Recommended Options for Carrying Bikes On 2011 Chevy Traverse  

Question:

Expert Reply:

The Thule OutWay Trunk Mount Bike Rack you looked at, part # TH45JV is indeed compatible with your 2011 Traverse. The ease of installation is what makes this rack a top-seller. Rather than fumbling around with the 6 straps and buckles that need to be adjusted each time the rack needs to be installed or removed, the Raceway uses 4 cables that adjust with a twist of a knob, making installation and removal unbelievably easy.

This being said, if you're planning on holding onto the vehicle for a few years, you might want to consider the hitch option. The Draw-Tite # 75528 is easy to install, and in addition to a bike rack, the hitch would provide an attachment point for other hitch mounted accessories like a cargo carrier such as the etrailer brand # e98874.

Installing the hitch and using a hitch mounted bike rack would allow you to accommodate all 4 of your bikes, without having to carry one in the rear. The Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR is a reasonably priced rack that would work great for you. The rack features anti-sway cradles that prevent the bikes from swaying back and forth and banging into each other. The rack can tilt away from the vehicle once the bikes are removed, allowing full access to the cargo area. A threaded anti-wobble hitch pin is available, but a locking hitch pin, part # THSTL2 and a cable lock part # TH538XT are also available.

For carrying women's bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes, using a frame adapter like part # 64005 is recommended. The adapter bar spans the distance between the handlebar gooseneck and the seat post, providing a level attachment point to the bike rack, increasing the ground clearance.

I've linked you to some install and product demonstration videos that you might find helpful.

expert reply by: Mike L

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