41 replies to this topic

[Stella87]

Just wondering if anyone had any options on bike racks? I like mountain biking and once I pass my test it will allow me to go further a field to some better trails..just need a way of getting the bike on the mini!

suggestions/links/pics pleeaassee! Cheers :)

Edited by Stella87, 15 May 2012 - 07:09 PM.

[dreadster]

I was thinking the same thing today. The only ideas I had was a roof rack or a custom bracket somehow attached to the rear subframe.

Think roof rack would be my choice as then I can carry more stuff and they look cool. I'd have to find one that doesn't effect my webasto sunroof though.

[maggies_minder]

theres a big topic somewhere.

[twink]

I use one that rests on the back, bike is wider than the car tho- this needs to be remembered!

[coopersmate]

I use a standard hatchback rack, but with 2 added straps, the 4 standard straps go 2 onto the sub frame, 2 on the lips by the side windows, I then added 2 more straps that go vertically to the roof lip. I have used this set up for 2 bikes with no trouble,
I will try and find a photo for you on thursday as I am transporting my bike then

[Stella87]

I use a standard hatchback rack, but with 2 added straps, the 4 standard straps go 2 onto the sub frame, 2 on the lips by the side windows, I then added 2 more straps that go vertically to the roof lip. I have used this set up for 2 bikes with no trouble,
I will try and find a photo for you on thursday as I am transporting my bike then

Sounds good thanks.
Do you need a tow bar bracket?

[coopersmate]

no tow bar
i found some old pics




As you can see I load it up. Just get the straps all tensioned evenly
I think I got the extra straps from halfords

[twink]

Mine is very similar, came with 6 straps on it tho.

[GTIAlex06]

If you are going to do it, do it properly ;)



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[brad-the-bear]

If you are going to do it, do it properly ;)



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DSC_0520

where did you get them from?

[bcjames]

I've got the same set up as Alex. Thule make nice kit for this. I personally wouldn't use one that sits on the numberplate light.

[coopersmate]

I've got the same set up as Alex. Thule make nice kit for this. I personally wouldn't use one that sits on the numberplate light.

Mine is close to the number plate light but isn't sat on it.
The straps from the roof lip are static and set to get the rack to sit between the light and catch.
The angle of the picture here is miss leading

[Tahiti Joe]

Same as Alex and James, I use a Thule system. Solid on the roof and I don't have too worry about anything coming loose or scratching paintwork.

[Cerberus]

+1 on the Thule bars.

I got the feet from halfords for something like £30-40, already had an old set of bars.

Since going with my mate to Cannock, in his Dads car, with the bikes on a rear rack, and watching the rack tip when going round a roundabout, and nearly coming off the car, I don't think I'll ever trust a rear rack again, . But then I still get paranoid when driving with the bikes on the roof,

[Stella87]

Thanks for the suggestions/pics guys, massive help :)
I think i would prefer to have the bike on the roof so that it doesnt affect the width of the car..I'll go to halfords at some point :)

+1 on the Thule bars.

I got the feet from halfords for something like £30-40, already had an old set of bars.

Since going with my mate to Cannock, in his Dads car, with the bikes on a rear rack, and watching the rack tip when going round a roundabout, and nearly coming off the car, I don't think I'll ever trust a rear rack again, . But then I still get paranoid when driving with the bikes on the roof,

Yeah that doesnt exactly sound safe! I've always used rear racks on my dads car but its bolted to the tow bar so there's not really much chance of it coming off...But I dont want to fit a tow bar to my car and the bikes stick out past the width of dads car let alone the mini! Looks like roof mounted is the way to go :)