Trunk Mount Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2010 Lexus RX 450h

Question:

I saw in etrailer expert responses and from the etrailer fitguide that the Thule OutWay is one of the recommended racks for the 2010 Lexus RX 350 the 450h is the hybrid version - same exact body/exterior. I have the concern about the bike and rack weight on the spoiler that is above the rear gate. I saw you mentioned in other responses that Thule has tested this. But I checked the Thule site and used the FitGuide there and it says it no solution for a trunk mounted rack for the 2010 Lexus RX 350 and 450h. Would you mind checking with Thule and confirming that they do indeed still recommend the OutWay for the Lexus RX? Thank you very much.

asked by: Geoffrey H

Expert Reply:

When I go through the standard Thule fit guide and the mobile fit guide the Thule OutWay # TH45JV does come up in both fit guides for the 2010 Lexus RX 450h. Maybe you went through it a different way but it does come up for me. Your concerns about the spoiler are valid and whether it was tested or not if you are like me you just do not want any part of the rack putting pressure on that spoiler.

Luckily one bike rack manufacturer, Hollywood Racks, developed a trunk mount bike rack that solves this problem. The Over-the-top bike rack # HRF2 is a trunk mount that has some extra pieces that put the top straps up and over the spoiler so there is no pressure on the spoiler. This would be the perfect trunk mount solution for you.

If you will be carrying any bikes 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 # HRBA-PRO. 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.

expert reply by: Michael H