XC60: Towbar mounted bike carriers

[Zigster]

I've got the Altera Strada, because lots of people recommended it.

I hate it - it's cheaply built, the sliding bit doesn't click into place properly and is even harder to disengage, I can't even fit the fourth bike carrier as the bolt holes are obstructed by other parts of the carrier (meaning I have to carry the fourth bike on the roof which kind of defeats the point).

I sometimes wonder if I have the same rack as the people who rave about the Altera.

[St Evelyn]

Originally Posted by dty

The Volvo one looks like it's just a rebranded Thule G6. I can't find any pricing on the Volvo one (in fact, it took me 20 minutes just to find it on their ridiculous web site), but I can't imagine it'll be cheaper than just buying a Thule.

That's exactly what it is, a re-branded G6!
Volvo crash test all of their accessories, so roof bars, tow bar, bike carriers etc. all go through a full crash test before hitting the market. I bought my Volvo 3+1 (aka Thule G6) from my local dealer and, after lengthy conversations with the dealership, managed to get a significant discount - IIRC it ended up about helf the price of a Thule one from Halfords, so well worth a conversation. Have you got a good relationship with the dealer principle or aftersales team? If you have then it could be worth a chat with them rather than a generic chat with the person manning the parts telephone...

[Pitvar]

Fitted our Altera Strada DL today - the 4th bike adapter was a bit fiddly to get the bolts lined up but went in eventually. Sliding mechanism works really well - even loaded up with four bikes and the attachment to the Volvo removable tow bar was very straightforward [and this is our first ever tow bar...]

Bikes went on no problem [three hybrid type and one mountain bike] and all seemed rock solid. No issues at all.

[GusGecko]

Just got this buzz rack 4 bike tow bar carrier for a bit of a steal...anyone else used one?


Will take photos when installed and loaded on the mighty '60.

[mhon72]

I have just purchased a Bikelander (BC80) from Westfalia.
Main reason was how small it folded for storage as my initial default of the Thule Easyfold was still quite large. But from seeing one in use it's still anything but flimsy and folds 90 degrees flat so well clear of the tailgate opening.
It unfortunately only comes as a 2 bike version in the UK - there is a 3 bike version made for the South African market - but you can get a +1 adaptor for a 3rd bike.
What sold it to me along with the folding was the additional cargo box and loading platform that could be fitted.
Just waiting to have my towbar fitted next week.
https://shop.westfalia-automotive.co...0050600001-KIT

[games133]

ive got a thrue 4 bike rack got it second hand on facebook. tilts great only used it with 2 so far but there plenty of room for bike be what ever postion you want. tilt hits the floor thoe so maybe think of a stopper of rubber for it to hit. and if you have the volvo towbar electics like i got it knock loads sensors off. if you use 13pin plug.

id defo buy it hold great and easy to put on 1 man job. mate has same bike rack and used 4 on his v70. and hold waight no problem with 4 bikes.

[GusGecko]

Loaded up