Will Bikes Mounted on a Thule Passage Trunk Mount Bike Rack Hang Off the Sides of a 2009 VW Jetta

Question:

I have a 2009 vw jetta sedan. I was wondering how far out on either side of the car the bikes will extend when mounted. I have enough trouble judging spatial relationships to the car as it is! Im worried about misjudging the width when driving.

asked by: Jean M

Expert Reply:

There is an easy way to determine if there will be any overhang and if so how much there will be. First, measure the overall length of the bikes and divide by 2 for each bike to get half the length. Then find the center of the rear of the vehicle and measure the distance to either side of the vehicle.

If half the length of the bike(s) is longer than half the width of the car, the difference is how much total they will overhang. So for example if the car is 50 inches wide at the back and the longest bike is 54 inches it will overhang by 2 inches on each side.

This example and method is approximate. Since the bike rack will be centered on the vehicle and you will want to center the bikes as best you can on the rack, the basic math is sound.

I have included links to the instructions and a video review of the rack for you. If you will be carrying womens, childrens, or alternative frame bikes on the rack, I recommend using an adapter bar, # TH982XT, for greater ground clearance and to carry the bikes more level. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H