Bike Rack Options for 2013 Audi Q5  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

I spoke with my contact at Thule, who tells me that they do not recommend using a trunk mounted bike rack on an Audi Q5, as there is not a strong enough place to attach the top hooks holding the rack to the vehicle. Attaching the racks directly to the glass of the hatch or plastic covering the hatch can damage the vehicle.

Hollywood Racks offers a 2 bike rack, their Over-the-Top, part # HRF2 that would work great on your vehicle. Its unique design splits the weight between the vehicle and the top of the hatch, making for a safe connection to the vehicle.

A hitch mounted rack would be a good option for you, as well. You could first install the Draw-Tite Hitch Class III receiver, part # 75940 and use it with the bike rack of your choice. The Swagman Trailhead is a great mid-priced rack that is available in 2 bike # S63360, 3 bike # S63365 or 4 bike # S63380 versions. A locking hitch pin, part # S64029 is recommended but sold separately.

To carry womens bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes or step-through frames, using a frame adapter like part # 64005 is recommended. The adapter spans the distance between the seat post and the handle bar gooseneck, and provides a level attachment point to the bike rack so the bike has greater ground clearance and is not carried at an angle.

I have linked you to the products I mentioned above, as well as some product demonstration videos.

expert reply by: Mike L

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