Recommended Bike Racks for 2004 Toyota Rav4 That Allows Cargo Area Access

Question:

I have a Toyota Rav 4 2004 model. Im looking for a 2 inch hitch bike rack,with which we can open the door completely. This model has a side swing door with a spare tire. With that the bumper is attached to the door.So as I understand we need a stand which has same lower level or a stand wich can go all the way down rather than tilt down. I found once those kind of stand online from a Rav4 user. But Im not able to find now. Can you please help finding a appropriate stand in your website. Thanks

asked by: Nupur

Expert Reply:

Due to the lack of space between the bottom of the rear door and the top of the receiver hitch, the swinging bike racks are not a good option for your RAV4. Although the rack is capable of swinging, the foot of the rack will prevent the door from being opened for more than a few inches.

To carry 2 or 3 bikes, a spare tire mounted rack would be your best option, although opening the rear door while the bikes are attached to the rack is not recommended due to the fact that the additional weight of the rack and the bikes could damage the hinges.

The Yakima SpareRide 2, part # Y02599 is a nice option for two bikes, and is capable of being adjusted so that the bikes are centered on the rear of the vehicle.

I have linked you to some product demonstration videos showing these racks in action.

expert reply by: Mike L