Recommended Trunk-Mounted Bike Carrier For 2012 Mazda 3 Sedan
Question:
Can you compare the Outway th45jv to the thule 910xt? What are the benefits of the Outway over the 910xt? Are any additional items needed to carry a women's bike and my daughters smaller bike? I have a 2012 4-door mazda3 sedan. Do you think any of the racks would be easier for me to lift bikes on/off, as upper body strength isnt my greatest strength : ? Thank you so much for your help. Your website has been extremely helpful already.
asked by: Nicole N
Expert Reply:
The bike rack I recommend for your Mazda 3 is the Thule OutWay, part # TH45JV. There are a couple reasons I recommend this bike carrier. This carrier is lightweight at about 20 lbs, and features only 2 retractable cables to secure the bike carrier to the back of your Mazda, instead of the 4-6 cables typically found on trunk-mount bike racks. The bike rack also features a lock that secure the bike rack to the vehicle and a cable lock that secures the bikes to the carrier, which helps deter theft.
For a more economical rack, you could consider the Thule Passage 2-Bike Rack, part # TH10XT. This rack does not include locks, and has 6 nylon straps with hooks and cam buckles to anchor the bike rack to your vehicle. This bike rack weighs approximately 10 lbs.
For my money I would select the # TH45JV over the # TH45JV. I like the locking features and the 2 cables of the Outway instead of 6 makes installing and removing the rack that much easier.
When 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.
Products Referenced in This Question
Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- 24-3/8 - 33-3/4 Inch Long
- Swagman
more information >
Thule Passage Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Hanging Style
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Anti-Sway
- 2 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Locks Not Included
- 6 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Arms
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Standard
- 2 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Bike and Rack Lock
- Fits Most Factory Spoilers
- 2 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: How to Choose a Bike Rack for a Sedan or Hatchback
- Q&A: What Bike Rack Do You Recommend for My 2021 Kia Niro EV?
- Q&A: Will CURT Trailer Hitch # C11132 Fit a 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible
- Article: Trailer Hitch Installation Tips
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Women's Bikes
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Article: Rooftop Cargo Carriers
- Q&A: Adapter that Fits 1-1/4 inch Hitch and Provides 2 inch Hitch Opening
- Q&A: What is Your Narrowest Cargo Box For A 2022 Subaru Outback With 2 Yakima Highroad Bike Carriers?
- Q&A: Will The Thule Passage 2 Trunk Bike Rack, part # TH910XT Fit A 2006 And 2007 Honda Accord
- Q&A: Recommended Easy to Install Trunk Mounted Bike Rack for 2009 Acura TL
- Q&A: Can the Trunk Be Opened with the Saris Bones 2 Bike Carrier Part # SA805BL Installed