Tripleshot Cycling

La famille is heading to Van for a Joanna work commitment, and we're taking bikes. The overheight charges are horrendous however, and limited reservations are available. So we are thinking of options to our normal roof rack arrangement.

Anyone use a rear rack for four bikes? Does it require a hitch? Is one practical on a volvo wagon (vs a suv)? How much to get a hitch installed? What effect might four mtb's have on the suspension of a lighter car like a volvo than the roof rack?

Thanks!

L

I use this swagman hitch mounted bike rack on a Subaru. I am very happy with it. There is a 4 bike version as well, but it requires a 2" receiver, which I doubt you'd be able to get for a Volvo. On UsedVic right now there is a Yakima rack that will carry four bikes and uses a 1 1/4" receiver. I'm not a fan of the racks that hold bikes by the top tube as they don't work well for full suspension bikes. If all your bikes have a more traditional frame style you'll be fine.

I've carried 3 mountain bikes on using my previous rack using a Subaru Impeza and did not notice any affect on the handling of the car.

I seem to remember paying about $200 for a hitch including installation. I got wiring for trailer lights as well, so without that it might be a bit cheaper.

To avoid over height charges, stop just before the ferry terminal and ride onto the ferry. If you are lucky enough to get bottom deck, put the bikes back on the car and drive off.

Lister I have a hitch (2") mounted 4 bike carrier, similar to the swagman, as well as a trunk mount http://www.saris.com/p-299-bones-3-bike.aspx that unfortunately is/was out on loan, but s available once I have it back later in the summer.