Advise for Carrying Bikes with a 2004 Ford Focus 5 Door ZX5

Expert Reply:

I have two recommendations for you. First, the Thule Raceway Trunk Mounted 2 Bike Rack, # TH9001, is the easiest trunk mounted rack to install and remove, and it folds up surprisingly compact for storage when not in use. I have tested this rack on my Stratus sedan and it works great, I can throw the rack in the trunk and still have plenty of room if needed. The only drawback to this rack is that it does not allow access to the trunk or rear hatch when it is installed, so the rack would need to be removed.

Next, a hitch mounted rack would allow access to the rear of the vehicle when the bike rack was installed, you would have to remove the bikes, and would allow you to get at accessories like a cooler or other items brought along on your weekend outings. A lightweight hitch mounted rack like the Thule Helium Aluminum 2 Bike Carrier, # TH970XT, would be very light and easy to install and folds up pretty compact for storage when not in use.

A platform, or wheel mount, rack, like part # TH990XT, will be heavier, a bit harder to insert in the trailer hitch due to the size of the rack and a bit bulkier to store. One of the good things about this type of rack is that the bikes load onto the rack a bit easier than the arm style racks.

All of the racks mentioned above come with locks to secure the rack to the vehicle and the bikes to the racks.

Finally, if you go with a hitch mounted rack, you will need to install a trailer hitch, or have one installed. I would go with the Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch, # 24692. If you are not confident installing the hitch yourself a local shop would have the proper tools and should be able to do the job easily and correctly for a small fee.

expert reply by: Bob G