Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2012 Mazda 5

Published 07/03/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(351)

$524.65

Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(94)

$190.84

Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(164)

$899.95

Question:

I currently own a Yakima Hold Up 2 for a 2inch receiver that I use on my Subaru Forester. It is a great rack. It has been from Ohio to FL and Ohio to NC, well as lots of local use. I love not being concerned about the bikes during travel, the ease of use, and the built in locks. Im planning on purchasing a Drawtite 1 1/4 receiver hitch for my 2012 Mazda5. Will the MaxxTow 4 1/2 rise adapter or the Brophy 5inch rise adapter clear the rear bumper fascia of the Mazda5? for occasional bike rack use

asked by: Bert A

Expert Reply:

The Draw Tite hitch part # 24874 has been confirmed as a fit for your 2012 Mazda 5 so it would be the correct hitch to use. Since this is a Class I hitch with lower weight capacities there really isn't a great way to use your Yakima Holdup for 2 inch hitch part # Y02443 with this hitch. Hitch adapters end up cutting the weight capacity of the hitch in half and add movement to the setup so they aren't the best solution.

It may not be the solution you were looking for, but the best possible solution I can make for you would be to get a similar bike rack that is designed to fit a Class I hitch. Even the 1-1/4 inch hitch version of the Holdup is only recommended for use on Class II hitches.

The Thule T2 Pro XTR part # TH23JV is a very similar rack to what you currently have that would work great as well. I attached a review video for you to check out.

expert reply by: Jameson C