Roof Mount Bike Rack For a 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Question:

I have a 2002 Jeep Cherokee Laredo. I need a top mount bike rack. What would you suggest? I do not have any crossbars installed on the vehicle right now.

asked by: Julia

Expert Reply:

Since you have the factory siderails, you will need to get both the roof rack and also a bike rack that fits the crossbars. As with any vehicle, check your owners manual or with your dealership to make certain you know the weight capacity of your vehicles roof.

I would recommend the Jeep Grand Cherokee Roof Rack by Thule. It consists of part # TH712100 (Thule SquareBars), and part # TH710401 (Thule Evo Raised Rail Feet). We also offer the Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders, part # TH450400. These locks secure your rack to the side rails of your vehicle to help prevent theft.

There are different options when considering the bike carriers. The Swagman Rooftop Bike Carrier, part # S64720, you referenced is a frame-mount type rack, does not require removal of the front wheel, and includes a lock to secure the bike to the rack. I have linked you to an FAQ article that shows how to choose a roof-mounted bike rack.

Another option would be a wheel-mount type bike rack. I would recommend the Yakima FrontLoader Wheel Mount Bike Carrier, part # Y02103. The carrier fits the square Thule load bars in the recommended roof rack. It also comes with a cable lock which helps keep the bike secure from theft. It also does not require the removal of the front wheel as do the fork mount carriers. I have linked you to a video for this carrier.

With a roof mount rack system, it can be difficult to reach the center of the rack. I would recommend a wheel tire step like the Thule Wheel Mount Tire Step, part # HE4040, to make bike loading and unloading easier. This step folds flat for easy storage and can support up to 400 lbs.