Recommended Trailer Hitch and Bike Rack for 2017 Toyota Prius Prime  

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Starting with the trailer hitch, I recommend the Draw-Tite Class I Sport Frame Receiver Hitch # 24966. This Class I hitch is confirmed to fit your Prius Prime and features a 1-1/4 inch receiver opening and a 200 pound tongue weight capacity. I recommend this model over the Curt alternative that is also confirmed to fit your vehicle because unlike Curt, Draw-Tite does not require the use of additional stabilizing straps when using bike racks and cargo carriers. These straps can be a bit of a hassle to use, and since you are needing the hitch specifically to transport your bikes, the Draw-Tite will be the better option.

I have attached an installation video on your 2017 Prius Prime that you can use for reference.

Then, when choosing a bike rack, you will just need to make sure it is compatible with a Class I trailer hitch. While there are 3 or 4 bike racks available that will fit your trailer hitch, the most bikes a Class I hitch can safely support is 2. So even if you were to use a 4-bike rack, you can only load up 2 bikes with your vehicle.

One other thing to keep in mind when looking at bike racks that is more specific to your application is the relatively recessed nature of the trailer hitches on your vehicle. When we installed the Draw-Tite hitch on your 2017 model Prius Prime, we measured a distance of 7 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the outermost edge of the rear bumper. You will want to make sure that the bike rack you choose has enough space between the pin hole on its shank and the closest obstruction on the rack so you do not have any interferrence issues between it and the bumper.

For a bike rack that will work really nicely with your vehicle and hitch, I recommend the Thule Camber 2 part # TH9058. This hanging-style carrier can support 2 bikes with a combined weight of up to 75 pounds. It features a distance of 5-3/4 inches from the center of the hitch pin hole to the closest point on the rack. The dual arms on the carrier will provide excellent bike support and the built-in anti-rattle pin secures the rack to the hitch and reduces any unwanted movement. I do recommend adding the Snug Tite Hitch Lock # THSTL2 to help secure your investment.

I have attached a short video demonstration on this bike rack, along with a link that will take you to our available selection of Class I compatible bike racks that you can look through.

Finally, with this or any hanging-style rack, you may need an adapter bar like the Kuat # UB01 if you plan on transporting any children's, woman's, or alternative frame bikes. This will provide a horizontal attachment point for level transport and improved ground clearance. I have attached a video demonstration on this adapter bar so you can see exactly how it is used and why it might be needed.

expert reply by: Chris R

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