I've researched and researched and just can't decide. Now that Minidomore has the new 2011 hitch for the Cooper - I'm torn. I usually just carry a bike, and I like the idea of being able to pull in and out of the garage with the bike on. However, the installation of the hitch seems a bit odd now that the reverse light is in the bumper. FYI - I'm also considering a kayak.

Anyway, does anyone have any thoughts on one or the other?

Thanks!

 

The possibility of carrying a kayak would mandate a roof rack, I think.

I'm thinking about this too but will probably eventually go for a roof rack so that I can use a roof box.

Decision for me would be MINI or aftermarket rack... I've read that the MINI rack can hold more weight, which would be important for a roof box and/or kayak(s).

 

I have the same dilemma. I've decided the hitch is more versatile. With a bike rack on the hitch you're taken care of and with a small light weight trailer you can carry one or more kayaks. But then again...the roof rack is more convenient.

 

Light weight trailer - hmmmm interesting.

 

Thanks for the input. I think I'll go with the roof rack.

 

I have a yakima roof rack and love it, I wouldn't go with the mini one for the simple fact that they drill holes to install it, not a fan of it.

 

Gen 1 MINIs had to have holes drilled, yes, or better yet they were ordered to have the "option" of a Roof Rack and the holes and plugs were already there. But NOT Gen 2 MINIs, you don't have to drill any holes to attach a Roof Rack a little slicing of the Black Roof Trim where pre-elongated holes alread exist for the purpose of installing a Roof Rack!!

 

Go with the roof rack. The OEM Mini rack is very nice with the T channel rails so your bike racks just slide in with all the mounting equipment hidden. I have Rocky Mounts for my bike rack and love them they are cheaper then any of the Thule or Yakima ones plus they come in a variety of colors so you can match or contrast to your minis paint. I also have the Mini roof box for added space it is nice for long road trips and adds quite a bit of storage up there. Another added bonus is that kayak racks mount to the roof rack also, which prevents the awkwardness of having to pull a trailer.

I will try to add some photos later.

Good luck

 

My Thule requires no drilling holes or slicing anything... And it comes off in seconds.

 

Hey if you are interested, I have a MINI Fini Sport Link for sale that I'll cut you a really good deal on. You can use all sorts of attachments including, cargo carrier, Bike Rack trailer hitch, Spare Tire holder etc. If you live near columnus they can put it on for you. I am only selling it because my R56 was totalled in a rollover crash last month and I don't have a MINI at the momment. Let me know.

 

I pulled the trigger on the Minidomore hitch. However, i have use for a small trailer for various projects. I sometimes need to pick up material for home repair, I buy vintage motorcycles (mostly non-running) so for me, the roof rack would not cut it, but I concede that it would be more convenient for small items. Although, i plan on a small rear luggage rack that may make up most of the difference (and be more aerodynamic)

 

Say what you will about the factory rack for an R53, it is still the most solid, strongest, highest capacity rack you can get. I am on my second R53 MCS and had the dealer install factory racks on both of them. As long as you are carrying something they are very quiet at any speed. The capacity is 165 lbs, double what a Thule or Yakama is rated. Once the bolts are installed the cross bars do not contact the paint which you can clearly see that the Thule does from the post above. No worries about scratching the paint installing or removing or having to clean the roof before installing, or, if you live in the snow belt, getting grit under the foot pads while driving.

They are easy to install or remove, only takes about 5 minutes including carrying it out of the garage or putting it back. I have bicycle carriers, kayak carriers, and a cargo box. The cargo box has been great. No more worries when going to the local garden center and bringing home some of those dirty or wet items, just put them into the box and hose it out when done.

I carry two 15' kayaks, 50 lbs each, and assorted gear with no problem. Something a Thule or Yakama could not do.

Ninety per cent of the time I do not have the cross bars mounted and display my eight stainless steel bolts for all to see. Lower drag, saves gas.

 

I ordered the roof rack today. I found a great deal online. Local dealer wanted $250 + tax and said they would install it for another $150.

Anyway, I can't wait to install it and see how it looks.

Thanks for the advice. I love the MINI and can't wait to see my Marin 29er on it.

 

James- if you search around on the forum you'll find instructions to do the install yourself. The first time you install the MINI roof rack, it will probably take you an hour to figure out where the recessed tabs are and what part of the rubber roof gasket you'll have to remove. After your first installation, removing or reinstalling the rack only takes 10 minutes.

 

Anyone have pictures of your mini with the rack removed? The idea of having that strip missing a couple sections has been bugging me about getting the Mini rack. I would drive my mini 90% of the time without the rack. Mostly I would just carry a mountain bike or a bag for the quick trips to Vegas.

 

MiniDoMore.com hitch for me. Just loaded up my Wells Cargo small enclosed trailer with all my autocross gear and 14 wheels/tires. ;-) I think a hitch/trailer allows for more versatility. Anyway, just IMHO.

 

so do you use the mini rack and what type of cargo holder can you use on it? minimania has the box for like 600 dollars, thats crazy.. i was thinking maybe getting a roof bag from thule or yakima, any thoughts?