Recommended 3-Bike Rack for 2017 Mazda 3 Hatchback

Question:

What is the BEST bike rack for this car. I have a Saris bones, that I used on my Honda Civic. It is a bit of a pain to install. Will this work on My new Mazda 3. I am only EVER hauling 3 bikes. If not, which is the best? Which is better, the hitch or other?

asked by: Mary M

Expert Reply:

I have good news and bad news. The good news is that your Saris Bones 3 Bike Carrier # SA801BL is confirmed to fit your 2017 Mazda 3 Hatchback. The issue (bad news) is that in order for it to fit properly, the side hooks need to be replaced with # SA3035. Doing this will reduce the capacity of the carrier so that it can only safely carry 2 bikes.

With this in mind, I instead recommend going with the Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack # Y02633, which is confirmed to fit your Mazda 3 Hatchback and will maintain its 3 bike capacity. This carrier features a 4-strap mounting system and interlocking HUB for a quick setup on the vehicle. Its adjustable arms help to keep the bikes level and the anti-sway cradles with removable straps allow for easy loading. In my opinion this will be an upgrade over the Saris rack that you have been using.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this carrier so you can get a closer look at all of its individual features.

Generally speaking, a hitch-mounted bike rack is the best method for transporting bikes on a vehicle. It won't interfere with the rear of the vehicle, allowing access to rear cargo space depending on the type of carrier, and typically offers a more stable platform for your bikes to attach to. With that being said, all of the available trailer hitches for your 2017 Mazda 3 are Class I hitches. The most bikes that a Class I hitch can handle with a bike rack is 2, so going with a trunk-mounted carrier will still be your best option to transport all 3 of your bikes.

expert reply by: Chris R