, dogs and whatever in the back, if it gets muddy just let it dry and then hoover it out. Great being able to get changed in the warm and dry and then lock the bikes inside while you're in the cafe after the ride :)
I have noticed that a majority of serious XC racers have minivans and an overwhelming majority of DH and Enduro racers have trucks. Now, in the states Dodge Grand Caravans are cheap, reliable, and plentiful plus they have stow-and-go seating, and if you lay the seats down you can fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in the back (or a mattress), trucks tend to be the Duramax or Powerstroke variety, and the majority of DH riders here have the bike more as a statement piece and are often also dragging a toy-hauler (boat, atvs, etc) and have the $12k bike just to prove they can afford it (this is the midwest, you can ride our DH runs on XC bikes, yes, even in Houghton and MQT).
I live in a rural area of Canada I needed a practical approach to carry mountain bikes fast on long distances. So... I got a fast and unpractical car that can't fit any of my bikes unless I completely disassemble them. I mostly pedal to the trails.
A camper shell on the back of the pick up would serve for security, and wins everything else. The pick up should have won, but maybe I'm biased, I have a Tacoma
Living where gas is cheap, I drive a Toyota 4Runner, it’s perfect for the trails as the interior is water resistant, scotch guarded. The 4WD system makes it possible to get anywhere. So trail riding and overlanding all in one trip. Also, it’s absolutely bulletproof, you are not gonna hurt it.
I used to have a pickup for the reason of throwing things in the bed and not having to worry about how much of a mess was made but then I drove a "mini" van. I know, I know, it screams "Mom car". But it was so comfortable to drive, great gas miles, it holds a ton of stuff (just throw down a tap to keep it clean) and as Neal pointed out if the weather is crap, you can set up a mattress in it. The big plus at least in the States, is that there a ton of these used Mom cars for sale and you can get a really sweet deal. I did. Plus no one is going to look for an expensive bike in a Mom car.
I saw that good idea. Tho you can get bike rack bars that fit over the bed so you can put thule bike racks on them and then you still can use the bed for storage.
No mention of the SUV which (if you buy the right one) gives you offroad capability, bike storage inside or out, changing inside or under the rear hatch and shorter wheelbase/more maneuverable/easier in town than a pickup. I drive a 4runner but you guys can just get a Land Cruiser.
im with neil on this one. If mtb is the purpose no need for a truck. Get a bike rack for the van and you even have free lodging. No need for a tent or hotel rooms! edit: also I can't name a single trail head near me that would be impossible to get to unless I have a truck. Had a 15 Tacoma and never once "needed" it to go mtb. Traded it in for a RAV4 and now I can drive around with better fuel economy to trials in other nearby cities.
I would like to get a used 4 wheel drive Xterra sunshine yellow with all the outdoor boxes checked. especially the internal bike rack. I wanted one ever since I saw the ad in mountain bike magazine in the late 90s but I could afford only one car and I love my T/As. Fun fact. you can fit a large frame 29er in the back of a 4th gen T/A and close the hatch.
A camper van without any doubt, depending on the layout you can even store your bike inside without a problem. If needed you can choose one with 4x4.. Certainly during winter you can get into a heated space and you can wash yourself and put on warm dry clothes immediately after you finished your ride. Think of that when you are feeling chilly after a fall in the water or another reason. When I don't do a trip starting from home I always take the camper to drive to my starting location. It is even cheaper than the Mercedes V-class of an uncle..
Have had a Galaxy MPV for a couple of years before got into MTB. It was the family wagon that I discovered is also an awesome mountain biking vehicle! Only a proper minibus could do it better, but it would drive like a van....
oh no a bike lock. crazy. if youre worried about your bike being stolen from your vehicle then youre leaving your bike in/on your vehicle when it should not be. this pertains to the van as well. people smash and grab out of cars for $800 phones so dont be fooled thinking your several thousand dollar bike is safe.
