Is the Thule OutWay Trunk Mount Carrier # TH56BV the Best Bike Rack Option for a 2011 GMC Acadia

Question:

Will this rack fit on my 2011 GMC Acadia and do you think this rack is the best option for transporting 3 bikes? Our acadia does not have a trailer hitch. Thank you

asked by: Lisa J

Expert Reply:

Yes, Thule does recommend the Thule OutWay Trunk Mount 3 Bike Carrier, item # TH56BV, for your 2011 GMC Acadia. I recently had the chance to install this rack on a vehicle and it is the easiest to install and remove trunk mount rack that I have used. 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.

Since your Acadia does not have a hitch, the OutWay # TH56BV would be a good option, but my personal recommendation for your Acadia 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.

The Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, # 75528, along with the Thule Camber 4 Bike Carrier, item # TH9056, are the choices I recommend for a bike rack and hitch option for the 2011 Acadia.

I have included links to instructions and videos for you to review that should help with your decision. You may also want to consider a bike adapter bar, # TH982XT, for use with bikes that do not have a horizontal cross bar for carrying the bikes level, see video.