Trunk Bike Rack Recommendation for 2009 Jeep Compass

Question:

Hi! I have been reading reviews of different bike carriers on your website and found some great information. I know nothing about bikes or carriers. I am looking to purchase one for my brother and his wife. They have schwinn beach cruiser bikes. They will use the carrier on their 2009 jeep compass. Any recommendations as to which one might be the best fit? THANK YOU!

asked by: Brooke K

Expert Reply:

For a trunk mounted bike rack that's a fit for your 2009 Jeep Compass that would fit it the best the Thule OutWay part # TH45JV would be your best option as it has a very wide mounting pad which will help distribute the weight of the beach cruisers which can be heavier than other bike styles. Please check the weight of each of your bikes. The OutWay has a limit of 33 pounds per bike.

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 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 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