Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendation for 2013 Chevrolet Sonic

Published 12/02/2015

Products Featured in This Question

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(45)

$218.36

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(57)

$238.36

Locking Anti-Rattle, Threaded Hitch Pin for Swagman Hitch Racks

(647)

$39.99

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

(396)

$59.99

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

(1676)

$229.00

Question:

I have a Hidden Hitch Trailer Hitch W/drawbar - Class I - 1-1/4 for my 2013 Chevy Sonic. I use it for a bike rack. The receiver opening is not deep enough for the rack attachment bolt to match the hole in the hitch, so I had to cut 1 1/2inch off the rack. I was recently rear ended so I need a new rack and hitch. I want to buy a hitch that is deep enough so I dont have to cut the rack. Thank you

asked by: Billy C

Expert Reply:

All of the trailer hitches available for the 2013 Chevrolet Sonic are Class I trailer hitches. Most Class I trailer hitch receivers have a tab inside of the receiver to allow only certain accessories to be used with the receiver. This tab is intended to keep accessories from being used that can overload the Class I hitch. I have attached a help article on trailer hitch receiver sizes for you.

Curt Class I trailer hitches do not have this tab, however they will require the bike rack, and other non-trailer loads, to be supported by a strap like part # 18050. If you have a sedan, you can use Curt # C11240 hitch. For Sonic hatchback models(non-RS), you will want # C11258. For hatchback-RS models, you will need to use a Draw-Tite Hitch # 24878.

When choosing a new bike rack, you will want a rack that is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch. This will ensure that the bike rack will fit into your hitch receiver even if it has the tab. Bike racks that are compatible with Class I hitches will also work great in Class II trailer hitches. Additionally, Class I hitches are limited to carrying no more than 2 bikes on a hitch mount bike rack, even if the rack is capable of holding more than 2 bikes.

I recommend the Swagman XTC-2 2-Bike Platform Rack # S64670. This platform style bike rack will carry 2 bikes and has a weight capacity of 70 pounds. To help maintain ground clearance, this bike rack has a shank with a 3 inch rise. The rack secures your bikes at the wheels and the upper frame bar. Many different bikes can be carried on the rack as the wheel hoops are adjustable and will accommodate wheels up to 2-1/2 inches wide. I have attached a review video showing this bike rack on a 2013 Sonic.

If you would like to lock to bike rack to the hitch, you can use the Swagman Locking Anti-Rattle Threaded Hitch Pin # S64029. For a locking pin that comes with a cable to secure the bikes to the rack, you can use part # S64031.