A hitch-mounted bike rack is a type of bike rack that slides into the receiver of a trailer hitch on a car or truck. This type of rack has some advantages over roof- and trunk-mounted bike racks:
Questions to consider when choosing a hitch-mounted bike rack:
Looking for the best bike racks?
See etrailer.com's recommended bike racks
Bike racks come in a variety of styles - some work better than others for carrying specific kinds of bikes. You can even find racks that are designed to fit specialized bikes like tandems and recumbents. No matter which kind of bike you have, there is a hitch-mounted bike rack that can carry it.
| Best Types of Racks for Different Kinds of Bikes | ||
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 Road and mountain bikes |
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 Bikes with step-through frames |
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| Platform | ||
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| Hanging - wheel only mount |
 Children's bikes |
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| Hanging |
 Bikes with carbon fiber frames |
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| Platform with wheel clamps | ||
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| Hanging - wheel only mount |
 Bikes with suspension |
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| Platform with wheel clamps | ||
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| Hanging - wheel only mount |
Hitch-mounted bike racks fall into one of two major groups - hanging and platform (or wheel-mount) style racks. A few racks are designed to carry non-traditional bikes, such as recumbents, tandems, trikes, or other specialty bikes. To read more about specialty bike racks, see the section Specialty Bike Racks.
| Hanging Style | Platform Style |
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Most hanging bike racks support bikes by their frames, so that the bike hangs from its top tube. These hanging racks work best on standard-frame bikes. A few hanging bike racks hold bikes by their wheels, eliminating contact with bike frames. These wheel-only mount racks can easily accommodate bikes with alternative frames.
Bikes with alternative frames may not hang level on a hanging rack. If you have a bike with an alternative frame, and it doesn't hang level, an adapter bar can help. An adapter bar clamps onto the seatpost and head tube of your bike and provides a support that rests on the bike rack's arms.
Bikes can sway on hanging racks, making contact with other bikes or with your vehicle. To help stop sway, many racks come with anti-sway cradles that grasp bikes by their frames and prevent them from swinging.
Dual-Arm Bike Rack
These racks have 2 arms to provide a stable platform to support bikes.
Arm spacing varies among dual-arm racks. Widely spaced arms provide the best stability for holding larger bikes, but smaller bikes may not fit on racks with wide arms.
Single-Arm Bike Racks
Single-arm racks support each bike on a single cradle. They secure bikes with clamps (top plates) or Velcro-like straps.
Wheel-Only-Mount Hanging Bike Racks
Wheel-only-mount bike racks hold your bikes by their wheels, thereby avoiding contact with your bikes' frames.
Platform or Wheel-Mount Bike Racks
These racks support bikes by their wheels. The bikes sit on top of the rack, the tires resting in cradles. Adjustable wheel holders allow platform bike racks to fit a wide range of bikes regardless of size, frame, suspension, or wheel size. You can easily load bikes on this style of rack.
Frame-style clamps hook over your bike's crossbar, holding the bike in place by the frame. This type of rack provides a very stable way to carry your bikes - because they eliminate bike sway, you won't need to use anti-sway devices. And you won't have to worry about bikes making contact with each other or your vehicle.
The clamps on this style of rack hold bikes in place by their wheels, eliminating any contact with frames. This is a great option if you want to protect your bike's finish and maintain its warranty, which can be invalidated by using any rack that grasps the bike's frame. This type of rack is also a good choice for bikes with suspension because it doesn't push down on the frame.
etrailer.com's Recommended Bike Racks
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| Kuat Sherpa 2 | Yakima LiteRider | Thule Roadway | |
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 Premium |
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| Kuat NV 2.0 4 Bike | Thule T2 Pro XTB | Yakima HoldUp | |
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 Best Value |
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| Thule Hitching Post Pro | Swagman XTC-2 | Hollywood Racks Trail Rider | |
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 Family |
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| Swagman XTC-4 | Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE | Curt Premium 4 | |
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Specialty hitch-mounted bike racks are available to carry many different kinds of specialty bikes. See the many kinds that etrailer.com offers, below.
The arms on these racks are spaced wide to hold the long frame of a tandem bike. These racks may also have built-in anti-sway cradles to help keep a tandem bike steady while it's being transported.
Note: You may have to remove 1 or both wheels from your bike if it extends out past your vehicle's mirrors.
Smaller wheel hoops can be spaced far enough apart on these racks to fit the smaller wheels and longer wheelbases of recumbents.
The 3 wheel cradles are sized and spaced to fit the wheels on trikes. Some of these racks can carry standard bikes and recumbents as well as trikes.
The cradles on these specialty platform style bike racks are wide to support the extra large tires found on fatbikes.
These racks are designed to handle the extra weight of electric bikes. To provide the needed extra strength, critical joints are welded and heavy duty materials are used in their construction.
Before you buy a hitch-mounted bike rack, you'll need to know if it will fit the hitch on your vehicle.
Most hitches have a 2" x 2" or 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" receiver opening. If the opening of your vehicle's hitch is 2" x 2", any bike rack made for this opening size will fit. If your hitch is 1-1/4" x 1-1/4", you'll need to know its class to ensure that you find a bike rack that will fit. Hitches that are 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" are Class I or Class II. Class II hitches can carry more weight than Class I. To help prevent overloading of a Class I hitch, some manufacturers design their Class I hitches so that Class II accessories won't fit into them. If you have a Class I hitch, you'll have to make sure that any bike rack you consider fits Class I hitches. If you have a Class II hitch, you can use a bike rack that fits Class I and Class II.
