Trailer Hitch and Bike Carrier Recommendations for a 2010 Honda Odyssey

Updated 07/10/2015 | Published 07/08/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - Adjustable Arms

(13)

$499.95

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(818)

$35.00

Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(1851)

$197.74

Swagman XTC4 Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1587)

$334.94

Question:

I have a 2010 Honda Oddesey with no hitch. We are looking for a rack that will carry 4 bikes 2 adult and 2 child. We will be traveling a long distance. Which bike rack would you recommend?

asked by: Julie

Expert Reply:

The safest way to carry bikes is by using a trailer hitch and hitch mounted bike carrier. Trunk mount carriers only go up to 3 bikes, any more than that and it would put way too much stress on the attachment points on the vehicle. And the roof is probably not wide enough for all 4 bikes, let alone able to support the weight of 4 bikes.

So the options are a combination of a trunk mount and roof mount set up or a trailer hitch and hitch mount bike carrier. I recommend the simplicity of a hitch mount carrier, especially considering you are going to be traveling a long distance.

For a trailer hitch I recommend Draw-Tite hitch # 75270. This is a Class III trailer hitch with a 2 inch receiver that will afford you many bike carrier options. I have included a link to a video that shows how the hitch installs.

The most popular 4-bike carrier for 2010 Odyssey owners is the Thule # TH934XTR. But even with the single arm you would likely need adapter bars such as # 64005, to carry women's, children's, or alternative frame bikes. If you want to avoid adapter bars I recommend a platform style carrier such as # S64665. This carrier holds the bikes at the wheels and frames so adapter bars would not be needed.

I have linked video reviews of the bike carriers and one showing how the adapter bar works.