Which rack -- not hitch or roof -- do you recommend?

[Pierre]

Originally Posted by Idris Icabod

Never used one but I did shake the crap out of the demo at the 24 hours in the Old Pueblo. Seemed really solid:

https://www.seasucker.com/collections/bike

I've used this exact set-up. It took a leap of faith but man, that thing held like no tomorrow....and this was in -30deg C weather!

[William]

Originally Posted by Pierre

I've used this exact set-up. It took a leap of faith but man, that thing held like no tomorrow....and this was in -30deg C weather!

Yes, they work fine and they can attach to glass or smooth body panels.






William

[ejanastacio]

I would go with the sea sucker mini bomber or Kuat is you're looking for a hitch rack.

[cp43]

Originally Posted by akelman

That's what I was thinking, but I wondered if there was something better out there.

In my relatively limited (and potentially outdated) experience with a Saris and a Yakima trunk rack, I prefer the Yakima. It's easier to adjust the angles of the arms, and I think the straps are better quality on the Yakima.

For any trunk rack, you need to make sure that the hooks will be able to fit well with the hatch when it's closed. The last time I installed a trunk rack, there was some trim around the trunk lid that meant that with the hooks where I wanted them, the trunk wouldn't close. I was able to make things work in that case, which was a one off, rental car situation. But, if you'll be using it regularly, you'll want the hooks correctly placed for a secure hold.

Chris

[eddief]

why not?

Originally Posted by AngryScientist

https://www.waymotorworks.com/sports-link.html

[Bruce K]

Had a V60

Thule roof rack was the perfect solution

I might suggest a small step ladder to help your wife.

The car is not super tall so I am guessing she is very petite.

BK

[akelman]

Originally Posted by Bruce K

I am guessing she is very petite.

She is rather wee, yes: 5' 2 3/4". (That 3/4" matters a lot to her.)

[cmbicycles]

Thule makes a pretty cool looking tray style trunk rack called the Raceway.

I have a Saris bones rack for a backup/loaner and overall it works well and is stable on our highlander or any other cars I've put it on.

[pdmtong]

Originally Posted by akelman

She is rather wee, yes: 5' 2 3/4". (That 3/4" matters a lot to her.)

same height as my daughter.

roof rack and put a step stool or mini-ladder in the vehicle.

[DRZRM]

Not even sure what this thing is, but the image is from a Volvo site. Seems to mount to the bumper? With brake lights? I'm sure its very affordable. You can even buy the ramp for loading. Look how happy these people are, but I guess it is hitch mounted at the end of the day...and do you need a spare license plate?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ly2ZszXd8w

http://www.volvopartswebstore.com/sh...roduct=9961133

[trener1]

Kind of slightly off topic.
But I am thinking of getting a V60 in year or so, just wondering why wont a hitch fit?.

[Bruce K]

I think hitches do fit, they just require some bumper cover modifications.

FYI the V60 is now FWD only. No more AWD unless you buy the Cross Country.

BK

[peanutgallery]

Seasucker is an option, but there is no way that I would put any rear mounted strap type rack on a V60. Those types of racks destroy bikes and vehicles without discrimination. I don't care if it's a Thule, Yakima, Saris or an Allen - they will equally butcher your bike and the car. A 1975 Pontiac Lemans...maybe. Newer cars, never

If you like your bikes, I also recommend staying away from anything that holds your bike by the top tube

Roof rack and a stepladder is your best option...or get a taller wife...or hire stevedores

What's up with the no receiver hitch? They're available for a V60?

[staggerwing]

Originally Posted by akelman

Volvo V60: replacement for the SportWagen.

What do you mean "does not play nice with a hitch?"

We have a 2016 V60, and I just installed a CURT 13266 (2") hitch myself. Was about $120 on Amazon. Install took about 1 hour, using only hand tools and without rushing it. The only leap of faith moment is the sharp tug to dislodge the rear bumper cover.

Yes, there is a very minor bumper cover cut required. You can not even see the mod unless you are laying on the ground.

Hitch on etrailer.com with install video.


BONUS INFO

If you want cross bars for bike mounts or a roof carrier, they are actually way cheaper direct from Volvo. Bars, pylons and locks are about $225, all up. This is the same Aeroblade setup that is almost $400 from Thule. It was going to cost more more to get new pylons for the Aeroblades we had for our TDI Sportwagen than buying complete new units from Volvo.

Official Volvo load bars on Amazon. Also available through any Volvo dealer.

[FlashUNC]

None of the above. Front mount bus rack.