Fork-Mount Roof Rack Bike Carriers for Use on 2007 Mini Cooper S with Factory Crossbars

Question:

Hi, I have a 2007 Mini Cooper S with the factory crossbars. I am interested in a fork mounted bike rack, and am wondering what your best recommendation is. I am currently comparing the Kuat Trio and Yakima Forklift, but also saw a model from Thule Echelon? as well. My main concern is compatibility with the factory crossbars, but also looking for how secure the bikes are held, and security. I was also trying to find out how long each of the racks were to see if it would prevent opening the hatchback of my car which has the factory spoiler.

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

We offer a whole range of roof rack fork-mount style bike carriers that are designed to work with the factory installed crossbars like those on your Cooper S. I have provided for you a link to our main page that will let you see all options.

Since the fit of a given bike on a given carrier involves several considerations, such as type of brakes and axle length, you can use the filters on the page to select just the items compatible with your type of bike. If included locks for the bike and the rack itself are a priority then you can click on that attribute to see only racks that include those. In this case the only option for both bike and rack locks is the Rhino-Rack MountainTrail # RBC035.

The Kuat Trio # TR02 does have a lock for your bike but not to secure the carrier; the Thule Echelon will only fit Yakima round and Thule square crossbars so it is not suitable for your Cooper.

The linked article on rooftop bike racks may offer you some food for thought to help you decide which option best suits the nature of your bikes as well as your vehicle. We note the dimensions of each carrier on each one's product page. For example, the Kuat Trio is 56-inches long.

expert reply by: Adam R