Will Swagman XTC4 4-Bike Carrier for 2-inch Hitches # S64665 Fit a Nissan Altima  

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Expert Reply:

The Swagman XTC4 4-Bike Carrier, part # S64665, fits 2-inch hitch receivers. I checked on the last several years of the Nissan Altima to see what size hitches are offered and only the smaller 1-1/4-inch size Class I hitches are available for model years 2009 through 2013. Chances are that your Altima has a 1-1/4-inch Class I hitch on it. I have linked an article on trailer hitch sizes that will help you confirm which you have.

Class I hitches are limited to carrying only 2 bikes. The 2-bike limit for a Class I hitch applies to both hanging and platform carriers. In order to transport 4 bikes with your Altima you will need to split them between different carriers, such as two on the hitch carrier and 2 carried on a roof rack-mount carrier.

When selecting any hitch bike carrier it is important to confirm the clearance required at the back of the vehicle. The best reference point for measuring is the hitch pin hole. If you measure from this point to the rear-most part of the vehicle you will know how much clearance you need from a bike carrier. The linked article on hitch-mount bike racks includes tables showing the clearance offered by each model of carrier. Once you know your measurement you can select a 2-bike carrier that will clear the back of the vehicle by using the table for 1-1/4-inch hitch carriers. I have included a link to our page for 2-bike hanging carriers that will fit a Class I hitch.

If you will be using a hanging carrier to transport bikes for women or kids, or any that has an alternative style frame design without a main horizontal top frame tube, you might consider a bike adapter bar. These attach between the seat and handlebar posts to provide a level mounting surface to mate with the carrier arms. The Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Womens and Alternative Frame Bikes, part # TH982XT, will help keep your bikes level on the carrier to maintain safe ground clearance.

If you advise the model year and version of your Altima (sedan or coupe) I will be glad to make recommendations for a roof rack and roof-rack-mounted bike carriers.

expert reply by: Adam R

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