Bike Rack that Can Tilt Down with Bikes Loaded to Open Rear Hatch on a 2012 Toyota Sienna

Question:

I am looking for a bike rack for our 2012 Toyota Sienna and was wondering if with this rack would you have to unload the bikes each time you wanted to open the rear hatch? If so, what is your recommendation for a rack that would allow you to open the rear hatch without unloaded the bikes each time?

asked by: Jenny R

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Yakima RidgeBack # Y02458 is not meant to be tilted down with the bikes loaded. They would have to come off first and then you could tilt the rack down. Even then I cannot guarantee that the hatch will be able to clear the rack and open all the way. But not to worry because I do have a couple of options that will work for you with or without the bikes loaded.

You could go with a swinging rack like the Yakima FullSwing # Y02465. Instead of tilting, this 4-bike rack swings to the side, with the bikes on it, to completely get out of your way so that you will have full access to the back of your vehicle.

Take a look at the Inno Tire Hold Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Tilting # INH142. This rack was designed to tilt out with or without bikes loaded so you can open the rear hatch. This is a premium rack with so many great features. I have linked a video of these racks for you.

expert reply by: Michael H