Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendations for a 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible
Question:
I am hoping to find a trunk mount bike rack for my 2004 VW New Beetle Convertible. The convertible part is my difficulty. I am trying to avoid a hitch and hitch mount bike rack as that is pricey and difficult to install. Any suggestions. This one looks like it might work if the straps get short enough...maybe?
asked by: Serena
Expert Reply:
Because your 2004 VW new Beetle is a convertible, you cannot add a trunk mount bike rack because the rack will not be able to safely secure to the rear of the vehicle. If you want to carry bikes on the vehicle then you will need to install a trailer hitch like # 24679. I have included links to the installation instructions and a video showing a typical installation.
For a bike rack, I recommend the Titan, # S63400. This is a 2 bike rack (the most that the Class I hitch can hold). It features anti-sway cradles, the ability to tilt away from the vehicle, and an integrated cable lock. I have included some links on the bike rack as well.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class I
- 200 lbs TW
- 2000 lbs GTW
- 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Swagman Titan Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Bike Lock
- 2 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Swagman
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Passage Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Hanging Style
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Anti-Sway
- 2 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Locks Not Included
- 6 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Women's Bikes
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Q&A: Trunk Mounted Bike Rack Recommendation for 2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring
- Article: How to Choose a Bike Rack for an SUV or Crossover
- Article: Best Bike Racks for Electric Bikes
- Q&A: 2023 Toyota Venza Trailer Hitches C89UR And e25AR - What Is The Difference?
- Q&A: Are Hatch Huggers Needed For Saris Bones EX 3-Bike Trunk Rack on 2018 Toyota RAV4
- Q&A: Can the Trunk Be Opened with the Saris Bones 2 Bike Carrier Part # SA805BL Installed
- Q&A: Recommended Bike Rack for a 2016 Jeep Cherokee Limited w/out a Hitch
- Article: My Trailer Hitch Doesn't Fit
- Q&A: What is the Difference Between a Class II and a Class III Hitch?
- Article: How to Choose a High-Low Adapter
- Article: How to Choose a Bike Rack for a Minivan
- Q&A: Does Using The Hatch Huggers To Replace Side Straps On My Saris Bones 3 Limit The Carrying Capacity