Bike Rack Recommendations for a 2003 Honda Accord Sedan

Question:

Although its advertised for a 2003 Accord Sedan, the only visuals are on Civics or other styles. After a miserable long haul with a bike rack from fl. to Va. Im wanting to make sure how it fits and looks secure on the trunk of a 2003 EKLHonda Accord. Do you have any visuals for that model with this bike rack.?Thanks for your prompt reply.

asked by: Sandy

Expert Reply:

We are at the mercy of what vehicles customers bring to us which is why you do not see pictures or a video of the Thule Passage # TH910XT on a 2003 Honda Accord sedan. We just haven't had one in for test fits.

I can tell you though that if stability is the main issue, I do not recommend a trunk mount bike rack. But if you were to use one, the best option is going to be the OutWay # TH45JV for 2 bikes or # TH56BV for the 3 bike model. I own this rack myself and it is the most stable of any of the trunk mount bike racks we carry.

The issue with most trunk mount racks is the straps that they use. It can be difficult to get the rack secured properly. The Outway uses only 2 rubber coated straps instead of the usual 4-6 of other carriers. This makes installation faster. I have linked a video review OutWay for you.

Getting back to stability the most secure and safe way to carry bikes is on a trailer hitch and hitch mount bike rack. This also keeps the bikes and rack off of the vehicle. If you are interested in this method of bike transport I recommend Draw-Tite trailer hitch # 24787.

This is a Class I trailer hitch so you are limited to carrying 2 bikes at most and the bike rack used has to be Class I compatible. I recommend the Swagman Trailhead, # S63360. It is an inexpensive bike rack that still has great features including: the ability to tilt, anti-sway cradles, and a rise in the shank for better ground clearance. I have linked videos of the hitch and bike rack for you as well.

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 # 64005. 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.