Best Bike Rack for a Leased SUV  

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Expert Reply:

We certainly have trunk mount bike racks that will fit your 2015 BMW X5, but any time a bike rack contacts a vehicle there is a potential for scratching. The key to avoiding scratches is to make sure you clean the surface of the vehicle where the bike rack will be mounted and clean the pads of the bike rack where it contacts the vehicle. The main causes for scratches or dents is dirt or debris that builds up between the bike rack pad and the vehicle or over-tightening or under-tightening of the bike rack straps to the rear hatch.

I think I have the perfect solution for you. Check out the SeaSucker Hornet Bike Rack, # 298-BH1302. SeaSucker uses vacuum cups that can attach to the rear hatch glass or body. It can support any style of bike because it holds the bikes by the handle bars and the seat rests against the rear hatch. SeaSucker bike racks are very popular among leases and rentals because they have very little contact with the vehicle, they are easy to install and remove and they are so small that you can throw them anywhere in the vehicle when you aren't using them. I've attached video reviews of this bike rack for you to check out.

If you'd prefer to stick with a traditional trunk mount bike rack, my best recommendation for you is the Yakima FullBack 2 Bike Rack, # Y02634, because it only uses 4 straps instead of the traditional 6, which limits the contact with the vehicle and the narrow adjustable arms make it easy to load different styles of bikes. For some women's, children's and alternative style bikes, a bike adapter bar, # Y02531, may still be required because bikes with small or angled frames can be difficult and unsafe to load on a handing style bike rack.

expert reply by: John H

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