Bicycle carry

[Connoisseur_of_fine_cars]

What's the best way to carry a mountain bike on a LB?

(1) Roof
(2) hitch-style rack
(3) trunk-strap style, like Saris Bones

[Kaykogi]

True, I don't drive a LB, and this setup hasn't had the best track record (http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/showthread.php?t=35696), once I got all the bugs worked out, this is hands down the best way to transport bikes on a car.
http://i.imgur.com/lXQEo.jpg

[A-Dingo-Ate-My-Baby]

nope

hitch racks are the only way to go



inside the vehicle is the very best, but a hassle with tear downs (especially muddy)

all racks will scratch the finish over time except a hitch rack.

[WeeYari]

I have a hitch rack, so naturally that is where my vote goes.
- Keeps bike tucked in behind the car for less wind resistance.
- No worries about forgetting it's on the roof when pulling into a garage (it has been done on here).
- Doesn't scratch the finish like strap on types are prone to do.

[nemelek]

I was able to get my bike in the car. Took some work. If I was to carry a bike a lot, I would get a hitch.

[Kaykogi]

I think we can all at least agree that the trunk strap rack, while the cheapest option, is ... well, the cheapest option. If you go that way be prepared to lose something. Also, for me, the roof rack is awsome because I can pull off the bike attachments and throw on a gear box or the snowboard attachments in the winter months.So for multisport versatility (that's a thing, right?), it's great.

[Connoisseur_of_fine_cars]

Yeah. I have been driving out to the trails almost every weekend. So, I expect to use the bike rack very often. And the drive is usually at least 30 minutes to an hour on interstate; so we're talking about 70 MPH speed.

The roof rack is indeed versatile, but I'm not sure if I like clamps. They probably scratch the paint off. And I just don't trust clamping anything to hold for high speed. At 70 MPH, the wind probably creates a lot of load on the bike and rack. Is there a roof rack that bolts to the roof?

I could take the front wheel off and throw the bike in the trunk. But the bike gets so dirty and greasy after a ride. I hate to ruin the immaculate interior of my brand new car.

[A-Dingo-Ate-My-Baby]

I think we can all at least agree that the trunk strap rack, while the cheapest option, is ... well, the cheapest option. If you go that way be prepared to lose something. Also, for me, the roof rack is awsome because I can pull off the bike attachments and throw on a gear box or the snowboard attachments in the winter months.So for multisport versatility (that's a thing, right?), it's great.

you have a point

also, bike stay cleaner on rainy days up on roof

each system has pros and cons.

[Kaykogi]

Yakima and Thule both make racks that bolt on to the roof. The ones I'm thinking of use a track system, so you can take the towers off, but the tracks are permanent.

One pro for a hitch rack is not having to take the front tire off the bike. Usually a bike tray on the roof grabs the front forks. I bought bike attachments that let me leave the front tire on, but they were quite a bit more expensive.

[mo_feezy]

Trunk strap racks are the best if you take the rack on and off alot, at the cost of scratching the paint (which on the yaris doesn't take much. I've had LEAVES scratch my cars paint). Overall I would prefer the hitch style, but I haven't had the money to add a hitch to my car.

[Yaribusa]

The hitch rack gets my vote. Here's what I have...

Thule 990XT-Doubletrack (http://www.thule.com/en-US/US/Products/Bike-Carriers/Hitch/990XT-Doubletrack)

Draw-tite 24819 (http://www.draw-tite.com/content/products.aspx?lvl=3&parentid=0&catID=1005&part=24819)


I've had it installed continuously for about 25,000 miles with no issues at all.

