Trunk Mount Bike Carrier for a 2008 Toyota Sienna  

Question:

Expert Reply:

It will be easier to load 2 bikes onto a 3-bike carrier so I recommend looking at the 3-bike models. There are many options that will fit and I have included a link to them for you.

In terms of the best fit you will want to look at carriers that have arms, top and bottom legs that all move independently from each other. This will allow the carrier to better fit the contours of the vehicle while holding the bikes level.

I recommend the Thule OutWay # TH56BV. I own an older version of this carrier and it is by far the easiest carrier to install and remove that I have ever used. It uses just 2 retractable cables rather than 4-6 straps to secure to the vehicle. The cables are coated and will last longer than nylon straps.

This is also one of a very small number of carriers that has locking features. The cables can be locked into place to deter theft of the carrier and there is also a built-in cable lock in the last bike position to deter bike theft. I have included a link to a video review of this carrier for you.

The Gateway # TH78VR has many of the same features but does not have an actual lock to secure the carrier and it uses 6 nylon straps to secure to the vehicle. I have included a link to a video review of this carrier 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 son's bike at all. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.

expert reply by: Michael H

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