Recommended Trailer Hitch, Bike Carrier, And Wiring For 2013 Honda CR-V

Question:

I came across your website along with checking out the Honda CRV owners website, etc. I have a 2013 Honda CRV EX-L AWD. I initially want to purchase a hitch and bike carrier mount, but would possibly be using the car to tow a trailer on occasion. I know nothing about this stuff so Im a little confused. Ive read that the Honda specs are 150/1500. Is that referring to the Honda OEM setup or what the car can handle regardless of class of equipment I use? I didnt want to buy a higher class of hitch if its unnecessary I read somewhere saying the 2inch is better than the 1 1/4inch for bike carriers. Ive come here last because Ive seen a lot of comments across the web with positive comments about this site so Im ultimately going by what you tell me. FYI I will not be installing this myself. Likely to check with the local shop where I bring my car to see if they can do it. Based on my using this primarily to carry 2-3 bikes with possible trailer towing sometimes, what hitch do you recommend? Bike mount? Is wiring harness mandatory? If Im going to be towing a trailer, do I need a transmission cooler, or any other adjustments to the vehicle? Of course cost is always a consideration, but Im somewhat flexible on pricing. Doesnt have to be absolute top of the line, but I can certainly go above the lowest cost options IF its worth it. Thank you for any help you can provide.

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

When choosing a hitch for your CR-V I recommend the Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch, part # 75742. This is a Class lll hitch with a 2 inch receiver opening. I recommend this hitch because it is a Class lll and heavier duty than the other hitches and with the 2 inch receiver does offer a lot more options when choosing accessories. It does have a higher towing capacity than the vehicle, so you should always go by the lowest rated component when towing or carrying any accessories in the hitch and make sure you do not exceed the vehicle capacity. I have attached a link to an installation video for this hitch on a 2013 CR-V you can check out.

Since you plan on towing I recommend the etrailer ball mount kit # 989900. It comes with 2 ball mounts; one with a 3/4 inch rise or 2 inch drop and one with a 2-3/4 inch rise or 4 inch drop. It also includes a 1-7/8 inch ball, 2 inch ball, hitch pin with clip, and a storage bag.

For trailer wiring I recommend the T-One Vehicle Wiring Harness, part # 118561. This is a simple plug-in wiring harness that gives you a 4-way connector at the rear of your CR-V.

For a really nice bike rack I recommend the Thule Hitching Post Pro, part # TH934XTR is a good option. This carrier holds 4 bikes and has a tilting feature as well. For a hitch pin lock I recommend part # THSTL2, and for a cable lock that you can use to secure the bikes to the carrier I recommend part # TH538XT.

If you are planning on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.