Comparing the Thule OutWay and Passage Trunk Mount Bike Racks for a 2005 Toyota Highlander  

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The differences between the Thule OutWay # TH56BV and Passage # TH911XT trunk mount bike racks are many. The OutWay is the top of the line model. I actually own this rack and it is the best trunk mount rack I have ever used. The arms move independently of the rest of the rack. It comes with an integrated cable lock in the last bike position. And the cables can be locked into place to deter theft.

The best feature is the retractable cable system. The 2 retractable cables are easy to use and make installation much faster than on any other bike rack. The feet that touch the vehicle have premium padding to protect the vehicle.

The Passage is the entry level rack. The arms cannot move independently of the rest of the rack. It does not have any locks. This rack also uses 6 straps with cam buckles so it is not as easy to install an installation will take longer than on the Raceway. The arms on the Passage though are 15 inches apart outside to outside which is more narrow than on the Raceway at 17 inches apart. Arms closer together make loading certain bikes easier.

The Passage does also have padded feat but they are basically foam cylinders and not the premium padded feet like on the Raceway.

It is my opinion that the OutWay # TH56BV is the vastly superior rack and it is definitely the one that I would, and did, go with.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's 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 wife's 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

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