Can I Open the Rear Hatch of a 2015 Subaru Crosstrek with a Thule Passage Trunk Bike Rack Installed  

Question:

Expert Reply:

I may have a solution for you, but you're not going to be able to open the rear hatch of your 2015 Subaru Crosstrek XV with the Thule Passage # TH910XT while bikes are attached since the added weight of the bikes would likely damage the hinges/shocks on the gate. I'll also add that after opening the hatch while the rack is attached without bikes installed, you'll want to re-tighten everything just to make sure nothing became loose during the process.

If you've got a trailer hitch on your vehicle, there are tilt away racks available that do allow you to access the rear cargo area and would be a much better solution if you've got the option; something like the Yakima # Y02457 would be a good economical choice that tilts away and can carry 2 bikes. This rack will also fit on either a 1-1/4" or 2" hitch receiver, so it could be used on either of the potential hitch receiver sizes that are available for your 2015 Subaru Crosstrek. This rack tilts away, but would need the bike unloaded first. For a rack that tilts with the bikes loaded, check out the Curt 2 Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount - Tilting # C18085

If you'd like to add a hitch to your vehicle, the Curt # C11286 is a great option that will give you a 1-1/4" receiver on your vehicle and allow you to use a hitch mounted bike rack. Curt hitches have a thicker powder coat on them, so they're durable and do a great job of resisting corrosion; this helps ensure that your hitch lasts as long as you've got your vehicle.

I've linked some review and installation videos of the parts I've mentioned in case you want to have a look.

expert reply by: Erik B

0