Best Bike Carrier
#1
Rich and Famous
Thread Starter
Best Bike Carrier
What do guys recommend for a Bike Carrier on MDX or equiv SUV ? I do not presently have tow hitch and looking for occasional use of carrier with 1 or 2 hybrid type bikes.
I just bought a new Specialized Crosstrail Comp Disc bike.
I just bought a new Specialized Crosstrail Comp Disc bike.
#2
I use http://www.etrailer.com/Hitch-Bike-R...e/TH990XT.html . It works really well with my Specialized Epic Expert Carbon.
#3
3G TL/2G MDX Owner
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are you looking for a hitch rack?
get an after market hitch (etrailer.com), either the draw tite or hidden hitch (one in the same). the DIY video was quite helpful.
the hitch rack itself: what features are you looking for? locking? antisway? platform rack?
i have a thule ridgeline (4 bike carrier) which can also be had on etrailer.com. i'll never carry 4 bikes, but bought this based on the great reviews. the bikes don't sway, and the rack is solid once you make sure everything is cinched down really well. traveled 1200 mi with two tri bikes on the rack...solid. it has a cable lock integrated into it, and antisway mounts.
i'm paranoid so i had to have the lock for the hitch and the rack itself considering i would be leaving the rack on the car and possible leaving the bikes on back for a short time (like maybe 30 min). might as well make it as antitheft/theft deterrent as possible. you could always use a cable lock as well for the bikes (i would used that too). and it had to have the antisway. platform racks are nice too...just a lot more $$$.
of course best is subjective.
if you want toys on top, then that's a different matter.
get an after market hitch (etrailer.com), either the draw tite or hidden hitch (one in the same). the DIY video was quite helpful.
the hitch rack itself: what features are you looking for? locking? antisway? platform rack?
i have a thule ridgeline (4 bike carrier) which can also be had on etrailer.com. i'll never carry 4 bikes, but bought this based on the great reviews. the bikes don't sway, and the rack is solid once you make sure everything is cinched down really well. traveled 1200 mi with two tri bikes on the rack...solid. it has a cable lock integrated into it, and antisway mounts.
i'm paranoid so i had to have the lock for the hitch and the rack itself considering i would be leaving the rack on the car and possible leaving the bikes on back for a short time (like maybe 30 min). might as well make it as antitheft/theft deterrent as possible. you could always use a cable lock as well for the bikes (i would used that too). and it had to have the antisway. platform racks are nice too...just a lot more $$$.
of course best is subjective.
if you want toys on top, then that's a different matter.
#4
Rich and Famous
Thread Starter
#5
3G TL/2G MDX Owner
iTrader: (1)
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: The west side of the Potomac River
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i can't bear the thought o having anything touch the paint that will constantly be put on and off the car. i have a roof rack on my TL...haven't touched it since install on day 2 of ownership (over 6 years ago).
you asked for the best option. this is the best option. easy to use, access to rear, no swaying or worrying that the paint will scratch or the car will dent, no need to dismantle bike and disrespect the interior of the car and the bike...in the end its your choice. good luck!
Last edited by TLtrigirl; 10-31-2011 at 01:13 PM.
#7
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#9
10th Gear
Had this one for 3 years .... works well for me:
http://www.softride.com/rack-product...itch_bike_rack
http://www.softride.com/rack-product...itch_bike_rack
#11
Strap on bike racks are a PITA. You risk scratches and dents to the vehicle. There is always the risk of the rack or a bike coming loose as well. Hitch mounted racks are the best option offering a solid way to carry your bikes without damage to your MDX. You also get security so that you can park it with bikes at a store or restaurant without worrying about theft. Security is not possible with strap on racks.
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