Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Rack and Ski Adapter for 2005 Ford Excursion Allows Rear Doors to Open

Question:

Hi. I would consider you hitch mount but, if I attached it to my hitch can I still open the Excursion rear doors?

asked by: Gary K

Helpful Expert Reply:

Whether or not you can open the rear doors on your 2005 Ford Excursion depends on which bike rack you are using. If using a swing away style bike rack like the Apex, # TH9027XT, then yes, you will be able to open the rear doors, even with the ski attachment, # TH9033, attached to the bike rack.

However if it is the type of bike rack that folds down, you will not be able to fully open the rear doors. The swinging style bike rack is going to be the only option that will allow you to open the rear doors. I have included a link to a video review that shows how the swinging Vertex works.

If you will be carrying any bikes on the rack that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # TH982XT. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H