5 Best BMW X3 Bike Racks – You Won’t Regret Your Purchase! (Spring 2023)

This write-up gives you a list of the best BMW X3 bike racks in the market. Furthermore, it tells you how to pick a model for purchase that you won’t regret.
By
Gloria Bussey
Gloria Bussey
Research Writer
Gloria is a young, but prosperous writer. A few years ago she graduated with a Master’s degree in Journalism, and since then experiences no difficulties with job offers.
reviewed
Reviewed By
Steven Martin
Steven Martin
Expert Consultant
Apart from the fact that Steven is a car mechanic, we value his experience as an avid camper. Steven knows for sure how to make the most out of any space in your vehicle.
Last updated: April 27, 2023
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Notably, the bike rack you pick could mean the difference between damaging the back of your BMW X3 and safely carrying your bikes to your destination. The best BMW X3 bike racks take the back profile of the car into consideration and are designed to fit it like a glove.

They’re also impressive in terms of the load capacity, weight, how they’re made, security features, foldability, their strap systems, and more. These features determine how easy or difficult it is to mount the rack onto your car, how many bikes it can carry, the security of these bikes, and many other components of your user experience. Ultimately, we used these features to review and judge compatible bike racks objectively and, as such, can fully recommend the options listed below for purchase.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Saris Bones EX Bike Rack
    "The Saris Bones EX Bike Rack combines an injection molded design, rust-free materials, and the flexibility of mounting on BMWs with and without spoilers."
  • "The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack offers security for both your rack and your bikes. It can also handle heavier bikes."
  • Best Trunk BMW X3 Bike Rack: Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack
    "With this bike rack for your BMW X3, you get a foldable design for storage, anti-sway cradles, and a cable lock for extra security."
  • Best Lightweight 2-Bike Trunk Rack: Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack
    "This rack option is easy to set up, can switch between sedans and your BMW X3 at will, and has extra-large car pads to protect your car."
  • "The TG-RK1B204B Deluxe is lightweight, can carry a 55 lbs bike, has a lifetime warranty, and users don’t need to worry about assembly after purchase."

Top 5 BMW X3 Bike Racks Review 2023

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3947 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
1
Editor’s Choice

Saris Bones EX Bike Rack

Features
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes, 35 lbs. each
  • Size: not specified
  • Weight: 11 lbs.
  • Material: synthetic

Other features: strap mounting, 100% recyclable materials, fits vehicles with spoilers

The Saris Bones EX Bike Rack is designed to fit on the trunks of SUVs, sedans, and hatchbacks. As such, given that the BMW X3 is a compact luxury crossover SUV, it also fits into the list of compatible car models. The rack is made of 100% recyclable synthetic materials. These synthetics are also injection molded for some extra stability and durability. Additionally, since there aren’t many metal components, deterioration due to rust is something you never have to worry about. The straps are another impressive feature of the rack. They’re designed like zip ties meaning they don’t flail or flap around whether your bikes are attached to the rack or not.

The Saris Bones EX Bike Rack is for users looking to minimize their environmental impact by using recyclable equipment.

    Why did it make our list?
  • The strap mounting system is easy to use when putting your bikes on the rack. Furthermore, the straps don’t flap about during use. We also noticed the rack fits onto BMW X3 car models with spoilers just as easily as it attaches to those without. The use of recyclable materials is another of the rack’s positives.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • The security of the rack is wanting. You can’t leave your car or the bikes unattended if you hope to find them when you get back. A thief can easily open the straps and make away with one or both of your bicycles. Also, the anti-sway straps aren’t as durable as the top straps. Lastly, the installation instructions aren’t great.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9668 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.3
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.7
Features
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes, 65 lbs. each
  • Size: 4” x 25” x 26.75”
  • Weight: 45 lbs.
  • Material: aluminum, plastic

Other features: fits 1.25″ and 2″ receivers, smart foot pedal tilt

If you’re looking for a BMW X3 hitch rack, the Thule EasyFold XT 2 is for you. It features both aluminum and plastic construction and can carry two bikes. However, unlike most trunk-mounted racks that max out at 35 lbs per bike, this option allows 65 lbs per bike. Consequently, you could easily carry Ebikes or other heavy bike designs. The rack works with 1.25” or 2” receivers, and if yours is sized differently, you might have to replace it or look at alternative racks. Notably, you even get a smart foot pedal tilt that makes it possible to access your trunk without having to remove the rack.

The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack is for users who prefer hitch racks and are willing to pay extra.

