3 Bike Trunk Rack Recommendation for a 2013 Kia Rio 5 Door Hatchback

Question:

2013 Kia Rio 5 Door Hatchback Trunk Bike Rack. Hello, I was wondering if is too much weight 3 bicycles for such a small car, or maybe would better 2 in the back and one on the roof if its possible. Im planning to carry one 26,one 24inch and 20inch bike.

asked by: David

Expert Reply:

The trunk mounted bike rack that I would recommend for your 2013 Kia Rio 5 door hatchback is the Thule OutWay Bike Rack part # TH56BV. This rack has been tested on your vehicle by Thule and they have determined that it is strong enough to carry 3 bikes with it.

What makes this rack far superior to the others is the attachment system. It uses 2 retractable coated steel cables to attach to the vehicle rather than 6 nylon straps like other racks. This makes installation quick and easy and the cables also last longer.

The cables store inside the rack so there are no loose straps ends to flap around. The cables can also be locked into position to deter theft of the rack. And there is also an integrated cable lock in the last bike position to deter bike theft.

This rack also features the latest and greatest in road dampening technology which protects bike frames better than other cradles.

If you plan on carrying any women's or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Swagman Easy-Out Women's and Alternative Frame Bike Adapter # 64005 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.

expert reply by: Jameson C