Recommended 2-Bike Trunk Mount Bike Rack on 2003 Jaguar XJ8

Question:

Looking for a trunk rack for 2 full suspension mountain bikes. The car is a 2003 Jag XJ8. Could you let me know which 2-3 might be best for whichever brand? Thanks

asked by: Chris

Expert Reply:

To carry your mountain bikes on your 2003 Jaguar XJ8 I recommend either the Thule OutWay 2 # TH45JV or the Thule Gateway Pro # TH88VR.

OutWay is a top of the line rack that has many great features. Its adjustable arms allow more support for bikes of different sizes to rest on. The OutWay also only uses only 2 rubber coated straps to secure the rack rather than the standard 4-6. Finally, it includes the One-key system to lock the rack to your car, and a cable lock to lock the bikes to the rack.

The Gateway Pro is a more economical option with some of the same features as the OutWay. It uses anti-sway cages, while the Raceway has an updated cradling system. They use the same FitDial system to set the rack to fit onto your Jaguar. There are 6 straps to secure the rack on the Gateway instead of the 2 on the OutWay, and there are no locks on the Gateway like on the OutWay. So if you just need a rack to get your bikes from home to the trail, this may be the one for you.

If either of your mountain bikes do not have a straight cross tube like a traditional men's bike does you may be interested in the Kuat Uber Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01. This provides a straight bar for your bike to hang on and keep it level while carrying.

expert reply by: Charles S