Options to Mount Bikes on 2021 Chevrolet Blazer That Do Not Block Review Camera

Question:

Hi, I am looking for a hitch mounted bike rack that will not block the backup camera or the digital rearview mirror camera on a 2021 Chevy Blazer RS. (Additional Information: Camerag is centered just above the license plate.)

asked by: Parker D

Expert Reply:

For the easiest to use solution I would still go with the hitch mounted bike rack and just live without having a completely unobstructed view with the camera, because the alternatives are problemsome. A "trunk mounted" bike rack does not position the bikes any better. The SeaSucker suction cup mounts will not work properly in the back as there is not a flat area where the rear tires would go.

If you must use the camera unobstructed then this leaves you a roof mount option. You should consider the Yakima # Y02114 "HighRoad" wheel mount roof rack. The wheel hoop will make handling the bikes up high a bit easier. You will need one rack per bike. These racks will attach to crossrails. (I see in your picture that you already have front to back roof rails.) I called several manufacturers and they do not yet have cross bars for your raised roof rails. That leaves us one option, the SeaSucker # 298-SX6000B roof cross bars. The really cool think about the SeaSuckers is they are supper strong. I have seen them pick up a VW bus by these bars. Also, they install and remove very quickly and can be transferred from one vehicle to another with ease unlike all other options.

Finally, if you can live with the obstruction, you could install a bike rack like the Thule # TH9058 “Camber” 2-bike rack or the Swagman # S63380 “Trailhead” 4-bike rack. Each rack has the “Tilt” feature to allow access to the rear of the vehicle, and an anti-rattle hitch pin for a quiet ride.

expert reply by: Les D