Yakima FullBack 2-Bike or 3-Bike Rack for 2018 BMW X3

Question:

Hi I am in process of getting a new BMW X3 and looking to buy a Yakima Fullback for it to carry our bikes. My only remaining doubt is if to get the 2 or 3 bikes rack and would like your opinion. We are a couple with no kids, so I currently see no need to get 3 slots. But I was just wondering for a basically all time 2 bike usage if,considering no price difference, to get the 3 bikes Fullback rather than the 2 bikes one would get to me any advantage or disadvantage . In addition to the obvious just in case we need Your advice? Thanks

asked by: Maurizio

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Yakima FullBack 2 Bike # Y02634 and 3 Bike # Y02633 Racks that you referenced, both of which are confirmed to fit your 2018 BMW X3, are identical except for their bike carrying capacities.

The only potential advantage of using the 3-Bike version (other than the "just-in-case" benefit that you mentioned) is that you could adjust the cradles to have more space between your 2 bikes when they're mounted to further reduce the possibility of the two bikes making contact during travel.

The advantage of the 2-Bike version is that it wouldn't extend as far out from the BMW as the 3-bike carrier since its dual support arms aren't as long.

If it were me I would go with the 3-Bike # Y02633 because even if it's one of the only primary advantages, the "just-in-case-another-bike-rider-pops-up" is a pretty strong benefit since you wouldn't be able to add cradles to the 2-bike version if the need arises. The 3-Bike rack simply allows for more versatility.

I have attached a short video demonstration that you can check out as well.