Id be more worried about those hooks bending the trunk over time. Have you had any issues with that??? Also what kind of bike are you putting on there? I transport my DH bike the most, so its about 35lbs.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Go Frogs
The Thule bike carrier I have has rubber coated hooks and they do not mar the paint. I've used it over a dozen times (on my GTI) and the 6 hooks (2-top, 2-side, 2-bottom) on the hatch have not marred the paint/clear coat one bit.
You will get more paint damage from road debris driving to/from your destination than from the hooks.
As far as the foam pads on the top and bottom bars; you can put a microfiber towel around them if you are truly worried and keeping the paint scratch free.
I have clear bra stuff on my rear bumper, but will usually put a microfiber cloth on the pads that touch the paint. Once the carrier is strapped down and all lines are tightened, the carrier does not move.
Check/recheck after about 25 miles, and then check each time you stop. Again, no problems in 15, with the rack or the paint.
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