Which bike rack?

[Edinburger]

We got a wee bit of sun today, so spring must be round the corner...

I'm looking for views on bike racks. I need to carry four bikes on a 5 Series estate (E61).

Does anyone have experience/views on the pros and cons of roof v rear v tow bar bike racks at all?

[abbotsmike]

I use a thule towbar mounted on my Ibiza. Can take 3 bikes. Considered a roof mounted, but I don't have proper mounting points, and I didn't like the ones that clamp into the door frame.

From what I read, the towbar mounted options are better for economy, as the bikes are out of the airflow. I'd recommend a thule as they are well built, and there are plenty available 2nd hand. Also consider one that hinges so you can still open the boot.

[Edinburger]

abbotsmike said:

I use a thule towbar mounted on my Ibiza. Can take 3 bikes. Considered a roof mounted, but I don't have proper mounting points, and I didn't like the ones that clamp into the door frame.

From what I read, the towbar mounted options are better for economy, as the bikes are out of the airflow. I'd recommend a thule as they are well built, and there are plenty available 2nd hand. Also consider one that hinges so you can still open the boot.

That's helpful - thanks. I'd thought about the airflow and boot access, also not sure I fancy lifting four bikes on/off roof anyway.

Any other thoughts?

[carreauchompeur]

Towbar if possible. I had a Thule roof system on my old A8. Very sturdy and held the bikes well, but it was expensive.

Absolutely KILLED MPG though. A 4.2 V8 is never going to be good, but this dropped about 25%.

Towbar/rear mounted eliminates all possible hilarious 'low car park' situations too

[Jimbo.]

Edinburger said:

That's helpful - thanks. I'd thought about the airflow and boot access, also not sure I fancy lifting four bikes on/off roof anyway.

Any other thoughts?

Towbar mounted racks also spare you any height-restricted area worries. And it happens a lot! Just be careful reversing, of course.

Rear-mounted racks aren't all that IMO.

[gog440]

Have a look on here
http://www.roofbox.co.uk

I have used them a couple of times for various things, and i am just about to buy some new roof bars and a bike rack from them

[carreauchompeur]

gog440 said:

Have a look on here
http://www.roofbox.co.uk

I have used them a couple of times for various things, and i am just about to buy some new roof bars and a bike rack from them

I got mine from here. Truly excellent customer service including changing my flat bars to aero bars postage- free when I changed my mind. Good prices too.

[BadgerBill]

not for or against either system, roof or towbar, either is good depending on if you have or are prepared to get a tow bar or solid roof mounts for your bars, but wouldn't put my bikes on a rear/door mount unless there was no other option.

also bought my bars, roofbox and roof mounted bike carriers from roofbox.co.uk, first class outfit.

bb