I've got a dual cab Landcruiser with a tray. hard workhorse everyday with the toolbox on the tray. best in the world for 4x4 tracks. carry as many bikes as you want and tow a boat also.
Hmm, it seems like you won't be driving diesels into Bristol or Bath before too long. Which is a bit of a bother if you live in Somerset and have to, to get out to Wales or the north.
Van life for me everyday. Don't need a big posh Merc either. My VW Caddy Maxi has bags of space, is endlessly configurable to Carry bikes, people or both. 5ltr per 100km too
I own a Toyota Tacoma and yes, hauling my mountain bikes made me want a truck. I also went for a manual 4x4 just like Blake. A full size van with a slide out bike rack and a mini work shop would be the awesome though. A truck wins for ease of use, but a van wins for security.
At the moment I have a VW Passat Combi with 4 Motion. Also I have a lot of Space for my Bike and gear and traveling long distances is comfortable with it. I wanted a Van for ever but I think I will get a Pickup in Future because it is much more practical, you don't have the dirt inside your car and nowadays you can drive long distances comfortable with them. I think this is the perfect car for me 😊
The winner would be a vehicle nobody makes, at least in an affordable configuration. That being a tallish but compact van, with AWD/4×4 with pickup truck level of ground clearance. So many people would be all over that, including mtbikers.
Just pay attention to what vehicles you see on the road. Seeing a pickup with stuff actually in the bed is rare. Whats super common, at least in the US, is a pickup with a pristine empty bed. However if you see an actual work vehicle with a wrap and a roof rack it will probably be a van. Vans are just the most practical vehicles. In the its super common now to see "crew cab" pickups which is literally just a car that's oversized and has a bed for decoration.
How is a pickup not a great family vehicle. I drive a Ford F150 extra cab 8ft box with a camper topper. It gets used for work (contractor). Play (camping) biking, travelling etc etc etc. super comfortable and tons of dry space ( bed of truck is lined with Bedrug and topper is also lined. Makes it nice and soft for camping and hauling groceries and anything else. 4x4 for off-road and Canadian winters. Love it 😀😀😀😀😀
Tip for pickup owners: don’t waste your money on the tailgate mat. Put you bike in upright in the corner along the side. Two bungie straps and you’re off and ready. Bike rides upright with tailgate shut! (If your box is long enough). Works great
I use a Mitsubishi L200 and because it’s the barbarian it has more toys than that fleet spec steel wheeled Mercedes (which is a Nissan/Renault), but being in the rainy south of Scotland I can see the advantages of a van. However the pick up suits my family needs, my work needs and the MTB so I have to say as an all rounder the pick up is definitely a winner for me 😇
What's wrong with a Skôda Fabia Combi with four bike racks. It's cheaper, more fuel efficient, takes up less space on the driveway/parking lot and is probably more comfortable as well. :) If left unattended, security is handled by heavy motorcycle chain locks together with alarm wires.
@@UnderWarranty Not sure if its true 4x4 but it had some sort of functional all wheel drive system. It was the best crossover outdoors vehicle ever though, so good and so niche it is discontinued lol
This video really differentiates the personality of Blake and Niel HAHAHAAH Niel is more practical, logical looking Blake is more like, more powaaah babyyy
You forgot a type of car. 2000s vintage Subaru with racks on the roof, a hitch mount rack, and shoved full of dudes. Can't seem to go any trail without seeing one of those.
Defo the van, you always get a 4 matic merc if you want 4wd also with the van you can open the back door and sit under it and do some work on the bike.
Are you a van owner or a pick-up truck owner and did you make that choice for mountain biking? If you're not an owner of either of these styles of vehicle, how do you choose to get around with your mountain bikes?
My dad is a van owner
I just bike all the way😂
Cyber Truck? 😅
Failing that, bike carrier on 4x4/SUV
Problem with open pickup truck beds, especially in the UK, is they are a VERY temporary storage location 😂
i just realised that this video was made in my country
Global Mountain Bike Network
I have both but I use my Honda for mtb ;)
If your car is more worth than your bike you are doing something wrong.
