Recommended 3 Bike Trunk Rack for a 2025 BMW X3

Updated 02/26/2025 | Published 02/23/2025

Products Featured in This Question

Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - Adjustable Arms

(14)

$398.95

Thule OutWay Platform Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Trays

(14)

$478.95

Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(250)

$262.95

Question:

Dear etrailer Team, I have a BMW X3 without hitch and I am interested in a bike rack. On your webpage, the Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes was suggested. However, I also found the same model for 3 bikes but it is stated that this one is not compatible for the BMW x3. is this correct? And if yes, why? It seems like the same mounting, only with longer arms for 3 instead of 2 bikes. Thanks and best regards Jan

asked by: Jan

Expert Reply:

Hey Jan, yes that's correct and while they might look the same, they are not. The biggest thing is the Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 3 Bikes # TH56BV is a hanging rack, and # TH65JV is a platform rack.

These racks do have the same per bike capacities, but the OutWay 3 bike version is about 9 lbs lighter and is considerably smaller than the OutWay 2 bike version.

I checked with Thule and they have not, neither have we, had a chance to test fit the 3 bike version, which is why I'm guessing it's marked not a fit.

If you're interested in a 3 bike rack, then I'd go for one that fits for sure, like the Yakima FullBack 3 Bike Rack # Y02633. This rack will work with your X3, has a 35 lb per bike capacity when used as a two bike carrier (90 lbs max when used as a 3 bike rack), and has vehicle specific settings to help make set up quick and easy.

If you have anything else you need help with, please feel free to drop a comment and let me know!