One major benefit of the hitch rack is that your bike is tucked in behind the car, protected from debris and gravel strikes. I'm sure you know that's a HUGE deal if you ride a carbon fiber frame. It's too dark for pics now, but I can get some tomorrow if you want. :thumbsup:

[Stove]

I bought a roof rack for the versatility. Bike, cargo pod, skis/snow board, kayak, etc. Maybe even a combination of a couple of things at the same time. Most of the hitch mounts I've seen block easy access to the hatch. Besides, I might want to pull a trailer, even with the controversy that seems to bring:eek:

[Connoisseur_of_fine_cars]

I wouldn't trust the Thule rack. My buddy has one. His bike tire started losing air after it was placed on the rack. The hook on the Thule is set based on the tire. So my buddy's bike slipped out of the rack and was half dangling on the highway. Luckily we pulled over in time.

What is the difference between the Draw-Tite hitch and the Curt 11060? Which is better?

[A-Dingo-Ate-My-Baby]

I wouldn't trust the Thule rack. My buddy has one. His bike tire started losing air after it was placed on the rack. The hook on the Thule is set based on the tire. So my buddy's bike slipped out of the rack and was half dangling on the highway. Luckily we pulled over in time.

What is the difference between the Draw-Tite hitch and the Curt 11060? Which is better?

curt is easier to install and uses the tie-down/tow holes. more logical install

[DevilGirl]

I bought my Hidden Hitch from eztrailer.com (http://www.etrailer.com/Trailer-Hitch/Toyota/Yaris/2009/60209.html?vehicleid=2009300353). Install time was approximately 30 minutes, and I did not have to remove the bumper (ratcheting wrenches as opposed to just sockets helps a lot in the small space).

I have a Thule Roadway 4-bike hitch rack (http://curtscyclery.com/product/thule-roadway-4-bike-hitch-rack-35217-1.htm). We only carry 2 bikes right now (his and mine, both Giant mountain bkes, mine a 26", his a 29"), but having the extra spots on the rack helps with aligning them nicely so there is no damage to either bike.
When the bikes are unloaded, the rack can tilt down for easy access to the hatch. (That's also our local bike shop, family run, been around 40 years, best service I've received for anything bike related... If they don't have something you want/need, they find it for you and get it in).

I'll see about getting some pictures taken when they're loaded up this weekend for our ride.

I find this setup to be the easiest for us. Bikes are easy to load and unload without having to lift it over your head (there's no way after a 20-mile ride that I could lift my bike up high enough to put it on the roof). I have the hitch on mine, and we're adding one to his car too (09 Jetta Sportwagon TDI), so it'll be an easy swap between the cars.

[SpaceShot]

For mine, I have a hitch mount basket that I added a 3 bike adapter to. The basket and adapter are both available on Amazon. This way I can carry a recumbent bike or my wife's sidewalk cruiser more easily than a regular hitch rack.
Having the basket is also good for coolers or other items on long trips.

If I am going by myself, I will take the front wheel off and simply put the bike inside the hatchback.

[A-Dingo-Ate-My-Baby]

hitch racks and a hitch is the way to go. really, it opens up a lot. you can rent a trailer if you want to haul a crapload of stuff. if you end up in a ditch in the snow, a tow truck has something to pull on...worth it.

[Kaykogi]

I've never really liked the look of a car with a hitch. A hatchback is a bit better, but it still just looks weird. My friend has a hitch rack on his Nissan Xterra, however, and it is pretty great. If I had a bigger vehicle, I would definitely go for the hitch rack.

[toad]

^why not buy one that hides the hitch? yesterday i received a draw-tite invisi-hitch model #28502

http://www.amazon.com/Reese-Towpower-28502-Invisi-Hitch-Receiver/dp/B0016KBRIC/ref=au_pf_pfg_s?ie=UTF8&Model=Yaris%7C2851&n=15684181&s=automotive&Make=Toyota%7C76&Year=2007%7C2007&newCar=1&carId=001

once installed it COMPLETELY hides all parts of the hitch(including receiver)! you do have to purchase a special receiver mount for accessories that goes under and around the rear bumper and - of course - it's more expensive. i just like the fact that nobody will confront me in parking lots and say 'where does it say in the owners manual you can tow? is your car the canadian version?' :lol:

i will post up pics this weekend after i do the install. if you decide to get the one i linked above you should know it's for the SEDAN ONLY! in fact, i got mine used for super-cheap($34) because somebody purchased it thinking it would fit the 3-door and returned it(not really their fault because the site still doesn't specify). i contacted the manufacturer with the model# to confirm it would work. AND the manual in the box does say it's designed for the sedan!

