R60 Rails / Bike Rack / Cargo Box for Countryman
#1
Rails / Bike Rack / Cargo Box for Countryman
I need a hard cargo box to schlep a bunch of stuff down to New Orleans from NJ and back. Lot's of 80mph highway driving so safety and fuel efficiency are an issue. I don't want to worry about the thing flying off my roof on the highway.
I also have the occasional need to carry a single pair of skis locally - just a few miles on backroads.
And more often we need to carry 2 road bikes a little way, also locally.
Next year, if we go back to New Orleans, we may even want to put both bikes and the box on the roof. But that's not definite so it is not a priority - but it would be nice.
And I don't want to spend thousands. Nor do I know where to begin. I'm short and not mechanically inclined so it has to be a system on the simple side. Looks are secondary. Which rails? Which are easy to mount? Which accessories? Will it all fit on my Countryman?
Any and all advice and suggestions highly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
I also have the occasional need to carry a single pair of skis locally - just a few miles on backroads.
And more often we need to carry 2 road bikes a little way, also locally.
Next year, if we go back to New Orleans, we may even want to put both bikes and the box on the roof. But that's not definite so it is not a priority - but it would be nice.
And I don't want to spend thousands. Nor do I know where to begin. I'm short and not mechanically inclined so it has to be a system on the simple side. Looks are secondary. Which rails? Which are easy to mount? Which accessories? Will it all fit on my Countryman?
Any and all advice and suggestions highly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
#2
it might be tough being that you are... *ahem* "vertically challenged" to put bikes on a rooftop carrier. i think there's a bumper carrier available.
as far as rooftop goes.. bars and a name brand box will run you about $700 give or take. the mini oem bars can be purchased for considerably less than an aftermarket (like thule) set, but boxes run around 500 give or take.
i think bentyyc has a configuration that lets him put 2 bike carriers and a box on top
as far as rooftop goes.. bars and a name brand box will run you about $700 give or take. the mini oem bars can be purchased for considerably less than an aftermarket (like thule) set, but boxes run around 500 give or take.
i think bentyyc has a configuration that lets him put 2 bike carriers and a box on top
#4
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-Country...ce348c&vxp=mtr
you can find them between 175 and 200 bucks.
i still haven't bitten the bullet on a box yet, winter's coming and i really need to get one to put my snowboard in. i'm TRYING to squirrel away a little and save for it, but there always seems to be something that drains that stash fund quicker than i can add to it.
you can find them between 175 and 200 bucks.
i still haven't bitten the bullet on a box yet, winter's coming and i really need to get one to put my snowboard in. i'm TRYING to squirrel away a little and save for it, but there always seems to be something that drains that stash fund quicker than i can add to it.
#5
All the major brands (Yakima, Thule, etc.) are going to have solutions that will work. For me, I like the mid-width sizing of the MINI-branded box, as it leaves room on the crossbars for other accessories - in my case, bike racks.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bentyyc/5991952353/
As far as bike racks go, I can't recommend the Rockymounts enough! I went with the Euro Pitchforks and it's very solid and very stealth.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bentyyc/7516945690/
You can also go the bikes-on-the-back route, which we do for our kids' bikes...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bentyyc/7469692044/
#7
yeah, he has mini oem bars.
before you bite the bullet and order a set from ebay, check with your dealer.. i got a 20% off accessories coupon in my email today, and you wouldn't have to pay shipping.
... that last picture gives me the overwhelming desire to duck, because the loaded rack being that close to the garage
before you bite the bullet and order a set from ebay, check with your dealer.. i got a 20% off accessories coupon in my email today, and you wouldn't have to pay shipping.
... that last picture gives me the overwhelming desire to duck, because the loaded rack being that close to the garage
Trending Topics
#9
#10
If memory serves, the MINI roof box is just a hair over 2 feet wide (63cm)...
#11
Good memory dpike!
All the major brands (Yakima, Thule, etc.) are going to have solutions that will work. For me, I like the mid-width sizing of the MINI-branded box, as it leaves room on the crossbars for other accessories - in my case, bike racks.
As far as bike racks go, I can't recommend the Rockymounts enough! I went with the Euro Pitchforks and it's very solid and very stealth.
You can also go the bikes-on-the-back route, which we do for our kids' bikes...
All the major brands (Yakima, Thule, etc.) are going to have solutions that will work. For me, I like the mid-width sizing of the MINI-branded box, as it leaves room on the crossbars for other accessories - in my case, bike racks.
As far as bike racks go, I can't recommend the Rockymounts enough! I went with the Euro Pitchforks and it's very solid and very stealth.
You can also go the bikes-on-the-back route, which we do for our kids' bikes...
#12
Has anyone explored or purchased a rear cargo box for the countryman... ?
My plans for our trip to the Cape have changed and we'll be traveling in separate vehicles at separate times...
