Trunk Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for 3 Bikes and a 2004 Toyota Highlander

Question:

2004 toyota highlander, I have no trailer hitch and would prefer not to lift bikes to roof. Do you have any ideas of racks that would work. At least 2 bikes, prefer 3 or 4. Thanks

asked by: Jim H

Expert Reply:

You can carry up to 3 bikes on your 2004 Toyota Highlander using a trunk mount bike rack. I have included a link to all of the trunk mount racks that will fit your vehicle. Out of the options, I recommend the Thule OutWay 3, # TH56BV.

The OutWay 3 is the easiest and fastest bike rack to install or remove that I have used. It uses only 2 retractable cables, rather than the 6 straps, to secure the rack to the vehicle which is why it is so easy to install and leaves a clean looking installation with no straps flapping in the wind.

The cables can be locked in place on one side to deter theft of the rack and there is an integrated cable lock that will look the bike in the last position to the rack. All other bikes then would be secured to the rack because the first bike can not be removed.

If you will be carrying women's, children's, or alternative frame bikes, I recommend using the bike adapter bar # TH982XT for greater ground clearance and to carry the bikes more level. I have included a link to a video that shows how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H