Recommended Best Bike Rack For 2008 VW New Beetle Convertible

Question:

Best 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle Bike Rack for Convertible?

asked by: Dean H

Expert Reply:

There is not a trunk mounted bike rack option for the 2008 VW New Beetle Convertible, so I recommend we start with the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4" # 24679 which is a confirmed fit.

Then the bike rack I recommend the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 2-Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" Hitches - Tilting - Aluminum - Black # SH12B. This is a light weight rack at 32 lbs and is an easy tool free installation. This carrier will carry 40 lbs per bike and has an integrated cable lock and hitch lock that are keyed alike. This rack tilts away while loaded for cargo access and folds when unloaded for storage. Hitch mounted racks are a more stable option with less contact to the vehicle, so this is a great option for you even if there was a trunk mounted option available for your convertible.

If you want to carry Fat Bikes on this rack, you need the Phat Bike Adapter Kit for Kuat Bike Racks # APBK which will allow 1 Fat Bike with tires up to 4-3/4 inches wide.

expert reply by: Jason S

Alex J.

7/5/2020

I purchased the Draw-Tite Hitch receiver (24949) for my 2018 VW Sportwagen and the Kuat Sherpa 2.0 as recommended here and the connection is extremely wobbly. The anti-wobble bolt did not make any difference even when tightened with the 8mm hex wrench. Is this common and what is the solution? Thanks

Chris R.

7/9/2020

This definitely isn't normal. Can you definitely tell that the wobble is coming from the hitch connection (as if there's too much space inside the hitch receiver)? If the anti-rattle pin didn't help much, you can add an additional measure like the Roadmaster Quiet Hitch # RM-061-125 to tighten up the connection.