Will the Thule Raceway 3 Bike Rack # TH56BV Fit on a 2012 Lexus RX 350  

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Expert Reply:

We have an option that will allow you to carry three bikes on your 2012 Lexus RX 350, but Thule does not list the OutWay 3 Bike Rack, # TH56BV, as a fit for your vehicle. The only trunk mount style bike rack that will fit your vehicle and carry up to three bikes is the Hollywood Racks Over-the-Top 3 Bike Rack, # HRF2-3. Most bike rack manufacturers have determined that the weight of three bikes on the rear hatch of your vehicle would be unsafe to carry, but the Over-the-Top bike rack routes the upper straps over the rear spoiler for added support.

Thule does list a few trunk mounted bike racks for two bikes for your vehicle, but I would be cautious about using a trunk mounted bike rack on your vehicle with the rear spoiler. Spoilers are typically not designed to support any type of weight and could be damaged with the weight of the bike rack and bikes.

Instead, I would recommend looking into using a hitch and a hitch mounted bike rack like the Swagman Trailhead Bike Rack, # S63360. This bike rack will fit into 1-1/4 inch or 2 inch trailer hitches and has a tilting feature that gives you access to the rear cargo area of your vehicle without having to remove the bike rack each time. Another advantage to a hitch mounted bike rack is that there is no contact between the bike rack and your vehicle essentially eliminating the possibility of denting or scratching from over tightening or overloading of the bike rack.

If you do not have a trailer hitch on your vehicle, then you could install the Draw-Tite Class III Trailer Hitch, # 75676, if you are interested in this option. I have attached a link to the installation instructions for you to check out.

expert reply by: John H

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