Recommended Options for Carrying Three or Four Bikes on 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan  

Question:

Expert Reply:

To see the various trunk mount bike racks that are a confirmed fit for your 2011 Grand Caravan, click the provided link.

Of the various racks, I would recommend the Thule OutWay 3-bike model, part # TH56BV. The ratcheting cables used to attach the rack to the vehicle are what differentiates the OutWay from other models. The 2 retractable cables are much easier to use than the complicated and difficult to use buckles and straps typically used on trunk bike racks. Because they are so easy to use, the rack can be installed or removed in seconds. The cables are lockable, and the rack also provides an integrated cable lock to help deter theft. Keep in mind, the rear wiper cannot be used while the rack is in place, and the rack must be removed before opening the rear hatch.

If you needed to carry 4 bikes, you would need to use a hitch mounted bike rack. You would first need to install a hitch like the Draw-Tite Class III receiver, part # 75579. A hitch would provide you with some future flexibility by providing an attachment point for a cargo carrying tray or a ballmount and trailer ball to tow a small trailer. Once the hitch is installed, you can install the hitch mounted rack of your choice. To carry 4 bikes, I would recommend the Swagman Trailhead, part # S63380. The Trailhead is a good, mid-priced rack that has many desirable features like an angled shank that raises the rack up by 3 inches which will provide additional ground clearance. The rack also provides anti-sway cradles that prevent the bikes from swaying back and forth and an anti-rattle hitch pin.

To carry women's bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes or step-through frames, using a frame adapter like part # TH982XT or # 64005 is recommended. The adapter spans the distance between the seat post and the handle bar gooseneck, and provides a level attachment point to the bike rack so the bike has greater ground clearance and is not carried at an angle.

I have linked you to the products I recommended. To see some product demonstration videos, click he provided inks.

expert reply by: Mike L

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