Will this work for a 2008 Honda Odyssey?

Question:

My only question about this rack for my van is: what is the clearance for opening the rear door when the rack and bikes are tilted away? The product videos show SUV/CUV vehicles, but minivan rear doors are larger and lower to the ground closer to the hitch/rack so I am hesitant. I need to carry three bikes. Is there a better rack?

asked by: John H

Helpful Expert Reply:

If you check out the video of the Thule T2 Classic for 4 bikes # TH69XT on a Dodge Caravan, you will see that the van could partially open with the bike rack tilted away. The interference was from the handlebar of the bike mounted closest to to the van. However, since you only need to carry 3 bikes, you could just skip this closest position and I believe you would be able to fully open your back doors. I have included his video so you can get a closer look. Unfortunately I do not have a definite answer for your 2008 Honda Odyssey, but it really looks like you would be fin.. The rear hatch on the Toyota 4Runner Collin uses in his review video has a rather large hatch so this is the closest type of vehicle we can compare your Odyssey to.

If you are still concerned about losing hatch access when bikes are installed, the Kuat Pivot 2 Swing Away # PVP20B will ensure that you will always have hatch access. If your three bikes do not exceed 139lbs you will be able to use the Kuat Pivot. This will solve your problem no matter what.

I have personally gotten my hands on the swing away and it really is a game changer, especially for minivans with large hatches. Check out my review video to get an idea of how it works!

expert reply by: Adam E