Trunk Mount Bike Rack for a 2013 Lexus RX 350 with Rear Spoiler at Top of Hatch

Question:

Will the Thule raceway pro th45JV work on a 2013 Lexus RX350 with a spoiler on the hatch at the roofline? There appears to be space on the underside of the spoiler to which I could hook onto the top of the glass window but I was afraid it might break the glass..... true? Alternatively can I go over the top of the spoiler and connect the hooks in the body panel gap? Will this damage the spoiler?

asked by: John S

Expert Reply:

The Thule OutWay # TH45JV is not recommended for the 2013 Lexus RX 350. It will not work with the spoiler piece that you mentioned but I do have a solution for you.

Instead, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top rack # HRF2 for 2 bikes or # HRF2-3 for 3 bikes. These racks have an additional upper arm piece that moves the top straps up and over that spoiler so no weight is put on it (since the spoiler is not meant to support weight). I have included a link to a video that shows how it works.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H