Nissan Patrol 4x4 (Africa)

Hi guys,

I'm trying to figure out what bicycle rack is the best option for carrying three bicycles behind the Patrol. I already have Thule wing bars for the wave skis and things but don't particularly want to spend circa nearly R2000 for mounting each bicycle on top of the vehicle. I also think that one of those very large carriers that sit on the tow bar and which have a complete set of lights connecting to the vehicle's electrical system is probably overkill. I was looking at something like this: https://rackmaster.co.za/Rackmaster-3-X ... -p98474981 Does anybody have any idea if this will adequately clear the spare wheel on the back door of the GU?

Clem, I'm not sure if the angles are similar, but I have one of these: http://www.holdfast.co.za/sa2000, and I had to fit one of these: http://www.holdfast.co.za/base-plate-extensions in order to clear the spare wheel.

Many thanks indeed Jonathan. I realised after placing the post that I will probably be okay for the simple reason that my tow ball hits the wall before my spare wheel does! That is because I have the Bosal setup.

Clem i have a 3 bike rack that fits on the tow ball if you wanna try before you throw cash at it

Thanks Tinus...I've already ordered and am now wondering if I've made a mistake... Oh well, we'll see soon enough.

Towball ones fit if you have a wheel on the door. My thule ball 3 bike rack it tight onto the spare wheel (with a spacer) and actually made the whole thing very secure.

I have to use an extension with the new bumper mounted wheel.

I considered the spare wheel option but I worry about the cantilevered 45kg or so on bad roads and whether it won't eventually cause metal fatigue somewhere on the back door. So I went instead for a very basic item that mounts on a bracket/plate attached to the tow ball mounting plate. Should work okay I think (hope..).

Clem,

I opted for the roof option Thule with front wheel removed. I my opinion far more secure. The problem with fitting the bike on the hitch is the dust. You will spend a fortune maintaining the bike with the amount of dust it will get .

get the Geoff one that fits on the tow hitch plate, you can still use the tow ball and it clears the spare wheel, well mine does.

Thanks Phillip. What I have ordered is very much just that, only a different brand. Should work, at least for now.