Recommended Options For Carrying 2 Bikes On 2008 Volkswagen Beetle

Question:

Hi Im trying to see if it is possible to get a bike rack for my 08 VW beetle? VW tell me there is no such product they recommend or more realistically sell but can you advise me if you are aware of and sell anything? It is for at the least 1 or ideally 2 bikes - either road or mountain bikes. many thanks

asked by: Karen P

Expert Reply:

We have a couple options that would let you carry bikes on your 2008 Beetle.

The first option I recommend is the easiest and may be the best option for you. That is a trunk-mount carrier like the ThuleTateway pro 2-Bike Rack, part # TH88VR if your Beetle is NOT a convertible. This carrier comes with 6 nylon straps to hold the bike rack securely. The carrier has the patented FitDial system that makes sure you get the best fit possible. The carrier can hold 2 bikes with a total weight up to 70-lbs.

The second option is to install a trailer hitch and then a hitch-mount bike carrier. The trailer hitch I recommend is the Draw-Tite trailer hitch, part # 24679. This is a Class l hitch and it has a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening.

The hitch-mount bike rack I recommend is the Kuat Beta, part # B202-114. This aluminum bike rack has a weight capacity of 80-lbs for 2 bikes and weighs less than 13-lbs. This bike rack can handle bike frames up to 3-inches diameter.

If you are planning on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.

The nice thing about installing a trailer hitch is that you are then able to use other items like a cargo carrier with the hitch, or do some really light towing.