So you’ve forked out for the best trunk-mounted bike rack that you can afford, but now you’re wondering can you open your trunk with a bike rack on it? Well, this will depend on the type and brand of bike rack you have invested in.
If it’s too far to cycle to the trails, a bike rack is the best way of transporting your bike from A to B. But what if you still need access to your trunk, even with a bike rack on it? Read on to find out how.
Can You Open Your Trunk With A Bike Rack On It?
The short answer to this is yes you can, with many different types of bike racks, but not all.
Roof-mounted bike racks are the simplest of bike racks to install and use while still being able to open your trunk.
Many hitch-mounted bike racks like the Thule T2 Pro XTR, have a fold-down or tilt feature which means you can open your trunk with a bike rack on it.
However, most bike rack manufacturers do not recommend opening your trunk with a bike rack on it as the rack or your bikes may cause damage to your vehicle. In addition, the hinges of your trunk door are not designed to carry any extra weight when the trunk door is open. So, even if you can open the trunk it’s advisable not to, unless the manual says you can.
If you do open your trunk with a bike rack on it, always make sure that you check the positioning of the rack afterwards. Plus make sure that any straps or connections are securely fastened as opening the trunk may have shifted the rack.
Can You Open Your Trunk With A Trunk Mounted Bike Rack?
Yes, you can. But we don’t recommend opening your trunk with a trunk-mounted bike rack attached, even if it’s physically possible.
Trunk-mounted bike racks are designed to fit onto the trunk of your car, usually with straps, and can only be used when your trunk is closed. The weight of a trunk bike rack, and especially when loaded with bikes, is supported by the closed trunk door which is not strong enough to support this extra weight when it’s open. Even if you can open the trunk with a trunk-mounted bike rack, don’t. The weight of the bike rack plus your bikes could cause the trunk lid hinges to break or it may cause the trunk lid to slam shut on you, trapping a finger in its way.
If you need to open your trunk with a bike rack installed, try to limit any unnecessary contact with both your vehicle and the rack to avoid any unwanted scratches or dents. In addition, a trunk-mounted bike rack should be quick and easy to install and remove. So, if you need to open your trunk, try and remove your trunk-mounted bike rack first to prevent any damage to your vehicle.
