Trunk Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2012 Kia Sorento and Womens and Childrens Bikes

Updated 06/07/2012 | Published 06/06/2012

Products Featured in This Question

Thule OutWay Platform Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Trays

(13)

$599.95

Thule Gateway Pro 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(84)

$349.95

Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(345)

$51.60

Question:

I need a three or four bike, bike rack for a Kia Sorento 2012 that does NOT have a hitch. I have a child's bike with 24inch wheels, a beach cruiser bike with fenders/thicker tires and a basket heavier too and a regular woman's bike. What should I get that wont be a fortune but wont scratch or hurt the car or the bikes?

asked by: Jennifer B

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you that I think you will like. Take a look at the Thule Gateway, # TH78VR. This is a 3 bike rack that has a capacity of 105 pounds total. It does have cushioned legs but remember that the more weight that is on the rack the more pressure it is pointing on the contact points on the vehicle. It is possible that with enough weight, it could deform the vehicle. If the vehicle surface and bike rack legs are clean it will not scratch the paint.

The arms of the rack are pretty close together but you still may need to use an adapter bar for womens, childrens, and alternative frame bikes. The Thule adapter bar, # TH982XT, will allow you to carry the bikes more level and with more ground clearance. I have included a link to a video that shows how the adapter works.

The rack has anti-sway cradles so the bikes will not bump into each other or the vehicle. This is also a very cost effective rack option.

expert reply by: Michael H