My mate has an RS2000 mk2 and has come up with the idea of driving us to the Alps this year..

I have suggested a tow bar mounted cycle rack with lightboard. He does not like the idea, especially the wiring of the board.

He has come up with the idea of buying a Thule 972 and building a custom frame to hold the two bikes. So the bikes sit on a frame, basically front wheel will be near the rear windows and rear wheels just below the spoiler.. Therefore it will not be in the way of the number plate or lights.

He wants to use a Thule carrier to base it on, as they tilt and the fuel tank is accessed via the boot.

So… What material are the Thule 972 cycle carriers made from?
I’ve found 2 sites one stating Aluminium and the other stating HT Steel..

Rubbish sketch…

Why would anyone want to add 1600 miles to a MK2 Escort driving through France??

Especially with bikes hanging of the back, preventing you from giving it beans

Therefore it will not be in the way of the number plate or lights

French Police may not agree. Which be costly…

just seen you sketch.

You want a Saris Grand Fondo

Review: Saris Gran Fondo Rack

2 bikes?

Wheels off, forks out, back seat?

Saddle’s too high.

Scaled… Cannot fit anything in the rear.. racing bucket seats in the front means there is about a 10″x8″ gap to chuck stuff in the back… Not sure helmets will even get in the back! 😯

French Police may not agree.

I was wondering where I could find this out and if a custom rack is legal!

Saris bones looks interesting, but its got straps/hooks and are those on the window? I wouldn’t like to trust a very old window. 😐

No reason not to use a custom rack, but you’d need to be very clear of the lights and plate (I hadn’t seen your sketch when I wrote that)

That Datsun 280 is an ’82 so will have a similar window I’d have a thought…

I quickly sketched up a rough to scale drawing.