Which Trailer Hitch For a 2016 Toyota RAV4 Does not Require a Stabilizer Strap for Bike Racks

Updated 04/04/2016 | Published 04/01/2016

Products Featured in This Question

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

(259)

$203.80

Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1

(672)

$17.46

Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"

(911)

$184.76

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(1517)

$175.07

Kuat Ubar Bike Frame Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(132)

$49.00

Question:

Looking at this post and comparing the Draw-Tite with the Curt Hitch, what are the special requirements that the Curt has for bike mounts? I am asking respective to 2016 Hybrid Rav4 Limited. Thanks

asked by: Jenn

Expert Reply:

Curt requires the use of their stabilizer strap part # 18050 when using some of their lower capacity hitches to carry a non-supported load like a bike rack. I attached a review video for you to check for the strap as well.

Because of that I would recommend you go with the ettrailer part # e98864 as it does not have that same strap requirement. The Curt hitch part # C13149 is also a fit for your vehicle, but since it is a Class III hitch with higher capacities it does not have the strap requirement either. The Class II hitch for your vehicle # C12108 that you referenced would have the strap requirement. I would always recommend the class III hitch anyway.

The most popular bike rack we carry that has been confirmed to fit this vehicle is the Thule Camber 2 # TH9058. We asked our demo and install guys to name their favorite, most easy-to-use bike racks and this one showed up in nearly everyone's top three. Check out the review video I attached for more info.

If you plan on carrying any women's or alternative framed bikes without horizontal top tubes you may also be interested in purchasing a Kuat Bike Frame Adapter Bar # UB01 to provide a horizontal top tube on your bikes to provide an attachment point. I attached a review video for this product also. This will allow the bikes to be carried more level and will provide more ground clearance.