options for bike rack

[turbomangt]

what is the best option for a bike rack on our car? I was thinking about getting a hitch, with a bike rack attachment, any ideas? also, does anyone know what kind of weight a cruiser can pull? thanks turbomangt

[DTs_PTGT]

I bought Mopar's hitch mounted bike rack. Although I haven't used it yet, I like the design. You can get into the cargo area without having to remove the bikes (it tilts down) and it used a modified hex nut and allen wrench to make it harder to steal.

The manual lists towing capacity at 1,000 pounds.

[CREWZIN]

DT is right as far as the manual goes for towing capacity, but I've had extensive talks with the service advisor's of two different dealers. They hitch that's sold at the dealer for the PT is a class "A" and it's rated for 1,000 lbs. If you install a stronger hitch, then the towing capacity raises, but you have to consider other factors like the Maximum Frontal Area of the trailer itself. Someone quoted 20 Square feet at the maximum area because of the drag that a closed trailer would have. Even with a stronger hitch, common sense would say that you wouldn't want to try and tow a cabin cruiser behind your PT!

[turbomangt]

are you talking about a mopar hitch AND bike rack combo?

[RobGT]

I went with the Hidden Hitch and a Thule "945" 4-bike fold down model. (Folds in 2 spots.) Works great, lots of available accessories for the Thule. Went with a name brand, better quality - they're known for their racks, . I got the Hitch (WELL hidden) $100 from JC Whitney and the Rack from a local bike shop $165. Also got the Thule rack lock - No one can unscrew the rack from the hitch without the key. Entire setup was around $300 installed.

BTW - passed up a similar Graber 4-Bike rack $100 @ Target.

[PTRON]

[8D]Another option is a roof rack, although they're expensive. Go to www.thuleracks.com. Yakima also sells quality products (again, rather expensive). To see all your options go to www.cybercyclery.com.[8D]

[turbomangt]

I will never put roof mounted bike rack on my car ever again. Been there done that. The roof looked like cats were dancing on it, with claws open and sharp.

[DTs_PTGT]

My setup was a combo. I had to get the hitch, then get the rack. Kinda wish I knew about other options because I paid a fortune (450 for hitch, rack, and female bike adapter bar) for Mopar's setup. At least it's covered by the 3/36 warranty!

I had thought about doing roof racks, but how easy would it be to put the bikes up or take them off? I'm not going to pack a ladder everytime I want to go for a bike ride, you know?

[RobGT]

Ive found that with the Thule, female bike adapter is not necessary....a womens bike fits better than a mens!!
my $.02