Bike Rack

[BitScribbler]

Since the missus and I like cycling, we shelled out for the bike rack with our new car. If you're interested in seeing what it's like, I've knocked up a quick installation note here.

[manicm]

BitScribbler I also wanted the Bike Rack Prep, but alas wasn't an option in my country. So I ordered the towbar and will get a suitable rack for it. BMW I think offers a rack for the towbar, will check.

I also have a sneaky suspicion that the Bike Rack Prep might be standard equipment - will check for the power socket under the bumper. I know the Mini Countryman has the Prep as standard.

Just one question - is the rack not very heavy? Not a schlep to insert into the holes?

[empyrean]

You know, I never noticed by X1 had that capability... lol...

I must decide between roof rack or your posterior rack, why you chose the later one? And what was the cost?

The cost of my plan of having a roof rack is the base support (250USD) plus the bike rail (100 USD), besides the previous costs of placing the aluminum rails (600 USD).

Let me know your thoughts...

[BitScribbler]

Originally Posted by manicm

I also have a sneaky suspicion that the Bike Rack Prep might be standard equipment - will check for the power socket under the bumper. I know the Mini Countryman has the Prep as standard.

Just one question - is the rack not very heavy? Not a schlep to insert into the holes?

Interesting thought. Until I got the instructions with the bike rack I had no idea to look for the power socket. Perhaps some other UK owners could check their cars to see if its there. I suspect not. BMW UK rarely gives something away when it can make it an option!

Actually no, it's surprisingly light, and no real problem at all inserting it.

[BitScribbler]

Originally Posted by empyrean

I must decide between roof rack or your posterior rack, why you chose the later one? And what was the cost?

The prep was just over £100, and the rack I got slightly discounted to around £430. Why the tail rack? Well, (1) much more economical than having bikes on the roof, (2) it's a BMW option, (3) much easier to load/unload bikes, and (4) I can see them in the mirror so I know they're safe! I'd worry about low bridges with bikes on the roof!

Of course, if you need more than two bikes this isn't a complete solution.

[ali37]

Hi, I have the same rack, but it came with no instructions. (e-bay)

How does the lever work for gaining access to the boot as i can't seem to get it to work.

[BitScribbler]

Originally Posted by ali37

Hi, I have the same rack, but it came with no instructions. (e-bay)

How does the lever work for gaining access to the boot as i can't seem to get it to work.

In this picture:



See the green button at the tail end of the rack, top right of the number plate? Push it down to unlock the rail and then pull the rack towards you (ie horizontally, away from the car, obviously). If you have bikes on take care! It might slide on it's own.

Now the bikes lean away from the hatch, and it can be opened. When pushing the rack back be sure to "jiggle" it to return the green button to the locked position.

[ali37]

Cheers,

Did try pullung the rack with the button down but it didn't want to budge.

Will try a with a little more effort next time it is fitted.

[BitScribbler]

Oops! Forgot to mention, you have to press the bar alongside the number plate down to release the locks.

[Filski]

Could you tell me what weight it will hold if noted in the documentation? I'm looking at maybe a modification to hold a spare wheel for drives to remote areas.

[BitScribbler]

Originally Posted by Filski

Could you tell me what weight it will hold if noted in the documentation? I'm looking at maybe a modification to hold a spare wheel for drives to remote areas.

Weight of rack approx 12kg.

Max bike weight 2 x 22.5kg = 45kg.