Not really. My G Wagon AMG suits my YT Capra and my Orbea Occam very well...
@@Ghostina1 lol.. AMG G Wagen... Ultimate poser car.
@@Ghostina1 r/wooosh
I feel the other way if your cars worth less then your bike work harder and get a better car 😂
Maybe if you are young and poor, but I can afford a nice car and nice bikes. My ride is a pimped out LWB Vito 116 van, bikes are a Doggie with EPS and a 2020 Kenevo Expert. Together they are 1/3 the cost of my modest van.
For the last 20 years I have had both a Van (cargo van converted into Moto van) and a Pickup, I can honestly say I drive my van much much more than drive the pickup, it's just so convenient to have everything inside all locked up and out of plain site, I can sleep in it, change in it, haul stuff in it, it is extremely handy, even things like hauling furniture, I don't have to go through the process of strapping everything down like I do with my truck, everything is contained so if it fits in the van that's what I use. To be fair I have a full size Ford cargo van, it,s not a compact mini van, it's a van on a truck frame and even though it's not 4 wheel drive I go just about anywhere my truck goes, for snow and really muddy places I'll use my 4X4 truck, otherwise I use my truck mainly for towing my toy hauler when going on extended trips. I bought my 1st van (a Chevy Astro) when I was tired of hearing of all the theft that was going on with high end mountain bikes and had friends stop just to get a cup of coffee in the morning an had their bikes ripped off and have had a van ever since. And lets not forget what else you can do in the back of a van...!
“This thing is still a Mercedes” 😂 No Blake.. it’s a rebadged Nissan Navara !
gmh6477 which is actually a Renault in every which way! So if you buy a Mercedes pick up truck then you must be mental! To pay even more for a navara which is essentially a Renault underneath!
Well, I have a Navara. I have had two of them. And everything you touch in the mercedes is better. It just is. While stil being incredibly durable like the Navara. So next time around I'm getting one of those.
@@churchofsighandthology have your super durable chassis rails cracked yet? My friends Navara nearly broke in half when it wasn't even 2 years old... It was written off and replaced by Nissan... a common fault apparently
I laughed out loud when he said utilitarian. Kinda wish they would do more head to head comparisons that aren't just advertisements for a single brand that sponsors them
As the police and insurabce companies say, you can stick a Porsche engine in a Beetle, it still doesn't make it a Porsche. Bet you can get a Chinese rebadge kit to make it look like a Merc.
The best thing about gmbn is they still upload consistently even at the end of the biking season
iPad hughes we don’t have an end in the Uk
"The end of the biking season"? Please explain, I'm not familiar with that turn of phrase.
2nd3rd1st Just when the weather turns for the worst and you can’t ride as often
@@peakedmtb No, still not getting it.
Even here in the rocky mountains, our riding season is year round. Unless we've had a major snowstorm in the last week, I can pretty much always find somewhere to ride that doesn't require a fatbike. GMBN also has the budget to travel to places that are nice during northern hemisphere winter.
Definitely should do a vid on Australia’s trail vs English trail
YES. They could call it the slashes - losers get their tyre's slashed 😁
I have a pick up, my mates got a van. Day trips we take the pick up because it’s easier to just throw the bikes in. Weekends away we take his van. But if you had to pick one it would be the van I think.
Matt Curran we have a similar set up but, for weekends away we take both because there are 5 of us
Blake is wishing he had his wrangler.
CBYR 😉
It's not a wrangler, its Jeff the Jeep :)
Lol
I rate a station wagon. it's more secure than the ute, but doesn't stick out like a sore thumb like the van. Heaps of room in the back with the seats down to have bikes and gear.
I've gotten a ton of mileage out of my Subaru WRX Wagon... Speedy and fun on dirt roads, and lots of room for bikes!
Wagon gang ! I have roof racks for dirty bikes or when I want to sleep in the back, if I want to hide them I put them in the back with the seats down
Volvo V70 cost £1000 and it's probably the coolest car on the road....
