While the initial cost is a bit much, the ease of use and the significant lack of drag vs our previous Clubman's bike roof rack makes for a better solution. Further, our road bikes are better protected from mashed bugs as the rear of the car provides a nice cocoon.

The extra cost wii certainly be made up in less fuel usage.

Highly recommend!

 

Hey Buckeye, Welcome to the community! Got any pictures of that rack? How easy is it to install on the back of the car?

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d19_vitvoZQ

 

I've seen that before, but I heard on an Italian forum that that particular model had been discontinued. I wanted to see if the one Buckeye got was the same. That's why I asked.

 

From what I gather, MINI's North American rear bike rack is the same as the Euro edition -- just doesn't have the lights or license plate mount.

You saw the MINI USA promo vid too? It's barely onscreen, but it looks the same to me...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T3kkyEGJ2

 

Sorry for the delay. The U.S. version does not include the electronics (lights) or license plate holder. I was able to follow behind our Countryman with two road bikes on the rack, was able to clearly see brake lights through the bikes, so no need for the extra electronics (as least from my perspective).

Regarding ease of install/removal: significantly easier than the Clubman roof mount. One person install, key is to alternate tightening both sides and supporting the rack with one hand. Securing the bikes was very simple as well. (I don't love the wheel clips as they might scratch the bike wheels, but as long as your are careful, all is good.)

I sense this seems like I'm "selling" this, but in fact, I found the Clubman rooftop bike holder to be a PITA, so aside from the Countryman improving all the issues we had with our Clubman, the bike transport solution certainly falls within the improvements.

 

That is a really good looking system. Unfortunately I already have a Saris Bones rack and can't justify the expense. It looks like you can still get into the hatch with the bikes off and the vertical piece down. You can't do this with my rack. It is nice to put all the other gear - shoes, helmet, etc in the back and have access with the rack still on.
CN

 

You have the Bones on yours? I ask because the manufacturer won't recommend installing it on a Countryman and was hesitant to go against their recommendation for safety, security and prevention of damage to my MINI.

 

Reply to question on Saris Bones:

We haven't gotten our Mini yet. It is in transit. I assumed that since it fits on our minivan (that we are trading) and my current car that it would work fine on the CM. Maybe I shouldn't assume that it would be fine. Thanks for the heads up, if you have more specific information from them please post it. I am struggling to think where it might cause damage. The rubber ends can rest on the glass and the bumper just like our minivan. This is the one I have just to make sure we are talking about the same model: http://www.amazon.com/Saris-Bones-3-.../dp/B0007M64GK
CM

 

I just looked on Saris' site and saw what you were stating - that they do not recommend the trunk models for the CM. There must be some concern at one of the contact points. It is hard to imagine. I only carry an 18 lb road bike but I probably won't risk it. Thanks for posting the warning.
CN

 

I think the problem is the spoiler -- it's plastic and likely doesn't take well to the tension necessary to ratchet the rack's mounting straps down onto the rear door. *crunch!*

For what it's worth, Yakima says their trunk mount racks won't work on the Countryman either and Thule doesn't even list the Countryman yet... (though I don't expect any different of a response)

 

While the rear mounts definitely do decrease the drag, my experience is that the rear mount results in more dirt and dust on the bikes than a roof mount. I've always thought that it was for this reason that I tend to see the most expensive bikes more often on roof racks.

I will note that having just driven back from Moab UT that there are more bugs on the bikes when on the roof however. :-(

 

Buckeye, did you ever get photos of road bikes on the rear rack? We picked ours up this weekend, and were unable to successfully mount our roadbikes, so are exchanging for the roof system. I really wish the rear system would have worked out.

We had numerous issues - the holder closest to the car has physically limited tray adjustments, so the wheel trays did not hold the bike wheels (platform too wide.) If we were able to get that to work, then attempting to mount two bikes meant they would rub against each other (wheel axles, handlebar to opposite seat/post) as well as difficulty getting the swing arm thru the near bike to secure the far. If there was a trick to make it work, I'd love to find out before we bring this rack back!

 

We'll post pictures in the morning, planning on a ride then.

 

Any luck with the photos?

 

I have a Yakima mount (which worked great on my '05 MCS), I was able to mount with minimal pressure on the spoiler, but... I wasn't sure how much pressure the spoiler could really take and was also concerned about scratching the paint on the spoiler and tailgate, so I ended up with the roof mount. For me, I went with the roof because it gives options for carrying other equipment.