Options for Carrying Up to Four Bikes with 2008 BMW X5
Question:
I am trying to determine what options I have for carrying 3 or 4 bikes on a 2008 BMW X5.... without breaking the bank. The OEM bike rack is over $500. any advice would be appreciated.
asked by: Chris W
Expert Reply:
The best option to carry up to four bikes on your BMW X5 would be a hitch mounted bike rack. If you do not already have a hitch installed, I would recommend the Draw-Tite Class III Hitch, part # 75600.
Although we have many different 4-bike racks to choose from, I really like the Thule Hitching Post Pro, part # TH934XTR. The rack includes crucial features like an anti-rattle hitch pin and anti-sway bike cradles to prevent the bikes from swaying back and forth and striking each other or the rear of the vehicle. The similar Swagman Trailhead, part # S63380 would be an excellent less-expensive option, if the 4 bikes weigh less than 100 lbs.
A trunk mounted rack like the Thule Passage # TH911XT would also be an option for carrying up to three bikes. Keep in mind that whenever a piece of equipment is in direct contact with a painted surface of a vehicle, the possibility for scratching exists. This risk can be significantly reduced by ensuring that the surfaces of the rack and the vehicle that touch each other are 100 percent clean and free of grit. Keeping a thick coat of a quality car wax on the rear hatch will also offer some protection.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class IV
- 600 lbs TW
- 6000 lbs GTW
- 6000 lbs WD GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- 600 lbs WD TW
- Concealed Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Swagman Trailhead Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 4 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 >
Thule Passage 3 Bike Carrier - Trunk Mount
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Anti-Sway
- 3 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Locks Not Included
- Fits Most Factory Spoilers
- 6 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 4 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
- Thule
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Passage 3 Bike Carrier - Trunk Mount
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Anti-Sway
- 3 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Locks Not Included
- Fits Most Factory Spoilers
- 6 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
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