Comparing Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, and Curt Trailer Hitches for a 2010 Mazda 3

Updated 03/26/2012 | Published 03/25/2012

Products Featured in This Question

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

(178)

$179.83

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

(71)

$200.93

Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1954)

$183.67

Swagman XTC2 Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(1637)

$204.64

Question:

I am looking at purchasing a trailer hitch and a bike rack for my 2010 mazda3 hatchback. I noticed the Hidden Hitch 60259 and the Draw-Tite 24843 both have the 1 1/4 notch. My first question is will either the Swagman S64650 or S64670 or the Sportrack 2901LR bike rack work? They state they are for class 1 and 2 but will they work with the class 1 notch. If not, does the Curt have the notch? I prefer the Hidden or the Draw-Tite because they do not require the stabilizer strap which would be difficult to use on my hatchback because of the rear spoiler. Also, what is the difference between the Hidden Hitch and the Draw-Tite? I know they are owned by the same parent company so I am just trying to know what the difference is.

asked by: Jeremy

Expert Reply:

You have done your research. As you have seen, all of the hitches for the 2010 Mazda 3 are Class I trailer hitches. The Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch models do have the safety notch in them that prevent the insertion of a Class II accessory. This is so you will not accidentally overload the hitch. The Curt hitch does not have this feature. This notch and the capacity are what makes a Class I hitch a Class I.

As you have said neither the Draw-Tite nor Hidden Hitch models require the use of a stabilization strap, # 18050, but the Curt hitch does. The difference between the Draw-Tite and Hidden Hitch models is that the Hidden Hitch model comes with a ball mount, pin, and clip for towing. The Draw-Tite model is just the hitch. If you are only going to use it for a bike rack, then the Draw-Tite Hitch, # 24843, is the way to go. I have included a link to the installation instructions for you.

All of the bike racks you have referenced, Swagman # S64650, # S64670, and SportRack SR2901LR, will all fit a Class I hitch (Draw-Tite, Hidden Hitch, or Curt). Out of the 3, the most popular and what I recommend is the XTC-2, # S64670. I have included a link to the installation details and a link to a video review for you.

expert reply by: Michael H