R KLASSE

I would like to haul bikes with our R, and it doesn't have a factory trailer hitch. Only one R actually had this out of about 10 that we looked at before settling on the one we have now. Anyway, is there a temporary clamp on type carrier that will work for our car? I wouldn't mind going the hitch route but want something that doesn't require cutting or trimming the rear bumper or seriously modifying the rear of the car. I would prefer not to use the pricey OEM rack system even though I think it looks really good. Just don't want to pay over $1000.00 for the bars, and three attachments from MB. Also these parts almost never come up used on Ebay or Craigs List.

mercdriver

throw them in the back. plenty of room.

R KLASSE

Yeah I used to do this when I had a Jeep Cherokee in the 90's but I remember the bike bashing up the interior pretty bad. I would hate to ruin the luxurious interior in the R.

manwagon

I have a Thule Platform Hitch Rack on my R and it has to be one of the easiest to install and quickest loading of any bike rack available. Not to mention it transports up to 4 bikes without contact damage. With discount, you should be able to find it in the $250-$300 range.

Here is a link to Thule:

http://www.thule.com/en/US/Products/...tch/18320.aspx

lkchris

You've suggested a product that requires the trailer hitch.

lkchris

Thule and Yakima make adapters to fit their bars to the roof rails on your R. Then, lots of bike carriers to fit.

manwagon

lkchris,
Yes, I did suggest a "hitch" mounted bike rack, because the OP wrote:

"Anyway, is there a temporary clamp on type carrier that will work for our car? I wouldn't mind going the hitch route but want something that doesn't require cutting or trimming the rear bumper or seriously modifying the rear of the car. I would prefer not to use the pricey OEM rack system..."

The cost/benefit/quality/Ease of Use of the Thule hitch mount is seriously worth considering. In addition, loading and unloading roof mounted cargo can be an issue.