Recommended Hitch Bike Carrier for 2017 Kia Sportage
Question:
What bike rack would be the best for a 2017 Kia Sportage? Would you recommend a 2inch hitch or 1inch ? Thank you
asked by: Pam
Expert Reply:
The best way to transport bikes on a passenger car is usually with a hitch-mounted rack, like the Thule Hitching Post Pro you referenced, part # TH934XTR. A video on this rack is linked for you.
A hitch rack places the weight load of the rack and bikes on the vehicle's frame, its strongest part, instead of on its relatively light sheet metal the way trunk-mount racks do. For a new vehicle I definitely suggest you go for a hitch rack. This will provide the safest transport for your bikes and at the same time help preserve your new vehicle's paint finish by eliminating any rack-to-car contact.
As it happens the hitches made for your 2017 Kia Sportage include both 1-1/4-inch and 2-inch types. No question, if you will be installing a hitch, use a 2-inch Class III. The cost increase is minimal and the benefits are many, including a generally higher weight capacity, broader compatibility with a whole range of hitch-mount accessories and an installation process that is no more involved than for the smaller, lighter-duty hitches. The linked page displays all hitch options for the 2017 Sportage.
Just select your Vehicle Style from the drop-down menu tool to see the options for your specific version. If you have the EX or LX I recommend the etrailer # e72TR. If you have the SX then use # C13281 from Curt, along with support strap # 18050.
If you like the Hitching Post you can add anti-rattle lock kit # THSTL2 to both keep the rack steady in the hitch and help prevent theft.
Products Referenced in This Question
Curt Cam Buckle Stabilizing Strap for Hitch-Mounted Accessories - 61" x 1" - Qty 1
- Accessories and Parts
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hitch Cargo Carrier
- Tie Down Straps
- CURT
more information >
Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- CURT
more information >
etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class III
- 525 lbs TW
- 3500 lbs GTW
- 2 Inch Hitch
- Concealed Cross Tube
- etrailer
more information >
Thule Snug Tite Hitch Lock and Anti-Rattle Device
- Trailer Hitch Lock
- Rack Specific Locks
- Keyed Alike
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Threaded Pin
- For Thule Racks
- Thule
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule Hitching Post Pro Bike Rack for 4 Bikes - 1-1/4" and 2" Hitches
- Hitch Bike Racks
- Hanging Rack
- Folding Rack
- Tilt-Away Rack
- Frame Mount
- Locks Not Included
- 4 Bikes
- Class 1
- Class 2
- Class 3
- Fits 1-1/4 and 2 Inch Hitch
- Fits 1-1/4 Inch Hitch
- Fits 2 Inch Hitch
- Thule
more information >
Featured Help Information
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