Trunk Mount 2 Bike Carrier Recommendation for 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring

Question:

I have a 2010 hyundai elantra touring with factory installed roof racks, but no cross-pieces. I need to be able to haul 2 bikes, and am wondering what is better-a roof or trunk bike rack. I am concerned about the bikes being secure on the hatch-back, but would prefer a trunk rack so that we could use the roof space for a soft cargo bag. However, security and safety are key, as these bikes will be going for a long drive. Thanks for your advice!

asked by: Emily

Expert Reply:

If you want to use the roof rack you have on your Hyundai Elantra for cargo, then the trunk-mount bike rack I recommend is the Thule OutWay 2 Bike Carrier, part # TH45JV. This rack will carry 2 bikes, and has several nice features, including the patented FitDial system, which makes installation very easy, road dampening to help protect the bikes while being transported, and two locking systems. One is to prevent theft of the rack itself, and one is to lock the outer bike in place, which will not allow the inside bike to be removed. Also, loading and unloading bikes with a trunk-mounted carrier is easier than WITH a roof-mount. Please note that when a trunk-mount carrier is installed on the vehicle, the rear wiper cannot be used. I have linked you to an installation video for the carrier.

Although this rack is designed to carry most bike frames, some alternative-design frames may need a bike adapter, like Thule Bike Adapter Bar, part # TH982XT. This attaches to the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more evenly on the carrier for better ground clearance. I have linked you to a video for the adapter bar.

You mentioned that you wanted to possibly use the factory rails for carrying a soft cargo bag. We offer a few cargo options you may want to consider.

If security is a primary concern, you may want to consider a plastic cargo box, like SportRack Roof Cargo Carrier, part # SR7018. This carrier has 18 cu ft of storage, and it ensures security both for your cargo and the carrier itself with a dual lock system.

If you want to use a plastic cargo box a roof rack is needed. I have linked you to our product page for roof racks for the 2010 Elantra. Use the drop down menu to select the vehicle style. If you prefer a soft cargo bag, a roof rack is not needed.

If you do not have a cargo bag, we offer those as well. If you wish to use a cargo bag on a roof that has only the siderails, I would recommend a cargo bag like Rightline part # RL100S20. This bag has 15 cu ft of space and is made of weatherproof PVC fabric. I have linked you to our product page for selecting cargo bags. I have also included a link to the FAQ page for cargo bags, which may help you.

Many times customers who select roof top cargo carriers prefer to add a tire step, like HitchMate Accessory Step, part # HE4040. This step provides easier access to the rooftop cargo area. This step fold flat for easy storage, and can be adjusted to fit any tire, while supporting up to 400 lbs.

It is a good idea to check with the owners manual, or with your local dealership, to confirm the weight capacity for your vehicle roof.