Is Thule OutWay Trunk-Mount Platform Bike Rack TH65JV Compatible with 2015 Hundai Sonata

Question:

I would like to know whether the Thule OutWay Platform th65jv will fit a 2015 Hyundai Sonata. Is there any issue with it potentially leaving a dent in the bumper or the trunk? Thanks

asked by: Andy

Expert Reply:

Your 2015 Hyundai Sonata is not recommended for use with trunk-mount bike carriers. Both Thule and Yakima recommend none of their trunk-mount racks for your car due to the car trunk's thin sheet metal and the bumper cover that COULD be dimpled or dented by the weight of two bikes. Some bike rack makers do show a fit for certain of their lighter trunk-mount racks but my recommendation is to install a trailer hitch and use a hitch-mount 2-bike rack. This puts all of the carrier and bike weight onto the car's frame - its strongest part - rather than on the body panels.

Your car can be fitted with a light-duty Class I type hitch that has enough capacity for 2 bikes. The linked page will show you all hitches; all have a 1-1/4-inch receiver opening that is compatible with a Class I bike rack. The hitch I recommend is the Draw-Tite # 24965 because it does not require a stabilizing strap like some others. With this bolt-on hitch installed you can choose a rack that has 4-inches or more of clearance from the hitch pin hole to ensure no interference between the rack and bumper.

The linked page will show you Class I bike racks including platform styles like the Raceway # TH9003PRO you referenced.

You may want to review the linked articles for more guidance about selecting a rack that will work well with your style of bikes.

expert reply by: Adam R