Cars to Tote Bikes, in these modern times?
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While my Ridgeline (for which I have made a custom fork bed rack, and since doctored up to accomodate one through-axle) is still in the shop waiting for parts (since mid-April), I purchased a LEAF Plus, have had a 1.25" hitch added to it, and bought a Thule Helium Platform 2-banger. Maiden outing this morning. Folds up mostly out of the way when not loaded...have to tilt it back a fraction to pen the hatch. But held the bike securely, and not by the frame. I'm not nuts about having the bike where it can be hit from behind, but can live with this.
#54
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Before I made my final decision on a new car, I rode to the dealership. The salesperson said "nice bike", I asked him to open the trunk, and he asked why? I said I want to see how it fits in the back. He asked what if it doesn't fit, I replied then I won't buy it.
2018 Subaru Impreza.
If I take both wheels off I can fit it in the trunk with the rear sear up.
2018 Subaru Impreza.
If I take both wheels off I can fit it in the trunk with the rear sear up.
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#57
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Nah, I'm cheap with cars. I buy used always. I really like a wagon for bikes although hatchbacks are pretty good, something like a used BMW 640i GT is probably my next bike transport car. My old, old Mercedes wagon would swallow a tandem. My current, old Mercedes wagon can take my M5 CHR recumbent as long as the front wheel is removed, that is about 83 inches worth. Keeps the gike clean, less worries about theft when stopped, and no more ruining signs at the burger joint. And being tall, German seem cars fit me better
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I bought a 2019 Golf Alltrack to replace my 2005 Audi A4 wagon. Basically the same well-tested 4-cyl turbo engine and 6-speed manual transmission, but now I can hook up my phone.
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So the state of our 4 wheel world now is, we bought a 2017 Audi A4 Allroad with automatic trans. Folding the seats down, it's a little narrower inside than the Prii are, but about a foot longer. Fits two bikes laid down with wheels on rather more easily than do the Prii. Both cars have decent remaining space for luggage, etcetera. Gas mileage in reality is about 28 on 70/75 mph highways, and about 39 on lengthy 55 mph drives. It's also a LOT more comfortable! Being a 2017 it's missing some driver assistance features relative to the Lexus, but its still a great car! Bought with about 55k miles, about $32 k. Do I need the speed of the RS or S models? No. This has 252 hp. AND Quattro AWD.
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Not a great pic but it is an awesome car. 2016 Ford Fiesta ST. It will accommodate 1 bike in the back. But, since I usually ride with my GF, a Saris 2-bike rack is on the back.
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2016 Toyota IM with a Curt hitch kit fits my bike rack just fine. The rack from Hollywood Racks has wheel troughs for 2 bikes with padded hooks to pin the top tube. Add in a couple of cables and locks for stopping along the way and It's great for 2.
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I put my bike--an XL frame hardtail with 29" tires--in my 2012 Mazda 3 sedan. I have to remove the front wheel and have the seats down, but it works. It helps my bike has a dropper post. Both the bike and car interior have gotten some bumps and scrapes, however, so I'm looking at external carry options (but have trouble justifying the expense for what they are).
Anyway, a few people at trail-access lots have expressed surprise upon seeing me open the trunk and take out the bike. I do wish I'd opted for the hatch, though.
So if it helps with options, don't discount the carrying capacity of compact cars beyond the Golf, especially with the back seat down. I haven't seen current-gen Mazda 3 up close, so I don't know how roomy they are, but they might be worth a look. I understand the upcoming Honda Civic hatch is pretty spacious, although the hatch slopes down like a sedan.
If I were buying now I'd likely give the Ford Mustang Mach-E, VW ID.4, and Hyundai Kona electric a look, at least if an electric vehicle will work for you.
Anyway, a few people at trail-access lots have expressed surprise upon seeing me open the trunk and take out the bike. I do wish I'd opted for the hatch, though.
So if it helps with options, don't discount the carrying capacity of compact cars beyond the Golf, especially with the back seat down. I haven't seen current-gen Mazda 3 up close, so I don't know how roomy they are, but they might be worth a look. I understand the upcoming Honda Civic hatch is pretty spacious, although the hatch slopes down like a sedan.
If I were buying now I'd likely give the Ford Mustang Mach-E, VW ID.4, and Hyundai Kona electric a look, at least if an electric vehicle will work for you.
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While my Ridgeline (for which I have made a custom fork bed rack, and since doctored up to accomodate one through-axle) is still in the shop waiting for parts (since mid-April), I purchased a LEAF Plus, have had a 1.25" hitch added to it, and bought a Thule Helium Platform 2-banger. Maiden outing this morning. Folds up mostly out of the way when not loaded...have to tilt it back a fraction to pen the hatch. But held the bike securely, and not by the frame. I'm not nuts about having the bike where it can be hit from behind, but can live with this.