If you don't know the class of your hitch, you should be able to determine it based on the hitch's maximum capacity. The capacity can be found on a sticker on the hitch, or it will be stamped into the hitch. The pictured hitch shows a typical location of a sticker. The maximum tongue weight of this hitch is 450 lbs. Most Class I hitches have a tongue weight capacity of 200 lbs, and most Class II hitches have a tongue weight capacity of 350 lbs.
Don't have a hitch? No problem!
If your vehicle doesn't have a hitch, you can install one. To install most hitches, you don't need a lot of mechanical skill - you just need to have a few basic hand tools. Our fitguide can help you find the perfect custom-fit hitch for your vehicle.
Shop for a custom-fit hitch for your vehicle
If your vehicle has a rear-mounted spare, you should make sure that the bike rack will clear it when the bike rack is installed. See how to measure, below, to check for clearance.
You can add an extension to your hitch to give you more clearance, but remember that an extension will reduce the weight capacity of your hitch by half.
When mounted on a vehicle that has low ground clearance, a hitch-mounted bike rack can drag when you drive over dips in the road or in driveways. If your vehicle has low ground clearance, consider a bike rack that has a built-in rise in the shank, as shown in the rack pictured above. This rise can help to prevent the bike rack from dragging on the ground.
Typical hitch-mounted bike racks are available to carry from 2 to 5 bikes. Racks for specialty bikes, like trikes and recumbents, may only be able to carry 1 bike. When you're considering a rack, make sure that it fits your vehicle's hitch. See the table, below, to see the opening sizes and typical maximum capacities of trailer hitches.
Hitch Class Facts
| 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" Class I Hitch | 1-1/4" x 1-1/4" Class II Hitch | 2" x 2" Class III, IV, and V Hitches | |
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| Maximum Tongue Weight |  200 lbs |
 350 lbs |
Over 350 lbs |
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Many bike racks have features that make it more convenient, easier to use, and more secure. They may tilt or swing out of the way to allow you to gain access to the rear of your vehicle. They may have built-in locks to keep your rack and bikes secure. Many have anti-rattle devices that prevent the rack from rattling inside the hitch.
Swing-Away Hanging-Style Bike Racks
Tilting Hanging-Style Bike Racks
Parallelogram Hanging-Style Bike Racks
Folding Arms on Platform-Style Racks
Bike rack parts that fold are usually held in place by a pin and clip or an internal mechanism that is released by a lever. The lever style is easier to use than a pin and clip, but is usually found on more expensive racks.
Anti-rattle devices eliminate rattling and jostling of the rack in the hitch during transport.
Updated by: Raymond P.
Last updated: 6/27/18
We have two e bikes one weights 75 poundsnds. And the other we lights 70 pounds. Doyou youare have a bike rack that will carrier these bikes exactly. Looking for a bike rack for a 2 inch hitch
I recommend checking out the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes # HLY84FR . This has a weight capacity of 80 lbs per bike (be sure to remove your batteries!) and it fits a 2" hitch receiver like what you mentioned.
Hi. We have a 2015 Honda Oydssey without a hitch, a 3-bike rack that fits into a 1.25" hitch, and 4 bikes to transport. We are trying to decide what size hitch to install on the van. To fit our current rack, we'd need a 1.25" hitch, or to use an adapter in a 2" hitch. For now, one bike could fit into the van, but in the future, we may consider buying a 4-bike hitch rack instead. What would you recommend? Thank you so much!
Since every bike rack manufacturer I've spoken with says not to use an adapter for the rack unless it was designed for that rack, I recommend using the trailer hitch # 76025 for the 2" receiver as well as the sleek look. This then enables you to purchase a 4 bike rack as well which will open up some cargo space on the inside of the van. I'm attaching a link to our selection of 4-bike racks that are compatible with a 2" hitch for you to check out.
Helpful Links
dept-pg-hitch_bike_racks-sz-fits_2_inch_hitch-pc-4_bikes.aspx
I have a 2014 Honda Accord sedan (I-4) and purchased the Draw-Tite Sportframe (#24899) from Etrailer. I'm having a hard time deciding which platform bike rack to go with. Needs to transport two 29er mountain bikes, The rack will need to be relatively easy to remove, as it will only be mounted when transporting bikes, maybe every other weekend. It also needs to fit on a 2018 Ford Escape with a factory installed hitch. So a 1.25" hitch mount with a 2" adapter is a plus, but not a deal breaker. Integrated locks are a plus but not a necessity either. My main concerns are clearance when attached to the Accord and ease of attaching/removing. Any insight on RockyMounts Monorail and WestSlope vs Kuat Transfer and Sherpa 2.0, or any others would be greatly appreciated.
Your hitch is a Class I, so the racks that you mentioned won't work. Instead, I recommend the Hollywood Racks Destination, part # HLY94FR . It's compatible with Class I hitches and fits both 1-1/4" and 2" receivers. It will clear your bumper with its 9-1/4" of space between the hitch pin hole and the closest part of the rack.
I’m looking for a rack to transport an Ice Adventure HD Tadpole and a Aventon Level stepthru Ebike. I have a 2008 Lexus RX and plan to put a hitch with a 2” receiver on it. Any suggestions for a rack?