[Brianr4]

43739

43740

43741

My friend has a roof rack on his car, but the only problem is to put the bike on the roof, you have to have the door open and stand on the door sill.
Twice when we were loading up to head home, it was raining very hard and we couldn't put the bikes up becasue the inside his car would have been soaked from the rain.
So when it came time for me to get a rack, I went with the hitch style.
I also don't like that if you are loading up on a roof rack and you drop something, it will fall on the roof of the car.

[Kaykogi]

^why not buy one that hides the hitch? yesterday i received a draw-tite invisi-hitch model #28502

http://www.amazon.com/Reese-Towpower-28502-Invisi-Hitch-Receiver/dp/B0016KBRIC/ref=au_pf_pfg_s?ie=UTF8&Model=Yaris%7C2851&n=15684181&s=automotive&Make=Toyota%7C76&Year=2007%7C2007&newCar=1&carId=001

once installed it COMPLETELY hides all parts of the hitch(including receiver)! you do have to purchase a special receiver mount for accessories that goes under and around the rear bumper and - of course - it's more expensive. i just like the fact that nobody will confront me in parking lots and say 'where does it say in the owners manual you can tow? is your car the canadian version?' :lol:

i will post up pics this weekend after i do the install. if you decide to get the one i linked above you should know it's for the SEDAN ONLY! in fact, i got mine used for super-cheap($34) because somebody purchased it thinking it would fit the 3-door and returned it(not really their fault because the site still doesn't specify). i contacted the manufacturer with the model# to confirm it would work. AND the manual in the box does say it's designed for the sedan!

I didn't know such a thing existed. If I were to get a hitch, this is the one I would buy.

[Kaykogi]

My friend has a roof rack on his car, but the only problem is to put the bike on the roof, you have to have the door open and stand on the door sill.
Twice when we were loading up to head home, it was raining very hard and we couldn't put the bikes up becasue the inside his car would have been soaked from the rain.
So when it came time for me to get a rack, I went with the hitch style.
I also don't like that if you are loading up on a roof rack and you drop something, it will fall on the roof of the car.

It's easier on a sedan. I can load anything from the ground. I've never had to stand on the door sill.

[Brianr4]

Actually my friend's car is not a yaris, Subaru.
Not easy to reach up there.

Also when my rack is not on, the only part of my hitch you see is the receiver tube, and I usually have one of those foam antenna things stuffed in there, doesnt look like a hitch at all.

[Hamster]

Anpther option you might want to look into is buying a folding bike, such as the ones from Dahon. I'm looking into buying one, so that I don't have to worry about messing up my Yaris.

[Revsson]

I saw a three wheel recumbent at a garage sale...though out of my price range,
I wondered how I could fit that on a bike rack, let alone a Yaris bike rack.
http://www.terratrike.com/images/trikes/cruiser/cruiserFront.jpg

[Yaribusa]

I wouldn't trust the Thule rack. My buddy has one. His bike tire started losing air after it was placed on the rack. The hook on the Thule is set based on the tire. So my buddy's bike slipped out of the rack and was half dangling on the highway. Luckily we pulled over in time.

What is the difference between the Draw-Tite hitch and the Curt 11060? Which is better?

Which Thule rack are you talking about? The 990XT Doubletrack is extremely secure and the hook goes over the top tube of the frame. I've done many miles at 75-80 MPH and never had a single issue with this setup.

Here's a few pretty terrible pics of a filthy Yaris, but you can get the idea...

