"Trunk" Mounted Bike Rack for 2013

[scottpsu]

Does anyone have any suggestions AND/or pictures of a trunk mounted bike rack on their x5? I've got a 2013 x and a 2 year old that wants to get out on the trails. Problem is that I don't want the roof mount rack and don't want to install a hitch just for the bikes. Thanks to all for your suggestions, comments (that aren't too smart-a$$ed) and pictures of your setup!

Scott

[X548i20"]

I just ordered a Thule Archway 9010. I'd google that and the Thule Raceway 9001 (ratcheting cables instead of straps for a lil more $). Thule's fit guide says they both fit the X5.
You can prob find a decent one at your local garage sale or craigslist if you want to save some $ for gas.

[Hammer]

BMW has an OEM X5 bike rack that uses the rear tow holes to mount the rack.

[scottpsu]

Thanks for the input! I was looking at the Thule 9010 as well. Does anyone happen to have pictures of it on your X? I definitely looked at the BMW OEM option, but wanted something that would hold 3 bikes to accommodate the little one's bike as well.

[X548i20"]

Definitely check Thule's Fit Guide for your model before purchasing. I'm getting conflicting info.

[Chucktown]

I purchased a saris bones 2, I know it's not supposed to fit the x5 but it works just fine. There are a couple concerns I have with it though. The hooks on the top are hard to get into the opening, also the top of the trunk looks to be plastic so I'm worried about cracking. But I have a 29er nd my girlfriends heavy cruiser on it and it has held up really well.

[scottpsu]

I've looked around as we'll and continue to run into the same issues regarding the rear "spoiler." Most of the fit guides say that the spoiler will cause issues. I'm interested to see/hear more from those that have a similar setup and whether you've experienced any cracking or damage from the straps or mount. In the meantime, I think I'm sold on the 2 bike BMW mount...once Santa Clais delivers it!

[Marwan1]

Originally Posted by Chucktown

I purchased a saris bones 2, I know it's not supposed to fit the x5 but it works just fine. There are a couple concerns I have with it though. The hooks on the top are hard to get into the opening, also the top of the trunk looks to be plastic so I'm worried about cracking. But I have a 29er nd my girlfriends heavy cruiser on it and it has held up really well.

I also own the Saris bones 2 and just couldn't figure out how to install it on the X5 in a manner that I was confident would be safe for both the bike and the car. I don't have a hitch (and don't want to pay to install one on a leased car) and would never put anything on the roof on top of that huge panoramic glass... That's why I ended up with the tow hook BMW rack which by the way is supposed to have an extension to accommodate a third bike (part number 82-71-0-307-770) although someone posted a while ago((No Hitch) Rear Mount Bike Rack Pic's - Bimmerfest - BMW Forums) that the extension does not work.

[JCL]

I don't understand the relationship with no roof rack and having a panoramic roof. It isn't like the rack actually touches the glass in any way. I find the sunroof to be very handy for keeping an eye on the bikes, to see if they are moving around too much at highway speeds. Our bikes are a little pricey, and I wouldn't put them behind the vehicle due to risk of damage from impact, and the high amount of dirt and grit that is drawn into the low pressure zone behind the vehicle.

[Thunder22]

Can this rack be used as a ski rack too?