We currently do not have a bike rack that can accommodate both an ebike and a trike. Hollywood Racks used to make one, but they have been out for some time. They may bring them back, but that is not a definite. Unfortunately, there isn't a way right now for you to carry both of these. Because the trike is the more cumbersome of the two, I recommend getting the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider, part # HR1000Z-R-TRKADP , for that.
@KefG If I can find a Trike Adapter 3, would that adapt to a current Sports Rider SE rack?
@Kevin What you will need is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE for Recumbent Bikes # HLY84FR and the Trike Adapter # HRTRK-ADP-3 that you referenced. This gives you the ability to carry up to an 80 lb ebike as well as a 100 lb trike.
2020 Subaru Outback, 2" hitch. Having problems finding a 2 bike rack to fit this Subie hitch due to it's hole sizes and locations. Will Yakama Ridge Back fit? If not what rack will fit? Thanks!
@FredS I haven't been able to find much information about the Outback's factory hitch or what bike racks can fit. It looks like the holes are placed to close to the receiver, making it harder to find a bike rack that will fit. I can't say for sure if the Yakima RidgeBack will work. It may be a better option to replace the hitch entirely with an aftermarket one. I've linked to a list of them.
Helpful Links
Recommendations for hitch mounted bike racks that can handle 4 bikes and not cause damage to carbon frames/forks? The rack would go on a 2021 Honda CR-V with a 2” hitch receiver. I wasn’t sure if the clamping mechanism (hook that comes down on top tube or fork/wheel) on some of them would damage a carbon frame/fork). I would use road and mountain bikes, aluminum and carbon frames, wheel size 24-29” (no super fat tires or heavy e-bikes). I would like the option to convert between 2 and 4-bike trays, but it's not a deal killer.
The Kuat NV 2.0, part # NV22G-NA22G , ticks all of these boxes. It can handle 4 bikes but be converted to a 2-bike rack, and it secures bikes by the tire instead of the frame. The only problem would be the 24" wheels, but you can use part # 016-025-00-00 for that.
Looking for recommendations on 4 bike platform carrier for 2019 Honda Odyssey and 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited: will Hollywood SE be a good choice? Will be carrying 2 adult hybrid or mountain bikes + 20” kids bike + 16” kids bike with training wheels (for now!). Also interested if other similar style racks would be better, and which ones would provide access to the back of the Odyssey. Thanks!
The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HR1400Z is a great bike rack and it can accommodate all of your bikes, but you will need the Hoop Adapters # HRSW-ADP-2 for your smallest kids bike. From the center of the hitch pin hole to the closes part of the rack measures 5" when folded up or 7-1/2" when folded down so you will need to look at that and compare it to both of your vehicles to see if it will fit. I don't that this rack will allow you to open up the back hatch on your Odyssey though. The Yakima FourTimer # Y02469 will sit further out (12" folded up and 17" folded down) and you should be able to use it for your smaller bike with the Adapter Bar # Y02531 .
The Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE # HR1400Z is a great bike rack and it can accommodate all of your bikes, but you will need the Hoop Adapters # HRSW-ADP-2 for your smallest kids bike. From the center of the hitch pin hole to the closes part of the rack measures 5" when folded up or 7-1/2" when folded down so you will need to look at that and compare it to both of your vehicles to see if it will fit. I don't that this rack will allow you to open up the back hatch on your Odyssey though. The Yakima FourTimer # Y02469 will sit further out (12" folded up and 17" folded down) and you should be able to use it for your smaller bike with the Adapter Bar # Y02531 .
Wanting a Heavy Duty bike rack that can hold up to two 60lb E-bikes. We have a 2015 GMC Sierra 1500 4 by 4. Bikes will have fenders. Want locks for rack and the bikes. Need a sturdy ramp to load and unload. Don't want to lift bikes on and off. 2" hitch , Swing away rack option to drop the tailgate if the bed needs accessing. Want to do the job and not fall apart with plastic or inferior parts. Easy to load and store. Can't seam to find one that covers all my needs.
Well you've come to the right place, my friend. Check out the Yakima OnRamp # Y36FR ! This can hold up to two 66 lb bikes (be sure to remove the battery from yours prior to traveling), it comes with a ramp, and uses clamps to hold your bike by the frame instead of the front tire. To get that swing away feature you also need the BackSwing # Y02483 . Locks are included for all of the pieces involved as well for some extra peace of mind.
@JonG Hi Jon, I was looking at the Y36FR. It seemed to fit our needs. I wanted your expert opinion on what I was looking for prior to ordering the unit. Backswing may be an add on later after I see how the main rack works out. Batteries out of two bikes will save 18lbs of weight on the racks during any transportation. Thanks again,
@RobertP Anytime!
What bike rack would accommodate two Ecotric folding electric bikes with fat tires. Would also like a tilting rack if possible. Going on a Honda Ridgeline with 2 inch hitch. Thanks!
I recommend checking out the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 as it fills the bill with everything you mentioned plus it can accommodate up to 4-11/16" fat tires if you get the Adapter Kit # TH985101 . You can also get the longer ramp # TH933402 if it works better for your application.
