Recommended Bike Carrier For 2012 Mercedes-Benz GLK350
Updated 06/09/2015 | Published 06/07/2015
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Question:
I am looking to purchase the following bike rack: Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top 2 Bike Carrier for Vehicles w/ Spoilers - Adjustable Arms - Trunk Mount Hollywood Racks Trunk Bike Racks 30 reviews Code: HRF2 Could you please tell me if this will fit a Mercedes GLK 350? The site originally stated that it would but I cannot find it under the section that shows which vehicles it is compatible with. Any assistance would be appreciated. Thanks,
asked by: Mike C
Expert Reply:
I called my contact at Hollywood Racks and asked about the # HRF2 and how it fits with your 2012 GLK350.
They told me that the spoiler on the back of a GLK350 are not structurally sound enough for the hooks to attach to. In order for the # HRF2 to be able to fit your vehicle you would need raised side rails on the roof of the vehicle. They also told me that if you have crossbars on a roof rack they may be strong enough for the bike carrier but they have not tested this and cannot say it would work. The HRF2 has a capacity of 35 lbs per bike.
To avoid the concern with a spoiler I recommend installing a trailer hitch and using a hit-mounted bike carrier. The trailer hitch I recommend is part # C13102. This is a Class lll hitch and it has a 2 inch receiver opening.
I have also attached a link to the hitch-mount bike carriers we have you can take a look at. One of the nicest carriers I recommend is the Thule Helium Aero 2 Bike Rack, part # TH9042PRO. This bike carrier features anti-sway cradles which keeps the bikes from banging into each other and it has a capacity of 70 lbs or 35 lbs per bike.
If you are planning on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.
