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I have looked through a number of threads for an answer.
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Am I "stuck" with using the hitch from MiniDoMore.com? Or, are there other, more reasonably priced options out there.

I am unable to comprehend how the hitch for the older models is $185 versus $325 for the new one? Especially when it requires 4~5 hours of installation. (not the fault of the rack of course). But, $800 for an installed rack is rather daunting.

Love the site - very informative and helpful!

 

There is also the Mini-Fini hitch option. But it's expensive as well.

http://www.minifini.com/Shop.aspx

 

I'm in the same indecisive boat. Contemplating on the MiniFini hitch option. All seem to be a bit pricey.

 

Thanks for the pointer. I am pleased that there are other manufacturers producing items for our cars. Do I understand the concept correctly that you would have to purchase the Mini Fini for the car, then a Mini Fini receiver hitch as well?

I simply want a way to utilize my investment in a Thule rack for my previous car. I had no idea it would prove this challenging ;-)

Thanks again for your response. I believe I will have to "bite the bullet" and get the minidomore option.

 

With the Mini Fini system, you buy their hitch system, then an attachment; ball hitch, bike rack, etc.

The Minidomore hitch would give you a hitch with only one thing to buy.

 

I have the MiniFini system and love it. We take the bikes everywhere now and when it's off, the little bumper holes still look cool. Easy to DIY.

 

Can you post pics of the rear ? I see that you have a JCW and looking to do the same to my JCW and was wondering where the two pegs come through.

Thanks a million !

 

These are the best I have. The MiniFini is so great.

 

Perfect, that is what I was looking for and now know where the stubs come out. Going to place an order shortly !!

Thanks a million !

 

Morbius,

I found this on minidomore. Just take a look.

http://www.minidomore.com/

 

Thanks.

I have looked at that in the past and in a 07 JCW, it requires cutting a large square hole in the bumper which is above the tail pipes. So I did a template and when I placed the template on the bumper, it looks very bad. Especially since there are no color matched plugs to hide the hole. The minifini is two round holes which matches the tail pipes and silver color rubber round covers are available all over the place ....

 

Actually, the holes come out in a the perfect spot. I put the MIniFini unit on and placed the bumper over to make my marks before drilling. Be sure to ask for the rubber covers as it'll make a nicer finish.

 

Good, at least you saw and evaluated it before.

 

Yeah, would have been good to use it because of the many parts I have on the shelf already, but looks at this point seems to be overruling costs. Sounds stupid but love our minis

Thanks.

 

I have the minidomore hitch and even went so far as making a hole in my JCW bumper.

Here's a pic of the plug. It's an old pic since then I've smoothed it out and painted it again.

 

Very very nice !! I will now have to re-think this. Thanks this is perfect pics of each on JCW. How easy to get to the hitch pin since it is right above the pipes ?

Thanks a million !

 

I second that. OrangeCrush, great job on the MinidoMore. I also am seriously considering it. Any instructions on the install?

 

Actually, the pin is relatively easy to get to. You'll have to actually lay on the ground but I didn't have to modify the exhaust shield. (as opposed to the butchering/cutting I did on my R52 with the minidomore hitch)



Thanks slinger, the install is extremely easy. Remove the rear bumper, remove either the absorber/inner brace (I've forgotten, I've installed 4 different ones) and reinstall the rear cover.

The whole install was less than 45 minutes. They fit excellent, work great.

I use it to haul other stuff....

 

Great looking car.... but one question. Where's the exhaust pipes?




Thanks,

Mark

 

I have an 'older model', 04 R50. Could you please tell me what hitch exactly you are refering to that costs $185, and where to get it? Were you refering to the MiniDoMore for that price, or something else?

thanks

 

I have an "08 MCS with the Minidomore receiver and I couldn't be happier. Installation took about 2 hours with me taking my time and rereading the instructions multiple times. All you see is a small black square when you aren't using a rack. Installation of the hitch pin doesn't even require getting on the ground. You just squat down and reach under the bumper and over the exhaust heat shield. Very easy. I can take the rack off in about 2 minutes. You never know there's a hitch on the car unlike the minifini unit, and you can use any 1-1/4" hitch mounted bike carrier. I went with a Saris after much consideration.

Bottom line, the Minidomore hitch is expensive but that's the only cost you'll as installation is eazy.

 

"Great looking car.... but one question. Where's the exhaust pipes?"

I have a cooper and put the S gas cap ans JCW aero kit on.

 

Awesome! Awesome!! Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!

I was so hoping some one would finally try this. When did you order this from us. I am so excited to see it on a JCW bumper. It looks great!!!!!!!!!!

You have made my night

 

Actually Brent, you made my day. You may not remember but I was the one that purchased a hitch from you for my R52. I ended up trading the car in about a week later.

You so kindly allowed me to send it back and I paid a cleanup fee on it and you sent me the new hitch for my R56.

Anyway, here's an updated pic. I sanded down the little cover and smoothed it out before painting it.



PS. I'll be calling you today, I never got it wired and need the wiring harness for it.

Thanks,

Mark

PS. I bought the car roughly in June so I'd say it's 4-5 months ago. It was under Collision Specialties, Inc.

 

Brent - I emailed you and received a response that the minidomore kit will not work w/the JCW or factory aero. With the pictures posted above, it looks like it can.

Your thoughts on giving it a shot on the factory painted 09 aero kit? (no grills, smoothed out bumper) I'd really like to go with your kit vs. others.