Fit of Thule TH944 Hitching Post on 2009 Acura MDX w/ Aftermarket Hitch

Question:

I have a 2009 Acura MDX and I just had the hitch installed. Will a Thule 944 bike carrier fit my car?

asked by: Kirsten W

Expert Reply:

It should fit. When we installed a hitch on the 2009 MDX, we found that the hitch was recessed under the vehicle by 3-1/2 inches, meaning that the distance from the hitch pin hole to the rearmost point of the bumper was 3-1/2 inches. The rack you choose will need to have a shank longer than that, measured from the hitch pin hole to the closest portion of the bike rack's upright. The receiver opening is close enough to the back of the vehicle that just about any bike rack should be compatible with the vehicle.

We don't sell the Thule 944, as it's been discontinued, but a similar Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR has a shank hitch pin hole to closest upright portion of the rack measurement of 13-1/2 inches would fit just fine.

If you'll be carrying women's bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes, you'll want to consider a frame adapter bar like part # 64005. The adpter bar spans the distance between the seat post and the handlebar gooseneck. The bar provides an attachment point that allows the bike to carry the bikes so they are level. This provides greater ground clearance.

expert reply by: Mike L