bike racks

[Hornin Hong Kong]

Hi - I need a bike rack than can hold bikes and I need it to be rear mounted.

I have a 2004 BMW X3

It does not have a hitch.

Do I need to get a hitch installed? - I went to the thule website and it seems thats the only rear mount option.

Any advice or recommendations appreciated

 

[MilkmanDan]

I was going to suggest looking at the Saris Bones, but based on their compatibility guide it appears to not work. Not sure how you feel about straps anyway.

I would have a hitch installed and get something like the Thule T2 or Saris Cycle-On. I prefer wheel mount over frame mount racks.

 

[notreally]

definitely get a hitch of money is of no concern. the best thing about a hitch is most of them fold down so you can open the back of you X3 without taking it off. you will not be able to say that with a strapped one. it is a no brainer.

 

[Mrmyke709]

Doesn't the X 3 already have a roof rack?
Thule and Yakima have towers that fit just about any factory rack for cheap. And, you can haul kayaks and ****.

 

[Summerof79]

Wouldn't it be cheaper just to tie your maid to the bumper and have her hold it for you?

The Saris Bones probably won't work because of the integrated spoier. If you are using it a lot then I would definitely go with the swing away hitch mounted design. If not very often then the rack mounts might be the way to go. or see my first suggestion....

 

[Remove Rowdy]

I highly recommend a hitch mount opposed to the rear trunk mount. Negatives of the rear trunk rack are scratching, not so trusty locking, and even the rack falling completely off the vehicle if not secured correctly. I prefer the roof rack, but the rear hitch is just as good for securing a bike.

 

[Hornin Hong Kong]

In reply to:

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[gardere_owns_OU]

moshi, moshi HiHK

get the hitch.... i'd imagine the bavarian dealership would be pretty expensive to order and install the parts so i HIGHLY recommend going to U-HAUL.... (about $250 for part and labor)

the infinity dealership wanted about $450 to do my g35.



best of luck. i also got a nice rack from Academy (holds 4 bikes) for $99... easy to take off the car and if you decide to leave it on the car the arms fold down so parking in a garage or tight spot is more comfortable.

PM with any questions or if you want pics of what i've got.

 

[stupidgringo]

I would recommend roof rack unless you need the trailer hitch for towing. The hitch for the X5 is $1200 installed, and I imagine the X3 is similar.

I'm sure you could buy the roof rack and all accessories for less than the hitch alone.