We are purchasing two Trak Allant e-bikes, one sloping top tube and one step through frame. The bikes weigh about 56 pounds each with battery. The batteries can be removed. I am having a Curt 2" receiver hitch installed on our 2021 Outback Subaru. We need to have access to the rear hatch with the bikes on the rack. We need a ramp, since the bikes are so heavy. We want the rack to fold up small so we can store it when not in use. What do you recommend?
Thank you for all of the details! For your application You can either go with the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 or the Yakima OnRamp # Y36FR . I personally like the OnRamp a little more but you mentioned being able to fold it up smaller for storage and that's where the EasyFold XT comes in. Both racks have the ability to tilt and fold which were also on your list. The one advantage that the OnRamp does have is since it has the 2" solid shank you can use it with the Yakima BackSwing # Y02483 if you like the idea of being able to walk right up to the back of your vehicle instead of squeezing in between the bike rack and bumper to get stuff in and out of your car.
I’m looking for a 2” hitch rack for my 2002 VW Eurovan weekender, usually just for my step through Prodeco stride 500 ebike. Occasionally including a grand daughter. So a 2-3 bike capacity.
I would check out the RockyMounts SplitRail LS # RKY11404 . It has a 60 lb per-bike weight rating and can accommodate a wide variety of bike styles out there as long as they don't have a front fender. If you need to carry a 3rd bike you can do this by picking up the Expansion # RKY1150 , but just note that when you do this your bike weight capacity drops to 45 lbs per-bike.
Thanks for all the great answers. This is really helpful. I have a 50lb step though Ebike. (May also get one for my husband at some point.) I have a Lincoln MKC with the kick sensor feature that I don't want to lose. I am 5'2", and cannot lift the bike very high, so may need some sort of ramp. What hitch do I need, and what bike rack do you recommend? Also, how difficult/heavy are the racks to take them on and off? I don't think I want it to remain on the car all the time. Thanks for your answers!!
Thank you for the kind words! What year is your MKC? This will let me know what hitch(es) will fit.
@JonG It’s a 2017 The bike rack I ordered is the 1up for 2” hitch.
@Sheri For your application I recommend using the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver # C13194 . We haven't heard of this getting in the way of the kick sensors, however sometimes when a hitch is installed on a vehicle with kick sensors, it isn't uncommon to have to change where you swing your foot for the sensors to pick up the movement better.
I drive a 2012 Kia Optima and would like a recommendation for a hitch and bike rack suitable for a small ebike and 1 regular road bike and still be able to access the trunk with bikes attached or not. And a secure rack that locks to car and bikes locked to rack. Locking function is more important than opening trunk if that's hard to match.
For a trailer hitch I recommend going with the Curt part # C11025 . It does require the use of the stabilizer strap # 18050 for a bike rack but I feel that is kind of warranted for your application. Do you know how heavy your E-Bike is? With the info I currently have the only bike rack that I know will work is the Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202 but it is definitely on the high-end of the price spectrum. If you're E-Bike isn't super heavy then we might be able to find one that is more cost-effective.
@JonG thanks for your quick reply. My ebike is only 35lbs. I'd like a bike rack that locks to the car and ability to lock bike to rack. And a rack that doesn't damage or rub on my car like the temporary strap on bike racks do and that stabilizing strap looks like it could do. I want the rack to be easy to put in place and secure and still be able to use the trunk, that's why I'm considering the hitch. Hope that give more info for your best advice!
Thanks so much @JonG ! That's a solid recommendation for me and my current bike. Could it carry 1 single bike up to 70lbs? Or each bike limit would be 35lbs? Also, feedback for the website, it would be really handy if we could move from pic to pick using the forward and back arrows on keyboard. That rack for example has tons of pics which are hard on the wrist and slower to click on each one.
@KiaE Glad you like it! The max weight for each bike position is 35 lbs. While the whole bike rack can support 70 lbs total, that 35 lb limit has to do with that individual bar and cradles. Thanks for the feedback! I'm not sure how possible that is (I don't know the development side of things) but I can pass it along!
@JonG This expert answer says another model has an easier install but there is no link and search for part yields nothing. Is the 2nd easier model not in stock any more? https://www.etrailer.com/question-189483.html
@KiaE It looks like the hitch part 24853 was discontinued and is no longer available. The part # 24965 referenced above would be the way to go for your application.
Recommendation for a swinging arm 2 bike rack. Hitch is a 2” opening.
I really like the Yakima FullSwing 4 Bike Rack # Y02465 because you have integrated bike and rack locks but also because you can easily adjust where the cradles sit on the arms to accommodate varying bike frame designs. Even though other bike racks have the ability to do this by basically forcing the cradles to move, the FullSwing actually has a track under the arms so the cradles will lock in place wherever you need them.
Can you recommend a swing type hanging bike rack for a 2020 CX9 with the OEM hitch please
I really like the Thule Apex Swing XT # TH9027XT . I'm not sure where the hitch pin hole lies on your OEM hitch in regards to your bumper but this bike rack will fit as long as you have no more than 7.3" from the center of your hitch pin hole to the rearmost part of your rear bumper.
Thank you for the recommendation, @JonG . Is the Apex Swing XT compatible with a 11/4 hitch?
@Pchie None of the swinging arms we carry will fit a 1-1/4" hitch receiver. They require the stronger 2" receiver because of the extra weight of the swinging arm section. I apologize for not pointing that out - typically vehicles around the size of your CX-9 have options for a 1-1/4" or 2" receiver. We do have aftermarket 2" receivers but they don't fit in quite the same exact spot as your OEM receiver if you're interested.
