Hayman Reese tow bar the only choice?

[ixi_ixi]

hello everyone,

i'm looking to install a tow bar to my cooper cabrio, primarily to facilitate fitting of a bike rack.

I did some searches and it seems that Hayman Reese tow bar is the only choice in Aus. Got a quote of $445 (includ GST) + fitting ($220) all up approx $650.

I think it is quite dear for a tow bar. Just wonder who can suggest other cheaper brand (locally available) ? or know somewhere having a special on Hayman Reese going on? or even better, have a used one for sell !!

many thanks

[minigolf]

DON'T DO IT!!!

[Snapper>///">]

Try these guys: Minifini

[maryc]

This is sooooo wrong!

[Paul_T]

Where abouts are you located ixi ixi? I'm a haymen reese dealer so I can help you out.

[Snapper>///">]

Quote: Originally Posted by maryc (original)

This is sooooo wrong!

do you think so?? I think it would be a good thing to have, but only on long distance tours like the Tassy one we just had.

[Mr G]

what a shame they don't make some sort of run-flat tyre. They'd be a little more expensive I'm sure, but it would save having to do all that.

Mini-Fugly.

[TOJO]

Quote: Originally Posted by Mr G (original)

what a shame they don't make some sort of run-flat tyre. They'd be a little more expensive I'm sure, but it would save having to do all that.

Mini-Fugly.

Good Idea!!

First get a tyre.

I reckon you could stiffen the sidewalls, to make the ride unpleasant. (And, of course, keep the rims off the road when the air has escaped)

Then use a dodgy tread pattern, so the tyre looks mediocre.

Lastly make it out of some compound that wears quickly, but doesn't really grip the road.

These would have to be a good ideas!

You think I could get a patent?

[Ingle_CooperChilli]

Hi,

I had a Hayman Reese towbar fitted to my 05 Mini Cooper Chili about 2 years ago.

It cost $330 and that included $30 extra to have the tongue chrome plated.

The main reason it is cheaper than the $1500 (approx) that the mini dealer in Adelaide wanted to charge is that it does not include extra wiring for plugging in trailer lights. At the time, those were about $450 just for the parts.

Not a big deal for me as I only want it for the bike rack and the only thing you need for them is a light for the number plate if you are going to drive at night.

It was done at Allin towbars in Adelaide (google allin tow bars). I also got a price at Halls towbars in Adelaide but they wanted $425 and started getting stroppy when I asked them to match the price (they are closer to my home).

I am very happy with the job they did, a very neat cut to make the hole for the bar to come through UNDER the rear bumper (not through thankfully).

I am thinking of a different option next year when I may upgrade to a new Cooper S. The Saris Bones RS bike rack, although this may not work for you if you have a spoiler on a Cooper as the straps may not fit under the non-S type spoiler (They are quite different shapes). Check their website for a fit guide. (just google saris)

A friend has the Saris Bones that he mounts on the back of his Ford Territory and to stop the paint getting marked he has put coloured tape over the parts of the hatch where the straps attach. They are noticeable but it is better than scratching your paintwork and I think still more practical than roof mounts (which I am told by the dealer in Adelaide can be fit to the new minis).

I could post a picture of the tow bar if you want.

Hope this helps

ICC