Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2012 Toyota Prius that will Give Loaded Trunk Access

Question:

I have a 2012 Prius. I want to carry two bikes. I have been looking at the Swagman XTC-2. Can I get open the hatchback with the bikes loaded, or do I have to remove them first. Are there any other racks that would allow trunk access, or should I be looking at a roof rack?

asked by: Harold M

Helpful Expert Reply:

It depends on the style of bike you have, but if you have a road bike with pretty narrow handlebars there is a very strong possibility you would be able to open the hatch of your 2012 Toyota Prius with the Swagman XTC-2 and bikes installed.

If you have a bike with wider handlebars a bike rack that can tilt with bikes installed on it would give you a better shot at opening the hatch with bikes attached. Check out the Swagman Semi 2.0 part # S64686. I attached a video that shows it can tilt with bikes installed. You will note that the vehicle in the video does not have the clearance to open the hatch with the bike installed but the hatch of your vehicle opens up a lot more than the vehicle in the video that opens out more.

expert reply by: Jameson C