Trunk Mounted Bike Rack Options for a 2003 Volkswagen Beetle

Updated 09/22/2017 | Published 09/21/2017

Products Featured in This Question

Saris Bones 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(312)

$199.99

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(827)

$36.05

Hatch Huggers for Saris Trunk Mount Bike Racks

(32)

$24.99

Thule Passage Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Hanging Style

(967)

$179.95

Glass Hatch Hook Adapter for Yakima Trunk Mounted Bike Carrier

(9)

$21.73

Yakima HangOut 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(182)

$198.95

Question:

My daughter purchased a 2003 Volkswagen beetle. Will the trunk mount bike racks work? The strap will be on glass at the top, not metal. Is it safe?

asked by: Cathy

Expert Reply:

We have trunk-mounted bike racks which will work with a 2003 Beetle, so long as it is not a convertible. The straps should be positioned according to the manufacturer, which may have specific directions for this vehicle. For example, the Saris Bones # SA805BL requires the use of Hatch Huggers for Saris Trunk Mount Bike Racks # SA3035 to replace the top hooks when used with an '03 Beetle. The Yakima HangOut # Y02637 is in a similar boat, as it requires the use of Glass Hatch Hook Adapter for Yakima Mounted Bike Carrier # Y02612.

If you are looking for a new rack for your daughter, I recommend checking out the Thule Passage # TH910XT, which will not require an adapter and is the most popular trunk-mounted rack option for this vehicle. Also, please keep in mind when using a hanging rack like is common with trunk-mounted racks, it's possible you'll need a bike frame adapter bar, # 64005, if your bike is dual-suspension, has a step-through frame or you want to carry a small children's bike. The bar will give those bikes a horizontal mounting point so they can be carried by the rack.

I've added links to video reviews of these products for you to take a look at, as well as a link to our page with each of the trunk-mounted racks that fit a 2003 VW Beetle.