Recommendations for 4 Bike Rack w/ Easy Cargo Area Access on 2015 Honda Odyssey

Question:

looking for a 4 bike hitch mounted rack for our new odyssey. we have a trunk mounted yakima with two bars that we are able to puzzle the three bikes onto but the ladies bike ends up hanging by its downtube and the kids bike barely spans the bars. Now that we are having to move to a hitch rack we thought maybe there was a rack that would more easily accomodate these different geometries. We also need the arms to fold down easily current one uses a locking knob and the whole rack to tilt easily so we can use the tailgate. Does such a thing exist? I imagine that mounting a womens bike by the downtube on a hitch rack would mean the wheel drags on the ground in a way that it doesnt on an up-anged trunk rack. thanks in advance.

asked by: Elissa W

Expert Reply:

We do indeed have some bike racks that meet the parameters you've mentioned.

I recommend the Thule Apex Swing, part # TH9027XT. This rack is capable of swinging completely away from the rear of the vehicle with the bikes loaded to allow you full access to the cargo area. The rack's arms are still pretty close together at 13 inches.

The Swagman Trailhead, part # S63380 would be a less-expensive alternative, but would still work very well for you. Once nice feature is the angled shank that raises the rack up by 3 inches for greater ground clearance. The rack tilts rearward once the bikes are removed and the arms will fold down for storage once the snapper pins are removed. The rack's arms are close together to accommodate kid's bikes.

Both of these racks would work well for you. If total unfettered access to the rear of the vehicle is important, the Apex swing would be best. The Swagman Trailhead is less expensive but still has lots of great features.

For the women's bike, your best bet would be a frame adapter like part # 64005. The adapter bar spans the distance between the seat post and handlebar gooseneck, providing a level connection point for the bike. If the bike's carried level, you'll have the best possible ground clearance.

I've linked you to the racks I've recommended, as well as to product demonstration videos that will allow you to see the racks in action.