Recommended Trunk Mounted Bike Rack 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe For Trek Verve Bikes

Question:

Hello. Hoping you can help me with this. Im looking for a trunk mount bike rack to carry 2 Trek Verve 1 model bikes on a 2012 Hyundai Santa Fe. I have heard I should get a rack that holds 3 bikes even though we only have 2 as they will be easier to get on/off the rack and fit better. I wondered if you have any thoughts on this idea? What about what I would call the lever-arm or cheater bar effect where Im worried about the extra force exerted by the bike hanging further out. Also, Im looking at the Thule Passage. Is this a good rack? Any other models I should consider? Thank you for your time.

asked by: Marty

Expert Reply:

I am happy to help Marty. It is a good idea to use a 3 bike rack instead of a 2 bike trunk mounted rack especially if you do not want the bikes to touch. According to my research on the Trek Verve 1 bikes they are aluminum frames which can easily be scratched. It will also be easier to take the bikes on and off the rack if you have more room like you mentioned. I do recommend to put one bike in the cradles closest to the vehicle and one farther out to distribute the weight.

The Thule Passage 3 Bike Carrier part # TH911XT is a great option because of it's fit dial adjustment system for a customized fit that fits the contours of your vehicle however the cradles are not up to par to the quality of your bike frame.

I recommend to use the Thule OutWay 3-Bike Rack part # TH56BV because the cradles are constructed of thermoplastic elastomers that don't lose their shape over time or break down with use. They also absorb road shock to keep your bike frames from bouncing around which seems to be one of your biggest concerns. The rack also uses only 2 retractable coated steel cables to attach to the vehicle instead of nylon straps which can break down over time especially when exposed to UV rays. The Thule OutWay also features the fit dial adjustment system so it will fit well on the back of the Hyundai.

expert reply by: Heather A