Best Bike Rack Options for Rear Hatch Clearance on a 1999 Eurovan Camper

Updated 03/21/2013 | Published 03/19/2013

Question:

I am considering the Softride Alumina 3 Parallelogram for use on my 1999 VW Eurovan. I have the camper model Eurovan, but the back tailgate is the same as the standard Eurovan. The tailgate is rather large tall and swings wide when opening. I need to access the tailgate a lot since this is a camper van and was wondering if the Parallelogram extends far enough to allow the tailgate to be fully opened. What is the minimum distance from hitch to rack with the rack extended? Can I extend the rack fully so that bike tires sit on the ground, supporting the bikes and relieving stress on the hitch/rack if I am parked and camping? I currently have a Yakima Swingdaddy which works well, but this only works with a 2 inch hitch and it is incredibly heavy. I would like to use the Alumina on the Eurovan and other cars I own/will own which have a 1 1/4 inch hitch.

asked by: Mike D

Helpful Expert Reply:

I have a possible solution for you, but if your main concern is having full access to open the rear hatch, then a swing-away bike rack like your SwingDaddy is your best option. Most hanging style bike racks including the Softride Alumina Parallelogram will not allow you to fully open the rear door, but I think I have one option for you.

Your best option for a bike rack that fits 1-1/4 inch trailer hitches and that will allow you to fully open your rear hatch is the Kuat Beta Folding 2 Bike Rack, # B202-114. The downside to this is that you will have to take the bikes off of the rack to lower the bike rack, but it folds down almost completely flat giving you the most amount of hatch clearance for any hanging style bike rack.

expert reply by: John H