Thule OutWay # TH45JV for 2004 Toyota Prius and 2012 Toyota Corolla

Question:

Hello, I wanted to make sure that the Thule OutWay 2 Bike Carrier will fit on my 2004 Toyota Prius and my sisters 2012 Toyota Corolla. Will you confirm this information for me? Also, I know its recommended to use the bike adapter bar for a woman's bike but is it required? Can our girl bikes be attached without the adapters? Thanks in advance.

asked by: Kim

Expert Reply:

The ThuleOutWay, # TH45JV would indeed be compatible with both your 2004 Toyota Prius and your sister's 2012 Corolla. I have confirmed this with Thule.

Without knowing how the frames of the bikes in question are designed, I cannot say with any certainty if the adapter bars are required or not. The arms that the bikes hang from are relatively close together at 17-1/2 inches, making it likely that you would physically be able to connect the bikes to the rack. However, when installed, the bikes will likely be carried at an angle. Because the Prius and Corolla sit relatively low to the ground, your ground clearance at the rear of the vehicle might suffer if the bikes are carried at a sharp angle.

Swagman offers a reasonably priced adapter bar, part # 64005.

expert reply by: Mike L