Trailer Hitch And Hanging Bike Carrier Recommendations For 2005 Honda Element AWD

Updated 12/30/2013 | Published 12/26/2013

Products Featured in This Question

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

(18)

$222.96

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

(20)

$251.57

Question:

Part number C11700, I have a 2005 honda element awd and I ride a travel with bikes. I want to get a hitch bike rack also but need a reciver hitch first , would this reciver be good just to haul a bike rack with some bmx bikes or moutain bikes 4 would be the max at 30lbs a piece max

asked by: Phil

Expert Reply:

For your 2005 Honda Element AWD, I did some online research, and the manual states it has a towing capacity of 1500 lbs. When considering a trailer hitch, the recommended tongue weight limit is typically around 10 per cent of the towing capacity. That would mean your Element should have a tongue weight capacity around 150 lbs. Please keep in mind the weight of the carrier you choose added to the weight of any cargo you place on the carrier should never exceed the recommended tongue weight capacity.

I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver, part # e78KR. This is a Class lll hitch and has a 2 inch receiver opening. All required hardware and installation instructions are included.

The bike carrier I recommend is the Swagman Original # S64400. This rack holds 4 bikes, has a weight capacity of 140 lbs, which would be able to handle the 4 bikes you said weigh no more than 305 lbs each. The rack itself weighs approximately 31 lbs, so that along with the 4 bikes should be fine for your Element. I have attached a link to an installation video for this carrier.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L