Can purchase a rear car open cargo basket that will attach to the CooperCrap custom tow hitch that's on it's way for my small 4/5 trailer....but would rather travel w/o the hitch and directly into the tow adapters like the custom bike rack...I have the mini roof bars with a Thule box that works and looks great....But I am traveling with (3), yes THREE, teenagers I need more storage space...the memo about carry on luggage only....didn't seem to fly well
My plans for our trip to the Cape have changed and we'll be traveling in separate vehicles at separate times...
Can purchase a rear car open cargo basket that will attach to the CooperCrap custom tow hitch that's on it's way for my small 4/5 trailer....but would rather travel w/o the hitch and directly into the tow adapters like the custom bike rack...I have the mini roof bars with a Thule box that works and looks great....But I am traveling with (3), yes THREE, teenagers I need more storage space...the memo about carry on luggage only....didn't seem to fly well
#14
I appreciate the thought and offer though
#18
So I received my trailer/ cargo hitch with 2" receiver today from CooperCrap....
It's the one that uses the existing 2 receivers on the rear bumper of the countryman.
"Same way you would attach the Mni Aluminum Bike Rack" Popped off the 2 plastic covers and secured the threaded machined bolts. Was not impressed with the powdered coated black hitch....but we'll take care of that! Was impressed with how secure the bolts secured to the frame of the vehicle....so we added the 2" receiver and grabbed hold of it with our o/h 15 ton crane and went for it.... Had the rear end of the Mini up 3 plus feet and no concerns at all.....surprisingly very strong/secure... Would not hesitate to pull a 1000-2000 lb trailer at all... hitch wise... Not sure Mini wise... This is all to accommodate 3 teenagers carry on luggage that won't all fit in the overhead compartments......So now to find a carrier to accommodate the CooperCrap hitch!
Pictures to follow... On the iPad this evening and for some reason NAM is not letting them upload to post.....
It's the one that uses the existing 2 receivers on the rear bumper of the countryman.
"Same way you would attach the Mni Aluminum Bike Rack" Popped off the 2 plastic covers and secured the threaded machined bolts. Was not impressed with the powdered coated black hitch....but we'll take care of that! Was impressed with how secure the bolts secured to the frame of the vehicle....so we added the 2" receiver and grabbed hold of it with our o/h 15 ton crane and went for it.... Had the rear end of the Mini up 3 plus feet and no concerns at all.....surprisingly very strong/secure... Would not hesitate to pull a 1000-2000 lb trailer at all... hitch wise... Not sure Mini wise... This is all to accommodate 3 teenagers carry on luggage that won't all fit in the overhead compartments......So now to find a carrier to accommodate the CooperCrap hitch!
Pictures to follow... On the iPad this evening and for some reason NAM is not letting them upload to post.....
#19
So I received my trailer/ cargo hitch with 2" receiver today from CooperCrap....
It's the one that uses the existing 2 receivers on the rear bumper of the countryman.
"Same way you would attach the Mni Aluminum Bike Rack" Popped off the 2 plastic covers and secured the threaded machined bolts. Was not impressed with the powdered coated black hitch....but we'll take care of that! Was impressed with how secure the bolts secured to the frame of the vehicle....so we added the 2" receiver and grabbed hold of it with our o/h 15 ton crane and went for it.... Had the rear end of the Mini up 3 plus feet and no concerns at all.....surprisingly very strong/secure... Would not hesitate to pull a 1000-2000 lb trailer at all... hitch wise... Not sure Mini wise... This is all to accommodate 3 teenagers carry on luggage that won't all fit in the overhead compartments......So now to find a carrier to accommodate the CooperCrap hitch!
Pictures to follow... On the iPad this evening and for some reason NAM is not letting them upload to post.....
It's the one that uses the existing 2 receivers on the rear bumper of the countryman.
"Same way you would attach the Mni Aluminum Bike Rack" Popped off the 2 plastic covers and secured the threaded machined bolts. Was not impressed with the powdered coated black hitch....but we'll take care of that! Was impressed with how secure the bolts secured to the frame of the vehicle....so we added the 2" receiver and grabbed hold of it with our o/h 15 ton crane and went for it.... Had the rear end of the Mini up 3 plus feet and no concerns at all.....surprisingly very strong/secure... Would not hesitate to pull a 1000-2000 lb trailer at all... hitch wise... Not sure Mini wise... This is all to accommodate 3 teenagers carry on luggage that won't all fit in the overhead compartments......So now to find a carrier to accommodate the CooperCrap hitch!
Pictures to follow... On the iPad this evening and for some reason NAM is not letting them upload to post.....
http://www.companiontrailers.com
This picture reminds me, I still gotta sell those wheels. The wife is a little mad I still have quite afew parts/wheels/tires left for my old MINI.
#20
Pulled one of these with my old R52. The 4's and 6's are no problem at all
http://www.companiontrailers.com
This picture reminds me, I still gotta sell those wheels. The wife is a little mad I still have quite afew parts/wheels/tires left for my old MINI.
http://www.companiontrailers.com
This picture reminds me, I still gotta sell those wheels. The wife is a little mad I still have quite afew parts/wheels/tires left for my old MINI.
