Bike Rack Recommendations for 2004 BMW X3
Published 04/24/2015
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Question:
Im looking for a trunk mounted bike rack for my 2004 BMW x3 Since I dont have a hitch. Any suggestions?
asked by: Jessica
Expert Reply:
Your best bet for carrying bikes on your 2004 BMW X3 would be to install a hitch like the Curt # 13573 and use a hitch mounted bike rack. Swagman offers the reasonably priced Trailhead model, that's available in a 2 bike model as part # S63360, a 3 bike as part # S63365 and a 4 bike as part # S63380.
None of our vendors who produce trunk mounted bike racks have anything that would be compatible with your X3. Because the top straps of the rack would need to clip to the top of the rear glass of the liftgate, the weight of the bikes and the rack could easily shatter the rear glass. For that reason, I (along with the bike rack manufacturers) don't recommend using a trunk mounted bike rack on your vehicle.
If you'll be transporting women's bikes or bikes with sharply-angled top tubes, you might also consider a frame adapter bar like part # 64005. The bar spans the distance between the handlebar gooseneck and the seat post, which provides a secondary attachment point for the bike rack. This allows the bike to be carried level, which maximizes ground clearance. I'll link you to a video showing how the adapter bar works.
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