Trailer Hitch Mount Bike Rack that Allows the Rear Swing Door to Open on a 2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser  

Question:

Helpful Expert Reply:

First, the Thule Helium Aero, # TH9042PRO, is an awesome bike rack. But, for vehicles with a door that swings open to the side, it will not tilt down enough for you to be able to open the swinging door all the way. And you would also have to remove the bikes before tilting it anyway.

What I recommend is a swinging bike rack like the Thule Apex swinging version # TH9027XT. This rack will swing off to the side and will allow you nearly complete (if not 100 percent) access to the rear of the FJ Cruiser. You will just need to measure from the center of the hitch pin hole on the vehicle straight back to the distance required to clear the spare tire. If that distance is less than 12 inches, this rack will fit.

Swinging bike racks, while the best option (pretty much the only option for doors that swing to the side) only come in a 4-bike version. Despite the 4-bike only option I still think you would be very happy with this rack because it will do exactly what you are looking for. Plus you do NOT have to remove the bikes to swing it open.

If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical mens bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # TH982XT. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wifes bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my sons bike at all.

I have included links to videos on the rack and the adapter to show how it works.

expert reply by: Michael H

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