I run an 03 forester and love it for lugging around my bike a pick up is out of budget and a van is too much for day to day running about
Trusty old Toyota Camry wagon for me, 530,000 kms and still runs sweet. Plenty of room for my bike and heaps of gear in the back
You guys hit all the points! As a van and pick up owner the van wins for me (and the family) by far. Only negatives are the two you hit on. No 4x4- most* trail heads in the US are easily accessible in 4x2. Dirty bike- I can rinse down at the trail head but don't usually need to. Knock off all the loose bits and roll, no carpet or cover it. Clean up everything when home. Reload and ready for the next ride. Way too many bonuses with the van! Everything always inside just jump in and go! Can stop anywhere and have no worries about the bikes! Lifestyle wise it's definitely pushing the easy button...
You forget about us people who live in a snowy tundra during the winter. If I want to freeze to death in a ditch or wrap my car around a pole/tree I guess I'd get a rwd van. Also you know you get a tent mounted on top of the cab or suspended over the bed of a truck right?
I got a better idea seen as most of us can't afford a fancy van pick up or MPV how about how to turn the average hatchback into a riding vehicle
Sponsorship💲💲
Put your bike in your hatchback. BOOM it’s a riding vehicle
Mazda 2 5-speed for the win!
Corolla hatch with dual Yakima frontloaders, done
an old hilux anywhere or old tacoma in the U.S. would be a far better place to put your money. stop buying hot hatches that depreciate quickly and cost you tons at the mechanic. an old truck wont be fast or comfortable but its a no brainer on a budget. what people dont realize is the real cost of a car isnt the sticker price - the real cost of a car is depreciation and maintenance because everything else you get back when you sell the car. be smart.
Everyone knows Toyota Tacos are the mtb'rs vehicle
Toyota Tacos are every outdoor persons car
Sure, if you're a Chad from Cali.
@@user-180-mand90 he's Jake from cali
@Taselukaneta was just about to say that, "My First Time Riding The North Shore" by ifht confirms it lol
Taco works pretty well in Wyoming too. The giant full size trucks just don't fit on a lot of 4x4 roads.
Blake starts a shuttle service... Neil starts a classier shuttle service
Yeah lol, Neil adds a Espresso Machine!
Love the vids guys. Vans are so sick. I’m a biker and a surfer so that’s my dream car.
Thanks
Still waiting for a vid on how to transport a bicycle on a motorcycle
Cliff J same
I doubt you'll see one. As far as I know there aren't any commercial racks for that... No way gmbn could deal with the liability of custom making a rack
@@bbggakkba check out ruclips.net/video/8preTKJrMV8/видео.html, 2:09 in.... bike is on the back of a moped!
Cam Mccaul has one! I seen't it on his youtube channel
@Cliff J I used to do it with a Ventura rack on my GSXR 7/11 and plenty of padding. Turn the bag so it's over the pillion seat and fill it with your riding gear. With the bike, take the wheels out, seatpost out, then top tube on the rack and slot the wheels into the spaces on the rack to hold it all in. Apply lots of straps and you are good to go.
I used to do a 600+km commute with it and it was sweet. Good at the ton too. My LWB Toyota van is more convenient, but less fun.
I live in Canada I'm 61, I have had a mini van since I was 25 no other vehicle is so versatile. The van and a utility trailer is the ultimate combo.
I have pick up it's great as it looks cool, carries bikes easily and it can go anywhere
Talk to the French, they drive front wheel drive diesels through the Alps.
If you think you need a pickup then it's just an excuse for a poor driver.
I own a 1986 caprice classic. I just pop the front wheel off and lay it down in the trunk. Its the ultimate mountain bikers vehicle. My bike cost more than my car so im doin something right.
But I don't want to see your bill on the gas station.
In a perfect world, I’d have both. The utilitarian in me, however, says truck all day every day any day of the week.
ive had several Land Rovers (Disco & Defender) in the past but have ended with the ideal solution...VW T5 Kombi van....throw the bikes in the back and still has seats for kids / family life. love it!!!
