Options for Carrying 2 Bicycles on Lexus 2010 ES350

Question:

Hi - I have a 2010 Lexus ES 350 White and I would like to carry two mountain bicycles on a reciever type bike rack. Therefore I need to install a 1 1/4 reciever on the car. I know the Curt 12343 will work but the bulk of the hitch bar will be visible rather than hidden. I am concerned about the look. Are there any other brands or solutions that would be less obvious on the car? Thanks!

asked by: Don Z

Expert Reply:

The Curt Class II Receiver part # 12343 is currently the only receiver hitch option available for your vehicle. As you said, the cross bar portion of the hitch is visible below the rear fascia.

A better option for you might be a trunk mounted bike rack. The rack would mount to the trunk lid of your Lexus via a series of adjustable straps. The rack could be installed as needed.

We have several trunk mounted bike racks available from Thule and Yakima. My particular favorite is the Thule OutWay, part # TH45JV. It is very easy to install, and is also an attractive and functional way to carry your bicycles. rather than the difficult to use and adjust straps used by other trunk mount racks, the Raceway uses only 2 rubber-coated straps that allow the rack to be installed or removed in seconds. It includes locks to secure the rack to the vehicle and the bikes to the rack.

expert reply by: Mike L