What Roof Bike Rack Lets Me Open the Rear Hatch on My 2011 Honda CR-V?

Updated 06/23/2021 | Published 06/21/2021

Question:

I have a 2011 Honda CRV with aftermarket aero crossbars. The distance from the center of the front crossbar to the open rear hatch is 46 inches — I am curious if the SportRack Downshift rail is short enough to not interfere with the open rear hatch.

asked by: Michael P

Expert Reply:

I have an answer for you. I called my contact at Thule and the minimum distance that you need measuring from the center of the front crossbar to the line where the hatch and roof meet is 53 inches. Unfortunately, the Sportrack Downshift Plus SR4624 will not allow you to open the rear hatch on your 2011 Honda CR-V.

However, a great alternative is the Swagman Race Ready Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount - Clamp On # S64705. Apart from giving you enough space for hatch clearance to your 2011 Honda CR-V, the Race Ready also attaches to your roof via wheel mounts. This attachment style takes away the hassle of removing a tire from your bike to mount it. In addition, the race ready has a weight capacity of 45 pounds compared to the Downshift Plus' 37.5 pounds. I went ahead and attached a video of a similar-sized SUV in order to provide you perspective.

expert reply by: Bob C