Recommended Trunk Bike Rack for Preventing Scratches on a 2015 Mazda 6

Question:

I finally have the car of my dreams at age 70 and wonder if this bike rack will cause scratches on the trunk. No one has said anything about this. Thanks,

asked by: Marianne

Expert Reply:

Honestly, the best way to prevent scratches or damage to your vehicle's paint is going to get a hitch mounted rack like the Thule Helium # TH44VR and a trailer hitch like the Curt # C11356.

We typically recommend a fresh wash and wax before installing any trunk rack. It is important that the rack be installed securely to reduce bouncing or movement, which causes scratches. But honestly it is the nature of the location of the rack and the elements it encounters while on the road. Dirt and debris will get caught by the rack and then rub against your paint. You would have to be extremely careful and plan on cleaning the rack and vehicle on a regular basis to reduce the amount of scratches.

If you decide you would rather go with a hitch mounted rack for a bike rack like the Thule Helium # TH44VR, I mentioned earlier then you will need a hitch for your vehicle. The hitch I recommend for you is the Curt # C11356. This Class I hitch will provide your vehicle with a 200lb tongue weight which is compatible with the Helium.

If you would still prefer a trunk mounted rack, I recommend the Thule OutWay # TH45JV, because it isuper easy to install and includes the locks to secure the bikes to the rack and the rack to the vehicle. I have linked a video of this rack on a similar vehicle for you to check out.

If you plan on transporting any alternative framed bikes, like women's bikes often are, you will need to use a bike adapter bar like the # UB01 for them to mount to the rack properly.