Hi guys,

I'm assuming that there is going to be people on here into mountain biking etc, just wondering what is the bike rack or carrier works best with a VRs? I've seen a few but wasnt sure if the spoiler would get in the way of some.

Any advice, suggestions or pictures would be great.

cheers Ross

I'd say get a roof rack and bike carriers.

I have used these guys, brilliant service (and local to me).

http://www.roofbox.co.uk/

The Thule ProRide 591s are popular, but I saved half the price and went for the Thule FreeRide 532s.

They also do some good combo deals on racks and carriers: http://www.roofbox.co.uk/bike-carriers/bike-carrier-package-deals.php

Don't use one that attachs to tailgate as you will be securing to the glass which is not good. I ran roofrack ones when I had my vRS. In fact in selling mine on forum as I use towbar one now.

Put the seats down and you can roll two bikes in easily. I get a 29er with 685mm handlebars in okay. 26" wheels are very easy to roll in. That way you are less likely to have your bikes nicked or have people follow you home.

Put the seats down and you can roll two bikes in easily. I get a 29er with 685mm handlebars in okay. 26" wheels are very easy to roll in. That way you are less likely to have your bikes nicked or have people follow you home.

Agree, I was considering getting the pro-ride but saw this while looking around for reviews:

When you mention putting two bikes in your Octy, is that an estate? Do you need to take the front wheels off ?

Thule roof rack and use a Thule proride 591 carrier.

I've got a Thule roof rack and just bought a pair of Thule Freeride 532's.

I use a Thule 9403 (I think) towbar mounted carrier. Low load height is very good with heavy bikes. Plus the mud doesn't fall off them onto your car.

Agree, I was considering getting the pro-ride but saw this while looking around for reviews:

When you mention putting two bikes in your Octy, is that an estate? Do you need to take the front wheels off ?

It is a hatchback. Yes you can do two it with wheels on but its difficult. For two standard XC 26" bikes it shouldn't be too hard. If you are talking 29ers or particularly wider handlebars like 700mm or more its easier to take the front wheel off.

My method is grab the bike nice and low, BB and lower front fork, stand on the side of the car leaning into the boot slightly then roll the bike in front wheel first then back wheel slowly laying it over so the handlebars fit in.

My hatch happily swallows a Heckler and Orange 5 at the same time, with the seats down. Only need to remove the front wheels, goes in fine with the rears left on.

I can easily fit a DMR Sidekick in the boot alone, with both wheels off. Believe it or not I can get the Heckler in the boot too without folding the seats down. Obviously requires both wheels moved and the seatpost removed/fully dropped. Pretty impressive and makes it super secure for leaving bikes in the car unattended.

The massive hatch opening is brilliant for getting bikes in and out.

Never had the need for a rack, so I'm useless there I'm afraid!