Truck Bed Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2017 Honda Ridgeline and Bike with Fenders

Question:

A previous person asked this question and the response proposed the Thule Insta-Gator. However, this Thule product, according to Thule, shouldnt be used on bicycles with fenders as the ratcheting arm can crust the fenders. I guess this leads to a couple of questions: can the Insta-Gator be jerry-rigged to work with a bike with a fender. Or alternatively, what in-bed bike rack system do you recommend that will work for a 2017 Ridgeline with tonneau rails that doesnt require removing the front wheel and that isnt a crash pad? I know I am asking a lot the only thing I have come across that may work is the pipeline racks products.

asked by: Patrick

Expert Reply:

The Thule Insta-Gater Pro # TH93VR could be used on a bike with a fender provided that it does not clamp down on the fender and not because it could lead to corrosion but because the fender is not a secure place to ratchet down the hook.

The truck bed rack options are limited for the 2017 Honda Ridgeline but the Tailwhip # S64761 is a great option. I know you mentioned not wanting something like this but they are actually more versatile than you might think. It protects the truck and securely holds the bike(s). It can also be used for just about anything else you could put in the bed. I have linked a video review for you.

Any other option is going to require removing the bike wheel and/or drilling into the truck.

expert reply by: Michael H