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#1
07-22-2008, 06:27 PM
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Trunk Bike Rack for the Coupe
Before this this thread gets flamed for this subject has been beaten to death or tells me to use the search function:
1. I did use the search, and all the bike rack forums are filled with people questioning "why ruin the G" or "try the hitch rack" or the "bird automotive rack". 2. Too many "this might or might not work" replies. So I just had a straight simple question... maybe 3. 1. Has anyone successfully used a TRUNK mounted bike rack on the 03-07 G35 coupe with aero package aside from the Saris Bones (some forums said this caused paint issues) 2. If so, which make model, any problems with it (paint, straps, going high speed and unstable etc). 3. Have you mounted more than one bike to it successfully? Sorry for the analness of my question, just want to be straighforward and avoid another bike rack bash forum, and I'm using the hitch rack as a last resort. So appreciate your response. Thanks.
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BS 6MTC VT hokies 
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#4
08-19-2008, 07:01 AM
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I was going to start an identical thread, but luckily I found yours first. I don't want to install a hitch, so that option is out. I also won't use those roof racks that are only attached by magnets. A removable trunk rack with a 6-strap system seems to be the only option. The shape of the trunk (short in height and long in length) combined with the spoiler makes it difficult.
This past weekend I looked through the Thule and Yakima catalogs, and it says "no fit." Neither of these make a rack designed for the G35 coupe, whether it's a trunk or roof rack. Some guy at REI said it's probably b/c the metal on the G's trunk is too thin and/or flimsy to support the weight of the rack and bike/s. The Saris catalog says the Sentinel and Guardian will work, but that's a negative (read on to see why). Then I went to Rack & Road, Sports Authority, Performance Bicycle and REI to look for options in person. Just playing with them in the store, I'm not sure if any of them will work b/c of the length/angle of the bars. The Yakima Super Joe, Yakima Little Joe, Thule Speedway and Thule Passage don't look like they'll work b/c they either don't clear the spoiler, or because once you set them up, the angle of the bar holding the bike will be too steep (like this / ) and your bike's pedals will hit your bumper. I actually took the Saris Sentinel out to my car and checked it out. Definitely does not work, and since it's shaped/designed just like the 4 listed above, I'm pretty sure none of them will either. These 4 and the Saris Sentinel might work if you don't have a spoiler. The Yakima King Joe looks like it may work, because you can adjust the bar that holds your bike separately from the other two bars/legs that contact the trunk lid. It's made of metal and seems pretty solid. It has nice rubber feet, not just the foam like on the previous ones I mentioned. I'm guessing you can only carry 1 bike with the King Joe 2 and maybe 2 bikes with the King Joe 3. The Saris Bones also looks like it may work, because you can also adjust all 3 bars. It's made of injection molded plastic so it's lighter than some of the high-end models from other brands and won't ever rust, and feels pretty sturdy. It has rubber feet like the King Joe, and is priced about the same. but is made to rest on a bumper. Since we don't really have a flat surface, I guess it would actually rest on the trunk and bumper or just the bottom of the trunk? In addition to the vertical strap that secures the bikes, there are horizontal straps to help reduce front/back sway. Someone posted that they are using the Bones 2, but can only fit 1 bike. I'd assume the Bones 3 will only fit 2 bikes. After all my online research and running around in person, I'm still unsure which one to get 
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STILLEN Stage IV-->VORTECH DG Zenki G35c 6MT on Junction Produce 11's Last edited by Triple8Sol : 08-19-2008 at 07:38 AM.
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#5
08-21-2008, 07:26 AM
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After some deliberation, I bought 2 racks at REI a couple days ago. I got the King Joe 3 and the Saris 3. Pics/review to come soon, when I get some time...
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STILLEN Stage IV-->VORTECH DG Zenki G35c 6MT on Junction Produce 11's
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#7
09-11-2008, 07:08 AM
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I decided to keep the Yakima King Joe 3. Here are some pics of it in action.
    I'll put up reviews and pics of both racks test-fitted with and without bikes...when I get a chance.
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STILLEN Stage IV-->VORTECH DG Zenki G35c 6MT on Junction Produce 11's
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#8
11-19-2008, 12:37 AM
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looks awesome!!!
i actually have my own dilemma... i was looking for some bike racks and found a saris bones 3 at performance bike shop for 30% off (clearance) plus 10% because there was a sale, then i had 50 bucks on my performance club card...and only spent about 35 dollars on the thing!!! MY DILEMMA Is that i checked the saris website and they did not list the g35 coupe as a car that the bones will fit on!! CRAP! i thought it was one of the saris models that would fit the car...i guess i was excited about the deal! anyways, im gona put it on the car and place some pads to make sure it doesnt scratch the paint and see what i can do...if it really doesnt look stable, ill probably still keep it cuz my gf has a lancer 4 door...and i sometimes use my dads 4 door civic!!! ILL POST PICS once i make a test install!!!
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#9
11-19-2008, 02:23 AM
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There is not a rack made that lists the G35 coupe as a car that if fits on. I personally tried the Saris Bones, and it works just perfectly. I returned it because I preferred the Yakima, but it's the #2 best one. You'll love it.
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STILLEN Stage IV-->VORTECH DG Zenki G35c 6MT on Junction Produce 11's
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#10
11-19-2008, 01:57 PM
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hey trip....the saris says its a bumper supported rack....do you have pictures of the saris on your car??? i still have it but im thinking of selling it and getting the yakima since it looks pretty gud on your car....thanks
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#11
11-19-2008, 05:36 PM
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I have pics, but don't feel like uploading them. You already have the damn thing, so just install it.
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STILLEN Stage IV-->VORTECH DG Zenki G35c 6MT on Junction Produce 11's
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#13
Yesterday, 02:46 AM
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If you already have it, just install it. You'll see what I mean. It's a solid rack. It looks cooler than the Yakima, too. I just like that the arms on the Yakima are easier to adjust so I collapse it in 10 seconds and throw it in the trunk or store it in the garage. On the Saris you have to turn those plastic screw things on each arm and then slide them all off the side to make it more compact.
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STILLEN Stage IV-->VORTECH DG Zenki G35c 6MT on Junction Produce 11's
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i guess i'll install the damn thing and upload some of my own pics if anyone else is interested....
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