Is a Bike Adapter Bar Needed to Load a Womens Bike on a Trunk Mount Bike Rack

Updated 09/04/2014 | Published 09/02/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(835)

$48.99

Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Arms

(18)

$384.92

Question:

I have a 2003 Pontiac Sunfire coupe. Watching the bike rack videos, I noticed that all the bikes are mounted onto the rack with the bar that extends across the length of the bike. I have a womens bike that does not have this bar. Will I need to purchase the extender with all your bike racks or is there one made that will address this?

asked by: B

Helpful Expert Reply:

If your bike does not have the top horizontal frame tube, then you will need a bike adapter bar, like part # 64005, to load your bike on any of the trunk mount bike racks listed to fit your 2003 Pontiac Sunfire coupe.

There are a few bike racks that are designed to prevent the need of a bike adapter bar, but those particular styles are not available in the trunk mount style.

I have attached a link to all of the trunk mount bike racks listed to fit your Sunfire. The Thule OutWay 2 Bike Rack, # TH45JV, is an excellent option if you need to use the adapter bar because the arms are close together which make it easier to load the bikes on the rack. It also uses only 2 rubber coated straps to secure the rack to the vehicle, so you do not need to mess with too many straps.

expert reply by: John H