Roof Rack Bike Carrier

[Woodchuck]

OK….I bought a Mini Countryman S in a fit of an emotional midlife tantrum.  Stop laughing. It’s fun to drive and such, but the bike does not fit so well in the back and I don’t want to put a hitch on the back for my bike racks.

So the question is this: What roof top carrier do you use and do you like it? I have a 33lb bike with 2.35 tyres on the front and back. Dual suspension and I would prefer not to remove the font wheel to load.

[Robert Dobbs]

Do what I have done and have a second midlife tantrum and purchase a proper MTB vehicle. I recommend a Toyota 4Runner or Tacoma (Taco) TRD , but that’s just my opinion.

Buying used is fine and, in fact, recommended with the Toyota products as they are not really worn-in and comfortable until they hit 120K miles (i just past the 199K mark on mine).

You’re welcome.  😉

[Aaron Chamberlain ✓ supporter]

I used the Yakima Frontloader for a long time and I really liked it on my Subaru. You save a lot of space by not having to put the front wheel in the car. I especially appreciated that feature after muddy rides. Yakima now has the HighRoad, which essentially looks like a slimmed down version of the Frontloader. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s more low profile and sleek looking. Probably a better fit for your Mini 😉

In terms of security, I never worried about the bikes flying out and I rallied hard and regularly in the Subaru. The bikes will get blown side-to-side, especially in a crosswind and you can feel especially strong gusts at the wheel, but just don’t look at them and you’ll be fine.

The only reason I no longer use the Frontloader trays is because I got a 4Runner and it’s hard as shit to get a complete bike up on the roof that high, particularly when you’re tired after a ride.

[Woodchuck]

thanks for the information….The Mini is not a “tall” mode of transportation at all so I think lifting the bike after the ride won’t be an issue….I hope.

[Fergie]

I have Thule Sidearm racks on my Volvo C30.  Locks the bike down well, secure at highway speeds with no wobble.  I’ve been very happy with them.

[G.W.]

Another vote for the Yakima Frontloader. Easy, simple, secure.  I’ve been using it for over a year now and still happy with it.

[Author]

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