Re: Mountain Bike Rack

[Jeff Newton <newton@pmc-sierra.bc.ca>]

> I am thinking of putting a Thule or Yakima bike rack on top of the 
ole 
> Jetta.. I know the dealer here in town sells them since the Parts 
manager's 
> wife is the Thule rep.. I heard they scratch the top of your car all 
to 
> shit.. Any Opinions on them?

Patrick,

I have the VW racks and 2 bike carriers for my GLX.  I beleive the
carriers are made by Thule.  They work and look fine on the car. 
Got'em tossed in when I bought the car.

I don't know what the *REAL* Thule goes for but I don't think you can
go wrong with it.

In any case here are a few things to keep in mind:

1)  Only put the rack on when you need it and make sure the car is
REALLY clean when the rack goes on.  I've done this and my roof has
remained scratch-free.
2)  Gas milage will take a beating with the rack on.
3)  Wind noise is definately increased (especially with the roof open) 
I hear you can get a deflector that attaches to the front rack that
reduces the noise.

I've often seen used racks for sale.  You may want to pick one up from
some Trek or K2 buyer that doesn't need/want it. 


Cheers,

- ---
Jeff Newton
Unix Systems Administrator
Computer Services
PMC-Sierra Inc.