Hello, looking for advice on cycle carriers for a 57 reg 5dr hatchback - can anyone suggest the best option for carrying 2-3 bikes? (2 adult and 1 child in the future) There seem to be too many options!

As far as I can see:
Roof bars + carriers = good but expensive for occasional use once you have locks and cycle holders
Tow bar carrier = sturdiest but expensive to get tow bar fitted
Low mount = can't open boot and not v secure, probably need lighting board + number plate + false crossbar for ladies bike
High mount = would it obscure lights and require lighting board??

And is a Saris Bones compatible with a 57 hatchback, cannot find the answer anywhere! All bike racks seem to mention 98-04 focus and 2011 focus but nothing inbetween!

Any suggestions or experiences (good or bad) much appreciated...

Welcome to the forums Ruth,

How many cycles are you looking to carry and for how far?

If you are in local traffic for the most part and still have visibility of your lights, then you should be fine. Unless your carrying 3 or 4 cycles that obscure the lights, you should be fine without a light board.

2 adult 1 child, mainly on local roads but sometimes motorways for holidays in UK/ north of France.

I have 57 Focus with roof bars, bars purchased from Halfrauds not too expensive, but quality cycle carriers can be, I purchased mine when there was a sale on, I think roof mounted are the best option if touring on the continent as we do, bear in mind if you are not tall they can be difficult to fit particulaly the one's nearer the centre, I am 6ft2" tall and still use the caravan step to make things easier.
Regards Brian

Saris bones seem to fit most cars, but bare in mind if you intend to go abroad it is illegal to use rear mounted carriers

Roof bars and carriers very solid. You might squeeze 3 on the roof. I have Halfords high level on my mk focus. Adjustable for all makes and surprisingly sturdy once set up properly and no need for additional plates and board.Paid about £60 will take 3 bikes.

I bought Ford roof bars for my focus on ebay, they are solid and have locking covers so they dont get nicked.
Om my Focus the Ford roof bars are bolted in under the weather seal behind the door with 2 bolts per bar, per side.
i.e. for 2 bars there are 8 bolts. I think after market bars only use 4 bolts in total but I could be wrong.

That's great, thanks. Roof bars seem to be the way to go so will hang on until after Christmas and see what I can pick up in the sales!

[quote name='ruthiespoon' timestamp='1322334881' post='154065']
That's great, thanks. Roof bars seem to be the way to go so will hang on until after Christmas and see what I can pick up in the sales!
[/quote]

Sounds like a good plan