Must be in Europe where you can "borrow" a Mercedes. In the States they would laugh at you and then get a restraining order.
@@picklerick3525 We in the US totally agree. Ford F150 trucks and Toyota Tacomas rule the trailhead parking lots here.
Darth Father no one considers them shitty, i think most people would take a mercedes or a bmw over a renault clio any day
@@newttella1043 In Eu we laugh at Americans and your cars with bad taste and cheap plastic 😉 also can a American car even turn😘
@@sageen You forgot huge gas hogs and more cup holders per capita than any nation. It's the 'merican way.
Love the cinimatography and 21:9 ratio! One thing I would do though is actually upload it in 21:9, because it's 16:9 it makes it annoying for people with 21:9 monitors as we get black bars at the top and sides.
4 Low doesn't 'lock the diffs', it's changes the gear ratio to crawl slower and increase the torque.
Jeff the Jeep is the ultimate mtb vehicle
Gus xD that’s what I said😂
When they don't break down.
Jeep!?....
🤣😂😅
I thought you wanted to make it to the trail?
Haha 🤘😂
A category that was missing on the video is "mtb related activities", like trail building. I use my pick up a lot to carry tools up the hills for 20 to 30 trailbuilders in south Brazil.
Said that, I had already both, the pick up and a van. Now I have a pick up with a canopy. So I think I got the best of the 2 worlds.
I do travel to race with my bike and to have it locked inside my pick up canopy is a must!!
When you live in Germany, the best car for a Mountainbiker is a Audi RS 6.
Best part about the Xclass is you buy a Nissan Navara and you literally have the same car for less
Yeah but them things used to snap in 2 after a few years use the one pickup/crewcab I would never buy or advice someone to buy wouldn't buy the merc for same reason
Are you allowed to cover the number in most countries? If I had an ute (pick up) I wouldn't sling the bikes over the back. I'd have lockable fork mounts plus another lock for the front wheels and frame. The Mercedes Benz vechile I'd have is a Sprinter SWB 4x4 crew cab.
Why not sling the bikes over the back? It's so fast, cheap, and easy - I just use a moving blanket to protect the tailgate.
Love the cinematic 21:9 shots, but can you guys make it so it will actually show as full screen on an actual 21:9 monitor? half the time i'm looking at a small movie with Massive black bars all around it.
I’ve been driving my V-class for three years now and still loving it. Have been to French alps with 4 bikes & luggage for three week holiday with room to spare. Also wide roof can fit 6 racks on top so With my 4 bike hitch rack it carries 10 bikes on the outside as well.
Best car for Mountainbikers!
Chevy 2500hd, 4x4, 4 door pick-up is what I drive in Texas. Horrible fuel mileage, but still a very good choice. Good video!
Cybertruck!
Other pick would be old Defender. Could probably fit bike easily to the "pig pen".
Yaaaaaaas
I used a 96 range rover like this van. Less mpg but w.e.
Got a G Wagon instead. It is way better than a Pickup or a PV
Cybertruck for da win
I’d take the Van any day. I cycle for enjoyment, I’m not interested in impressing other riders. The extra security wins every time for me.
I have a Toyota 4Runner with a hitch carrier. Useful for mountain biking and dirtbikes too (500 pound max weight). Back seat folds flat so you can sleep in the car if you don't feel like setting up a tent. In a perfect world though, a van would be amazing, but it's a lot of $$.
I bought a van and had it converted so I can put my bikes in it and sleep in it. It has a separate garage for dirty bikes and gear and then a clean, insulated and carpeted area to sleep in. Absolutely love it.
Riding in Portugal... Welcome to this beautiful country.. Should come more often...
Ok guys, you 've made it official: MTBiking can be a ridiculous expensive activity. I mean, come on now, just take whatever car you drive daily, put your bike in the trunk (or buy a dedicated rack- not so expensive if you're not alone) and go for it!
