How Can I Carry a Bike on My 2010 BMW 328 XI Sedan

Question:

Hello. Do you have any recommendations for a hitch for a 2010 BMW 328 xi sedan? I want to transport my bicycle without having to take off the front tire and store it inside the car. Also, would I just take this to a local auto shop for installation? Thanks for your help!!

asked by: Mike D

Expert Reply:

You have a few options that you can choose from that will allow you to carry a bike on your 2010 BMW 328 XI Sedan.

The easiest and least labor intensive option would be to use a trunk mounted bike carrier. The Thule OutWay 2 Bike Carrier, # TH45JV, is the trunk mounted carrier that I recommend. The OutWay will carry up to 2 bikes and uses the Hold Fast anti-sway system to secure your bikes.

The bike rack uses only 2 straps instead of the typical 4-6 straps to mount the bike to your vehicle. The fewer mounting straps allows for a secure fit without having more straps that are in contact with your vehicle's surface.

If you are looking for a more economical option, then the Thule Passage 2 Bike Carrier, # TH910XT, would be a great choice. The carrier is a confirmed fit for your vehicle and can carry two bikes with a weight capacity of 35 lbs per bike.

Another option would be to install a receiver hitch and use a hitch mounted bike rack. Using a hitch and hitch mounted rack will allow you to separate the bike and rack from the body of your car. Doing this will decrease the likelyhood of damaging your car's finish.

For a hitch, the Curt Class I Hitch, # C11033, is a custom-fit hitch that mounts to the frame of your vehicle. The hitch is designed to fit single exhaust/muffler models. If you have a dual exhaust model there is no hitch available, so a trunk rack would be the best option for that vehicle.

For a hitch mounted bike rack, I like the Thule Helium Pro 2 Bike Rack, # TH9042PRO . The Helium Pro uses the same Hold Fast anti-sway cradles as the Raceway rack. This rack can be mounted on a hitch with the 1-1/4 or 2 inch receiver opening. So, if you decide to get a new vehicle, you will be able to continue to use this rack. Another feature of the Thule rack is its light weight design. The Helium Pro is made of lightweight aluminum that will make mounting easier and the light weight design will provide less stress on your vehicle compared to the heavier steel racks.

The Thule Camber 2 Bike Rack, # TH9058, would be a great economical bike rack option for a hitch mounted rack. The Camber will mount in the 1-1/4 inch opening in the Curt hitch and will carry two bikes with a total capacity of 75 lbs.

Also, if you will be carrying a step-thru frame, a woman's or a child's bike, I recommend the # UB01 Bike Adapter bar. This bar provides a mounting point for these bikes to mount to hanging bike racks.

As for installation, if you decided to go with the hitch, I do recommend calling a auto repair shop to get a quote on installing the hitch. These facilities will have all the right tools and equipment that makes installation an easier option for the customer.

I have linked review videos of both bike racks and the bike bar adapter for you to view.