Looking for suggestions:

I have a 2008 R56 hardtop. I would like to install a hitch to attach a bike rack. There are several out there. Any recommendations? Is it an installation that I can do or do you have it done professionally?

I also have a 14.5 Native Watercraft Marvel Tandem Kayak. Any suggestions for a good Rack to carry this? I plan to install a Factory Rack.

Thanks,
Wisconsin Johnson

 

I would suggest looking on minimania.com and looking at their roof racks. But I would go with just the Roof rack instead of a hitch saves installs and less money. here's minimania's link to their roof racks http://new.minimania.com/web/STSearc..._Inventory.cfm
As far as your kayak I would suggest maybe a truck instead of the Mini.

 

For the roof rack you can use just about any rack components from Thule or Yakima on the OEM Base Rack System (cross bars) . Some may need longer bolts or other slight mods but find what you like and use it.

As for a Hitch for the Bike Rack any of them are relatively easy to install if you have basic modding skills. Rear bumper has to come off to install but it i really a mater of taking your time to do it rather than difficult.

Check Mini-Do-More's site for instructions. They all go on about the same way.

Here a link to the instructions. http://www.minidomore.com/pdf/2007%2...structions.pdf

 

Schatzy62
Thanks for the response. I purchased a Curt 24818 on line yesterday for 1/2 the store price, + shipping, and was deciding whether to have U Haul install it (1 Hour recommended labor) or working in my cold garage. I think I know the choice.
WJ (57)

 

Not all kayaks fit in the back of a pickup. Here's a shot of my mini pickup and three of my kayaks in back.

I have seen two whitewater kayaks carried on top of a MINI so carrying one a little longer should be no problem.

 

I also have he curt hitch and it works really well. I installed it myself in about an hour. I bought a cheap hitch plug from uhaul and rigged it to plug the hole left in the valance.

 

hahaha you make a good point. but when I say truck im meaning more of a full size and it was a joke.

 

http://www.outmotoring.com/mini-coop...ack_kayak.html
might be a good one for you.

 

Hey does anyone have actual experience using one of these kayak racks? Sure, it would be nice to go buy a truck but that isn't an option.

If anyone has some feedback on how these kayak racks actually handle, I've love to know. The mini is so light, I wonder if it is practical to tie down a kayak and drive to the coast (through wind, etc.). For me they are too expensive to buy as a trial.

Thanks for any info!