Using a bike rack with a powered tailgate?

[sea vagabond]

I have always preferred to carry bikes on the roof of my car. It is much easier to park the car and the boot is accessible at all times. I am 5' 10" and the XC60 did present a challenge until I purchased some Thule Slide Bars which allow the bikes to be mounted without having to reach into the middle of the roof. They are expensive but worth every penny especially when you see other people struggling to get their bikes on to the roofs of their SUVs. I have also found that a small plastic step is very useful if you still find it a bit of a reach and it also comes in handy for washing the roof!