Hitch Receiver and Bike Rack Options to Carry a Pedego Interceptor E-Bike on a 2008 Scion xB

Published 06/24/2017

Products Featured in This Question

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

(145)

$211.11

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

(666)

$15.93

Kuat NV 2.0 Base 2-Bike Platform Rack - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount - Matte Black

(397)

$898.00

Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(513)

$999.95

Yakima HoldUp Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(351)

$524.96

Question:

I am looking for the right trailer hitch to add to my 2008 Scion xB along with a bike trailer for my Pedego Interceptor E-Bike. I doubt I will ever carry more than one e-bike. I need to know the best fit for my vehicle and bike, but also something that will not break the bank!

asked by: Joel H

Helpful Expert Reply:

I do have a few different bike rack options for you, but since you are wanting to carry a pretty hefty E-Bike and the highest rated trailer hitch receiver (the Curt # C12490) is only a 1-1/4 inch receiver you do have a very limited range of choices.

Even though the Curt receiver that I recommend, part # C12490, has a max Tongue Weight (TW) of 350 lbs you will want to check that against what the owner's manual says for your 2008 Scion xB and go with whichever weight capacity is lower. Keep in mind that Curt requires the use of a Support Strap # 18050 with all non-trailer loads for their warranty.

Ultimately the best option to carry your E-Bike would be the Thule EasyFold XT 2 Bike Platform Rack # TH903202 it can be used in 1-1/4 or 2 inch receivers and secures bikes by their frame using an adjustable clamp which makes it great for E-Bikes with a step-through frame. This bike rack has a weight limit of 65 lbs per bike. It also comes with bike and bike rack locks to help deter theft of all of your equipment and features a removable ramp to make loading and unloading bikes easier. It is priced fairly high, but you can't beat all of the extra features.

The next step down would be the Kuat NV 2.0 Base # BA12B. This is one of my favorite bike racks because the aluminum frame not only looks sleek, but it can secure up to two 60 lb bikes by their wheels. Unless your bike has a fender it is pretty much guaranteed that your bike will fit. This bike rack also comes with the bike and bike rack locking features.

The most economical option that will fit your 1-1/4 inch receiver is the Yakima HoldUp # Y02445. This has all of the same features as the NV 2.0 Base does (including the 60 lbs per bike weight capacity) but it is made out of steel instead of aluminum. The HoldUp does have a glossy black powder coat finish that is rust resistant, but if there is a scratch on the paint that is not taken care of it will eventually rust unlike the aluminum alternative.

I have attached some review videos of each of the bike racks as well as an installation video of the Curt hitch for you to check out.