Does Trunk Mount Bike Rack Need to be Removed for Hatch Access on a 2011 Honda Element
Question:
Once mounted on back with Bike, does it all have to be removed to open the tailgate and the upper door?
asked by: Raymond L
Expert Reply:
Yes, you will need to remove the Thule OutWay 2 Bike Rack # TH45JV from the trunk of your 2011 Honda Element before opening up the tailgate and upper door. This is the same case for all trunk mount bike racks on any vehicle.
If you are wanting to have unrestricted access to the rear hatch area of your Honda Element without removing your bikes or bike rack then you can install a trailer hitch and use a swing-away bike rack.
For this application I recommend the etrailer # e78KR which may require a little fascia trimming but provides a better look after over the Curt # 13574 after it is installed.
Then for a bike rack I recommend the Yakima SwingDaddy # Y02464. This is a swinging bike rack that allows you to have unrestricted access to the rear cargo area in your Element even with your bikes still loaded. It can hold up to 4 bikes that have a total weight of 150 lbs and comes with a limited lifetime warranty which just goes to show the quality of the bike rack. Attached is a review video for you to reference for more info.
We do have options that only carry 2 bikes but they would require the use of the BackSwing # Y02483 and overall the cost would be more than the SwingDaddy.
Whether you use the Kuat Highline or the SwingDaddy, if any of your bikes don't have a horizontal top tube you will need to use an adapter bar like part # TH982XT to ensure that your bike(s) sit level.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 350 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Visible Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Spare Tire Bike Racks
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Adapter Bar
- Frame
- 16 - 31-1/2 Inch Long
- Thule
more information >
Yakima BackSwing Swing Away Hitch Extender for Bike Racks - 2" Hitches
- Hitch Adapters
- Swing-Away Hitch Adapter
- Bike Racks
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- 250 lbs
- Yakima
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Arms
- Trunk Bike Racks
- Frame Mount - Standard
- 2 Bikes
- Non-Retractable
- Bike and Rack Lock
- Fits Most Factory Spoilers
- 2 Straps
- Adjustable Arms
- Hanging Rack
- Thule
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Q&A: Trailer Grease Seal to Replace 127194TB
- Q&A: Recommended Replacement Grease Seal for 2014 Shorelander Boat Trailer
- Article: Trailer Maintenance Schedule
- Article: How to Charge a Dump Trailer Battery
- Q&A: Recommended Lithium Battery Compatible Power Converter For Parallax 7355
- Article: Roadmaster Vehicle Specific Base Plates
- Q&A: Can Brakes Be Added To Mobile Home Axle Used On Utility Trailer
- Q&A: Mobile Home Axle Conversion to Electric Trailer Brakes
- Q&A: Troubleshooting Trailer Tire Wear on the Outside Edge of the Tire
- Q&A: 205/75R14 Size Trailer Tire Needed with Load Range D and Speed Rating of at Least 81 mph
- Article: How to Measure for Travel Trailer and Fifth Wheel Steps
- Article: Trailer Hitch Receiver Sizes
- Article: How to Choose the Right Trailer Hitch Class
- Article: Testing Trailer Brake Magnets for Proper Function