Recommended 4-Bike Rack for 2008 Toyota Sienna Minivan

Question:

Will this rack work for 1 adult bike and 3 childrens bikes on a Toyota Sienna Minivan, 2008? I often take the bikes and ride before and after school with my children. Im an art teacher, and I load the back of the minivan with all kinds of supplies. I want to be able to access the back of the van during the day. Im also looking at the Softride Dura Parallelogram 4 Bike Rack for 1-1/4inch and 2inch Hitches - Tilting. My budget is not really big enough for the $500 racks. To make matters a little more interesting, we live on a steep gravel drive. We had a 2inch hitch from u-haul installed, and it does not hit our drive. Wondering what it will actually be like with the bikes on though... Thanks for your advice!

asked by: Amy S

Expert Reply:

The SportRack Ridge Swing 4 Bike Rack # SR2415 referenced in your question is a very nice bike rack that can swing away to allow for full rear cargo access on your Toyota Sienna. The rack itself is certainly capable of securing your single adult and three children's bikes, as it can hold up to 4 bikes with a total weight of 140 pounds.

Looking at the trailer hitch installations we have done for your 2008 Sienna, there will be no clearance issues between the rear bumper and closest part of the rack. Because of how the trailer hitch fits onto the van's frame, there should also be a healthy ground clearance measurement. However, depending on how steep your driveway is, it's possible that the extension may cause issues when backing out or pulling in. If this is the case, I simply recommend pulling in at an angle when you have the bike rack mounted.

Since ground clearance is a concern, you might also consider looking at a 4-bike rack like the Swagman Trailhead # S63380. This particular rack features a shank that rises 3 inches above the trailer hitch receiver. The hanging-style rack can also be tilted away from the vehicle to allow for cargo access. I have included a demonstration video on a Toyota Sienna for you to check out.

For these or any other hanging-style rack, you will likely also need an adapter bar like the Kuat # UB01. This is needed to provide a horizontal attachment point for children's, women's and alternative frame bikes. The bar will allow for level transport and improved ground clearance. I have attached a video demonstration so you can see exactly how it works and why it might be necessary.

expert reply by: Chris R