Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendation for 2018 Honda Odyssey that Allows Rear Cargo Area Access

Updated 04/24/2019 | Published 04/23/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex Swing XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Swing Away

(218)

$699.95

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(27)

$217.52

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(450)

$189.99

Kuat Ubar Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(131)

$49.00

Question:

Hi, I am looking for a hitch to carry 1 mens, 1 womens, and 2 kids bikes on my odyssey. Need it to be able to tilt to allow hatch to open and be easy to use.

asked by: Amy

Expert Reply:

My favorite bike rack to recommend for rear cargo area access is the Thule Apex Swing part # TH9027XT because it can carry up to 4 bikes and can swing out and away from the rear of the vehicle to give you complete access to the rear cargo area with bikes loaded. The arms of the rack can also fold down when not in use so that the bike rack doesn't take up much space as well. Check out the review video I attached for more info on this rack as well.

Since you plan on carrying any womens or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.

Then for a trailer hitch you'd want the etrailer part # e98855 or part # C64NR. The # e98855 is the easier one to install but the # C64NR only has the hitch opening hanging below the rear bumper so it's a bit more concealed. The etrailer brand hitch is better for your application because it has the most clearance of the bumper when carrying a bike rack.