    What are its best features?
  • The smart foot pedal is a major positive as it makes using this hitch rack a lot more convenient. Another convenience feature we noted is the bike loading ramp which allows you to load your bikes onto the rack without having to lift them. Lastly, you get two locks with the purchase. One locks the rack to the hitch receiver, and one ensures the safety of your bikes.
    What could be improved?
  • One, the hitch rack is a lot more expensive than most trunk strap-mounted alternatives. Additionally, if your bikes have fat wheels, you’ll need the optional wheel strap kit, which is sold separately. Lastly, the rack weighs 45 lbs, and as such, you might struggle with the weight when mounting the device onto the receiver.
Also Product Ranking:
Read full review: thule easyfold xt 2 bike rack
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2800 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.0
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.2
9.5
3
Best Trunk BMW X3 Bike Rack

Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack

Features
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes, 70 lbs. in total
  • Size: 23.5” x 18” x 33”
  • Weight: 13.7 lbs.
  • Material: aluminum, plastic

Other features: foldable, 6-strap tightening system, integrated anti-sway cradles

Given Thule’s stellar reputation, some of you may be looking for Thule BMW X3 bike racks without the hitch design. In that case, the Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack makes perfect sense. It’s a foldable trunk rack with a 6-strap tightening system. Also, just like the EasyFold XT 2, it’s made using aluminum and plastic. The incorporated arms fold down when not in use. However, when in use, they provide 7” of clearance between bikes and even incorporate anti-sway cradles to keep the two-wheelers from damaging each other during transit. Lastly, there’s an integrated cable lock system as well.

The Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack is for users who prefer trunk-mounted racks with the added advantage of security components.

    What are its best features?
  • Extra security for the two-wheelers is always welcome, and with the inclusion of the cable lock, you needn’t worry about leaving your bikes unattended. We noted the rack’s installation is quite simple, and if you’ve ever used a trunk rack before, you might not even need the instructions. Lastly, the anti-sway cradles are essential for keeping your bikes in perfect condition during transit.
    What could be improved?
  • First, the Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack doesn’t fit very well on BMW X3s with spoilers. Also, the installation instructions aren’t easy to follow since most of the rack’s parts aren’t labeled. Lastly, the straps aren’t the best quality which can be a problem if you max out the weight limit. Some users might not even have enough confidence in the straps to use the device.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5625 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.9
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.4
4
Best Lightweight 2-Bike Trunk Rack

Allen Sports Premier Trunk Mounted Bike Rack

Features
  • Load capacity: 2 bikes, 70 lbs. in total
  • Size: 23.6” x 13.6” x 4.7”
  • Weight: 11 lbs.
  • Material: alloy steel

Other features:  12-inch-long-carry arms, strap mounting, foldable, extra-large car pads

The Allen Sports Premier S102 Trunk Rack is a two-bike, 70 lbs-capacity rack that’s one of the easiest options to mount onto your bike rack. In addition to having a patent-pending overall design, it has patented straps as well. With this rack, you needn’t worry about the integrity of the rear windscreen or the car’s finish due to the extra-large car pads. These distribute the weight of the invention and mounted bikes more evenly. Additionally, the extra-long carry arms are easy to work with when you’re mounting your bikes.

The Allen Sports Premier S102 Trunk Rack is for users who want extra protection for their rear windscreen and car finish.

    Why did it make our list?
  • As mentioned above, the Allen Sports Premier S102 Trunk Rack is one of the easiest trunk racks to set up on your vehicle. Additionally, it comes with extra-large car pads that not only protect the integrity of your vehicle but help to distribute the weight of mounted bikes more evenly. In our opinion, the foldable rack design also makes storage a cinch. Lastly, this trunk rack is affordable.
    What is not ideal about it?
  • One major drawback is the lack of a warranty for anyone who buys this rack model from a third-party vendor. Additionally, no bike locking or rack locking mechanism is provided with the Allen Sports Premier S102 Trunk Rack. As such, you can easily find your bikes and even the rack gone after two minutes of leaving the device unattended.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9578 people in the past 30 days
9.2
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.7
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.0
9.2
Features
  • Load capacity: 1 bike, 55 lbs.
  • Size: 20” x 15” x 9.02”
  • Weight: 9 lbs.
  • Material: not specified

Other features: strap mounting, lifetime limited warranty, 100% assembled

The Tyger Auto TG-RK1B204B Deluxe is in the same price range as the Allen Sports Premier S102 Trunk Rack. However, this option is only meant to carry one bike. That said, its weight capacity is 55 lbs making it suitable for Ebikes. It’s an excellent option for your BMW X3 only if the car doesn’t have a rear spoiler. Additionally, it comes fully assembled and ready to mount onto your car. Notably, while the rack is made from metal, it’s also E-coated for rust resistance. Other features include the padded lower frame with safety straps and a lifetime limited warranty.

