So when I got my mazda 3 I got the dealership to throw in the roof bars, as in the future I might end up taking up a hobby which that would be useful (kayaking etc), as well as bikes.

Im just curious what the bike nuts here think in terms of roof racks versus the rear mounted racks. Which is best? Im pondering looking at the weekend at bikes and a rack as I plan on doing some cycling in the new forest over the winter if I am unemployed. I figure I might as well ass if I can get wherever I go to do a deal in terms of the bike + rack. (My current bike Ive had for 12 years since I was 13 and isnt quite full size...)

I already have roof bars, but even so getting the bike racks for the roof might cost more than a rear mounted one which would fit multiple bikes (instead of getting individual roof ones).

Im average height, but my bike is pretty light so I dont think Id have too much trouble getting it on the roof. The valid suggestion ive seen FOR roof racks is that theres less risk of someone trashing your bikes if they shunt the back of your car, but then again my bike isnt worth that much. My car is also black, and as is the case with black paint, it scratches if so much as a feather touches it ><

The other question is, any recommendations on bikes with a budget of no more than £500? I know in general you get what you pay for but Im guessing some of the cheaper makes/bikes will still be better than the others...

The other negative I can gather is that generally they limit access into the boot?

Roof mounted are better but more expensive, and dont require any disassembly of the bike.
Rear mounted are more universal, but not as stable and you generally need to take the front wheel off.

http://www.roofbox.co.uk/