i could personally never put a "strap-on" on my car. i have been using the Saris Thelma now for a couple months and REALLY like it. I only put it on the car when i am actually carrying a bike. Refer to posts #33, 34 and 35 in this thread for pics of my set up.

yes...i had to have the hitch installed, but i would much rather have a hitch then have a couple of bikes dangling around on my trunk. in my opinion, you open yourself up to the possibility of scratches on your car and bike. i have never seen a trunk mount that has not eventually put some scuffs or scratches on a car. as for your bike...you have to tighten that strap around your frame. over time (or a long trip) those can scuff/scratch up your frame.

with the Saris Thelma...nothing touches the paint on your car or bike. the rack only touches the hitch on your car and the tires/wheels on your bike.

 

nice setup, but I don't really want to put a hitch on my coupe... and the custom ones seem to pricey.