This rack is great if you only have one bike to transport.

    Why are we impressed?
  • In our opinion, the Allen Sports Premier S102 Trunk Rack is very easy to set up. You can do it in a matter of minutes, and you don’t even need an extra pair of hands. Additionally, the weight capacity is huge, considering you can only strap one bike onto the rack. Lastly, you’ll be protected by the warranty for as long as you own the device.
    What negatives must you be aware of?
  • First, the fact that it can only carry one bike may be an issue for some who, on occasion, may need to carry a second or third bike. Additionally, while most of the rack feels sturdy, the metal clips on the straps don’t. Lastly, there’s no way to lock the rack onto your car or your bike onto the rack.
Also Product Ranking:

Things to Consider

It’s essential that you get the right bike rack for your BMW X3; otherwise, some of the consequences could be a damaged car or damaged bikes. As such, you can use this buying guide to up your chances of making the best selection.

How to Pick the Best Bike Rack for BMW X3

If you’re going to pick the best bike rack for BMW X3 out of hundreds of options, you’ll need to know how to narrow down your options. Often this requires an in-depth look into the rack’s features and, by extension, its benefits. We’ve broken down the features and made it easier to figure out what you’re looking for in this section of the write-up.

Type and Use

5 Best BMW X3 Bike Racks - You Won't Regret Your Purchase! (Spring 2023)

There are multiple types of bike racks in the market, and this influences things like their set-up, how much they cost, how difficult it’ll be to mount your bikes, and more. The most common is the trunk-mounted rack because these racks are affordable and they’re easy to mount. The Saris Bones EX Bike Rack is a classic example of a trunk-mounted rack.

Data by Consumer Reports Trusted Source Best Bike Racks for Your Car - Consumer Reports Consumer Reports tips for choosing the right bicycle rack for your car. www.consumerreports.org shows there are two other major categories of bike racks, including hitch mount and roof racks, whether BMW X3 compatible or not. The only example of a hitch rack on the list above is the Thule EasyFold XT 2. This would make the rack compatible with most vehicles in the market today, including the BMW X3, as long as they have a compatible hitch installed.

Unfortunately, there’s no roof rack listed above. Nevertheless, as implied by the name, they’re typically mounted on the roof of your car. Each of these rack types has its pros and cons, and as such, you can look into how you intend to use the rack before you make the purchase. After that, you’ll be in a much better position to decide on a rack.

Vehicle Compatibility

The vehicle compatibility should also be on your mind as you’re making the purchase. All the models mentioned are compatible with the BMW X3. However, you may also have to consider other vehicle models, especially if you have multiple cars in your garage.

In the case of the Thule EasyFold XT 2, the rack is compatible with almost all car models. However, you’ll need to install either a 1.25” or 2” hitch receiver on all of your cars if you want the ability to switch between them liberally.

For trunk-mounted racks they’re designed to fit multiple car models but may not fit all of them.

In the case of the Thule Gateway Pro Trunk Bike Rack, you can’t mount it onto an SUV with a spoiler, and if your BMW has one, you might need to look elsewhere.

Materials and Durability

You’ll also notice that there’s no standard regarding the construction materials used to make the rack. More often than not, the racks are made from metal, but even the kind of metal used can vary. Some rack options you’ll encounter will have steel, aluminum, carbon fiber, plastic, and even synthetic construction.

These materials can influence things like how heavy or light the rack is, its potential for recycling, whether its prone to rust, and its durability. Metal construction is often more durable if it features a rust-resistant finish. Nevertheless, you’ll need to weigh all the pros and cons of each construction material before you can purchase a rack.

Load Capacity

The load capacity refers to how many bikes the rack can carry and the maximum weight of these bikes. Notably, manufacturers give the load capacity for most racks as part of the rack’s description. For instance, the Allen Sports Premier S102 trunk rack’s capacity is 70 lbs, and it can hold two bikes.

This works since most bikes, including some heavy mountain bikes, weigh less than 30 lbs. Nevertheless, some bikes can be significantly heavier. One example is Ebikes, and this can be attributed to the construction since they have extra components. According to Explain That Stuff, Trusted Source How do electric bicycles work? - Explain that Stuff An easy-to-understand explanation of electric bicycles, powered by powerful hub motors and super-efficient rechargeable batteries. www.explainthatstuff.com these additional components include a battery and an electric motor.

