Westfalia Bikelander Bike Rack for Towbars — Foldable 2-Bike Carrier with LED Lights
Product description
What it is and what it solves
The Westfalia Bikelander is a towbar-mounted bike rack designed to carry two bicycles with a streamlined foldable design. It targets everyday cyclists who want a solid, pre-assembled solution that can be stored away when not in use and still offer practical access to the boot. On paper, it supports up to 60 kg total load, including e-bikes, making it a viable option for households who occasionally rely on pedal assist power.
How it works in practice
Key factors you’ll notice in use are adjustable wheel holders that aim to secure each bike and a 13-pin electrical connector to power the vehicle’s lighting. The carrier folds down to grant boot access while loaded (with exceptions noted for certain van models), which can be handy for quick shopping trips or letting a passenger grab something from the boot without removing bikes.
The positives you’ll notice
On the plus side, the carrier is delivered pre-assembled, so you can mount it and get on the road relatively quickly. It’s designed to accommodate bikes with up to 70 mm tyre width, 1,300 mm wheelbase and 80 mm frame diameter, with a 220 mm wheel-to-wheel spacing that helps keep bikes from bumping into each other. The inclusion of anti-theft features via single-key locks adds a layer of reassurance for brief stops.
The limitations and what to watch for
There are a few practical caveats: the boot access fold-down feature is not compatible with VW T5/T6 and Mercedes Vito/Viano, which could affect how you use it day-to-day if you own one of those models. The 60 kg capacity is shared across two bikes, so heavier e-bikes or bulkier frames may limit how you load the rack. While the carrier is compatible with e-bikes on paper, you’ll want to confirm your specific bike weights and frame types align with the stated limits.
Who it’s best for
This carrier suits households with two regular bikes or light electric bikes, where a foldable, ready-to-use solution is valuable and where boot access remains important. It’s a sensible choice if you value straightforward installation, a compact storage footprint, and the option to add accessories such as a transport box or ramp.
Who it may not be for
If you frequently transport heavier or unusually large e-bikes, or if your vehicle is one of the excluded models (for boot access), you might find the capacity or compatibility limiting. If you need a three-bike solution or special mounting configurations, this model will probably feel restrictive.
When it makes sense to buy
If you want a practical two-bike carrier that arrives ready to use, folds flat for storage, and keeps boot access in mind—provided your car isn’t one of the models with boot access caveats—it’s worth considering. The LED hybrid lights improve visibility, which is useful for rides in mixed traffic conditions.
Before you buy, check these points
- Confirm your car’s towbar and electrical system support a 13-pin connection and the load distribution for two bikes up to 60 kg.
- Measure your bikes for tyre width, wheelbase and frame diameter to ensure they fall within the stated limits.
- Be mindful of boot access restrictions for specific van models if you rely on frequent trunk access.
- Consider whether you’ll ever need to carry a third bike, this carrier is positioned as a two-bike solution with optional accessories for expansion.
Practical use example
Imagine a weekend trip to the coast with two mountain bikes. You back the car up, unfold the Westfalia Bikelander, secure each bike with the adjustable wheel holders, plug in the 13-pin connector, and you’re ready to go. On return, you fold the rack down to access the boot, unload quick, and stow the rack away in the garage—compact and straightforward.
FAQ (where data allows)
- How many bikes can it hold? Two bicycles, with a total load limit of 60 kilograms.
- Is it suitable for e-bikes? Yes, it is designed to support e-bikes within the stated capacity and dimensions.
- Does it interfere with boot access? It folds down to allow boot access, except on VW T5/T6 and Mercedes Vito/Viano models.
Is it worth it?
A solid pick if you prioritise a ready-to-use, foldable two-bike solution with practical boot access and basic built‑in security. It may not be the best option if you frequently carry three bikes, have notably large or heavy e-bikes, or own one of the excluded van models for boot access.