Recommended Bike Racks For 2014 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Sedan

Question:

I recently traded in my car which was equipped with a CURT trailer hitch to carry a CURT 4 bicycle rack. I am having another CURT 1 1/4 hitch installed on my 2014 Toyota Avalon Hybrid sedan and would like to get a two bicycle rack. I see that you offer the THULE Vertex two bicycle rack and also sell THULEs hitch lock. Prior to purchasing these two items I just wanted to make sure that the THULE Vertex rack and the THULE hitch lock is compatible with my new CURT hitch. I wonder if the THULE Vertex rack also has any fittings or features which support locking the bikes on the rack. I see that other racks such as one offered by SWAGMAN? come with a locking assembly. Thank you very much!

asked by: Rob R

Expert Reply:

To make sure you get a bike carrier that will work on your 2014 Toyota Avalon Hybrid, you can take a measurement. I have attached a helpful article that explains how you can measure to make sure the carrier clears the back of your vehicle. You will want to use a tape measure and a straight edge like a yardstick or dowel. Hold the straight edge against the back of your bumper and extend it down below the hitch. Then measure the distance form the hitch pin hole to the straight edge and that is the clearance you need to make sure a hitch mounted accessory will work for you.

As far as the Thule carrier fitting your Curt hitch, there should be no problem.

The Thule Apex 2 Bike Rack, part # TH9024XT has a tilting feature and has a built-in anti-rattle device that reduces vibration and noise. Some of the measurements on this carrier are 7 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest edge of the pivot assembly. The distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outside upright bar of the carrier is 16 inches, and the rack weighs about 35 lbs.

The hitch lock, part # THSTL2 can be purchased separately to secure the carrier to the hitch. To secure the bikes to the rack I recommend the Cable lock system by Thule, part # TH538XT.

Another carrier that may work well for you is the Thule Helium Aero 2 Bike Rack, part # TH9042PRO. This is a lightweight aluminum carrier that weighs just 18-1/2 lbs and has a tilting feature. This carrier has locks to secure the bikes to the carrier as well as locking the carrier to the hitch. these are keyed alike so one key works with the carrier. I have attached a photo of the hitch that shows some of the measurements you can check out.

If you plan on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or womens bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing more ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.