Recommended Hitch Mount Bike Rack for 2015 Honda Odyssey

Question:

Im trying to decide between Swagman Trailhead S63380 and Thule Hitching Post Pro TH934XTR. Will be used to transport bikes 3 to 4 times a year on trips around 300 mile one way and 8 local 50 miles trips per year. Primary use will be on 2015 Honda Odyssey Curt class 3 hitch. May use on 2011 Toyota Rav4 spare tire on back of hatch too, not sure if tire clearance will be an issue here with either rack?

asked by: Todd

Expert Reply:

Either of these bike racks will work well for you. Both the Swagman Trailhead # S63380 and the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR have great features, such as anti-sway cradles, a tilting mast for cargo access, and an included anti-rattle pin.

I prefer the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR. The Hitching Post Pro will offer you extra clearance at the rear of your vehicle. It measures 13-1/2 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the upright bar of the carrier, 4 inches longer than the Swagman Trailhead. I have attached a help article on measuring to find the needed spare tire clearance for you. I have also attached a review video of this rack on both a Honda Odyssey and a Toyota RAV4 for you. Additionally, the Hitching Post Pro will offer you a greater weight capacity than the Trailhead. The weight capacity of the Hitching Post Pro is 35 pounds per bike. The Trailhead can hold up to 35 pounds per bike, but not more than 100 pounds overall.

If you would like to lock the carrier to your trailer hitch, you can use Thule's Snug-Tite # THSTL2. A cable, like # TH538XT will lock your biked to the rack.

If you plan on carrying bikes with alternative frames, such as kids' bikes or women's bikes, I recommend using an adapter bar, like # 64005. The adapter bar attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem. This allows the bike to be positioned more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.