Trailer Hitch Mount Platform-Style 2 Bike Rack with Maximum Ground Clearance for 2006 Acura RSX

Question:

We are looking at the stickup 2 bike rack for a 2006 acura rsx with a 1 1/4 hitch. The car rides low so the hitch is only like 7 off the ground under load. We need a rack that will angle up as it leaves the receiver and ends up holding the bikes approx 15 off the ground. We are considering this and other platform racks from Thule and Kuat as well. What have you found works on small coupes such as the rsx? We are carrying two lightweight road/touring bikes. Thanks

asked by: Steve K

Expert Reply:

I believe the only hitch available for the 2006 Acura RSX uses a Class I receiver. The StickUp you referenced is not compatible with a Class I receiver, due to the stop that the hitch manufacturer punches into the receiver that prevents the use of accessories meant for Class II receivers (see photo). This is done as a safety feature, due to the limited capacities of the Class I receiver.

For maximum ground clearance in a 2 bike platform-style carrier that is compatible with a Class I receiver, you can do no better than the Kuat Sherpa, part # S101. The Sherpa offers a full 3-1/2 inches of additional ground clearance, provided by the offset shank. To determine if the Sherpa will work with your RSX, you will need to measure the clearance between the hitch pin hole in your receiver and the furthest rearward point of the bumper. If this distance is less than 5-5/16 inches, the Sherpa would be a great choice for you.

The Thule Doubletrack, part # TH990XT, will provide 6 additional inches of ground clearance (measured at the rear of the rack) and would require 6 inches of clearance between the hitch pin hole and the furthest rearward point of the bumper. The Thule T2, # TH917XTR offers a total of almost 8 inches of ground clearance at the end of the rack, but will require a hitch pin hole to end of bumper measurement no greater than 3 inches.

Any of the three racks mentioned would work great for you. They all offer additional ground clearance, the only limiting factor would be the hitch pin hole to rear bumper measurement provided by the installed hitch on your RSX. I have linked you to the install instructions and video demonstrations of the racks I recommended.

expert reply by: Mike L