Can a Hitch and Hitch Mounted Bike Rack Carry 2 Cruiser Style Bikes on a 2009 Hyundai Sonata

Expert Reply:

We always recommend a hitch and hitch rack for several reasons. Hitch racks, unlike trunk racks, do not make contact with painted vehicle surfaces so there is a lesser chance of scratching. Having a hitch on the car will allow you to use other accessories whether that is towing a trailer or using a cargo carrier.

For a hitch, I would recommend part # 60816, from Hidden Hitch. This hitch includes a drawbar, pin and clip. This hitch is a no-drill application meaning it will use existing holes and mounting points in the frame so that all that has to be done for installing is turning wrenches. A person with average mechanical ability and average hand tools can install this hitch in about a half hour.

I might consider a bike rack with larger cradles. I am not completely familiar with the Cruiser bikes but I thought I remember them having larger diameter tubing for the frame. The Thule Roadway, part # TH912XT has larger cradles that should handle even the largest diameter tube frames. We also have a video on this carrier that I have linked to below.

You could also look into a single arm carrier with clamp style cradles instead of straps like Swagman XP 3 part # S64910-2. Again we have a video on this carrier that I have added a link to below.

expert reply by: Patrick B