Platform Bike Rack to Transport Road and Mountain Bikes on 2013 BMW 3-Series Sedan  

Question:

Expert Reply:

You have a choice between trunk-mount and hitch-mount 2-bike carriers for the back of your 2013 BMW 3-Series Sedan.

The linked article will give you good background on the advantages of each type. A trunk-mount rack will often be more cost-effective than a hitch plus a hitch-mount rack. However, trunk racks place the weight burden of the rack and bikes on your car's sheet metal. Hitch racks place that burden on the vehicle's frame - its strongest part - and also allow you to use other hitch-mount accessories such as a cargo basket.

Generally platform carriers weigh more than the hanging style; this is a consideration whether you go for a trunk-mount or a hitch-mount rack. All other things equal, a lighter rack means less stress on the vehicle and more capacity left for the weight of the bikes themselves. No trunk-mount platform style racks are recommended for your 3-Series due to their weight.

For a trunk-mount rack you can still consider a hanging style such as the Thule Gateway Pro 2 Bike Carrier # TH88VR which is illustrated in the linked video. This carrier offers a 35-lb-per-bike weight limit and carries a limited lifetime warranty. It also offers the advantages of Thule's patented FitDial system to help with installation.

If you prefer a platform rack you'll need to install a hitch. Only a light-duty Class I hitch is offered for your 3-Series Sedan, part # C11367 from Curt. With this hitch you can select a compatible Class I bike rack. The link provided will show you all 2-bike Class I racks that will fit this hitch.

Curt's warranty requires use of a stabilizing strap # 18050 with their Class I hitches to help absorb road shocks that would otherwise be transmitted to the hitch.

expert reply by: Adam R

0