[toad]

as promised - here's a couple pics of my new hitch installed!

looking up from garage floor with bumper off(more on that in a second):
http://i887.photobucket.com/albums/ac71/magnum_p_i/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00283-20110917-1417.jpg

view from behind at ground level:
http://i887.photobucket.com/albums/ac71/magnum_p_i/Mobile%20Uploads/IMG00284-20110917-1446.jpg

install was VERY easy! there were four bolts that needed to be removed and replaced with four longer, heavy-duty bolts and washers supplied in the kit. i removed the rear bumper as it looked like it would take forever with only the socket set i have(a set of racheting wrenches would be ideal). this gave me a better angle from above to tighten everything down. piece of cake - maybe 20 minutes from start to finish!

the bar itself is very solid and the welds are nice. being a class I it's rated for up to 2000 lbs, but i don't plan on using it for anything except a hitch-mounted bike rack and maybe a small utility trailer(400 lbs). again, although i realize the AMERICAN version of the yaris is not rated to tow at all(guess i should have bought it in CANADA) i'm just planning on using it for very light usage. now i just gotta save-up for the ball mount and accessory attachment.

and yes, my garage floor is very colorful - the kid likes to use it as her canvas!

[Idahotom]

I just unloaded my Montague full sized folding mountain bike from my HB. I've had two different Montagues for years now, and use them a lot. Unlike most other folding bikes, you can't tell these fold when riding, they are "real" bike.

This won't help you who already have regular bikes, but for those looking check out the Montague. Though my plane use strictly dictated a folder, I am always pleased when some other use comes up, and throwing it inside the Yaris with room to spare including Ted the dog is pretty cool. Less then a minute, a lot less to unfold.http://www.montaguebikes.com/

[Connoisseur_of_fine_cars]

Which Thule rack are you talking about? The 990XT Doubletrack is extremely secure and the hook goes over the top tube of the frame. I've done many miles at 75-80 MPH and never had a single issue with this setup.


Yep, that's the same one he is using. He used it for 2 years without any problem. Then one day, we on driving on the interstate, and his bike slipped out of the hook thingy. His bike lost tire pressure; so it sank lower, allowing itself to slip off the hook thingy. Just becareful. You're OK as long as you don't lose air. Or tie and hook to your bike, just in case.

[Yaribusa]

Yep, that's the same one he is using. He used it for 2 years without any problem. Then one day, we on driving on the interstate, and his bike slipped out of the hook thingy. His bike lost tire pressure; so it sank lower, allowing itself to slip off the hook thingy. Just becareful. You're OK as long as you don't lose air. Or tie and hook to your bike, just in case.

Ohhhhh... I thought you meant the rack cause a flat tire. I had not considered this situation. Thanks for the heads up.

[tk1971]

Hitch + Rack gets my vote:

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb282/tk1971/yarisbikes1.jpg

http://i208.photobucket.com/albums/bb282/tk1971/yarisbikes2.jpg

Drawtite hitch, Swagman XC2 rack carrying two 39 lbs Giant Reign bikes.

[swidd]

I run a Thule roof rack with the short roof adapter, and the "big hook" bicycle rack. It holds it perfectly steady, and it's about 10-20 seconds to put it up there and take it off - so much, I use it as my outside storage/bike lock place.

[wispaintstyle]

I take the wheels off and throw it inside.

[Viperoni]

Would the trailer hitch act as a subframe brace? :D

[Connoisseur_of_fine_cars]

I take the wheels off and throw it inside.

And get grease, mud, dirt, and crap all over the interior. No thanks, bro.

[Kaykogi]

I take the wheels off and throw it inside.

And then you have to reassemble everything at the trailhead. No thanks, bro.

[DevilGirl]

Finally got around to taking pics of the bikes, hitch, and rack. Hidden Hitch from etrailer.com, Thule Roadway from local bike shop. Both bikes are Giant: his - XTC 29er; mine - Revel 1 26".

