Well Equipped Audi A3 2008 – Thule 400 XTR, Flat Top 4, Sidearm 594

The owner of an Audi A3 approached us at Rack Attack wanting a solution for carrying their outdoor lifestyle along with them. After some consultation we determined that roof mounted ski and bike carriers would fit the bill nicely.

To start off with we chose the Thule 400 XTR rapid aero base rack system. This provides a strong foundation for accessories while keeping the factory appearance of the vehicle intact. The aerodynamics of the rapid aero bars in conjunction with a thule 872XT factory fairing mitigates  unwanted wind howl.

Audi A3 2008 Thule Ski and bike roof rack

Keeping things consistent the Thule side arm upright bike carrier was the rack of choice. The side arm is not only aesthetically a good match for the rapid aero base rack but is also Thule’s feature bike carrier. This lockable carrier provides a fast and easy way to carry just about any bike, regardless of wheel size or frame type.

Audi A3 Ski and bike Thule rack

To cater to the winter needs of our customer the Thule flat top 4 was the best fit. This carrier has a capacity to carry 4 pairs of ski’s or 2 snowboards. The Flat Top 4 also offers universal mounts and easy access with a glove friendly button.

The Thule 400XTR base rack system, Side Arm 594 and the Flat Top 4 make for a professionally finished look that keeps this A3 looking clean and consistent.

Thule 594 Sidearm – Roof Mount Bike Rack

Because not everyone wants to take off their bicycle’s front tire every time they go to mount it on their roof, Thule makes a convenient upright bike rack that allows you to mount your bike in its ready-to-ride state. The Thule 594 Sidearm attaches your bike with ratcheting arm technology that applies pressure to your tire, and avoids contact with your bike frame. This also means that the Thule 594 Sidearm is able to carry any bike style including odd frame bikes, children’s bikes, and women’s bikes.

Thule 594 Sidearm - Roof Mounted Upright Bike Rack

The ratcheting arm of the Thule 594 Sidearm has full locking capabilities with the insertion of 2 Thule 512 SKS Lock Cores, one in the ratcheting arm to lock your bike and the second to lock the rack to the vehicle. Wheel sizes from 1 inch to 2.6 inches are supported with the wide, yet sturdy, wheel tray. To see some of the other features of the Thule Sidearm watch the following video:

In order to mount the Thule 594 Sidearm to your vehicle, you need to have a Thule or a Yakima base roof rack system already in place. Try out one of our Automated Roof Rack Fit Guides to see what fits your vehicle.