Replacement for Older Thule Rooftop Bike Rack on 2001 BMW X5

Question:

I have a 2001 BMW X5 that I purchased with what I believe is a Thule roof top bike rack, also bought at the same time. The bike rack attaches to the BMW roof rack with four brackets that are tightened with four screws. The tightening wrench is a thin walled, approximately 9mm socket that is worn out and I cannot locate anywhere. Any ideas or help would be very much appreciated.

asked by: John T

Expert Reply:

Thank you for the photos and I searched extensively but could not find anything resembling the tightening wrench you have, either from Thule or other manufacturers.

If not having this wrench is stopping you from using your bike rack, the best option truly is going to be a new bike rack, which you will be able to use for a long, long time.

The best option is going to be the Yakima FrontLoader # Y02103 because it is a wheel-mounted bike rack that won't require you to remove your bike's wheels to carry them. The FrontLoader has a sliding rear wheel tray to accommodate different size bikes, will mount bikes that have wheels from 20" to 29" and up to 3" wide. You won't need any type of tool to install it on your BMW either, as it just clamps around your crossbars, saving you a lot of time and making it simple to use.

expert reply by: Kyle S