Hitch Bike Rack Recommendation for 2016 Mazda 6 that Allows Rear Hatch to Open with Bikes Loaded

Question:

I am considering the Swagman hitch rack Item # S64650 for use on a 2016 Mazda6. I am concerned with the clearance of the inner most bike contacting the trunk/bumper area of my Mazda when loading/unloading. I will be using it for mountain bikes. I did not find any video of my particular situation. The closest I could find was a video of a Nissan Altima, a similar car, which seems to have a very close gap when mounting or removing the innermost bike. Do you have any more info for my decision? Thanks for your help and website.

asked by: Bob L

Expert Reply:

I would recommend the Thule Roadway part # TH9058 for your 2016 Mazda 6 j. It fit well (see install video below links), but I have concerns about the fit the Swagman you mentioned on your vehicle yet.

In general the Swagman works well with vehicles like yours, but since the inside back mounts to the inside of the upright mast and your handlebars would be at an unknown height and width it's really hard to say with absolute certainty.

The Camber is a favorite among our installers and demo guys because it works well and is very universal in what it fits and works with. It would be a great option.

If you plan on carrying any womens or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.

expert reply by: Jameson C