Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack for 2023 Toyota Prius Carrying E-Bike

Updated 01/29/2026 | Published 01/25/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Kuat Transfer V2 Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(317)

$398.00

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

(20)

$209.78

Trailer Hitch Adapter - 1-1/4" to 2" Hitch - 4-1/2" Drop/5" Rise - 6-1/2" L

(233)

$72.90

Hollywood Racks CrossTrack Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(24)

$399.99

Roadmaster Quiet Hitch for 1-1/4" Trailer Hitches

(1542)

$39.15

Saris MHS DUO Bike Rack for 1 Bike - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches - Wheel Mount

(19)

$579.98

Question:

Im looking to get a hitch bike rack for my 2023 Prius. It looks like a Prius can only take a class 1 hitch I was looking at the 1 1/4 one from Curt. Its not a heavy ebike, only about 48 lbs subtract about 7 to 10 lbs from it without the battery on but Im worried about the low ground clearance on the Prius being a bit of a problem, especially on Houston roads. I messaged Hollywood Racks directly and they said all their e-bike racks are for Class 2 hitches only. So Im confused. Is it possible to get a class 2 hitch for greater tongue weight, modify it for greater tongue weight, or failing that is there some way to lift the hitch higher to give it more clearance for bumps? I dont want to have to $1k+ on a Thule ebike rack if I dont have to.

asked by: Kris

Expert Reply:

Hey Kris! A Class I hitch like the Curt # C67RJ is the only option for your Prius. There are no Class II options available, and no way to really modify this to make it one. It is possible to gain clearance with the use of an adapter like the # e93YR but you're going to reduce your tongue weight capacity by 50% down to 100 lbs and add in extra movement. If you decide to use an adapter I would also add an anti-rattle # RM-061-125.

For a bike rack that is similar to the # HLY68RR you were looking at I recommend the Saris MHS DUO # SAR23MR. This is Class I compatible, can handle bikes up to 80 lbs, and works with tires up to 5" wide. The weight of the carrier is 65 lbs so you will need to be a little more precise with your e-bike weight measurement if you're planning on using the adapter.

If you don't have fat tires and don't mind a different style you could also use the Kuat Transfer V2 # KU64FR. This bike rack has a capacity of 60 lbs and max tire width of 3.0". The weight of the carrier is only 26 lbs so you would have plenty of capacity if you use the adapter for clearance.

What kind of bike do you have?

expert reply by: Robin H

Kuat Transfer V2
(click to enlarge)

Sabine

1/29/2026

Hey Kris- I purchased this rack for my VW ID.4. It is the perfect solution for a hitch size of 1 1/4”, as long as you only need one rack. I like that it can also transfer to a 2” hitch if desired. Super easy to use- very happy with this purchase.

Blane F.

1/29/2026

I've owned this rack for several years. It gets a lot of use. No problems with my heavy e-bike, provided I ensure both tires are secured, and the cable (Kuat-provided) is attached. Because the rack is very light and easy to attach/detach, I find myself removing the rack when no biking is planned. Lubing key areas and keeping the rack clean will keep the rack working for years to come. There is one thing I do that will help keep the bike from moving. I lock one of the brakes with heavy-duty tape or a band.

Kris

1/29/2026

The bike I have is a Liv Rove E+. It's considered a step through model. I do have a Topeak rear rack attached, but it's not huge and it doesn't weigh much at all. I would post a picture but I don't think I can in this reply.