Bike Rack for Lowered 2021 Mazda 3 With Class I Hitch
Updated 09/29/2025 | Published 05/07/2025
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Question:
I need some 1.25 hitch bike rack recommendations. Im looking for the most budget friendly but also possibly capable of handling an eMTB in the future. I have a light-ish bike right now. Itll be going on my mazda3 sedan which is lowered so Id like a bike rack whos hitch kind of immediately curves up a bit as opposed to sticks straight out, because i know itll strike the ground.
asked by: Steve H
Expert Reply:
Hey Steve! It looks like the hitch on your 2021 Mazda 3 is a Class I so you're going to be pretty limited. It sounds like you're planning to carry a single bike, is that correct? If so, the closest thing to meeting all of your requirements is the Kuat Transfer V2 # KU64FR. This is Class I compatible and has a weight capacity of 60 lbs. This includes a cable lock and has an optional hitch lock # HL1.
It does stick out straight for a bit before the rise kicks in but that is true for all of the Class I compatible racks. Since your Mazda 3 is lowered you may need to use an adapter like the # e93YR for clearance. However, I can't tell if this would clear your bumper or not so you will have to use the measurements below to see if it will work.
This is compatible with the Transfer V2 and would give you an additional 5" rise. Keep in mind, this does reduce the capacity of the hitch by 50% so you will be down to 100 lbs. As long as you don't go over the capacity of the bike rack you won't exceed the reduced hitch capacity. If you're using the adapter I also recommend the # RM-061-125 to help reduce unwanted movement. If you need anything else feel free to reach out in the comments below.
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Product Page this Question was Asked From
Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Platform Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Wheel Mount
- Bike Lock
- 1 Bike
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Carbon Fiber Bikes
- Electric Bikes
- Heavy Bikes
- Kuat
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Robin H.
9/29/2025
Hey Steve, did the Kuat Transfer V2 work out for your Mazda 3? I'm curious if the adapter provided enough clearance for your lowered sedan. Your experience could really help others in a similar situation.