Recommended 3-Bike Carrier And Trailer Hitch Receiver For 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid

Updated 03/04/2021 | Published 02/28/2021

Products Featured in This Question

etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"

(977)

$163.14

Curt 60x24 Hitch Cargo Carrier for 2" Hitches - 500 lbs Capacity - Matte Black

(1102)

$278.26

Malone Runway Bike Rack for 3 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(45)

$170.95

Saris Bones EX 3 Bike Rack - Trunk Mount - Adjustable Arms

(91)

$259.99

Question:

Weve just bought a 2021 Honda CR-V EX-L Hybrid, and are looking for rack for 3 bikes. I saw this recommendation on your site for Thule TH934XTR and Etrailer e98848 Hitch Receiver. Is that still your best recommendation? I am considering a hitch, but are there any non-hitch options youd consider? Asking for a vacation in 4 weeks! Thank you!

asked by: Guenter W

Expert Reply:

If you are wanting to go the hitch-mounted route, then yes the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver 2" # e98848 and Thule Hitching Post Pro 4 Bike Rack # TH934XTR will work well. If you want a more budget-friendly option, I would look into the Malone RunWay 3 Bike Rack # MPG2130 which holds 3 bikes. The Thule has a weight capacity of 35lbs per bike while the Malone has a similar weight capacity of 33lbs per bike. I recommend going the hitch-mounted route over the trunk-mounted route for a few reasons. Adding a hitch receiver to your vehicle is always a nice add-on that will come in handy if you ever want to mount other accessories like Curt Cargo Carrier # C18152, or even pull a trailer. Also, hitch-mounted bike racks don't reduce rear-window visibility as much as a trunk-mounted carrier obviously would.

If you would like to go with a trunk-mounted bike rack then I highly recommend the Saris Bones EX 3 Bike Rack # SA803. This will safely transport 3 bikes and has a weight capacity of 35lbs per bike. It attaches to the top of your trunk with a vinyl-covered hook that will not scratch your vehicle's paint. It is made to work with vehicles that have rear spoilers, so rest-assured the spoiler will not be an issue. This may be a quicker and easier option for you since it sounds like you need a bike carrier as soon as possible. I have attached demonstration videos for these products.

expert reply by: Andrew N