Opinions on Car Racks

BruceG

So my Ford Galaxy, which was fanatstic for transporting bikes (though fairly juicy), has given up the ghost and has been replaced with a far more economical Ford Focus. Whilst I can just about get one bike in the back of the Focus, I often need to carry two (my sons). I am therefore contemplating a carrying rack. So my criteria is, carry at least two bikes, and offer protection to the bike so that they dont get any superficial damage in transit, either from the rack, or from banging together. I have looked at the Saris Bones 3, and I read some good reviews, but I dont think you can beat real world feedback. Any experience guys?

Thanks

journey_man_pro

I use Thule aero bars with a pair of thule 591 proride roof mounted carriers. can't fault the quality, security and ease of use.

brettjmcc

I have a an SMAX with aero bars and a Thule style carrier (but Halfords own make). Works well.

Even though the SMAX is big, the kids seem to use up all the space.

monkeycowboy

Another vote for roof mounted Thule 591's. Easy to use, secure and no scratches on your bikes.

Omar Little

the most convenient and secure way is a tow bar mounted rack but these are also the most expensive because you need to get a towbar fitted as well.

After that the roof bars are good.

Personally i wouldnt use the rear racks that just strap on like the saris bones as i would never feel confident with the bike on there plus i suspect the car itself would be more prone to getting scratches. However lots of other people seem to get on with them fine.

fludey

Got new and old shape mondeo and used to have a focus, had roof mounted Thule racks on them all and never had any problems at all. Also have boot mount rack that I use if not going far and roof bars are not on, again never had a problem with this.

Peddle Up!

I use a Saris Bones 3 and can recommend it strongly. It's very adaptable to different cars, lightweight and folds down for easy storage. I've carried two bikes on mine and it has been rock solid with no damage to bikes or car.

As with all racks of this type you have to be careful when positioning the retaining hooks and straps and in an ideal world I would like to see metal adjusting screws rather than plastic, but that said I've not had any problems with them.

FSR_XC

I've got a Focus.

I've had 3 adult mtb's in it at one time and often carry 2 large size adult road bikes (with kit).

I use a few old curtains to stop the bikes / loose wheels rubbing and for wet, muddy stuff, I have made a boot liner (to the back of the front seats) out of a tarpaulin.

Inside the car is much safer.

Alibran

Omar Little wrote:

the most convenient and secure way is a tow bar mounted rack but these are also the most expensive because you need to get a towbar fitted as well.

I used a few different racks that I wasn't totally happy with before I tried a towbar rack, and now I've tried one, I'd never use anything else. It's rock solid, and the bikes are tucked in safely behind the car. Yes, it costs a bit more, but definitely worth it.

BruceG

Thanks for the feedback, I may just soldier on taking off wheels and laying them in the back.

Thanks