Trailer Hitch and Bike Carrier Recommendations for a 2014 Honda Accord
Published 04/24/2015
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Question:
I wanted to know what the best hitch would be for the 2014 Accord LX by Honda. I understand the frontrunners are the Curt, the Draw Tite, and the hidden hitch. Since I only plan to use it for mounting a bike rack, my towing functional needs are limited. I am mostly concerned with under-clearance and appearance.
asked by: Maxine
Helpful Expert Reply:
Since your primary application for a trailer hitch is to carry bikes I recommend Curt trailer hitch # C11496 for a couple of reasons. First, if you went with the Curt hitch, Curt requires the use of a stabilization strap, # 18050, when using the hitch for any non-trailer load such as a bike rack or cargo carrier. The Hidden Hitch model comes with a ball mount which, if you do not plan on towing, is not something you would have to have.
I have linked a video showing the hitch being installed on a 2014 Honda Accord for you. In terms of clearance it is going to measure approximately 8-3/4 inches from the ground to the bottom of the receiver. But there are other parts of the hitch that stick down a couple of inches further. This is going to be true for all of the hitches.
In terms of visibility the receiver and crosstube will be visible on any of the hitches. This is a result of how the hitches had to be designed to fit the vehicle.
For any Class I trailer hitch you will be limited to carrying up to 2 bikes maximum. You also have to make sure that the bike rack you use is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch. I recommend the Swagman Trailhead, # S63360. It is Class I compatible and holds 2 bikes. It also has a rise in the shank for better ground clearance. I have linked a video review of this carrier for you.
If you will be carrying any bikes that do not have a top frame bar that goes straight across (like a typical men's bike would) then I recommend using bike adapter bar # 64005. This will allow you to carry those bikes more level and will provide better ground clearance. I have to use these adapters and without them my wife's bike would be at a severe angle and I would not be able to load my son's bike at all. I have linked a video showing how the adapter works.
