Best 5 Bike Rack for a 2017 Honda Pilot

Question:

What is the best 5 bike hitch rack for 2017 Honda Pilot with factory installed hitch receiver. The hitch receiver is 2 inches, but is only a Class II with max 350 pound tongue weight, 3500 pound towing weight. It appears the center of pin hole to edge of receiver is 1.5 inches, but it measured exactly at 1.5 inches so always chance I am off in starting at center of pin hole. Will currently carry 1 adult bike and 2-3 kids bike which is why thinking about 5 bike rack for extra space, but will transition from kid to adult bikes in next couple of years. Interested in best recommendation, but also a listing of all the bike racks that will fit the 2017 Honda Pilot with the receiver specs listed. Thanks.

asked by: Mark

Expert Reply:

I have attached a list of all the bike racks that will allow you to carry 5 bikes on the back of your 2017 Honda Pilot for you. The only type of bike rack that will allow for 5 bikes to be carried is a hanging bike rack. Out of these options I recommend the Thule Apex 5 Bike Rack part # TH9026XT.

The Thule Apex is the best option we have for you. The blue rubber cradles that grip the bikes have integrated road-dampening technology (RDT) which makes for an extremely steady and smooth haul. The rack can be folded up while not in use and tilted doward for easy loading/access to the rear cargo area. Another great feature about this rack is that it has integrated locks for both the rack and your bikes.

Since you will be carrying kids bikes you will need to use an adapter bar for each one as this will ensure the bikes are carried at a safe angle. For this I recommend using the Thule Bike Adapter Bar part # TH982XT. I have also attached a review and test course video of the Thule Apex for you as well.

expert reply by: Conner L