Can Bike With Long Handlebars Allow LiftGate To Open With Hitch Mounted Bike Carrier

Question:

Hi there and thanks for the info and getting back to me. I realize that using the outside carrier will make room, the only problem is my partner has a similar bike, so therefore this rack will not work. Does the Kuat NV or the Thule XT 2up rack have more of a tilt, can't see any data on these. Thanks anyway for the feed back.

asked by: Dale W

Helpful Expert Reply:

As you said, the video of the Yakima HoldUp, part # Y02443 on a 2017 Sportage shows a bike with 9-inches from the center of the handlebar stem to the outside of the handlebar. In the video there is only a couple of inches clearance when the rear liftgate is opened.

Since you have a bike that has much longer handlebars I recommend using one of the outer positions of the bike carrier. This would place the end of the handlebar further away from the back of the vehicle.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

Dale W.

3/22/2017

Jeffrey L.

3/23/2017

We may have another option that will work for you. You can check out the Yakima FullSwing 4 Bike Rack, part # Y02465. This bike rack will swing out of the way completely when the bikes are loaded. You would need to stagger the bikes when placed in the carrier so the handlebars do not interfere with each other. This bike carrier also has locks that secure the bike carrier and the bikes. I attached a link to all of the swing-away bike carriers we offer. If you have any questions about a specific rack let me know and I will be glad to help out. If you are planning on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using 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.