Any recommendations for 2007 Infiniti G35 towhitch+bike rack setup? Thank you.
I have a 2009 Acura MDX and would like to carry three or four bikes on a 2” hitch. Which bike rack would you suggest?
I recommend going with the Thule Apex Swing XT # TH9027XT because there is more spacing between the cradles (to make it easier to fit all 4 bikes) and the rack is connected to a swinging arm so that you can gain rear hatch access without removing any of your bikes.
We just bought a tandem Pedigo ebike.We will be transporting in the back of a 2017 Silverado.Do you recommend a speci type of rack or will we need to" rig " something to make it work. The rear wheel extends beyond the tailgate
That is a bit unique! In your case you could try using something like the RockyMounts # RKY10995 with a T-Slot fork mount like part # RKY1097 , or something like the Yakima GateKeeper # Y07411 which drapes over your tailgate.
We have 2 himiway electric bikes (70lbs each). We need a rack for a 2009 Jeep Wrangler with a spare tire on the back. Can you tell me what we need? Thank you
We have a 31' travel trailer and need to haul 2 electric fat tire bikes. What would work?
The first step is to install a trailer hitch on your travel trailer. You can find all of the available options on the linked page. Then you'll need to use the Swagman E-Spec # S94FR and then upgrade the cradles with the Fat Bike Adapter Kit # S64694 (1 for each bike).
Helpful Links
Looking for a class 2 hitch rack to carry 2 e-bikes - step thru 50-60#, and 40-50# with sloping top bar, but also can be used with the step-thru ebike and a graphite road bike with 28c tires. Suggestions?
Sounds like you're looking for the Yakima OnRamp # Y36FR . This can hold up to 66 lb bikes, comes with a camp for easy loading of heavier bikes, and secures the bike frames using the cradles on the center mast.
@JonG thank you, Jon. I’ve read that carbon frame bikes are supposed to use carriers that do not touch the frame, so I’d have to see how it would work on my carbon road bike.
@RichardM It is true that you want to avoid carriers touching the frame unless they have a special pad designed for the sensitive bike frame. For your application I'd use the OnRamp but then also get 2 (or more if you want spares) of the Thule Carbon Bike Frame Protector # TH984101 . These will provide any additional protection that you'll need for your carbon road bike.
@JonG Great! Thank you!
@RichardM Happy to help!
I have a Roadtrek Zion with a hitch mounted Stowaway. Is there an ebike carrier that could work for me?
I have 2019 Lexus. I also a handicap cart which I must lift in and out of Lexis each time I want to use the handicap cart. Do you have thing that that I can use to assist me to load and unload the cart?
We have some cargo carriers with a ramp like the Curt # C18112 that can be used if your 2019 Lexus has a hitch receiver (2" for this carrier) which can help make loading up your handicap cart easier but we don't have any kind of lift system aside from this type.
I have 2016 Toyota Corolla. I want to get bike rack that attaches to the hitch and not the trunk lid. I thought normally the device where bike rack end goes into the hitch has holes in horizontal direction but in 2016 corolla I looked at and there are no horizontal holes but only one hole at the bottom. I wanted to know how can I connect the bike rack before I buy. Thanks.
You should definitely have hitch pin holes the are horizontal on your hitch receiver like what you see with the Curt # C11265 or Draw-Tite # 24913 (both of which fit your '16 Corolla). If you don't have that then you might have some kind of specialty hitch that needs an adapter. If that's not the case then I'd swap out your current trailer hitch for one of the ones mentioned above as they will work with a bike rack.
Trying to find a tilt-style bike rack (2 bike is fine) for my 2008 Forester. I was hoping to get the Thule T2 Pro (1.25 hitch) but that model doesn't seem to come up as available for my car - I don't understand why not. I've tried contacting Thule but no response x 2 weeks. Do you know if that would work with my car and, if not, what the problem is and then of course what rack would you recommend? Thanks so much for any help
From what I was finding it looks like from the center of your hitch pin hole to the rearmost part of the bumper is 5". This means that the Thule T2 Pro # TH9035XT will fit for normal use, but it will likely make contact with your 2008 Forester when folded up. For an alternative that sits far enough out that you can fold it up I recommend the Kuat NV 2.0 Base # BA12B .
I have a 2015 Chevy Impala. What would you recommend for me to be able to take 2 adult bikes to a nearby park?
What rack will carry a trike and a men's road bike on the back of a 2021 Grand Design 310GK 5ht wheel trailer?
The only bike rack we have that will carry those bikes is the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider SE2 # HR1450Z-R-TRKADP2 but Hollywood Racks hasn't approved it for use on a 5th wheel trailer. Basically if you were to use this for your application and anything happened to the bike rack the warranty would be voided.
Please recommend bike hitch for 2010 Lexus RX350, to be installed on the vehicle first that need a bike rack recommendation for (2) Adult E-Bikes of total weight of 140lbs. Thank you,
For the hitch itself on your Lexus RX 350 the Draw-Tite Class III # 75676 will work perfectly. Then for the rack I really like the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider # HR1460Z-E , which can handle two bikes of up to 80 pounds each.
i have a 2014 honda CRV with a 2" hitch. what hanging buke rack would you suggest also is it necessary to get the adaptor for girls bikes
I really like the Thule Camber # TH9056 because of its uniquely large cradle spacing and tilting ability for rear cargo access on your CR-V. If your girls bikes feature a step-thru frame then an adapter bar will likely be needed to maintain level transport and ground clearance. The Thule # TH982XT will work well.