Last edited by Flyer53; 07-20-2013 at 02:29 AM.
#21
If Rental is what you are after, consider a sport trailer rental from Uhaul. http://www.uhaul.com/Reservations/Eq....aspx?model=ST
#22
Thanks for the Info.....Actually called Uhaul and they are a bit concerned about the bumper....I really like the Companion. I think I might get serious about one of those for the future...!
Plans for the trip have changed, as I thought might We've gone from 3 teenagers to 2... but the catch is they want to bring there bikes
So the deal is..I'll make it work....But limited to carry-on luggage only...
All agreed....no last minute changes, otherwise reservations will be revoked with non-refundable tickets...sounded good anyways Now to make it all work..... I truly could use this one from Companion.
Here's a few of the CooperCrap Bumper installed.....
Plans for the trip have changed, as I thought might We've gone from 3 teenagers to 2... but the catch is they want to bring there bikes
So the deal is..I'll make it work....But limited to carry-on luggage only...
All agreed....no last minute changes, otherwise reservations will be revoked with non-refundable tickets...sounded good anyways Now to make it all work..... I truly could use this one from Companion.
Here's a few of the CooperCrap Bumper installed.....
#23
Thanks for the Info.....Actually called Uhaul and they are a bit concerned about the bumper....I really like the Companion. I think I might get serious about one of those for the future...!
Plans for the trip have changed, as I thought might We've gone from 3 teenagers to 2... but the catch is they want to bring there bikes
So the deal is..I'll make it work....But limited to carry-on luggage only...
All agreed....no last minute changes, otherwise reservations will be revoked with non-refundable tickets...sounded good anyways Now to make it all work..... I truly could use this one from Companion.
Here's a few of the CooperCrap Bumper installed.....
Attachment 78418
Attachment 78419
Plans for the trip have changed, as I thought might We've gone from 3 teenagers to 2... but the catch is they want to bring there bikes
So the deal is..I'll make it work....But limited to carry-on luggage only...
All agreed....no last minute changes, otherwise reservations will be revoked with non-refundable tickets...sounded good anyways Now to make it all work..... I truly could use this one from Companion.
Here's a few of the CooperCrap Bumper installed.....
Attachment 78418
Attachment 78419
I really like my rooftop carrier and bars, it is just such a PITA to load and unload.
#24
So you have established you aren't worried that the "hitch" will fail using the 2 holes. What about the holes and wherever they are welded to? Everything sturdy enough? I wonder if something could be welded On to that frame that can also swing out creating an old style tire carrier for a spare?
I really like my rooftop carrier and bars, it is just such a PITA to load and unload.
I really like my rooftop carrier and bars, it is just such a PITA to load and unload.
A few things I liked with this hitch over the others is this one is formed to the contour/shape of the counttrymans bumper....it's within an inch. The other is ability of removing w/o the need to get under the car. They supplied the allen wrench, even anti seize lube and rubber gloves for the installation. Once the threaded lugs/pins were secured to mini's threads, the welded hitch was slipped over those pins. We did use a rubber mallet alternating hits side to side making sure it went on evenly and finally securing a sturdy allen bolts.
My plan is to basically leave it on and make use of it with whatever adaptions I can come up with...a tire rack/holder will be on of my first builds as I run 19" non run flats in the summer...so on any type of trip, the roof carrier's first item is the 5th wheel. I did not purchase a wire harness kit....as I do not plan on making this a regular towing vehicle, perhaps with a few exceptions.....when the time comes to remove it for adaptions, fabrications I have nice powder that has the same blue as my countryman with a black swirl I will powder and should add to the look, blending in even better
I did purchase/order (Cape trip) a Thule 4 place bike rack that adapts well with the 2" receiver. The only modification I may need to make is to trim the length of Thule's 2" tubing as the hitches receiver is close to the bumper. Should be here Tuesday, pictures to follow....
#25
Good memory dpike!
All the major brands (Yakima, Thule, etc.) are going to have solutions that will work. For me, I like the mid-width sizing of the MINI-branded box, as it leaves room on the crossbars for other accessories - in my case, bike racks.
As far as bike racks go, I can't recommend the Rockymounts enough! I went with the Euro Pitchforks and it's very solid and very stealth.
You can also go the bikes-on-the-back route, which we do for our kids' bikes...
All the major brands (Yakima, Thule, etc.) are going to have solutions that will work. For me, I like the mid-width sizing of the MINI-branded box, as it leaves room on the crossbars for other accessories - in my case, bike racks.
As far as bike racks go, I can't recommend the Rockymounts enough! I went with the Euro Pitchforks and it's very solid and very stealth.
You can also go the bikes-on-the-back route, which we do for our kids' bikes...
I'll probably opt for the roof rack option: one for my road bike and for my (future) mtn bike