Recommended Trailer Hitch to Carry 2 Electric Bikes on 2012 Mazda 5

Updated 05/23/2014 | Published 05/21/2014

Products Featured in This Question

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

(93)

$190.80

Thule T2 Pro XTR Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(164)

$1499.90

Thule EasyFold XT Bike Rack for 2 Electric Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Frame Mount

(513)

$999.95

Question:

I want to buy a class II trailer hitch for a 2012 Mazda 5. I will be transporting 2 electric bicycles weighing 70 lbs each on a bike carrier that mounts into the hitch and it was recommended that a class I hitch would be too light duty considering that the bikes would mount about 20 inches from the back of the hitch and that may cause too much stress. Please advise is you have a hitch that will meet my needs. Thank you

asked by: Tom B

Helpful Expert Reply:

The 3 hitches available for your 2012 Mazda 5 are all Class I hitches with a 1-1/4 inch receiver.

I recommend the Draw-Tite Hitch # 24874. I have included a link to installation instructions and a link to a video of the hitch being installed on your vehicle.

For a bike rack, I recommend the Thule Platform Style T2 Pro XTR # TH69XT. This carrier accommodates bikes with wheel sizes measuring between 20 inches to 29 inches with tire widths up to 5 inches, and it has a weight capacity of 60 pounds per bike with a total of 160 pounds to be used. Since your electric bikes weight 70 pounds, you will need to remove the batteries. Then if you can get your bike weight down to 60 pounds per bike and if it will accommodate your wheel sizes, this rack will work for you.

We also have the 2-bike Thule EasyFold XT # TH903202. It can accommodate bikes up to 65 pounds so you should be able to remove your battery and get within the acceptable weight capacity.

expert reply by: Chris O