Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack for 2008 Honda Odyssey

Published 05/08/2018

Products Featured in This Question

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

(1867)

$195.44

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

(827)

$36.20

Hollywood Racks Trail Rider Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(469)

$299.99

Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device

(568)

$66.01

Question:

Of the hanging bike racks Which is the best $250 and under...... and why?

asked by: Jimmy

Helpful Expert Reply:

To start, I recommend using Draw-Tite hitch # 75270, which is a confirmed fit on your 2008 Honda Odyssey. This is a Class III, 2" hitch which is a complete bolt-on installation so no drilling into your Odyssey's frame will be required; I've added a link to a video of this hitch being installed on an '08 Odyssey for you to check out.

As for a bike rack, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 # HR1450Z, which uses padded hooks to grasp your bikes by the top tubes and adjustable wheel mounts with straps to secure your rear wheels. It has a pair of handy quick-release spring pins that allow it to fold up for when you are not carrying your bikes or tilt down - even with the bikes loaded - so you can access your vehicle's rear cargo area.

The SE2 is easy to use and install in the hitch as well, featuring an anti-rattle handle which you only need to turn to tighten the shank in your hitch receiver.

expert reply by: Kyle S

Jimmy

5/8/2018

Do you have a less expensive bike option?

Kyle S.

5/8/2018

There is certainly a more economical bike rack option for you; I recommend checking out the Hollywood Racks Trail Rider # HR200Z which is a platform-style rack that uses cushioned hooks to secure your bikes by the masts and adjustable wheel mounts which use straps to secure your back wheels. It also features a tilting mast so you can access your Odyssey's rear cargo area and a hefty 45 lbs per bike weight capacity. I've added a link to a video review of this rack for you to check out as well.

Jimmy

5/8/2018

Of the hanging bike racks Which is the best $250 and under...... and why?

Kyle S.

5/8/2018

The 4-bike hanging rack that I would go with is the Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR. The reason being is that unlike other hanging racks in a similar price range, the Hitching Post Pro offers you the ability to both fold the arms down when it is not being used and has a tilting mast so you can access your rear cargo area. It also has a unique feature with an anti-sway strap which helps prevent your bikes from moving as they are attached to the rack. Additionally, the Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR uses what are called HoldFast cradles to hold your bikes at three points so they won't come into contact with one another. It does come with an anti-rattle bolt, though to help secure your rack it is a good idea to add Snug-Tite Hitch Lock # THSTL2. I've added a link to a video review of this rack on an Odyssey for you to take a look at. Additionally, please note that when using a hanging rack like the Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR you'll need bike frame adapter bar # 64005 if your bike is dual-suspension, has a step-through frame or you want to carry a small children's bike. The bar will give those bikes a horizontal mounting point so they can be carried by the rack. I've added a link to a video review of the adapter so you can see exactly how it works.