Why Won't the Blue Ox Base Plate Fit the John Cooper Works Model of the 2013 Mini Cooper Roadster?
Updated 10/27/2025 | Published 03/22/2025
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Question:
Hello, I have a 2013 Mini Cooper Roadster JCW I’m being told there is no Base Plate for the JCW model, I don’t understand the difference in the chassis install area that would be so different, they say the JCW is only a trim design. There are so many BX1307 base plates for sale, especially ETrailer has the 1307 but they say No JCW. No one has been able to tell me what the difference is!! Thanks for any help !!
asked by: John M
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Expert Reply:
Hey John! It has to do with the different front end on the John Cooper Works model of the 2013 Mini Roadster. It's not considered a fit if you have to cut through a bunch of body pieces or trim. As far as the chassis goes the Blue Ox Base Plate Kit item # BX1307 will fit but you have to completely mangle the front end.
Here are the rest of the parts you'll need to flat tow your 2013 Mini Roadster John Cooper Works:
Tow Bar and Safety Chains - Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar item # BX7380
Wiring Harness - Roadmaster Diode 7-Wire to 6-Wire Flexo-Coil Wiring Kit item # RM-15267
Supplemental Braking System - Brake Buddy Select 3 Portable Supplemental Braking System item # HM39524
High Low Adapter - The tow bar needs to be within 3" of level. If you measure the height of the inside top of the hitch receiver tube on your RV, and the height difference is more than 3 inches above/below the base plate tab height, you'll need a high/low adapter. I have linked a FAQ article that explains all this in more detail along with our selection of adapters.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Blue Ox Alpha 2 Non-Binding Tow Bar - RV Mount - 2" Hitch - 6,500 lbs
- Tow Bar
- Hitch Mount
- Telescoping - Non-Binding
- Steel
- 6500 lbs
- Fits Blue Ox Base Plates
- Stores on RV
- Cables Included
- Blue Ox
more information >
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Jerred H.
10/27/2025
Hey John, how did things go with flat towing your Mini Roadster JCW using the Blue Ox setup? Your results could really help others who are unsure about the base plate fit on that model. Sharing what worked might guide the next person facing the same issue.