I was a little sceptical at first because I believe roofbox are the only company to sell the Atera so I thought they would sing it's praises. Thule is a well know make so I did consider that option. However the Atera came out well in the AutoExpress tests. I'm pleased I went with the Atera.

The MaxxRaxx is good but is a bit of a faff. I find I don't necessarily put all the bikes on at the same time, mine goes on and then I drive to my friends and to get hers on I have to unthread the strap, put the bike on and tighten it all up again. A pain in the wet and when everything is covered in mud. Also to access the boot, you need to undo the bolt by the tow bar. Again, not so good in the wet and mud.

With the Atera, the bike goes on, two ratchet straps for each wheel and another for the top tube. So much easier and very secure. And it so easily slides out for boot access.

I guess the best solution is what suits you and everyone will have different needs.

Thanks again for all of the tips ... i've just purchased a Saris Bones 3 (in Orange) from Evans - £119.

Let's see how I get on!

cheers
Craig

Good luck with the saris ... I have to just push up the spoiler a little bit to get the top clips on but they fit fine and when it's all fitted I push the spare fixing strap ends inside the central tube , keeps it looking neat and out the way , once you've got the perfect angle I have put a small pen mark on the Central bar and the arms so I can line it back up to the right place everytime ... If you store it folded flat in the garage ... Have fun. I went for lime green!!! 2007 freelander 2 XS td4 Stornaway Grey .... GONE

Good tips thanks ... I bought an orange one as it was £15 cheaper than the others ... I'm unlikely to lose it! Thought it would go well with a Loire Blue

You may not lose it, but you may have to watch for it getting pinched [as everyone knows it's a damn good rack].
Is there any way of securing it to the car without having to take off [& on] when on a bike run? FL2 now gone and have a couple of items left for sale:-

Brodit active iPhone holder + Brodit dash clip,
Bluetooth Music Streaming Module.

Another vote for a towbar mounted rack

Apologies for the lack of Freelander in the picture

https://scontent-b-ams.xx.fbcdn.net/hphoto...e=5545799D