Yes but if you want to take lots of cash from luxury car manufacturers that's not the video to make
No one going to suggest a large SUV like a Suburban?
Just as off-road capable as the truck with all the advantages of having the big internal space of the van.
Even a smaller one like a Taho if you want a shorter vehicle and willing to sacrifice cargo or seating space.
No offense to Merc, but that’s not a truck. It doesn’t say Ford on the front of it.
We fit 4 bikes, a barbecue, gas bottle, porta potty and a bunch of other stuff
AND we towed a caravan with my dads ute
Certain pick ups are better than others. For example a Tacoma has two slots in the bed that fit a 2x6 board. Newer Chevy S-10 has slots for 2x4s. I'm sure there are others with similar features with the bed, I only know these from personal experience. With either of these you can get a front wheel mount to attach the board. Then just strap the bikes down. This is a great set up for up to 3 bikes. If you aren't worried about scratched paint, you can fit 2 bikes between the three mounted bikes.
If it wasn't clear, I am a crew cap pick up fan.
Blake knows the answer... Its a Jeep Wrangler. I love mine for MTB. With the right hitch rack that tilts down you have full access to the cargo area. Yea for long trips the bike is a bit exposed (unlike a van), but having the ability to take the Jeep places a van cannot go is a total bonus.
Defo a van for our British weather, love my van, chuck the bikes, dogs and whatever in the back, if it gets muddy just let it dry and then hoover it out. Great being able to get changed in the warm and dry and then lock the bikes inside while you're in the cafe after the ride :)
I have noticed that a majority of serious XC racers have minivans and an overwhelming majority of DH and Enduro racers have trucks. Now, in the states Dodge Grand Caravans are cheap, reliable, and plentiful plus they have stow-and-go seating, and if you lay the seats down you can fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in the back (or a mattress), trucks tend to be the Duramax or Powerstroke variety, and the majority of DH riders here have the bike more as a statement piece and are often also dragging a toy-hauler (boat, atvs, etc) and have the $12k bike just to prove they can afford it (this is the midwest, you can ride our DH runs on XC bikes, yes, even in Houghton and MQT).
I live in a rural area of Canada I needed a practical approach to carry mountain bikes fast on long distances.
So... I got a fast and unpractical car that can't fit any of my bikes unless I completely disassemble them. I mostly pedal to the trails.
Serra de Sintra, Portugal! Nice!
A camper shell on the back of the pick up would serve for security, and wins everything else. The pick up should have won, but maybe I'm biased, I have a Tacoma
Can you put an 8x4 sheet in the back?
Living where gas is cheap, I drive a Toyota 4Runner, it’s perfect for the trails as the interior is water resistant, scotch guarded. The 4WD system makes it possible to get anywhere. So trail riding and overlanding all in one trip. Also, it’s absolutely bulletproof, you are not gonna hurt it.
I used to have a pickup for the reason of throwing things in the bed and not having to worry about how much of a mess was made but then I drove a "mini" van. I know, I know, it screams "Mom car". But it was so comfortable to drive, great gas miles, it holds a ton of stuff (just throw down a tap to keep it clean) and as Neal pointed out if the weather is crap, you can set up a mattress in it. The big plus at least in the States, is that there a ton of these used Mom cars for sale and you can get a really sweet deal. I did. Plus no one is going to look for an expensive bike in a Mom car.
2005 Subaru Outback - AWD ….epic, love it..
You should check out Rivian R1T thats the ultimate mtb car, with lock integrated in the back of the pickup
You will even get a message if someone tryes to remove the bikes
I saw that good idea. Tho you can get bike rack bars that fit over the bed so you can put thule bike racks on them and then you still can use the bed for storage.
omfg, that cinematography of yours videos getting better and better with every new video
I'm in America and I love my van! So much I've got two of them.
