what vehicle to transport bikes (INSIDE)

[LBTC]

We had a Toyota Sienna van. Loved the features and size, but it was the most expensive lemon we've ever had.

We now have a Mazda 6 sport wagon. It will easily take one bike in the bike, laying down, with the back seats down and all the wheels on it. We haven't tried two bikes inside yet, as we have the roof rack and so far have been lucky enough to have had no incidents. It is, however, too high for my 5' 1 1/2" height to get the bikes myself, so if I'm on my own, it's in the back. I bet two bikes without front wheels would work....possibly even standing up!

We LOVE the Mazda! It is so much like a sports car, the leather interior and heated front seats are great! It's been totally reliable, the fit and finish is really good, and the gas mileage is okay. The space in that baby is fabulous, too!

In the van, we could have passengers and many bikes inside....and that's about all we miss, that and the All Wheel Drive. The next version of the 6 wagon will be a bit bigger (I think wider and longer) and will have 4WD. I think that's next year.

The Element did not seem to suit us well - we always seem to be carting around 3 friends when we are out of town, and it only allowed 2! And we've gotten used to some luxuries....like leather....

DH is pretty interested in the Honda Ridgeline....if my new job comes with a hefty pay raise (unlikely) or we win the lottery.... I think they're ugly, but they sure would suit the way we pack stuff....

Happy shopping!

~T~

[DirtDiva]

Heck, I used to be able to get my bike, wheels on and all, into my friend's '84 Ford Laser without any trouble. It's surprising what you can do if you try. I should think most hatches and wagons would fit two people, two bikes and assorted gear as long as the front wheels come off first. (Mind you, this is said from the perspective of someone with a squitty little 15.5" frame.)

[betagirl]

My b/f has a honda CRV, and if you put the back seat down you can lay your bike in on its side without taking the front wheel off. Though he's not real happy with me for getting chain grease on the ceiling. I put a towel over my chain now so I don't get grounded from using the car.

[Duck on Wheels]

In Norway we drive a VW Caravelle, long version. Loooooads of space! We can put 4 bikes in there, upright. We can sleep in there cattycorner. We can wax skis in there. Only problem is that it's a bit of a lift to get things up to floor level. My son uses a ramp to get his scooter in. But it wasn't my choice to buy such a big car. The gas mileage isn't too bad, but still. Now that the kids are grown and out of the nest I'll vote for a smaller car next time. Something with flexible seating/hauling space but not too big, and maybe a hybrid ...?
While here in the States I drive a Hyundai Accent. Tiny car, great mileage, and believe it or not, I can get one bike in horizontally when I put the back seat down, but it does take some wriggling and tweaking to get everything turned and angled so it fits. Luckily I don't have to do it often, and have only once had to get two bikes in there. As I recall, that job did burn a few calories. Managed not to damage the bikes, tho.

[tulip]

Honda Fit will come out in April. I'm really excited to check them out. They have the "magic seats" that disappear for cargo area. And it's a Honda, so it's got to be great. Toyota Matrix is also on my list. My 14-year old Honda Accord will not last too much longer, I'm afraid, so I'm on the lookout for a replacement for when the time comes.