Bike Rack Recommendation Is the Thule OutWay the Best Choice for a Toyota Sienna Mini Van

Question:

Thule says it can be done, do you reccommend it? Also any special tips would be appreciated. Thanks

asked by: Gordon C

Expert Reply:

You are correct, Thule does recommend the Thule OutWay Trunk Mount 3 Bike Carrier, item # TH56BV, for your 2004 Toyota Sienna. I recently had the chance to install this rack on a vehicle, not a mini van, and it is the easiest to install trunk mount rack that I have used.

If you will be using the bike rack on different vehicles or might be getting a new vehicle in the near future, this is the rack I would recommend, and it will safely carry your bikes, see video link. One hint is to wash the attachment points on the bike rack and vehicle before installing the rack to prevent damage to the vehicle finish.

My personal recommendation for your Sienna would be a trailer hitch and hitch mounted bike rack for several reasons. First, with a hitch bike rack you can select one that will allow access to the rear of the vehicle without removing the rack. Second, the hitch and hitch bike racks will be more stable and do not require near as much installation time, each time the rack is used. Third, hitch mounted racks do not contact the vehicle eliminating the potential for damage to the vehicle finish. Finally, a trailer hitch is compatible with other accessories such as a cargo carrier should the need arise.

For your 2004 Sienna I would recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, # C13105, the Thule Camber 4 Bike Carrier, # TH9056, and a bike adapter bar, # TH982XT, for use with bikes that do not have a horizontal cross bar for carrying the bikes level.

The adapter bar is needed for either style of rack that you choose if you will be carrying bikes with this style of frame. The above recommendations should help you make an informed decision.