Carrying Bikes on a 2009 Toyota Prius

Updated 02/20/2018 | Published 02/19/2018

Products Featured in This Question

Draw-Tite Sportframe Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class I - 1-1/4"

(232)

$221.07

Swagman Bike Frame Adapter Bar - Small - 22-1/2" - 30" - 35 lbs

(827)

$48.99

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

(79)

$223.19

Thule Passive Security Strap for Trunk Mounted Bike Carriers

(67)

$29.90

Thule Cable Lock w/ One Key System Lock - 6' Long

(112)

$49.95

Thule Gateway Pro 2 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(85)

$299.95

Question:

I am looking for a 2 inch receiver hitch for a 2009 Prius. Most that I find are 1.25, however I have a bike rack that is 2 . It seems that using an adapter would make it unstable. Thank you for any help that you can give.

asked by: Mary K

Expert Reply:

You're correct that using a hitch adapter does lose some of the stability. However, there are only 2 hitch receivers available or your 2009 Toyota Prius, parts # 24808 and # C11468, and they're both Class I, 1-1/4 inch hitches. This is to prevent the overloading of the vehicle since its weight capacity is extremely low.

Instead I recommend using a trunk mount bike rack. The Thule Gateway Pro, part # TH88VR, is a great option that's confirmed to fit the Prius. I've linked a video of it on a 2007 for you. It uses the FitDial system to make it easier to install as well as Thule's Hold Fast cradles to hold the bikes safely.

For security you may also want the cable lock, part # TH538XT, and the security strap, part # TH533.

One other thing you may need is a bike frame adapter bar like the Swagman Deluxe, part # 64005. This helps bikes stay level on the rack when they don't have a straight cross tube like a typical men's bike does. They're great for women's and children's bikes.