Recommendations for Hitch, Roof and Trunk Mount Bike Racks on a 2008 Toyota Prius  

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Expert Reply:

I agree with your inclination to use receiver hitch mounted bike carrying system. In my opinion these are the safest, easiest and most convenient bike carrying systems available for most vehicles including the 2008 Toyota Prius. Other options would be a trunk mounted bike rack and a roof rack and bike racks. I will make recommendations for all three systems for you to review.

The trailer hitch and bike rack I would choose consists of the items listed below . The hitch has the pin and clip included. You will need a ball mount in case you ever need to tow a small trailer. The only other accessories you would need are a properly sized hitch ball and wiring, and the bike rack is very easy to load. One of my friends had the Swagman XC2 Wheel Mount Bike Rack installed on his Focus, see pictures on the bike rack page, and he loves it for the stability and protection of the bikes and vehicle.

Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch for the 2008 Prius by Toyota, item # 24808
Swagman XC wheel mount bike rack, item # S64650

For a trunk mounted bike carrier I would recommend the new Thule Raceway Platform-Style 2 Bike Carrier - Trunk Mount, item # TH65JV, which is a very nice rack that will fit on your Prius. When installed this bike rack will limit access to the back of the vehicle and you will need to be sure not to use a rear wiper if your vehicle is so equipped.

A roof rack system to carry two bikes on the 2008 Toyota Prius would include the following parts.

Round 58 inch CrossBars for Yakima Roof Rack System, item # Y00409
BaseLine Towers, Item # Y28TR
RoundBar Adapters, item # Y03536
BaseClips, item # Y06109

There you have it, the decision should be fairly easy. Select the options that will best suit your lifestyle and budget. I have provided some links below to information that may help you make a decision.

expert reply by: Robert G

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