Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack/Cargo Carrier Recommendation for a 2020 Ford Transit Connect

Published 10/03/2024

Products Featured in This Question

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

(81)

$209.93

Kuat Pivot 2 Swing Away Hitch Extender for Bike Racks - 2" Hitches - Passenger's Side

(223)

$498.00

Question:

I have a 2020 Ford Transit Connect XL that needs a hitch and a rack for one e-bike 65 lbs including battery plus a 10-lb propane tank. I will be cooking and cleaning from the vans rear with open barn doors. I hope to avoid banging my legs into the hitch and rack constantly! I dont anticipate using the hitch for any other purpose. Lights wont be required. I live in San Diego, CA. Can you suggest a hitch and rack that would be most suitable? A few choices would be great. Thanks

asked by: Pamela F

Expert Reply:

Hey Pam, thanks for reaching out to us!

I recommend going with the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver # e77AR for your 2020 Ford Transit Connect because it has a matte black finish that is more durable than the standard glossy black finish on other hitches, and the receiver sits about flush with the rear bumper so you'll have to literally be hugging your Transit to get injured by the receiver (see attached photo).

Then for a carrier it sounds like you're wanting something like the Flint Hill Goods 22" x 49" Cargo Carrier # FHG27ZR or the Swagman Skaha 2 Plus Bike Rack with Cargo Carrier # S69SR. The Flint Hill Goods cargo carrier doesn't have a proper way to secure your bike so I recommend using the Swagman Skaha and removing the battery in your bike so it's under the 60 lb capacity and you keep the battery from feeling the effects of the road.

No matter which way you go, you might also be interested in the Kuat Pivot 2 Swing Away Hitch Extender # PVP20B so you can easily gain access to the back of your vehicle without having to remove the carrier. I actually had an opportunity to shoot a video of the Pivot 2.0 which I'm linking for your reference.

expert reply by: Jon G

etrailer Hitch Installed on a 2019 Ford Transit Connect
(click to enlarge)

Pam

10/3/2024

I need to go with a swing away bike rack, so i can open the barns doors easily. Also, it's too much trouble to remove the bike battery everytime, so i need a rack that can handle the 65 lbs. I dont really want to carry a big platform just for the propane tank. I read that the swing away racks increases the weight on the hitch, so weight is definitely important. Sorry to be so fussy, but that's why I've had a hard time selecting the right products. Maybe you have more ideas?

Jon G.

10/3/2024

@Pam So you're just wanting to stick with the bike rack part then? In that case, I recommend using the Hollywood Racks Destination E Bike Rack # HLY66ZR along with the Pivot 2.0 # PVP20B to get that rear clearance. This rack has a weight capacity of 70 lbs per bike so it will be able to handle the weight of your bike plus the battery - you'll just have to find a way to carry your propane tank.