How to Easily Carry a Bike on a 2011 Toyota Rav4 Sport

Question:

My 2011 Toyota RAV4 doesn't come with spare tire mounted on tailgate or trailer hitch. I'm too old to throw my mountain bike onto a roof rack system after a long ride. What's your recommendation?

asked by: Jaime

Helpful Expert Reply:

I recommend installing a trailer hitch on your 2011 Toyota RAV4 and using a platform bike rack to easily carry your mountain bike on your vehicle.

For a trailer hitch, I recommend the etrailer 2" Class III Trailer Hitch # e98864. I recommend this hitch because you will not have to use stabilizing straps to stay within Curt's warranty requirements when carrying all non trailer loads, like bike racks. This trailer hitch has a tongue weight capacity of 625 lbs, but you are limited by your vehicle's 200 lbs. tongue weight capacity. This hitch easily bolts onto your vehicle, as no drilling or welding is required for installation.

I recommend a platform bike rack to carry your mountain bike because platform bike racks sit closer to the ground, and you will not have to lift your bike as high as other bike racks. I recommend the Thule Doubletrack Pro XT Bike Rack for 2" Hitches # TH92BJ. This bike rack will fit on the Draw-Tite Hitch I recommended. While this bike rack does weight 32 lbs. the rack folds down when a bike is not mounted for easy access to the trunk, so you are able to leave the rack on for an extended period of time, if necessary. Thule is an industry leader in bike rack manufacturing so this rack is made to last you many years.

If you are looking for a more economical and lighter bike rack, I recommend the Swagman XC 2-Bike Rack Carrier # S64650. This bike rack weights about 21 lbs. and can fit on the Draw-Tite Hitch I recommended for you. Similar to the Thule rack, this platform rack folds down for access to the rear hatch, and it sits closer to the ground so you will not have to lift your bike up past your knees. If you are a frequent rider, this bike rack will not last as long as the Thule rack, but it is a great choice if you are looking for an economical option.

I attached review videos of the Swagman and Thule Bike Racks you may want to check out. I also attached an installation video for the Draw-Tite Hitch on a 2010 Toyota RAV 4, which will be the same installation process for your 2011 Toyota RAV 4. When installing this hitch, you will be using the weld nuts on your vehicle which can get dirty and hard to use. I attached a help article on how to clean your weld nuts for a smooth installation.