4 bike platform type bike carrier

[Blits]

Hi!

 

I need some thoughts / experience on a 4 bike platform type bike carrier.

 

We usually use our trailer with the bike rack mounted to transport the bicycles to events. It used to be just me and hubby (MTBs or road tandem). The kids started to enjoy the MTB vibe and do all the 10km and 20km events - which is great! The challange is that we do not always want to take the trailer along, and thought of buying a 2/3 bike platform type bike carrier. But with the kids joining in the fun - we need to reconsider.

 

How strong, safe and practical is a 4 bike platform type bike carrier? We have different sizes mountain bikes. A 29er for hubby, I just finished building my In-Betweener (650B) and the kids have their 26" bikes! Will all these bikes fit on such a carrier? Do any body have any other suggestions?

 

Thanx!

[Ysterperd]

Most bike racks have a weight limit - so the weight of the 4 bikes together becomes an issue.

• Bosal has an excellent rack but it only caters for 2 bikes - they are not prepared to stake their reputation on a rack carrying more than 2 bikes/30kg.

• Thule does have racks, good ones, catering for 3-4 bikes, tight squeeze though and expensive

• I think Buzz rack also caters for 3 -4 bikes

• Check out the following website and speak to Barry www.rackandcarry.co.za

 

personaly, i would stick to the trialer

[DR ◣◢]

2 bikes on the back

2 bikes on the roof

 

Would that be an option?

[Blits]

Jip! That might work! I have a ML. Any suggestions for roofrack?

[droo]

Thule roofrack and 4 carriers. You'll look like a TDF team car.

[GLuvsMtb]

Roofrack option = Thule Proride 591 racks. It also doubles up nicely on the trailer with no need to remove wheels etc. It is also lockable. Just be careful for low branches, parking garages and security estates where the visitors entrance is at the standard 2.4m roof height.

Make double sure that you get the ML supported roof rails. I had rails on my Audi A4 Avant fail because of the slanting rails on the top of the car. Insurance didn't cover the roof rack system as it was not from Audi but from Thule, even though it is supposedly the correct rail and bracket for my car.

[RockCoach]

Thule roofrack and 4 carriers. You'll look like a TDF team car.

 

I have a Thule roof rack with four carriers on my Golf at the moment. It works well. Bikes don't touch each other no matter what wheel sizes are involved. The main problem with a roof rack on a large SUV is that you have to be able to reach the racks in the centre. Even tall guys have to stand on the door sills to get there.

[Blits]

Hi,

 

Thank you for all the feedback! Thinking of putting 2 bikes on the tow bar and 2 bikes on the roof.

 

Just need to confirm what I need. Does the Thule Euroway fit on the gooseneck towbar?

 

If I have the Mercedez-Benz cross bars for the roofrack, will the Thule fit on the roof or do I have to buy the Thule cross bars?