Do You Recommend a Class II or a Class III Hitch for a Bike Rack on My 2018 Acura RDX?

Question

Question:

I need to install a hitch for a 2-bike tray style bike rack. Is a Class 3 hitch Draw-Tire overkill or does a Class 2 hitch Curt sacrifice some strength and stability on the highway? I will only be using the hitch for a bike rack. I am trying to minimize the appearance but that is a minor concern.

asked by: Doug D

1

Helpful Expert Reply:

As far as installing the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2" # 75784 on your 2018 Acura RDX, it is not overkill for the purposes of of transporting a 2-bike platform rack. Also, since the # 75784 involves a concealed crosstube design exactly like the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class II - 1-1/4" # C12083, you won't have any bulky eyesores associated with an exposed crosstube. Also, the 2-inch receiver opening has the benefit of being compatible with many more hitch-mounted accessories (if you choose to purchase any in the future).

With that being said, if you choose to go with the Class II 1-1/4" # C12083, you will be perfectly fine if you have a compatible bike rack.

For a great 2-bike platform rack option, I recommend either the Saris Freedom Bike Rack for 2 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount # SA4412B or the fat-bike version for 2.25" - 5" wide tires # SA4412B-FB. Both of these models work perfectly with either hitch you choose. The Freedom accommodates bikes up to a 48" wheelbase and comes with a 60 lbs per bike capacity. Another advantage of this rack is that since the cradles adjust independently along the central mast, you do not need to worry about a bike frame adapter if you wish to transport women's bikes, step-thru bikes, or children's bikes. For theft-deterrence measures, I recommend purchasing the Hitch Tite Anti-Rattle Hitch Lock # SA3022 along with the etrailer Cable Lock # e98891.

expert reply by: Bob C

1

Answer 1

Officially, the rear jack point on the 2016 Acura RDX is a few inches forward of the rear tire. There is a tab on the vehicle that fits a notch in the jack that comes with the vehicle. But what I would do is go to a local auto parts store and get…

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Answer 2

The Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver #75784 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2014 Acura RDX. For your 2014 model, the included spacer block is indeed needed. It will be taped into location on the top of the hitch at the…

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Answer 3

The 3 hitches you asked about for your 2016 Acura RDX have the following weights when it comes to shipping: etrailer - #e24AR - 27 lbs Curt - #C13130 - 28 lbs Draw-Tite - #75784 - 29 lbs The actual weight of the hitches is going to be a few pounds…

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Answer 4

To install a hitch, for a bike rack, on your 2013 Acura RDX, I recommend the etrailer Hitch item #e24AR. This hitch is custom fit and bolts to your Acura with included hardware. This is a class III hitch with a 2" receiver. You'll want the…

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Answer 5

The Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch #75784 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2017 Acura RDX. There is actually no fascia trimming or modification required for installation. On some models, it may be necessary to pull…

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Answer 6

Yes, the etrailer Hitch item #e24AR has an similar if not the same installation method as the Curt Trailer Hitch item #C12083. This hitch is confirmed to fit your 2015 Acura RDX. I have linked an installation video below for the Curt Trailer Hitch…

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Answer 7

The Draw-Tite Class III Max Frame Receiver Hitch #75784 referenced in your question is confirmed to fit your 2013 Acura RDX and is exactly the hitch I recommend for your vehicle. Unlike the Curt trailer hitch that is also custom-fit for your vehicle,…

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Answer 8

Since the vinyl is separating from the aluminum the bonding agent used by the manufacturer has failed. The only real way to repair your BAK Revolver X2 Hard Tonneau Cover #BAK39506 would be to re-cement the vinyl back to the aluminum. We don't…

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Answer 9

The difference between the Class II and Class III hitches has to do with their Gross Trailer Weight (GTW), their Tongue Weight (TW), and their Hitch Receiver Size. Class II trailer hitch receivers have a 1-1/4 inch receiver and can be rated up to…

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Answer 10

A 4-Way trailer connector has the basic lighting functions only; running lights, left turn signal and brake lights, right turn signal and brake lights, and ground. A 7-Way has these functions and a 12 volt circuit, a circuit for electric trailer…

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Answer 11

The OEM prep package consists of 4 "pucks" in the bed of the truck that will allow you to drop in puck style hitches for easy installation and removal, that gives you a completely clear bed when not in use. The B&W Companion OEM 5th…

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Answer 12

For sag from towing a trailer the best recommendation I can make is actually a weight distribution system. Suspension enhancement will help level your truck while towing. But the advantage to a weight distribution system is that it levels the vehicle…

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Do You Recommend a Class II or a Class III Hitch for a Bike Rack on My 2018 Acura RDX?

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