Trunk Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2004 Lexus RX 330 and 2007 Toyota Prius

Question:

Id like to buy a TH65JV trunk mounted rack but I don't want it to damage my vehicles. So, is it recommended for a 2004 Lexus RX330? How about a 2007 Prius? Thanks for the informative website!

asked by: DAve S

Expert Reply:

If you want to lessen the chance of a bike rack deforming either vehicle, might I suggest a different rack. The OutWay Platform rack, # TH65JV, weighs in at about 28 pounds. Adding a couple of average weight bikes at 30 pounds each would mean there is over 88 pounds on the trunk and this can lead to deformation of the vehicle.

I would go with the much lighter but equally as functional OutWay, # TH45JV. At about 13 pounds, this rack is much less likely to deform the trunk. This rack fits the 2004 Lexus RX 330 and the 2007 Toyota Prius.

To further protect the vehicles, make sure the pads of the rack and the attachment points on the vehicles are clean to protect the paint. You can even add a coat of wax to the vehicles.

expert reply by: Michael H