2011 BMW 3 Series Trunk Mounted Bike Rack Recommendation

Question:

Hi, Any idea of why Thules platform rack is not recomended for my car when the non-platform version of the OutWay is? Thanks!

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

The Thule OutWay Platform bike rack part # TH65JV puts a bit more stress on the bumper of the vehicle than the hanging version part # TH45JV. Because of that I don't really like to recommend it even for vehicles that it is confirmed as a fit for. However, this newest version is lighter. Take a look at the videos of each to see what you think.

The hanging OutWay # TH45JV would be an awesome rack that would work great on your vehicle. This trunk rack is perfect for carrying 2 bikes on your sedan, station wagon, or SUV. It attaches easily with 2 rubber-coated straps that let you raise your trunk or hatch without removing it from your BMW 3 Series.

If you plan on carrying any women's or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 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