Class III Hitch & 4-Bike Hitch Rack Recommendations for 2017 Toyota RAV4  

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Your 2017 Toyota RAV4 can be fitted with either a 1-1/4-inch Class II hitch or a 2-inch Class III and you are wise to go for the 2-inch hitch since it will both have a higher capacity and have more available accessories made for it. I suggest the etrailer # e98864. It has the same qualities and capacites as the Curt option # C13149, but it has a more attractive matte black finish and a lower price point. It is a win-win. An installation video is linked for you.

This hitch gives you the flexibility to choose almost any 4-bike hitch-mount bike carrier you want to use, because the hitch pin hole is recessed under the bumper only 3-inches, less than most. This means that any hitch bike rack with at least 4-inches of clearance will fit and work well for you.

The linked page displays all 2-inch hitch-mount 4-bike racks, which include hanging style racks and platform style racks such as the Saris Freedom 4 # SA4414B. You can refer to the linked article on hitch racks to help in selecting one that suits your style of bikes. I really like the Apex because you can swing it over to the passenger side - even when loaded with bikes - any time you need access to the RAV4 cargo area. A good tilting rack option from Thule, which is at a lower price than the Apex, is the 4-bike Hitching Post Pro # TH934XTR, shown in the linked video. This rack does not include locks but they can be added. For a hitch lock to secure the rack use # THSTL2 and for a cable lock to secure the bikes use # e98891.

Please feel free to tell me about the types of bikes you need to carry and anything else such as a specific budget you are working within and I will be glad to offer specific recommendations that make for the best fit.

expert reply by: Adam R

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