Hi, I have a 2019 Hyundai Ioniq and I plan on getting the Curt Class 1 Hitch (#11486). However because of the way it tucks underneath the car, there needs to be a 5" clearance between the pin insertion to the hitch, and the end of the trunk/car. I was wondering the Thule Roadway 2 Bike Rack - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting (Item # TH912XTR) would be compatible or not. Or if there are any recommendations. Thanks in advance
On the Thule Roadway # TH912XTR there's a distance of 7-1/2" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the foot of the rack - which is its closest potential obstruction. This means it'll work great on your Ioniq and you'll still have about 2-1/2" of clearance between the rack and rear bumper.
Is it better to buy a 3 bike rack to haul just 2 bikes and space them out so they don’t rub against either other? Or is that just unnecessary overkill!
That's not overkill at all, in fact it's a great idea and something a lot of customers will do. Depending on the style of your bikes, things can get pretty tight when securing them right next to each other (which can really make loading.......not fun) so allowing for space is an excellent solution. With a 3-bike rack you'll of course give yourself some versatility as well should a friend ever want to tag along. I particular like the Thule 3-Bike Helium Pro # TH9043PRO .
Hello, for a 09 Hyundai Accent hatchback with one 20" fat tire ebike & one 26" step through ebike with easy loading what hitch & rack would you recommend? Thank you.
Since your Accent is likely equipped with a Class I hitch (if you don't already have a hitch at all I recommend the Draw-Tite # 24795 ) you'll need to make sure the rack is Class I-rated. For a couple of e-bikes, I highly recommend the Thule EasyFold # TH903202 , which can handle two bikes that weigh up to 65 pounds each and features an integrated ramp to help with loading. You'll just need to add the Fat Bike Straps # TH985101 for your one fat tire unit.
2010, VW bug convertible, what kind of hitch to pull small trailer with an e tricycle, thanks
The Curt Class I Trailer Hitch # C11066 is designed specifically for your 2010 Beetle and its 2,000 pound towing capacity is more than enough for a small e-bike trailer. You'll also need to add a wiring harness to illuminate the trailer's signal lights, for which I recommend the Tekonsha # 119178KIT .
What will be the best bike racks to be installed behind a 34' 5th wheel and that can carry at least 4 bikes and preferably 6 (2 adult bikes and 4 kids bikes)?
I've linked our full selection of bike racks we have available that are rated for use behind a 5th wheel below. We don't have any 6-bike options that will work, however the Thule Range 4-Bike # TH9057 is a really nice option. If you have room in the trailer itself for the other 2 bikes (maybe the smaller kids models) that will probably be your best solution.
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We have a 2012 Nissan Pathfinder with a Nissan hitch class III installed. I bought a Thule APEX XT 5 hitch bike rack only to find out that the distance from the center of the hitch pin hole to the face of the hitch was less than 1-1/2" and, as pointed out on YOUR web page (but not others), this cannot be used with this hitch type. Is there another rack that fits this type of hitch? Yakima? Or is there a hitch extender, which could be installed to use the Thule? The rack is heavy and for 5 bikes. Thank you!
The problem here is that there just aren't too many 5-bike racks to choose from, so I think your best option is actually going to be to stick with the Thule Apex XT (which is otherwise a GREAT rack) and use an extender adapter to work around the shallow hitch pin hole issue. The Curt # C45791 will work well, although you need to keep in mind that any adapter like this does reduce the hitch capacity by 50 percent - so just make sure the loaded rack doesn't exceed this number.
I have a 2009 Honda Accord. It is low to the ground. I need to install a hitch to accommodate two EBikes. What do you recommend for a hitch? Secondly what do you recommend for a bike rack. My preference would be a rack that would be easy for my wife to use as she would go out to meet friends and would need to load and unload by herself
For your 2009 Honda Accord the Curt Class I Trailer Hitch # C11496 will work perfectly. Then for the bikes I highly recommend the Thule EasyFold # TH903202 , which can safely support two bikes that weigh up to 65 pounds each and features an integrated ramp to help with loading so your wife can meet her friends without breaking a sweat.
@ChrisR thanks so much I definitely check those items
@Rick No problem at all!
Help!! I have a Fiat 500c and have just ordered a Cityrad electric bike. Could you please advise me as to what bike rack could work for me! The bike will weigh 65 lbs. Thank you!
The Thule EasyFold # TH903202 is a great option here. It's really one of the only e-bike racks available that is compatible with Class I hitches (which is what I assume your Fiat 500c is equipped with), can handle bikes that are up to 65 pounds, and includes an integrated ramp to help with loading.
Hello. I have a 2016 Mazda 3 Hatchback i-touring. I need a recommendation for a hitch and bike rack. -The rack will transport 2 bikes. -I would like access to enter the trunk when bikes are on the rack. -In addition, what accessories are necessary to the keep rack/hitch from touching the ground since the car sits low. Thank you! Thank you!
