Any recommendations for a suitable bike rack for the 245 vRS, that doesn't block the number plate?

After losing a tail gate mounted rack and bikes, I'd only recommend a tow hitch mounted one.

But they all obstuct the number plate, and even the first type need an additional plate on the bikes.

They aren't vRS specific. I use a Thule roof rack system and a Thule bike rack. Can't recall part numbers but their website is helpful. 

Edited 19 April, 20197 yr by Swirly182

 

I use a roof system too, I have Cruz Aero bars in black and Yakima front-loader bike racks (also in black).

A very good combination, the Cruz bars are very good and considerably cheaper than the Thule, the Yakima rack secures the wheels of the bike (not the frame) and is very easy to load.

 

I used thr Roof Box Company (online) which was recommended by others on the site.

Edited 19 April, 20197 yr by Wangarai
Add image

Thanks all, I'll look into the roof bars option.

If you have a tow bar already then as Gregoir said get one that mounts on it, either Thule  VeloCompact or Atera Strada. There is less drag and wind noise with the bikes on but they do get a bit dirtier at the rear but nothing to be concerned about. Loading is also easy and putting muddy bikes on the back stops scratching the paintwork. 

 

If no tow bar then Thule Wingbar root bars and Thule ProRide 598. I know I’ve recommended Thule again but they really are good quality. If you buy the racks and roof bars online then have them keyed alike so you only need one key to undo either. 

 

I don’t recommend rear mounted racks, they’re the cheapest option but worst too. 

I've got a Buzzrack Quattro 4-bike mount from Roofbox.co.uk - this model I have appears to be discontinued, but I can certainly recommend the manufacturer and the seller.

Attached is a photo of us going out today.

 

I previously used a couple of roof mounted racks which were fine apart from the strength/agility needed to get the bikes on in the first place, and the fact you can only get two bikes (3 at a squeeze) on the top, as the Octy isn't that wide. They (and my roof bars) happen to be on ebay at the moment 

 

 

Also see a previous thread: 

 

Edited 19 April, 20197 yr by just music

14 minutes ago, just music said:

I've got a Buzzrack Quattro 4-bike mount from Roofbox.co.uk - this model I have appears to be discontinued, but I can certainly recommend the manufacturer and the seller.

Attached is a photo of us going out today.

 

I previously used a couple of roof mounted racks which were fine apart from the strength/agility needed to get the bikes on in the first place, and the fact you can only get two bikes (3 at a squeeze) on the top, as the Octy isn't that wide. They (and my roof bars) happen to be on ebay at the moment 

 

 

Also see a previous thread: 

 

 

Be careful with the nose weight on the tow bar, it already looks like moving weight balance away from the front. That rack is nearly 20kg which only leaves 55kg for the 4 bikes iirc the Octavia nose weight at 75kg

Yes it's fine - just. I've weighed everying using a digital luggage scale, and if comes in at 74.5! 

You reminded me that I have an Altera Strada. Well engineered , doesn't move and no tools are needed to attach it to the tow ball.

The total cost , with a tow hitch, was considerable. No regrets and our new bikes are held firm.

14 hours ago, just music said:

I've got a Buzzrack Quattro 4-bike mount from Roofbox.co.uk - this model I have appears to be discontinued, but I can certainly recommend the manufacturer and the seller.

Attached is a photo of us going out today.

 

I previously used a couple of roof mounted racks which were fine apart from the strength/agility needed to get the bikes on in the first place, and the fact you can only get two bikes (3 at a squeeze) on the top, as the Octy isn't that wide. They (and my roof bars) happen to be on ebay at the moment 

 

 

Also see a previous thread: 

 

 

I’m looking for some roof bars and cycle carriers. Please can you post a link to your eBay listing, if it’s still available ?

Cheers

When using the towbar you have to take care about the weight. Especially with electric bikes which are much heavier.

 

Also, since the load is much shifted to the back, the car is lower to the ground. Especially with the regular springs. If using the towbar for bikes, I highly recommend replacing the springs for more rugged ones, or install helper springs.

 

I noticed without bikes, only 2 adults and luggage already the lack of suspension, especially on speed bumps. Imagine an additional 50+kg on the towbar...

 

If you see the picture above with the 4 bikes you can clearly see this already. 

 

Edited 20 April, 20197 yr by DJSmiley