Recommended Trunk Bike Rack For 3 Bikes On 2013 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen

Question:

I am looking for a 3-bike carrier bikes for 2 adults, 1 child for occasional use, for a 2013 Jetta Sportswagen, currently no hitch installed. I have some questions on the Thule Passage 3: - is it compatible with this car? - can a childs bike can be attached - need adapter? - can hatch be opened with the rack attached? - can rack be removed without opening hatch theft concerns Any other recommendations for bike racks for this car? Thanks,

asked by: Kristin G

Expert Reply:

The Thule Passage 3-Bike Carrier, part # TH911XT is verified as a good fit for your 2013 Jetta SportWagen. This bike carrier has a weight capacity of 105 lbs for three bikes. This carrier uses 6 straps to secure the rack to the rear hatch on your SportWagen.

The hatch cannot be opened with the bike carrier installed because the padded lower arm rests on the bumper and the lower straps are attached under the bumper to the vehicle.

The bike carrier I recommend is the Thule OutWay 3-Bike Rack, part # TH56BV. This bike rack uses 2 coated steel cables instead of the 4-6 traditional nylon straps to secure the carrier to your vehicle. It has also got a cable lock system that helps deter theft of the rack and your bikes.

The best deterrent to theft of the bike rack is to remove it when the bikes are unloaded and place it in the vehicle.

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.

Since the only hitches available for your SportWagen are Class l hitches, you are limited to carrying 2 bikes in any Class l hitch.