Bike Rack Options for Carrying Up to 4 Bikes on 2001 Nissan Pathfinder Without Hitch Receiver

Question:

Ive got an 2001 Nissan Pathfinder with factory roof rack. The rack isnt square or round more like 3 inches wide across top and flat. Im looking for something that I can mount to existing roof system to haul mtn bike, possibly 2 seperate ones so I can haul 2 bikes with a locking system. Or a rack that can hook on back glass and rest against hatch. It doesnt have a receiver or spare tire. What will work for me? If it hooks on back than Id like to be able to carry 3 to 4 bikes but 2 at least. Thanks

asked by: Michael B

Expert Reply:

What will determine the best bike rack option for your 2001 Pathfinder is the number of bikes you need to transport. If only 2 bikes, then a trunk-mount type will be your most cost-effective option. If you need to transport as many as 4 bikes, then a hitch receiver and hitch-mount rack make more sense; with this much of a weight load the hitch-type rack will allow that burden to be carried by the vehicle's frame, which is its strongest part. Trunk-mount racks put the weight burden on parts of the vehicle that were not really intended to carry weight. Roof-mount bike carriers are available of course but keep in mind that you will have to lift each bike over your head to mount and remove it each time you ride. Also keep in mind that roof-mount carriers mean your total vehicle height will increase substantially - an important consideration if you garage your vehicle. The linked article may help you consider your best option.

My recommendation is to install a hitch and use a hitch-mount carrier. This will offer several advantages: 1) you will be able to carry as many as 5 bikes on a hitch carrier; 2) you will be able to use other hitch-mount accessories such as a cargo carrier and you'll be able to tow; 3) you will not have to lift your bikes so high and you will not have the height clearance issue that comes with roof racks.

The most popular hitch for your Pathfinder is the 2-inch Curt # 13088. This hitch bolts on to your Pathfinder (no drilling, no welding) using mounting hardware that is included with the hitch. I've linked the installation instructions for this hitch for you. It offers a substantial 500-lb tongue weight capacity, more than enough for even the largest hitch bike racks.

With this hitch in place, you can choose among the 4-bike hitch carriers shown on the provided link. All of these include locks for both the rack itself and for your loaded bikes. You might review the linked article that explains how to measure your hitch and vehicle to determine compatibility with the racks you prefer. If your loaded bikes are on the heavier side, then I'd suggest a lighter hanging-style rack.

If after reviewing the linked articles you prefer to go in another direction, please let me know and I'll be glad to offer suggestions.

expert reply by: Adam R