1. Bikes loaded.
2. His bike.
3. My bike.
4. Rack with arms up.
5. Rack with arms down.
6. Hitch under bumper.
7. You can see the hitch does not extend beyond the bumper.

[katskratch]

That hitch rack looks good. I was looking into roof racks but after seeing this I think a hitch is much better.

[DevilGirl]

That hitch rack looks good. I was looking into roof racks but after seeing this I think a hitch is much better.

I love it. Easy to load the bikes onto. Anti-sway. Bikes hardly move much on it.

We went with the 4-bike rack, since it's easier to load the bikes onto without having them scraping each other. I'm sure we could easily fit another bike on there, but with our mountain bikes, it's just easier with the 4-bike rack and leaving a space between them.

[Revsson]

Finally got around to taking pics of the bikes, hitch, and rack. Hidden Hitch from etrailer.com, Thule Roadway from local bike shop. Both bikes are Giant: his - XTC 29er; mine - Revel 1 26".

1. Bikes loaded.
2. His bike.
3. My bike.
4. Rack with arms up.
5. Rack with arms down.
6. Hitch under bumper.
7. You can see the hitch does not extend beyond the bumper.http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=43979&stc=1&d=1317688205

How is the view out of the rear view mirror or even the side mirrors?
That camera angle in the pic 1 seems to suggest you are blocked pretty well.

Ever think about adding some sort of brake or turn signal lighting (LEDs or something)?

[DevilGirl]

How is the view out of the rear view mirror or even the side mirrors?
That camera angle in the pic 1 seems to suggest you are blocked pretty well.

Ever think about adding some sort of brake or turn signal lighting (LEDs or something)?

Driver's side mirror is completely unobstructed. The passenger side mirror, I see about 6-10" of the bikes' rear tires sticking beyond the side of the car, mostly just the spokes, but otherwise unobstructed.
From the rear view mirror, I do see the bikes, but that is only a portion of my view. I can still see other vehicles behind me.

So long as you have an unobstructed view from any combination of 2 of your mirrors (side or rear view), you are legal.

As for the lights, the side taillights are only "blocked" by the tires, which do not totally block them anyway, since it's just the spokes really. The center brake light is generally covered, but the taillights work just fine.

We don't ride at night. We stick to daytime riding only, so it's not so bad.

[Connoisseur_of_fine_cars]

I final installed a Draw-tite hitch. And I just bought a Harborfreight bike rack. When I pull the top of the bike rack with my hand, I can see the hitch and bumper flexing a little bit. So, this is a sign that I shouldn't be putting too much load on the hitch. The Draw-tite hitch bolts onto just sheet metal.

Eventhough a typical mountain bike is only about 30 pounds, I think there's quite a bit of load on the bumper because the bike sticks out so far. Remember that from highschool physics, torque equals force times distance. I'll have to keep an eye on it.

Also, the load on the bike rack can be very high while driving. Last week, I drove over some railroad tracks a little too fast, and one of the strap mount on my old Saris rack broke clean off. Lucky, the bike is held on with two other straps. My bike was swinging back and forth, but no damage. I don't trust plasticky Saris no more. And I plan to drive very slow careful when I have a bike on the rack.

[bchilde]

This is a GREAT thread! I'm looking to get a hitch and then hitch rack for my bike. Does anyone know of a hitch that will fit the 4 dr S Sedan with the Aero skirt/kit? There is another 3-4" at the bottom of the bumper I have to clear. :(

[1.5]

get a roof rack

[Kaykogi]

^ This

[krolos]

I have used roof rack bike carriers on yaris sedan
and other cars for years, I am pretty serious
mountain biker so I use it multiple times a week,
the bottom line is they are a pain in the ass
so I finally got a hitch installed and got a bike
hitch rack its made by 1up usa just got it
installed and used for the first time and very
happy with it, no more dum ass roof rack for me :smile:
will post some pics when I get chance.

Check out the link it will tell the rest.

http://www.1upusa.com/index.html