Question:
What is the best trunk mounted bike rack for a BMW X5?
asked by: Grace P
Expert Reply:
We have several trunk mount bike racks that will work on the 2012 BMW X5. I have included a link to them for you to view. The Thule Archway, # TH9010, would be my top choice for your vehicle. It comes with an integrated cable lock and a passive theft deterrent strap. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you.
If you will be carrying womens, childrens, or alternative frame bikes, I recommend the bike adapter bar, # TH982XT for greater ground clearance and to carry the bikes more level. I have included a link to a video showing how the adapter works.
expert reply by: Michael H

Have a question for the experts? click here.
Products Referenced in This Question
Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes
Product Summary:
Hitch Bike Racks
Trunk Bike Racks
Spare Tire Bike Racks
Accessories
16 - 31-1/2 Inch
Product Specs:
Bike Adapter Bar
Video/Article/FAQ this Question was Asked From
Article or VideoQuestions and Comments about this Question
Hi, the problem i was told with this type and my 2008 X5 is that the strap will be hanging on the trunk top spoiler which will not take the stress. would that be the case?
comment by: Hadi - 1/28/2013
Thule recommends their Archway, Gateway and Passage line of trunk mounted bike racks for the 2008 X5. That being said, Thule indicates that the top straps should hook into the end of the hatch door. If that means that the strap has to go over a spoiler, this may not be the best option. They test their racks on factory vehicles, so if this is a dealer installed spoiler, you definitely do not want to use a trunk rack. I would suggest looking into a hitch and hitch mounted bike rack to avoid damaging the spoiler with a trunk rack.
Patrick B - 2/8/2013
Recommended Trunk Bike Rack for 2008 Dodge Charger RT with Rear Spoiler
Will the Thule Archway Trunk Mount Bike Rack Fit a 2010 Dodge Charger ST
Will a Trunk mounted Bike Rack Fit 2012 Kia Sportage LX with Rear Spoiler
Will the Thule Gateway or Archway Trunk Mount Bike Racks Fit a 2012 Chrysler 200
Recommendation For Trunk Bike Rack To Fit 2012 Ford Focus Titanium Sedan With Factory Spoiler
Will the Thule Passage 3 Trunk Mount Bike Rack Fit a 2008 Volkswagen Passat Wagon
Is the Thule Raceway Bike Carrier Compatible with a 2009 Subaru Impreza
Trunk and Hitch Mounted Bike Rack Options for a 2011 Dodge Caliber
Trunk and Hitch Mounted Bike Rack Options for a 2012 Kia Optima
Will the Thule Archway 3 Trunk Mount Bike Rack Fit a 2003 Subaru Outback Wagon
Will the Thule Archway 3 Trunk Mount Bike Rack Fit a 2009 Porsche Cayenne