Opel ADAM with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier |
Opel’s fully integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier system makes taking
your own bike with you on vacation a breeze. Families and active
vacationers can transport up to four bicycles on their trip – with
FlexFix it’s easy, space-saving and safe. Opel offers the patented
system for nearly all models ranging from the Astra, Corsa, Antara and
Meriva all the way to the “Lounge on Wheels” Zafira Tourer. The newest
members of the FlexFix club are the sub-compact Mokka SUV and the urban
lifestyle car ADAM.
Opel Corsa with FlexFix bike carrier |
Opel is the only automaker to offer this user-friendly transport
system that is fully integrated in the rear of the vehicle and so is
always on board. The bicycle carrier can be effortlessly pulled out and
disappears invisibly back into the rear bumper when not in use. It is
always ready to use everywhere, for instance to pick up the children and
their bikes when they get caught in an unexpected rainstorm. Another
major advantage of the second-generation FlexFix system is that even
when fully loaded, it can be tilted so that the tailgate of the vehicle
can be opened easily. So the luggage compartment remains easily
accessible, even with four bikes mounted on the rear of the car.
Opel Astra 5-door with FlexFix bike carrier |
The second-generation Opel FlexFix system for the versatile compact
Astra Sports Tourer station wagon and the compact Zafira Tourer van can
carry up to four bikes, while for the sub-compact Mokka SUV it can
transport up to three bicycles. The enhanced Opel FlexFix system offers
increased load capacity: the first and second bikes can now weigh up to
30 kilograms each (previously 20 kilograms max.), which is also
practical for transporting most e-bikes. Even the chic urban car ADAM
can carry a bicycle weighing up to 30 kg, and with an additional adapter
a second bike for the ADAM co-driver.
Opel Astra ST with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier |
Opel Zafira Tourer MPV with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier |
On larger Opel models, the second-generation FlexFix is available
with an extension kit including a clip-on adaptor so that a further two
bicycles up to 20 kilograms each can be transported. The entire loading
capacity is 80 kilograms (Mokka: 60 kg). Special holders with rubber
inlays ensure that the bikes are held securely in place.
Opel Mokka SUV with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier |
Flexible, easy, back-friendly – exceptional Opel technology
With FlexFix Opel remains the only car maker to offer a bicycle
carrier system that is fully integrated and always on board. The
user-friendly bicycle carrier is very easy to operate as it can be
adjusted by hand without the need to use tools, and offers a host of
practical functions. When not in use it disappears invisibly into the
rear bumper like a drawer. This is another example of typical onboard
flexibility á la Opel.
Opel Antara SUV with FlexFix bike carrier |
Another big plus point of the Opel FlexFix system is its outstanding
ergonomics. In contrast to other systems such as roof racks where you
have to twist and lift the bicycle high over your head, the FlexFix
carrier is located close to the ground, making cumbersome lifting
superfluous and mounting bicycles on your car nearly effortless and
back-friendly. The back experts at Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR –
Campaign for Healthy Backs) praised this when they awarded their highly
coveted seal of approval to the Meriva for its overall ergonomic concept
including the FlexFix carrier. The Meriva was the first production car
in the world to receive this distinction.
Opel Meriva MPV with FlexFix bike carrier |
Studies have shown that additional fuel consumption with bicycles
mounted on the rear is around 20 percent lower than when they are
mounted on the vehicle’s roof. So the integrated Opel FlexFix system
saves fuel costs while it reduces impact on the environment. In contrast
to those with roof rack systems, the vehicle is not subject to a 120
km/h speed limit, as the bikes are stored at the rear. This stable
arrangement is particularly secure during a sharp braking maneuver or an
impact. If a park pilot is on board and the gearbox in reverse, an
acoustic signal warns the driver that the bicycle carrier is still fully
extended.
The prices for the FlexFix carrier start at 420 euros in the five-door Astra, at 590 euros in the Corsa and Meriva and 650 euros in the Antara. The newly enhanced FlexFix system can be purchased for 570 euros for the Astra Sports Tourer, for 590 euros for the ADAM and Mokka and for 790 euros for the Zafira Tourer. The adaptor kit which provides space for a third and fourth bicycle with the new system is available from 106.50 euros (all prices RRP in Germany including VAT). The integrated FlexFix system often costs less than other rear bike carriers that also need a trailer hitch as a base.
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