[VC2]

How are you running the bike trays? Either side of the box? I have only ran one bike tray with a box on a 60 inch crossbar. I haven’t needed to add another bike tray but just in case I had to it would be nice to have an idea. Thanks.

 

[VC2]

Didn't need to take off the pedals. I just put one bike facing the rear and one facing the front. These are kid's bikes, but wouldn't be a problem with adult bikes.

The pilot is amazing. I was able to fit 4 adults and 2 kids in car seats. 4 adult bikes and 2 kid's bikes.

Thanks. I was thinking you may need to run one the opposite direction. I can run two side by side because I have different style trays that offset the bikes enough to allow it. I haven’t needed to run it that way because we are only a family of 5 and we have a similar set up. 4 tray style hitch rack, one on the roof, and a box.

 

[VC2]

I wouldn't go with OEM because it's just not enough storage space and I wouldn't go Yakima because I've had bad experiences with their build quality in the past.

I guess I’ve been fortunate with all my Yakima products since 1995. Okay, maybe one failed after 6 years. The arm of their original tray style hitch rack (2002-2003). came off, rusted bolt that attached it. The Yakima Timberline feet transferred over to the new Pilot from my Subaru 2018 Crosstrek without issue after I purchased a longer Jetstream crossbar. We have the same setup on our Ascent since 2019.

I’ve also had good luck with Thule also. Our roof box is going on 14 years. I did find Thule’s cross bar application for my 1996 VW Jetta GLX to be spot on, seamless on that vehicle.