No mention of the SUV which (if you buy the right one) gives you offroad capability, bike storage inside or out, changing inside or under the rear hatch and shorter wheelbase/more maneuverable/easier in town than a pickup. I drive a 4runner but you guys can just get a Land Cruiser.
Really cool that there was an actual conclusion with a winner, great video!
Neil’s Golf R estate is the best all round car ever and the main reason he is my favorite presenter
Although i love pickups , van is the way to go especially if you have kids.
you can do so much more with the van.
Great video Neil,Blake and #GMBN
im with neil on this one. If mtb is the purpose no need for a truck. Get a bike rack for the van and you even have free lodging. No need for a tent or hotel rooms!
edit: also I can't name a single trail head near me that would be impossible to get to unless I have a truck. Had a 15 Tacoma and never once "needed" it to go mtb. Traded it in for a RAV4 and now I can drive around with better fuel economy to trials in other nearby cities.
Loving this GMBN x Top Gear
Is it possible to transport bikes on a pick-up truck like shown in the video having a canopy?
I would like to get a used 4 wheel drive Xterra sunshine yellow with all the outdoor boxes checked. especially the internal bike rack. I wanted one ever since I saw the ad in mountain bike magazine in the late 90s but I could afford only one car and I love my T/As. Fun fact. you can fit a large frame 29er in the back of a 4th gen T/A and close the hatch.
A camper van without any doubt, depending on the layout you can even store your bike inside without a problem. If needed you can choose one with 4x4..
Certainly during winter you can get into a heated space and you can wash yourself and put on warm dry clothes immediately after you finished your ride. Think of that when you are feeling chilly after a fall in the water or another reason. When I don't do a trip starting from home I always take the camper to drive to my starting location. It is even cheaper than the Mercedes V-class of an uncle..
Have had a Galaxy MPV for a couple of years before got into MTB. It was the family wagon that I discovered is also an awesome mountain biking vehicle! Only a proper minibus could do it better, but it would drive like a van....
van is safer to put the bikes but if you put the bikes in pickup it looks cool
oh no a bike lock. crazy. if youre worried about your bike being stolen from your vehicle then youre leaving your bike in/on your vehicle when it should not be. this pertains to the van as well. people smash and grab out of cars for $800 phones so dont be fooled thinking your several thousand dollar bike is safe.
Ryan Rogers Lot harder to pull a bike through a smashed window. Would need to be able to get in and unlock rear doors/hatch depending on car
We have one of each! A pickup and a minivan! I’ve used both for bike trips. Pros and cons to both. Just get to the trails and have fun! Cool video
Heyy!! You are in portugal, and I'm from Portugal, where did you ride does trail?
Love all of you I watch every single vid
Brazen Spoke same
gmbn is the best
I've got a dual cab Landcruiser with a tray. hard workhorse everyday with the toolbox on the tray. best in the world for 4x4 tracks. carry as many bikes as you want and tow a boat also.
No contest! The van wins every time! Especially that Mercedes! Best MTB vehicle I've ever had. and I have a ute as well!
I will go with the van, for their versatility and moreover keeping the bikes safe inside than exposing out. Thanks for the video.
Hmm, it seems like you won't be driving diesels into Bristol or Bath before too long. Which is a bit of a bother if you live in Somerset and have to, to get out to Wales or the north.
Van life for me everyday. Don't need a big posh Merc either. My VW Caddy Maxi has bags of space, is endlessly configurable to Carry bikes, people or both. 5ltr per 100km too
I own a Toyota Tacoma and yes, hauling my mountain bikes made me want a truck. I also went for a manual 4x4 just like Blake. A full size van with a slide out bike rack and a mini work shop would be the awesome though. A truck wins for ease of use, but a van wins for security.
Wouldn't the Truck in the higher end model have the same tech, like the 360 camera and sat nav like the van?
At the moment I have a VW Passat Combi with 4 Motion. Also I have a lot of Space for my Bike and gear and traveling long distances is comfortable with it. I wanted a Van for ever but I think I will get a Pickup in Future because it is much more practical, you don't have the dirt inside your car and nowadays you can drive long distances comfortable with them. I think this is the perfect car for me 😊
a nissan with a french engine and a merc badge! Toyota or go home!
