How to Lock Trunk-Mounted Bike Rack to 2018 BMW X5 and Benefits of Hitch-Mounted Rack

Question

Question:

Is there a way to lock this to the car and is there a way to lock the bikes in when traveling? Im afraid for theft in my area if I stop somewhere with the bikes on the back. I have roof racks on my 2018 BMW X5, does that help with any locking mechanisms or do I need to buy anything extra to lock this down to those racks instead of the top of the car? Im debating on getting this as a short term solution to transporting bikes vs a long term hitch/rack for the same 2018 BMW X5. What options would be best for the Hitch/rack/tow options for this model SUV

asked by: Christopher

0

Expert Reply:

To lock the Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top 3 Bike Rack # HRF2-3 to your BMW you can use the Thule Passive Security Strap # TH533. This dual steel cable strap gets looped around the bike rack itself and then the round puck end gets closed inside the trunk/hatch. It essentially makes it so that the rack can't be taken off the vehicle without opening the truck, for which you would need the BMW's key.

Then to lock the bikes to the rack I recommend using a standard cable lock like the # e98891.

I have attached a couple short video reviews on these products that you can check out as well.

Now a trunk-mounted rack does have its benefits such as a more convenient initial install (especially if you don't already have a hitch) but if the option is available I always tend to recommend the hitch route. A hitch-mounted rack pushes the bikes away from the vehicle, eliminating the fear of scratching or denting on the vehicle itself, allows for rear cargo access (you won't be able to open the hatch with a trunk rack installed - whether the bikes are loaded or not), and it allows you to carry heavier bikes (any trunk rack will have a 35 pound per bike limit). A trailer hitch also just provides a lot more versatility as a bike rack isn't the only thing you can use it for.

If you decide to go this route I recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Trailer Hitch # 75600, which features a sleek hidden-crosstube design for an OEM appearance and has plenty of capacity for a bike rack or anything within the BMW's factory limits. I have attached an install video that you can follow along with if you decide to mount it yourself.

Then for a bike rack I really like the Yakima BackRoad 4 Bike Rack that will give you easy rear cargo access with its tilting design, and uses an anti rattle hitch bolt to tighten the rack inside the hitch receiver for a smooth and quite ride. It can handle 4 bikes that weigh up to 150 pounds in total.

The BackRoad includes a lock to secure your bikes to the rack and you can add the optional hitch lock # Y07235 to lock the rack to your Odyssey.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this rack so you can see exactly how everything works. I have also included a link that will take you to our complete selection of hitch-mounted bike racks that you can look through.