Bike Rack for a 2015 Mini Countryman  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Depending on exactly how you're wanting to mount the bikes to your vehicle, you have a couple of options.

Racks either attach to a trailer hitch receiver below the bumper or attach via straps and rest on the bumper with a trunk-mounted option.

If you're looking for a simple, direct fit with no installation of a hitch, you'll be extremely happy with a trunk mounted solution. For this, I recommend the Yakima FullBack 2 bike rack, part # Y02634. This is a fully featured rack that lets you carry two bikes in its patented ZipClip system, providing an impressive amount of reduction in the sway of the bikes. The FullBack also includes a bike and rack lock, providing additional security to the rack.

For a trunk mounted rack, the advantages are in their easy to install and remove features, plus they preserve the look of the vehicle when they're removed.

The biggest downside to a trunk-mounted rack and most hitch mounted hanging rack is that they are limited in the size of bikes they can carry, and often times will require an adapter bar like part # 64005 to carry women's, children's and alternative frame bikes. Additionally, they're the most limited in terms of weight, usually capping at 60 pounds total, and 35 per bike position.

If you'd rather get some added versatility out of your rack, and don't mind making a few changes to your vehicle's look, you'll want to install a trailer hitch. For this solution, I recommend adding the Curt Class I, part # C11333.

This hitch is rated for up to 200 pounds of tongue weight, which is the total amount that can be loaded when not towing, and accepts Class I accessories. You'll always be limited to carrying 2 bikes with this hitch, but can carry much heavier bikes and have a much wider range of available solutions for the rack.

It does require that the fascia of the vehicle be trimmed by using a pair of shears like part # PT79ZR, though you won't have to drill into the vehicle to install. I've included a video of our team installing this hitch onto a 2013 Mini Countryman so you can get an idea of the process, as well as our install tips to make it go as smoothly as it can.

For an actual rack, you can use any 1-1/4 inch hitch rack that is compatible with Class 1. I've included a link to the full range of racks we offer.

I've included video reviews of all of these parts so you can make the best decision for your adventures and vehicle.

expert reply by: Jacob W

0