Hey everyone,

First post here, so be kind

I have an 05 Xa, w/ a 1 1/4" reciever and a 2 bike, tray style hitch rack. It's been awesome so far, but I want to be able to carry 3-4 bikes (occasionally). I really have 2 options: Keep the 2 bike rack on the back, and put on a roof rack. OR get a 4 bike tray style rack for the rear (only one I know is made by Saris). Is 4 bikes too much for my little Scion? Each bike wouldn't exceed 40 lbs. If the Xa can handle it, would it be better to go w/ the roof+hitch rack, or just the hitch rack?

opinions are gretly appreciated!
-Matt

 

I have never had the need to have 4 bikes with me at one time even tho i own four. The weight limit on my hitch is 200 lbs so if you keep it under that you are all fine to get the bigger hitch rack. What kind of bike you do??? road...mountain?

 

two on the roof rack and two on the hitch...

 

Mountain bike. I only have 2 mtn bikes, but I want too carry four, for this summer, when buddies and I went to go somewhere, my car gets the best MPG.

Thanks for the sugguestions, keep em coming! I would prefer to do 4 on the hitch, just cause a new rear rack is cheaper than getting a whole roof system...

 

Matt,

I have a roof rack on my xA, but we have the Saris 4 on the back of our Xterra. I can tell you with 4 mtn bikes on there, you can see some sag on the suspension. I don't know how much it weighs with everything on it, but I would think if it causes the Xterra to sag, it is probably pretty heavy for the Scion's suspension.

 

not to mention the weight with all the people inside! I would do the roof rack and hitch idea, if I was to do anything.....

 

I have the roof rack on my xA and I carry 2 bikes and 2 kayaks on the roof in the summer a lot. Biggest problem with that load is that you have to get creative with the bike placements to get them side by side. I run with one backwards.