Comparing Trailer Hitch Options for Carrying 2 Bike Rack on a 2006 Toyota Prius

Updated 06/24/2020 | Published 04/20/2020

Products Featured in This Question

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

(78)

$207.53

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

(231)

$217.25

EcoHitch Hidden Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - 2"

(43)

$390.67

Hitch Adapter 1-1/4" to 2" Trailer Hitch Receiver

(547)

$100.01

Question:

Hi, Im looking at getting a C11468 Curt or 24808 Draw-Tite hitch for my 2006 prius to haul my bike around. I keep looking at the ecohitch but the $180 premium for moving to 2 is hard to justify. So, if Im looking at the 1.25 to 2 adapter being part of the picture, Im wondering if there is any rattle difference between the curt and drawtite parts. Thanks,

asked by: Alan

Expert Reply:

Betweeen the Curt # C11468 and Draw-Tite # 24808 for your 2006 Toyota Prius, I recommend the Curt simply because we have found that they tend to have better welds and a thicker powder coat than other options on the market. All of this translates into a more durable hitch that you can rely on.

While you can use an adapter like the Brophy # HTAD to carry a bike rack with a 2" shank, we typically advise against this for a few reasons. First of all it's more connection points so there are more potential places for there to be play and movement. Secondly it means the the weight capacity of your hitch is cut in half. This means that you only have 150 lbs to work with for both a bike rack and any bikes (up to 2 bikes).

You could get away just fine with the 1-1/4" htich and an adapter if you're just going across town or for short drives every now and then, but if you plan on making frequent trips and some of them longer then I highly recommend the EcoHitch # 306-X7196 instead. Not only does it eliminate the need for an adapter (which cuts your tongue weight in half), but ithe EcoHitch also has a hidden crosstube design so all you can see is the 2" receiver. This means that you have a better looking hitch that is more safe and secure to use for your application.

expert reply by: Jon G

Bill M.

6/21/2020

Hi Jon, I need a 2" hitch for my 2006 Prius, and it looks like the Eco Hitch 306-X7196 is the only option. I notice there is no installation video for this item, and you rate it 10/10 for install difficulty. Plus, it's a lot more expensive than the other options, albeit they are both 1-1/4". I'm reluctant to buy this without knowing a little more about the installation. What makes it so difficult? Thanks,

Chris R.

6/24/2020

You're right that the EcoHitch # 306-X7196 is the only 2" receiver available for your Prius. Most EcoHitch models actually require a more in-depth install (regardless of the vehicle) because of their design. They're made to be as "invisible" as possible, meaning only the 2" receiver itself can be seen on the vehicle. This provides a super clean, OEM-like appearance, but does require bumper fascia removal and trimming. No drilling is required, but you'll need to cut up the fascia below the bumper to allow the receiver to protrude through.