Tow bar bike carrier help required please

dangers

I've just had a tow bar fitted to my Mazda 5 so that we can buy a bike carrier. We need to be carrying 4 bikes - 2 adult and 2 kids (both of which are 24").

Has anyone purchased one of these bike carriers - if so, which one? I do like the look of the Thule, but do not like the price! DH would prefer the bike carriers that you stand the bikes on, not the ones where they are held at the top - my bike is 14.5kg so quite heavy to lift.

Thanks for any suggestions.

bikebarbie

I have owned a Thule (I think is a 9503) since about 4 years ago and it holds 3 bikes as standard and then there is a specific extra attachment that we bought (also Thule) that allows an extra bike. It is very sturdy and holds / ties the bikes down very safely. If your towbar is connected to the battery you can attach the Thule and it will beep when you reverse, the lights will also go on...
You can open the boot with it attached (you lower it) and you can fold it flat to stow it away in the garage when not in use

rugbyleague

We've got the Thule carrier (my daughter is lucky enough to be sponsored by Thule).

Its last years version of this

http://www.thule.com/en-GB/GB/Products/BikeCarriers/Towbar/Thule%20EuroClassic%20G6%20LED%20929%20UK.aspx

Its a fantastic piece of kit, no risk to the bikes (4) when they are on it and also no risk to the car either.

A great feature is that it tips allowing access to the boot whilst the bikes are in place.

Can be fitted very quickly and the only contact points are the tow ball.

There are cheaper carriers out there but be aware of scratching bikes or car when using them.

I agree 14.5kg is a bit heavy for lifting onto the roof especially if its a 4 wheel drive or a people carrier.......

forgotmyname

Are all the bikes that heavy or just yours? You want to be careful you dont overload the towball. Max
noseweight is 75kg. That includes the weight of the bikes and the carrier.