Starting with the hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class I # 24914 . The 1-1/4" receiver will sit right under the bumper so it won't cut into your ground clearance too much. For a carrier that can be tilted back with the bikes still loaded (for rear cargo access) you'll need to go with a platform rack. the Inno Aero Light # INH330 is a really good option that's compatible with Class I receivers.
I have two bike racks to choose from (both given to me by neighbors) - a Kuat and a prorack. I have a2015 Rav4 and want to know which I should choose, and what hitch I should choose as well. Thanks.
Just going by brand alone I would choose the Kuat, but it's hard to give a confident answer without knowing what particular model of each you're looking at (along with the type and weight of your bikes). For a trailer hitch on your RAV4 I highly recommend the Curt # C13406 .
I need a hanging bike rack for 4 bikes. 2019 G wagon w/ spare tire on the back. Hitch Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated
As long as your G Wagon is equipped with a 2" hitch receiver The Yakima FullSwing 4 Bike Rack # Y02465 is a great option. It can actually swing out of the way to allow for rear cargo access and it offers 15" of clearance between the hitch pin hole and upright mast. Take a quick measurement from the hitch pin hole on your Mercedes to the outermost edge of the spare tire just to make sure it's less than 15".
I have a 2018 Jayco Redhawk motor home. 22 J . It has a 2"by2" Reese hitch. I want to use my Thule Pro Bike Rack- Made to carry two 60 lb or less ebikes as well as tow a lightweight aluminium kayak trailer. I have looked at your RM 077-8 Dual Hitch Adapter as well as the video. How do I determine the Rise ? The picture shows an 8 " rise. I would prefer a lower rise for the bike rack as I have to lift the ebike on to this rack. When I viewed the video it showed lower rise available. Any suggestions appreciated. I have the correct hitch to tow the trailer with a 2 " drop.
We do have a selection of multi-purpose adapters that will work for this application, however those Roadmaster units actually aren't rated for towing a trailer (only for flat towing a vehicle). The MaxxTow # MT70070 is a good option. It features a 6-1/4" rise on the top receive. If that's still too much I recommend the Curt # D210 , which actually features a ball mount platform built in.
I have a Hollywood Sports Rider SE2 (HR 1450Z-E) bike rack. Will it work with / fit in a Draw-Tite 76184 Trailer Hitch on a 2020 Buick Enclave? My concern is the distance that the rack has to slide into the receiver. My measurement is 4 3/4 inches that would need to slide into the hitch receiver. Can you tell me if the receiver can accommodate that? Thanks in advance for your help.
The receiver on the Draw-Tite # 76184 does provide enough depth for the shank of the Hollywood Racks Sport Rider # HR1450Z-E .
I own a 2010 Madza 6. Which type bike rack and hitch should I purchase for this car? The bike is a 26" Cranbrook Cruise. A response to this e-mail is appreciated.
Hi! I own a 2016 Subaru crosstrek and I am looking for the correct hitch and bike frame to carry 2-4 bikes. Can someone please help that has a crosstrek?
I don't have a Crosstrek but I can certainly help. For just the hitch the etrailer # e98838 will work perfectly - it allows for a simple bolt-on install and features more than enough capacity for a loaded 4-bike rack. We have quite a few 4-bike racks that will work really well on your Crosstrek and I've linked them all below. I particularly like the Thule Apex XT # TH9025XT because of its uniquely large cradles spacing that helps a lot with loading.
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looking for answers. i own a 2018 Forester. Looking for expertise on what hitch and bike rack i should be getting. i'm very new to this. I'll only need to hold 3 bikes at most.
I can definitely help! Starting with the hitch I recommend the etrailer # e98839 , which features a nice matte black finish and more than enough capacity. I linked an install video below. For a bike rack to use with it on your Forester I really like the Thule Helium Pro # TH9043PRO . It features excellent cradle spacing for easy loading and locks are included to secure everything into place.
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I have a 2002 Jeep Renegade with spare tire on back (approx. 13" from pin hole to extend past spare), 2" hitch, and am looking for a cost effective way to carry 2-3 adult bikes. Not sure what style works best, or would accommodate the spare tire.
A hanging style rack is your best bet to get this type of clearance. The Thule Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR is a great option that can handle up to 4 bikes at 35 pounds each and features a generous distance of 13-1/2" from the center of the hitch pin hole to the vertical upright.
I own a 2019 Alfa Romeo stelvio. I want to install a bumper hitch for a bike rack. Are you able to recommend a hutch. I do not want to install under the carriage of the venicle
The Draw-Tite # 76199 will work perfectly on your Alfa Romeo Stelvio, as long as it's not the Quadrifoglio model. This will bolt onto the frame rails beneath the vehicle - I'm not quite sure what you mean but not wanting to install the hitch under the carriage. There isn't anything available that's confirmed to mount to just the bumper itself on your vehicle.
I have a 2003 Jeep Liberty Renegade with spare tire on the back. I measured from center pin to the edge of the spare tire and it was 13". I am wondering which platform hitch bike racks would work? Thank you.
I recommend taking a look at the Yakima TwoTimer Rack # Y02468 , which features a generous distance of 17" from the hitch pin hole to the nearest wheel cradle - allowing enough space for your rear tire when mounted. You likely won't be able to fold it up for storage, but it's one of the very few platform racks that will work for your application.
