Trunk Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2004 Mazda Miata

Question:

I'm looking at the Thule Gateway Pro recommended for this car, but am a little worried about ground clearance. Do you handle this by raising the arm up to get the bike up? Also I usually tilt my woman's bike to install one rack arm on the bar and one rack arm behind the vertical frame bar using the frame that runs to the rear tire This would also raise the bike. If I use the Tube Top bike adapter bar, wont this lower my bike to the point that it may make contact with the ground under some circumstances? Id really like to hail my bike on my Miata for after work rides! Thanks!

asked by: Melinda N

Expert Reply:

The Thule Gateway Pro 2 Bike Rack # TH88VR that you referenced has been confirmed to fit your 2004 Mazda Miata and it does not have adjustable height arms. However, that adjustment is so that the arms are level while on the vehicle. Not for varying heights.

Hanging style bike racks aren't designed so that the rack attaches to the lower tube of the bicycle so I can't safely recommend you do that. Your best bet would be to use a frame adapter like the part # 64005. You should have enough ground clearance for most situations, but if you were going up a very steep driveway it is possible that you might run into an issue. Lowering the seat post as low as it can go while traveling can help with ground clearance.

I attached a review video for the bike rack and the adapter bar for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C