Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2009 Volkswagen Rabbit

Updated 04/14/2015 | Published 04/12/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks - 7'

(386)

$59.99

Swagman XTC2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1638)

$205.31

Question:

Hello Looking for bike rack. Drive 2009 VW rabbit. Want simple rack, easy use, no scratch car, two adult bikes 1 womens. Thinking of getting hitch. Sort of new to biking. Dont want to spend a ton of money, but also dont want to worry about my bike laying in the middle of I-95 :- Thank you for any advice you can offer.

asked by: Colleen

Expert Reply:

A hitch mounted bike rack would be your best option. Hitch mounted racks don't contact any painted surfaces on the vehicle and provide a much more secure installation than a trunk rack that will use several nylon straps.

First let's start with a hitch. For that you will want the Draw Tite Hitch part # 24825. I attached an install video for you to check out as well.

The Swagman XTC2, part # S64670 is one of the most popular racks because it's so easy to use, and because the rack has an angled shank that would raise the bike rack up by three inches providing additional ground clearance. Because of that, this is the rack I'd recommend for you. The rack includes an anti-rattle hitch bolt, but a combination anti-rattle hitch lock/cable lock is available separately as part # S64031.

expert reply by: Jameson C