Comparison Of Hitch-Mounted 4-Bike Carriers

Question:

Hi I am comparing 2-3 of your products. I have a Honda Pilot 2009. I am looking for a bike rack that will hold 4 bikes adult size I am comparing the Thule Hitching Post Pro - Folding Tilting 4 Bike Rack w Anti-Sway - 1-1/4inch and 2inch Hitches Item # TH934XTR and the the : Yakima LongHaul 4 Bike RV Rack - 2" Hitches # Y02476 I have also considered this: Hollywood Racks Road Runner 5 Bike Carrier for 2inch Hitches - Tilting Item # HR520 if you think I need the extra space. I need the bike rack to swing/tilt away so I can reach stuff in the trunk. I cannot tell what is the difference between the two Thule bike racks. I am not familiar with the Hollywood brand - but it comes with locks.... Any information you have will be greatly appreciated. Thank you

asked by: Alicia

Expert Reply:

Both the Thule and Yakima racks hold 4 bikes and have anti-sway cradles. The Thule Hitching Post # TH934XTR folds and tilts, the Yakima LongHaul # Y02476 only folds. The Thule Hitching Post # TH934XTR will work with both 1-1/4" and 2" hitches, The Yakima LongHaul will work with only 2" hitches. The Yakima # Y02476 comes with both a cable lock and an anti-sway hitch lock, the Thule Hitching Post # TH934XTR does not come with locks. Finally, the Yakima is rated to be used with motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, and flat-towed vehicles, the Thule Hitching Post # TH934XTR is rated to be used on motorhomes. The Hollywood Racks Road Runner 5 Bike Carrier # HR520 that you mentioned has all of the characteristics that I mentioned of the Thule Hitching post # TH934XTR except it only works with 2" hitches.

Another bike carrier you might want to check out is the Yakima FullSwing 4 Bike Rack, part # Y02465. This carrier swings away from the back of the vehicle, even with the bikes loaded, allowing you full access to the rear cargo area. This carrier includes anti-sway cradles and locks.

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.