Yakima Trunk and Roof Mount Bike Rack Recommendations For a 2002 Highlander Without a Hitch

Question:

Aside from installing a 2inch hitch on my 2002 Toyota Highlander, what other bike rack options can you offer?

asked by: Walt

Expert Reply:

There are two options to carry two bikes on your 2002 Toyota Highlander without installing a hitch being either trunk or roof mount.

The trunk mount option will be less expensive, but, the roof mount option opens up other opportunities to you when faced with having to carry cargo.

My research shows that your vehicle probably has a spoiler, with that being said, I recommend using the Hollywood Racks Over-The-Top Bike Rack # HRF2. This was designed for vehicles with a spoiler and is a fit for your vehicle. A lot of spoiler-equipped vehicles sport this bike rack. The installation instructions are attached.

The rack can carry two bikes weighing up to 35 lbs each. If you plan on carrying either womens, childrens or alternative frame bikes, I recommend using the Hollywood Racks Adapter # HRBA-PRO. By using the adapter it will carry the bike level and give it ground clearance. I have attached a brief video of this rack on a similar vehicle.

For security sake check out the Thule Security Strap # TH533 which will lock your rack to your vehicle and MasterLock # 8122D which is a 6 ft long combination lock to secure your bikes to your rack when they are left unattended.

As a precaution when this rack is attached you will not be able to use your rear wiper or open your hatch.

Your other option is installing crossbars on your vehicle. My research indicated that you probably have siderails that run front to back. The Yakima RailGrab Roof Rack System is popular among Toyota owners. To order this system you will need 1 # Y00408 which is a set of two 48 inch crossbars and 1 # Y33TR which is a set of 4 of the Yakima RailGrab Towers that will fit on your siderails.

The RailGrab does not include lock cores. If you would like lock cores check out Yakima # Y07206 which contains 6 cores that are all keyed the same for your convenience. The extra 2 cores can be used on your bike racks.

Finally, to carry your bike on your roof, the bike racks come in either frame or fork mounting options. For a frame mount I recommend the Yakima FrontLoader # Y02103.

If you decide you would like to explore the trailer hitch and hitch mounted bike rack option, just let me know and I will forward specific recommendations for your vehicle to you.