GM Tries Integrated Bike Racks on Euro Models
by Jacob Gordon, Nashville, TN on 10. 5.06
Makes sense, right? Not a whole lot of news on this clever design at the moment but looks like GM is offering this option on its Opel and Vauxhall lines in Europe. The Flex-fix system integrates a retractable bike rack into the rear bumper. Pictured here on the Antara Model. Even if turns out to be a pricey option (rumored at £500), it might still cost less than the amount lost in resale value when one of those woefully designed strap-on racks scratches up your paint. :: Engadget via Hugg (Linton)
Very cool option! A hitch and a hitch rack would be much cheaper (and not scratch your paint) but it wouldn't be as elegant of a solution.
GREAT idea. My hitch scapes the ground on steep driveways. My hitch mount bicycle rack is bent from other cars hitting it. I can't tell you how many times I've barked my shins on it. Hands get awfully dirty taking the damn thing on and off and it weighs a ton. When not on the car the bike rack takes up valuable garage space. They make me take it off to go through a car wash.
Makes parking more difficult.
BRILLIANT!
great idea!
Note praise given to GM for actually coming to market with a smart design feature, instead of another "promised" prototype!