Can Tilting Feature of Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack be Used with Bikes Loaded

Updated 06/08/2020 | Published 08/03/2019

Products Featured in This Question

Thule Apex XT Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(221)

$499.95

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

(221)

$699.95

Question:

Can we tilt the Thule Apex XT 4 Bike Rack away from the car when bikes are loaded? I am really planing to order this Thule Apex XT 4, specially because it has the tilting feature.

asked by: Henrique M

Expert Reply:

When using the tilting feature for the Thule Apex XT # TH9025XT you need to first remove the bikes. The only way to keep the bikes loaded so you can gain full rear access to your 2017 Toyota Highlander is to use the Thule Apex Swing XT # TH9027XT. This is the exact same bike rack but it has an arm that swings the upright and arms out to the side of the vehicle as you can see in the attached photo.

expert reply by: Jon G

click to enlarge

Thomas S.

6/4/2020

I have just placed a Thule Apex XT 4 on my 2016 Honda CRV. I have noticed my license plate is obscured by the rack, especially when loaded. What options do I have for installing a license plate mount that would keep the plate in plain view? It seems possibly moving the plate to a mount on the car below or to the side of the rack might work, or there may be some way to attach a license plate to the rack itself.

Chris R.

6/8/2020

The Yakima PlateMate # Y02713 is a great solution for this. It offers a really versatile mounting design that can be attached to the rack or even your rearmost loaded bike frame for a simple install that doesn't leave behind any permanent hardware or modifications.