The winner would be a vehicle nobody makes, at least in an affordable configuration. That being a tallish but compact van, with AWD/4×4 with pickup truck level of ground clearance. So many people would be all over that, including mtbikers.
V-Class has a 4Matic but it is limited version. V-Class winter edition.
Estate car with roof rack works well for me, plus covers all other bases when not biking.
Just pay attention to what vehicles you see on the road. Seeing a pickup with stuff actually in the bed is rare. Whats super common, at least in the US, is a pickup with a pristine empty bed. However if you see an actual work vehicle with a wrap and a roof rack it will probably be a van. Vans are just the most practical vehicles. In the its super common now to see "crew cab" pickups which is literally just a car that's oversized and has a bed for decoration.
How is a pickup not a great family vehicle. I drive a Ford F150 extra cab 8ft box with a camper topper. It gets used for work (contractor). Play (camping) biking, travelling etc etc etc. super comfortable and tons of dry space ( bed of truck is lined with Bedrug and topper is also lined. Makes it nice and soft for camping and hauling groceries and anything else. 4x4 for off-road and Canadian winters. Love it 😀😀😀😀😀
Subaru Outback: "am I a joke to you", joking aside, that is pretty much the go to vehicle in the US for hikers, MTBers, etc.
Tip for pickup owners: don’t waste your money on the tailgate mat. Put you bike in upright in the corner along the side. Two bungie straps and you’re off and ready. Bike rides upright with tailgate shut! (If your box is long enough). Works great
I use a Mitsubishi L200 and because it’s the barbarian it has more toys than that fleet spec steel wheeled Mercedes (which is a Nissan/Renault), but being in the rainy south of Scotland I can see the advantages of a van. However the pick up suits my family needs, my work needs and the MTB so I have to say as an all rounder the pick up is definitely a winner for me 😇
Do you not get in trouble with a tailgate pad since the wheels or pad may cover the plates?
Used a pickup for 20 yrs. Switched to a mini van and have never been happier.
Just lift your bike in, the the thief will just have to lift it out.
Ya, while in traffic at a light on your way to the trail. 🤦♂️ Van for sure!
@@WRECKERMANDAN Did that really happen to you, you poor bastard ?
Any chance I could get the name of the castle you guys were at im building a map for places I need to go
What's wrong with a Skôda Fabia Combi with four bike racks. It's cheaper, more fuel efficient, takes up less space on the driveway/parking lot and is probably more comfortable as well. :)
If left unattended, security is handled by heavy motorcycle chain locks together with alarm wires.
My Honda Element is the best of both worlds lads,
Never seen that vehicle before, what is it some sort of cross breed ? is it 4x4 ?
@@UnderWarranty Not sure if its true 4x4 but it had some sort of functional all wheel drive system. It was the best crossover outdoors vehicle ever though, so good and so niche it is discontinued lol
Awesome wagon, wasnt sold in the uk. Gutted, I had my fingers crossed.
Just amazing to see you guys riding in my home town. Looking forward to see you shread in Sintra, my weekly playground 😍
5:57 “room for kids”
Neil is in a van
But it ain't white
That is a topic that needed to be discussed
When a mountainbike Network is about cars, Nice one!
This video really differentiates the personality of Blake and Niel HAHAHAAH
Niel is more practical, logical looking
Blake is more like, more powaaah babyyy
In Australia every mtber has either a ute, SUV or wagon (SUV and wagon normally with external racks). You never see vans here.
You forgot a type of car. 2000s vintage Subaru with racks on the roof, a hitch mount rack, and shoved full of dudes. Can't seem to go any trail without seeing one of those.
Defo the van, you always get a 4 matic merc if you want 4wd also with the van you can open the back door and sit under it and do some work on the bike.
Honestly, First GMBN Video I did not finish watching.