Recommended Bike Rack Options for 2002 Volvo S80

Question:

which racks would be best for a volvo s80 2002?

asked by: Shelly

Expert Reply:

You can go in either of two directions with a bike rack for your 2002 Volvo S80; either a trunk-mount rack like the Thule Passage 2 Bike Carrier # TH910XT, or a hitch-mount type rack that requires a hitch be installed on the S80.

The Passage 2 is a great lightweight rack that features Thule's patented Fit-Dial mounting system for easier installation as well as soft rubber pads on the rack base to protect your Volvo S80's painted surface from scratches and abrasions. It carries, in addition to your two bikes, a limited lifetime warranty. Thule is great at standing behind their products.

The hitch option may make more sense if you foresee a need for ever using a hitch cargo carrier like # C18110 from Curt. The other advantage of a hitch bike rack is that the weight of the rack and your bikes will be carried on the car's frame - it's strongest part - rather than on its thin sheet metal. We do offer a Class II hitch for your S80, Curt # C12285, which bolts on using included hardware.

With this Class II hitch installed you can use a compatible hitch-mount 2-bike carrier such as one of those shown on the included link. You have the option of selecting a platform-type rack if you wish, which does not require lifting the bikes so high up to mount them. If you choose a hitch and hitch rack you will need to add a strap to support the rack, part # 18050.

The linked articles on bike racks may help you consider you best option.

If you're transporting bikes without a top frame tube - say a woman's step-through frame or a kid's bike - then you may need an adapter bar like # 64005 from Swagman which helps keep such bikes level for better ground clearance.