3 Bike Trunk Rack Recommendation for a 2008 Mazda 5

Question:

Three bikes are a women's bike and two kids 20inch bikes. The reviews I have read for the Thule TH911XT have warned the kids bike do not fit on the rack.

asked by: Karen

Expert Reply:

For a 3 bike trunk mounted bike rack for your 2008 Mazda 5 I would recommend the Thule OutWay part # TH56BV for several reasons. But most importantly because you have small kid framed bikes and the arms of the rack are adjustable in width so they can accommodate kids bikes.

What makes this rack far superior to the others is the attachment system. It uses only 2 retractable coated steel cables to attach to the vehicle rather than the 4-6 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