Consequently, if you have an Ebike, you might be better suited by the Tyger Auto TG-RK1B204B Deluxe, which can hold a 55 lbs bike. The Thule EasyFold XT 2 Hitch Bike Rack might also work since it has a 130 lbs weight limit for two bikes.

Size

The dimensions of the bike rack are another area you can judge it on. This will tell you whether the purchase is bulky, if it can fit in the trunk of your car, how easily it fits into storage, and even how convenient it is to carry it around. Compact racks with the added advantage of foldability are easy to store or move, and sometimes that can also affect the weight of the device for the better.

Security

5 Best BMW X3 Bike Racks - You Won't Regret Your Purchase! (Spring 2023)

In terms of security, most trunk-mounted racks aren’t very good. This is because they use straps as the connectors between the car and the device. These straps can easily be cut if your thief has a knife.

However, some thieves are thieves of opportunity, meaning they won’t steal a bike unless the owner is careless or there aren’t any security measures to keep the two-wheeler safe. As such, a cable lock like the one in the Thule Gateway Pro trunk bike rack may be enough of a deterrent.

Conversely, there are some determined thieves. They will actively target your bicycle, and if there’s any way to get it, they will. As such, you need a surer way of ensuring the bike doesn’t get stolen, and this is where products like the Thule EasyFold XT 2 hitch bike rack come in. This option has both a hitch and bike lock.

Weight

The rack’s weight may also come into play during use since you’ll have to lift it and move it quite often. Additionally, you’ll have to hold it up when setting it up on your BMW X3, meaning it should be as light as possible. However, sometimes being lightweight comes at the cost of some other features, so you might have to compromise.

Cost

You also need to buy a bike rack that fits your budget requirements. The prices vary, and it’s just as easy to find an affordable rack as it is to find an expensive one. That said, trunk-mounted racks seem to be the cheapest of the bunch, while hitch-mounted alternatives are generally more costly.

Other Features

In your search for the ideal BMW X3 bike rack, you’ll encounter extra features as well. Examples include anti-sway cradles, the smart foot pedal tilt, and more. Since these add value to the device purchase, you should try to get as many as possible with your rack. However, you also need to consider the benefits they bring to your user experience; otherwise, they may be redundant.

FAQ

How Do You Attach a Bike Rack to a BMW X3?

How you attach the bike rack to your car will likely depend on the type of rack. For trunk-mounted racks, this often involves hooking the straps to the top, sides, and bottom of the trunk and then tightening them up.

As for hitch racks, you insert the bike rack into the hitch receiver, so the hole in the rack lines up perfectly with its counterpart in the receiver. After that, you insert the locking bolt through the holes, tighten it up, and sometimes even lock it in place.

There are some variations of these processes, but for the most part, it’s pretty straightforward to attach your bike rack.

How Do I Know if My Bike Rack Is Secure?

For trunk racks, you need to ensure the straps are tight even after you mount the bikes. This includes the top, side, and bottom straps. You can also check them periodically to see if they loosen up while you drive.

If any straps come loose, you need to re-tighten them and even look for solutions to ensure they don’t come loose again. Hitch racks are often more secure, and you can wriggle the set-up to check for movement. There might be some minor movement due to spaces in the set-up, but it shouldn’t be much.

Our verdict

To summarize our top picks, the Saris Bones EX bike rack is quite the convenient pick for anyone looking for a bike rack for their BMW X3. It’s well constructed despite not having metal components, affordable, easy to set up, works whether your car has spoilers or not, and you can even recycle it at the end of its lifespan.
As for the Thule EasyFold XT 2 hitch bike rack, it’s another favorite from the list since it offers enhanced security both for the bikes and the rack. Additionally, it has a larger weight capacity than other options listed and even includes some convenience features.

The Thule Gateway Pro trunk bike rack is another one of the best BMW X3 bike racks in the market despite not being a hitch rack like the EasyFold XT 2. Designwise it’s a lot like the Saris Bones EX, and it even has the added advantage of a cable lock included with the purchase. Lastly, it has anti-sway cables that might come in handy to protect your bikes.

References

1.
Best Bike Racks for Your Car - Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports tips for choosing the right bicycle rack for your car.
2.
How do electric bicycles work? - Explain that Stuff
An easy-to-understand explanation of electric bicycles, powered by powerful hub motors and super-efficient rechargeable batteries.
9,8
Total Score
Saris Bones EX Bike Rack - Editor’s Choice
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