I have a 2014 VW Jetta hatchback and I am looking for a bike rack and hitch that would support a 65 lb fat tire electric bike What would you recommend? Thanks
@ChrisR ok great thanks The tires are 4” wide so it’s been a problem to find a rack Thank you I will look at them now!!!
I have a 2008 Equinox and 4 bikes I want to transport. I'm planning to install a class III hitch mount. Our bikes are Electra Townies- step-thru type with 2'' balloon tires and fenders. How wonky would it be to get top tube adapters and use a hanging style rack? It seems like the bikes would be pretty far from level unless we pull the seats out pretty far, which seems....sketchy?? I'm looking for the most cost-effective solution. Is there an inexpensive-ish platform style frame-grabber rack that could utilize a top tube adapter?
I think you're really smart to think this through with your bike styles in mind. I know exactly what you mean by using adapter bars with the Electra Townies with a hanging-style rack. Wonky is a pretty good description of how they would look, but it would be safe and stable - you would likely have to extend the seat posts like you mentioned. If you go this route, I think the Thule Camber # TH9056 is your best option because it offers uniquely roomy cradle/bike spacing. A platform rack would definitely cut down on the wonkiness factor but will be a bit higher priced. A really nice, wallet-friendly option though is the Hollywood Racks # HR4000 , which actually wouldn't need adapter bars because of the adjustability on the attachment clamps. I like this solution a lot for you.
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Will an adjustable Swagman XC S64650 fit a 2007 Saturn Vue and a 2018 Volkswagon Golf TS1. We have a TREX Zektor3 bike and a Cypress GIANT bike
Yes, the Swwagman XC 2-Bike Rack # S64650 will fit both your Saturn Vue and VW Golf, along with both your TREX and Cypress bikes.
Question: We have a 2017 equinox that came with a 1 1/4 in trailer hitch. I’m not sure what the class is, but a sticker on it says max tongue weight 400# and max trailer weight 3,500 #. So looking at your chart it looks like it would be classified as Il?We’re thinking of purchasing a rack for two bikes and I want to make sure it fits ok.Also, the hole for the pin is about 2 inches from the end. Is that standard?Thanks for any info you can give me on this and if you have any recommendations for a rack for 2 bikes I’d appreciate it.
Based on those capacities you definitely have a Class II hitch on the Equinox. The hitch pin hole location you mentioned is standard and won't cause any issues. I really like the Kuat Transfer # TS02G , which holds the bikes by their wheels without any frame contact, tilts away from the vehicle for rear cargo access, and just looks awfully nice. I linked a video below of it being used on the '18 Equinox that you can take a look at.
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tv-review-kuat-hitch-bike-racks-2018-chevrolet-equinox-ts02g.aspx
I have a 2019 Honda CRV. What is a good bike rack for a trailer hitch- 2 bike ?
The BEST rack for you could depend on your specific bike styles and weights, but I really like the Kuat Transfer 2 # TS02G (Silver) or # TS02B (Black). It works great on your CRV (see linked video below) and it features a nice wheel mounting design that allows for easy loading and zero contact on the actual bike frames.
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I have 2013 hyundai elantra 4 door gls and 2019 radrover stepthru ebike. radpower bikes recommends hollywood ebike rack with 2 hitch. what do you recommend for hitch AND rack 1 or 2 fat tire bikes.
The Curt Class I Hitch # C11303 will work great on your Elantra sedan. There isn't a 2" hitch available for your vehicle so you'll need to use rack that's rated for smaller 1-1/4" Class I receivers. The best option we have available is the Thule EasyFold # TH903202 with the Fat Tire Straps # TH985101 . This can handle two bikes of up to 65 pounds each - it looks like your RadRover is pretty heavy so make sure it doesn't exceed this capacity. This is the highest rated carrier we have that will work with its step-thru frame.
I have a 2011 Honda accord and I need a hitch that will carry a 350# wheelchair.It would need to be installed by a professional installer as Im handicapped and unable to do it myself.The chair will ride on a carrier with a ramp and approximately 200#Any info you can give will be appreciated.
I really wish there was a good solution for this, but unfortunately your Accord just isn't capable of supporting this kind of weight. I know it's probably not a feasible option, but the only way to do it with your current vehicle would be to pull the wheelchair on a small trailer. Otherwise, with a heavier wheelchair like this, a larger van - into which you could actually load the chair- would be the ideal setup.
I have 2017 for explorer. I watched video of the Thule that the bikes hang from. However I have a step through frame and a girls frame and a guys frame. Do I use that rack or one the tires sit in. And which model is one that tired sit in for me. Thank you. Will be buying just need advice
A hanging-style rack can be used with unique bike frames, but you'll need to add an an adapter bar like # UB01 for each bike that fits the bill. This will provide the needed horizontal attachment point for the rack. If you don't want to mess with those (they aren't the most fun thing to use) then a platform-style carrier, where the bikes are supported by the wheels, is definitely your best option. It will make for easier loading too.
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Any recommendations for bicycle covers for platform rack with two fatbikes- what about rear car lights ,brake, turn signal and reverse
Unfortunately, we don't currently have any bike rack covers available that are suitable for passenger vehicles. If you wanted to add signal lights though you could potentially use something like the Light Kit # 98174LED with the Bracket # BK70BB . The light assemblies use a 4-Way connector that you could plug into the rear of your vehicle (if it's equipped with a 4-Way....if not just let me know).
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