I have a 2 bike crossbar rack with Yakima space case (or just 4 bikes). Perfect solution for going camping. The nice thing is everything locks and is very secure at freeway speeds 70-90MPH. The bad thing is major cross winds and plenty of noise if the sunroof is open on the freeway.

The trailer hitch is very quit but the bikes are not very secure at freeway speeds. I have to use toe straps to keep the front wheels straight and padding to keep the bikes from banging into each other.

RE the height issue, just place the bike in the tray, hop up on the back wheel or door jam and secure the fork. Very easy.

RE the grime issue, the rear rack gets very dirty and so does the trailer hitch. Remember this when putting the rack on as you will get dirty.

MOST IMPORTANT with roof rack - create a routine to remind you there are bikes up there. Driving into a garage or parking structure will ruin your day, most likely ruin the bikes and may damage the X5.

Good luck Eric in AZ
IF single speed MTB
Merlin road
Surly LHT touring
Kona MTB

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