Bicycle Roof Rack Options

[Steven Sprague]

Hi Dan,

Dan Cordon wrote:

> I have two Type 44's (sedans) and would like to get a roof rack to hold
> two bikes. I'm hoping to get some opinions from owners. I'd been looking
> at the Yakima, Thule, and the Performance XPORT.
>

I have a Yakima rack with 58" bars on my 91 200q20vt.  I purchased them
through the local Bike shop on sale 20% off.  I prefer the Yakima quality
over the Thule stuff and you really need to look at the quality of the XPORT
stuff.  Thule does have some nice attachments but so far the Yakima bike
rack has proven durable over time.  The current rack was on a prior vehicle
for 3 years and still works great.  The prices for either Yakima or Thule
are high, but you can get some of the parts either through ebay (or
www.mtbr.com or www.roadbikereview.com) type sites or through Sports Rack.
We have one here in town that has used racks for very reasonable prices.
You'll need to get a Fit Kit from either company for your car.  Follow their
directions and you should have no issues.  I keep the rack on my car because
we are avid bikers (mtn and road) and ride every weekend.
    Now for the wagons, on my fiancés Scoby Outbacker, we have the Yakima
stuff and the attachment to the factory roof rails are great.  Yakima has
even updated them a couple years ago.  A friend with a 91 200q20vta has the
Thule bars/attachments and swears by them, but then he is a Thule dealer...I
do like the Thule bike attachment for bikes with disc brakes and they are
Yakima compatible.
    Just see what you can or want afford and check out the quality.  If you
buy new, you'll end up spending $400-500.  Talk to your bike shop
(independent dealer) and see what those guys use.
hth.
Sorry for being long,

Steve