2018 BMW X5 Platform Bike Rack Recommendation

Question:

Hi there. Is the Thule OutWay 2-bike Trunk Platform rack compatible with a 2018 BMW X5? I dont have a trailer hitch but like the idea of a platform rack for ease of use and stability, as well as the lock features for the bikes and rack itself. It looks like your fit guide is a yes for the X5 but Thules fit list doesnt generate the Outway Platform rack as an option for the X5. If the Outway Platform rack isnt a fit for the X5, I welcome your recommendations. Thank you!

asked by: Jim

Expert Reply:

I can definitely help you figure out the best bike rack for your application, but I'm not seeing in our fitguide where we have the Thule OutWay Platform Trunk Bike Rack # TH65JV listed as a fit for your 2018 BMW X5 so since we don't list it and Thule doesn't list it I wouldn't go this route.

An alternative trunk rack from Thule is the Thule Gateway Pro 3 # TH78VR. This rack is really easy to use and set up but you do have the hanging style arms instead of the platform. The OutWay is the only platform trunk mount rack that I know of so if you want to stick with the trunk mount then you'll have to go with the hanging style.

If you'd rather have the platform style (which is better) then we need to get a hitch on your BMW and for that I recommend the Curt # 13077 because it has the hidden crosstube so you get a really clean look. For a modest rack that will get the job done and has a clamp-style attachment to the bikes we have the Hollywood Racks Destination # HLY94FR.

We also have a wide variety of platform style hitch mount bike racks that I'm linking for you to filter through if you're interested.