Which Roof Bike Rack for Use on a Yakima Roof Rack on a 2010 Honda Odyssey

Question:

I currently have a Yakima roof rack to which I have attached a Thule cargo box. I believe there is room to attach a bike stand type carrier to the roof rack the attched bike is old and I do not care if bugs and grime get on it. Can you reccomenr an attachment? Thank you.

asked by: Don A

Expert Reply:

Your choice of a roof-rack-mount bike carrier will depend on which type of crossbars you have since some will not fit the elliptical types but virtually all will fit on round crossbars. The Yakima roof racks we offer for your 2010 Honda Odyssey use crossbars of both the round and the more aerodynamic elliptical types.

Also, there are three general types of roof bike carriers: fork-mount, frame-mount and wheel-mount. These differ in where they hold the bike to secure it to your roof rack. Your best option may depend on your bike, and whether or not it has a quick-release mechanism on the front tire. If it does then a fork-mount carrier might be your best option. You might want to review the linked article concerning how to select a roof-mount bike carrier.

If your Yakima roof rack has round crossbars you have several options in fork-mount bike carriers.

If your crossbar spread is between 20" - 32" you can use the very cost-effective Inno Fork Lock III # INA391. This carrier fits round, square, or aero crossbars and is compatible with disc brakes.

If you prefer a wheel-mount carrier (that does not require removal of the front tire) and your crossbar spread is between 16-48 inches you can use the Yakima Front Loader, part # Y02103. Please see the linked video. This carrier is compatible with disc brakes and folds flat when not in use. We also offer the Thule UpRide carrier, part # TH599000, which can be equipped with locks keyed to match your Thule cargo carrier using Thule Lock Cylinders, part # TH450400.

In a frame-mount carrier we offer the very cost-effective Swagman # S64720. This carrier is compatible with disc brakes and includes a lock to secure the bike to the carrier.

If your Yakima roof rack has elliptical crossbars you will be limited to fork-mount carriers. The link provided will show you all fork-mount carriers that will fit elliptical crossbars.

A great useful accessory for any roof rack is a tire step, such as the HitchMate # HE4040. This sturdy folding tire step slips over a rear tire to provide better access to your cargo carrier and bike rack. This item is especially helpful with taller vehicles such as your Odyssey.