AirSpeed VW Community Forums

Specialty Forums => Bay- curios? => Topic started by: seahwk51 on August 08, 2011, 10:16:56 PM

Title: Bike Rack
Post by: seahwk51 on August 08, 2011, 10:16:56 PM
Just wondering how you guys are mounting bike racks to your bays.I currently have a hitch mount rackbut don't really like the idea of attaching it to my 74 paper thin rear bumber !
Any ideas  , photos  appreciated !
Title: Re: Bike Rack
Post by: Geoff on August 08, 2011, 10:32:07 PM
Mine is a little different as it's a 72 with a T1 engine but I built a HD mount that runs from one side to the other frame rail then it steps down to the hitch. I made mine fold so I could get at the engine easy.

(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.airspeedparts.com%2Fgallery%2Falbums%2Fuserpics%2F10002%2Fhitch.jpg&hash=c813903fee9096c0aaf36d9a0f48c387d794a110)

(https://airspeedparts.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.airspeedparts.com%2Fgallery%2Falbums%2Fuserpics%2F10002%2Fnormal_hitch2.jpg&hash=4752c000df374c1187efa2942b2383fe36db1e75)

For a 73-79 Bumper I'd think a nice strong 2x2 thick wall square tubing behind the bumper and tied into the brackets or frame would work well.
Title: Re: Bike Rack
Post by: number3 on August 09, 2011, 08:24:01 AM
On my 76 Westy I used a Paulchen type rack.  It hung off the rear rain gutter.  Carried 3 or 4 bikes and used it all up and down the westcoast on various trips.  Still have the rack but no bus.  Yes I want one again. ;D

Couldn't find a picture but the link below shows the type of rack.  Same brand but mine was a little different for a bay window.  Down side is you can't access the rear hatch with the bike rack installed.

http://www.vanagon.com/info/accessories/paulchen/index.htm
Title: Re: Bike Rack
Post by: 72vwtype2 on August 12, 2011, 01:24:55 PM
If I am not mistaken the Paulchen Racks do not fit Bay's that well. They are designed for the Vanagons. The best rear mounting bike racks for the Bay's is the Fiamma, which is made in Italy, but can be ordered through the Bus Depot in the States.
Title: Re: Bike Rack
Post by: seahwk51 on August 17, 2011, 07:32:40 PM
Nice setup Geoff !
But I don't think that would work for me  as I have a glass pack  which leaves me no clearance from header to bumper.