Since the arrival of mini-Guru my capacious old Civic no longer has the space for my bike on the inside but it’s coming away with us this weekend. I’d assumed I’d just buy a rear rack but it seems (unless I’m hopefully mistaken) that I can’t fit one as there’s a fairly large spoiler on the top of the hatch. So it looks like I need roof bars and a carrier. Anything wrong with this: http://www.roofrackshop.co.uk/Bikes/Bike-Racks-and-Carriers/Bike-Racks-Roof-Mounted-Cycle-Carriers/Automaxi-Axis-S-Roof-Mounted-Cycle-Carrier/0004254p.aspx

And this: http://www.roofrackshop.co.uk/Car-Products/Automaxi-Car-Roof-Bars/Automaxi-Supra-Roof-Bar-Systems/Automaxi-Supra-Compact-Roof-Bars-2-Pair/0004336p.aspx

Anything better or recommended places to buy? It won’t be used much, I normally ride from home and when I don’t I can fit three bikes and riders in the car when there isn’t a baby involved!

Tow bar rack out of the question?

Have a look at http://www.roofbox.co.uk/

Very helpful pre-sales advice from them, prices seem keen and the product finder works well – just choose your car from the list and it gives you a load of alternatives. I bought from them recently and am pleased with the roof bars (for my Focus) and the rack that I’ve so far used to transport my road bike.

The bike rack looks like the bottom ‘tray’ might be a bit flimsy, but that doesn’t matter as its not structural. Unless your bike is particularly heavy and you drive like a loon it should be fine. I’ve seen much worse.

Yes you can get fancier racks and bars but don’t really gain much, the fancier racks are easier to use but only worth spending extra if you’re going to be using them alot.

I use some halfords jobbies that were £50 for two. Fine for occasional/ short journey use.

Those you have linkied look fine. For regular big trips i would get some thules as mine sound a bit rattly even when proper tight.

Saris bones might fit. If you’re near Manc I’ve got one you could try for size

I have the same bars and are ideal for infrequent journeys (i.e. take them off when you get home).

Gone up in price since I bought them…we’re £50 from the same place. Takes 5 min to fit too.