Recommended Hitch Mounted Bike Rack For 2015 Toyota Avalon  

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The Thule Apex 2 Bike Rack, part # TH9024XT is a very nice hitch-mounted bike rack and would work well for your Avalon. This rack will tilt when empty, allowing access to the trunk. This bike rack weighs 35 lbs. This bike rack has a distance of 7 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest part of the rack.

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

You will want to make sure you have the clearance at the back of your vehicle when installing any accessory in your trailer hitch. You will need a tape measure and a straight edge like a yardstick or a dowel. Place the straight edge vertically against the back of the rear bumper, letting it extend below the trailer hitch receiver opening. Then measure from the center of the hitch pin to the straight edge. This will give you the distance you need to clear the rear bumper. I have attached a helpful article that explains how to take a quick measurement for clearance.

If you do not have a trailer hitch installed, I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C12107. This is a Class ll hitch and it has a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening. I have attached a link to an installation of this hitch on a 2013 Avalon but it should be very similar to your 2015. As the video shows, the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the back of the rear bumper is 5 inches. Per Curt, all non-trailer loads - bike racks, cargo carriers and so forth - should be supported with stabilizing straps, like part # 18050. Failure to properly support these loads will void your hitch warranty from Curt.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

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