Bike Rack Recommendation for a 2010 Honda Fit

Updated 07/01/2011 | Published 06/30/2011

Products Featured in This Question

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

(69)

$191.93

Thule OutWay Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Arms

(15)

$449.95

Thule Bike Adapter Bar for Women's and Alternative Frame Bikes

(352)

$54.72

Question:

Hey etrailer folks: I have a 2010 Honda Fit base model. The significant other and I want to go on a biking vacation but Im wary of bike racks that would strap onto the hatch and I dont want to put them on the roof. Which leaves the hitch option... Can this Curt 11064 part go on without having to modify any part of the underbody at all, aside from simply bolting it on? I really dont want to cut the wheel well or trim any plastic for warranty / car value reasons. Is there any such product for the 2010 Fit, or am I chasing after something that doesnt exist? If it helps, were only planning on using the hitch with a bike rack, so it would not need to be heavy duty enough to haul a trailer.... Any advice you can offer would be appreciated.

asked by: Alan

Expert Reply:

I am sure that we will be able to find a bike rack solution that suits you, your significant other, and the 2010 Honda Fit. With the Curt Trailer Hitch, # C11064, you will not have to trim the body, fascia, or wheel well for installation. However, you will need to do a little bit of drilling as specified in the instructions. I have linked the instructions for you to view.

If you find this installation acceptable, you will also need a trailer hitch mount bike rack compatible with a class I trailer hitch and a stabilization strap to be in compliance with the Curt Hitch warranty. For a bike rack, I recommend the Swagman Trailhead, # S63360. This bike rack includes the ability to tilt down, giving you more access to the rear of the vehicle, anti-sway cradles, and it is compatible with a Class I hitch. I have included a link to the installation details for you to view.

For a strap, any rigid strap that you can connect to the bike rack and tie off on the vehicle to support the rack a little (takes some of the stress off of the hitch) should work. Even rope would work. But I advise against a bungee cord as they have too much elasticity.

I understand having reservations about using a trunk mount bike rack. But trunk mount racks have grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years and they are more functional and fit better than ever. The advantage is that you will not have to do any drilling or trimming of the vehicle, no strap is required, and you will save some money.

Take a look at the Thule OutWay 2, # TH45JV. This is a very light weight rack, at 13 pounds, and has the easiest installation of any trunk mount bike rack I have seen. The 2 rubber coated straps instead of the 4-6 cables of other carriers make for a quick and clean install.

If you will be carrying alternative frame bikes (basically any bike that does not have a top frame bar that goes straight across from the handle bars to the seat), I recommend using the Thule Adapter Bar, # TH982XT. You will be able to carry the bike more level. I have included a video link of the adapter as well.