Mountain bike inside Prius

One of the reasons I selected the Prius was that I didn't want to compromise in terms of ability to haul stuff comparable to my old SUV. To that end, I have been amazed at what I have been able to load into my car:

7 bags of mulch (with plastic down to protect my interior)
2x6x10' lumber (with one rear seat down and the front seat laid back)
3 adults and a baby (in center mounted child seat) with 1 week's worth of luggage

And, to tie back into this thread, I have loaded my long wheelbase recumbent bike inside the Prius (front wheel has to come off, bike seat must be reclined, Prius rear seats down and front seat laid back). This bike is about 6 feet long, and I do not like the idea of having it stick out the sides of the car using a bike rack. I'll have to post a picture next time I load it in there.

 

Yes, please, MechaJohn, show us a picture. I know Mirza for one will be interested. I haven't attempted to fit my recumbent in the Prius, but I was pretty sure it would fit somehow. Good thing my local 'bike shop' is in the basement and I never have to take a wounded bike very far.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Devil's Advocate @ Jan 30 2007, 10:47 AM) [snapback]382883[/snapback]</div>

I have a hitch mount and I have a roof mount rack for my bike. That gives me three options to carry my bikes (including inside). Sometimes, one is better than other the others, but never is one ALWAYS the best choice. If I have to leave the car unattended, I want the bike IN the car. If I need the interior space, and know I'll be in and out of garages, I'll use the rack on the back. If I want easy access to the cargo area while I'm out and about, or if I have the racks on already for some other reason, I'll put the bike on the roof. Certainly when the bike is filthy it sure is nice to mount it outside!

Wow. That's impressive! Next time take pictures!

 

Even though inside is nice for security, a couple of good locks are just as good. What's strong, hardend stell or your windows!?! (you can't remove the tires with the type of rack that I have)

Here are pictures of the bikes on the trailer. You can even see the exhaust and engine from my other bike a 600 F2!
[attachmentid=6394]

[attachmentid=6395]

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(Devil's Advocate @ Jan 31 2007, 12:00 PM) [snapback]383447[/snapback]</div>

Yup, I understand. With my tinted windows and a blanket, I can keep them completely out of site when inside, however. And then I don't need to worry about my expensive saddle/seatpost/computer/tool bag etc. Nobody wants what they can't see. And even if (when on a hitch-mounted rack) they can't make off with the bike, they can destroy enough of it to make my life miserable. I agree that on the hitch mounted rack is a good solution for many times I carry my bikes. I just don't think it is the best solution every time. The best solution is to only carry a crappy bike.

Well, I'm impressed. Now we just need to get you a better camera.

 

I have put 2 mt bikes in my prius....not a big problem..took some doing...

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(darwin100 @ Jan 31 2007, 05:24 PM) [snapback]383596[/snapback]</div>

If you take the front wheels off, it is drop-dead simple. Four bikes would "take some doing" but two is nothing. Plenty of room for three.

 

Okay, I have a question. Is it possible to fit 2 adults, 1 child and 3 bikes in the prius at the same time? Any pictures of that?

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(clintd555 @ Feb 3 2007, 09:12 AM) [snapback]384817[/snapback]</div>

It seems possible, but you'd probably would want a roof rack for that configuration.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(darelldd @ Jan 29 2007, 12:26 PM) [snapback]382352[/snapback]</div>

Where did you get that kickass rubber cargo mat?

 

You guys are so used to big cars.. I've always taken two bikes in the back of cars, with cars half the size of the Prius. This is not a remarkable feat!

The Prius is plenty big enough for three bikes and gear, if they are normal sized. I had a hard time getting my Orange Patriot through the boot hatch though because it had 180mm Marzocchi 66s on it

Again if they are reasonable sized bikes eg road bikes or XC MTBs then you SHOULD be able to do it if you're careful.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(molgrips @ Feb 3 2007, 12:58 PM) [snapback]384914[/snapback]</div>

Well I've gotten two mountain bikes and two people in my jetta at the same time. If the prius can do 3 bikes and 3 people, I'm impressed. I think any mini-SUV may be able to handle 3 bikes and 3 people without resorting to exterior gear, correct?

Ditto on the pictures... this thread needs them badly.

 

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE(allargon @ Feb 3 2007, 10:12 AM) [snapback]384899[/snapback]</div>

Right here: http://floormats4less.stores.yahoo.net/
My recommendation: Don't leave home without it.

(listed in my mods page if you ever lose it).

 

Ride with buddies is awesome. I went last week with my buddies on a trip we also carried our mountain bikes. After reaching the location we started riding our bikes and went to a waterfall that was nearby our location it was amazing. After our trip, we hang our bikes on the rack and get back to our home. The hitch bike rack suggested by my brother is very helpful for me, I bought the hitch rack last month from a website. I think you should also buy a Hitch bike rack for your car. It will help you to prevent your car from damage and also give more space in your car for your buddies.