Do You Carry a Light Platform Bike Rack with A Threaded Hitch Pin that Wont Block the License Plate

Updated 08/17/2021 | Published 08/16/2021

Products Featured in This Question

Inno Tire Hold Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Tilting

(232)

$584.99

Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks - 7'

(386)

$47.12

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

(1953)

$182.19

Thule OutWay Platform Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - Adjustable Trays

(15)

$599.95

Yakima PlateMate License Plate Holder for Bike Racks

(30)

$38.95

Question:

Just bought the INH120 and I like it except for three things 1 It’s heavy 2 The way it friction fits chuck with anti-rattle into the trailer hitch seems a little risky to me and 3You can’t see the back license plate when it’s folded up or when bikes are on it. Are there any solutions or better platform hitches that deal better with visibility of the license plate? Also, should I be concerned about the way it attaches to the hitch? I was just sure there would also be a threaded bolt and not the flimsy security “bolt. I drive a 2013 Toyota Corolla LE with 1 1/4 trailer hitch

asked by: Isaac C

Expert Reply:

I have a solution for you. Every hitch rack will block the license plate to a certain extend with bikes loaded or when folded up. For a solution that does not involve a roof rack, I recommend the Yakima PlateMate License Plate Holder for Bike Racks # Y02713. With the PlateMate, you will be able to attach your license plates to your bikes during transport. However, if you are open to trunk racks, the Thule OutWay Platform Trunk Bike Rack for 2 Bikes # TH65JV is an option that is both lighter than the Inno Tire Hold 2 # INH120 and will mount your bikes above the plates for more visibility. I went ahead and attached a video of bikes loaded on the OutWay to give you some perspective.

If you want a lighter bike to use with the PlateMate that has a more secure hitch pin, I recommend the Swagman XC2 Bike Rack for 2 bikes # S64650. Unlike the Tire Hold 2, the Swagman XC2 comes with a threaded hitch pin to alleviate your worry about the pin coming loose during travel. Also, the Swagman XC2 only weighs 25 pounds compared to the Tire Hold 2's 48.6 pounds. The Swagman XC2 will also be compatible with your 1-1/4" hitch on your 2013 Toyota Corolla. If you want to add extra security to the XC2, I recommend the Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock and Cable for Swagman Bike Racks w/ 1-1/4" & Combo Shanks.

expert reply by: Bob C