Bike Rack Sways With 4 Bikes Loaded on Reese Eclipse Carrier 63124 on 2007 Honda Odyssey

Question:

How much sway is expected with this rack or any similar 4-bike rack? I purchased and installed on my 2007 Odyssey and loaded 2 adult + 2 kids bikes each about 30# and it seems like the attachment point between the vertical post and the triangular bracket doesnt hold the vertical post securely. The triangle bracket flexes significantly if I just push a little on the bikes and I am worried about it wearing out prematurely or failing in use. It is only 1/8inch thick and only bolted on the top. I have not used it yet on the road and am looking for sturdier alternatives. The reese eclipse 63124 model looks sturdier in pictures. is its bracket any thicker?

asked by: Jonathan W

Helpful Expert Reply:

These two bike carriers are similar overall but differ in that the Eclipse uses a single arm, 2-inch shank and offers 8 inches of clearance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the upright mast. Your Translite uses dual arms, fits both hitch sizes and provides 11 inches of clearance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the upright mast. This additional 3 inches of distance will tend to allow the Translite carrier to flex a bit more under load. My contact at ProSeries advises that the thickness of the steel bracket at the base of both carriers is the same.

To some extent the amount of sway you experience with your 4 bikes loaded on the carrier will depend on the design of the bikes themselves (particularly how far from the center post the bikes weight extends) but also on how they are mounted. Generally it is recommended to load the heavier adult bikes first so that their weight burden will be placed closer to the central mast; this will help to reduce flexing. You may also be able to slide the rubber cradles on the Translite arms closer in toward the vehicle to reduce the tendency for flexing; this will depend on the particular design of the bikes and how much clearance each one requires.

You might try using a stabilizing strap like # 18050 to help secure the loaded carrier (this is actually required by hitch manufacturer Curt for their 1-1/4-inch Class II receivers). A product such as Erickson # EM34415 can secure the carrier to your Odyssey roof rack side rails or crossbars to absorb some of the weight burden from the carrier.

I have included links to all of our 4-bike tilting hanging-style carriers that will fit both 1-1/4- and 2-inch hitch receivers as well as to an article that may help you consider your preferences.

expert reply by: Adam R