hi,

i'm looking at getting a hidden hitch installed and using a hitch mount bike rack.

i don't want a roof rack (wind noise, ugly etc. etc. plus pretty expensive).

they have solid and fold-down bike carriers. solids are cheaper.

does anyone have a hitch mount rack? does the hatch door clear it when opening or is a fold-down needed?

thanks.

p.s. did a search but couldn't find info on the clearance of the hatch door.

 

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but you'll have to go with the fold-down ... at least from MY experiences. I ended up getting a roof-rack because I like to haul around BIG things (read: canoe, kayak, skis, etc.) so a hitch mount wasn't going to be enough for my needs. But I did consider the hitch mount for just hauling my bikes around. Check out http://www.yakima.com and use their vehicle selector. It's super easy and will even give you an American retail price.

Good Luck!

-=Doug

 

dang, that's what i thought. from what i can see from my searching, fold-down it is like you said.

thanks for the link. i've been scouring thule, yakima and swagman trying to find a definitive answer. i guess i'll just hit the shop on saturday and determine for sure.

 

Stop searching. As far as parts, service, quality, and warranty goes ... Yakima is by far the better product. I find their fit is superior to Thule. I have to admit to a lack of first-hand knowledge with their hitch-mounts, but if their roof-racks are any indication, Thule's fit on a Protege5 leaves a lot to be desired. Good luck though!

-=Doug

 

uh oh.... I smell a Thule vs. Yakima debate coming on !!!!!!


I'm a Yakima guy myself, with a roof rack on my P5.

 

if you are looking for an awesome hitch mount (i have the 1/4") rack that has the ability to fold up towards the car when not in use (makes it easier to park), check out www.hollywoodracks.com

i had the pro rider 2 installed on my 97 honda del sol (until it was stolen last weekend in milwaukee) and it was the best rack i have ever owned....

BTW - the reason i'm lurking on these boards is that i'm looking to buy a 2003 P5 once my insurance claim has been settled - from what i have read on the boards so far, i'm very excited to make my purchase and join this group!!

let me know if you have questions on the rack!

~ dano