Hitch and Bike Rack Recommendations for 2007 Saab 9-3 Sedan  

Question:

Expert Reply:

According to our friends at Curt, for the 2007 Saab 9-3 4dr Sedan, you would use the Class I Receiver Hitch part # 11326. The # C11140 hitch will only fit the SportCombi (wagon) models.

If you will be occasionally transporting your bikes for short distances, the Rhode Gear # RG8015220 rack would be a fine choice. However, the lack of anti-sway cradles and the rather insubstantial hook and loop fasteners that hold the bikes into the cradles would make this rack unsuitable for frequent use or extended periods of travel, in my opinion.

For more frequent use or for longer trips, I would recommend the Swagman Trailhead, part # S63360. The Trailhead offers padded anti-sway cradles that prevent the bikes from swinging side to side and hitting each other or the rear of your vehicle. The cradles use sturdy rubber straps to secure the bikes.

To carry womens bikes or bikes with sharply angled top tubes or step-through frames, using a frame adapter like part # 64005 is recommended. The adapter spans the distance between the seat post and the handle bar gooseneck, and provides a level attachment point to the bike rack so the bike has greater ground clearance and is not carried at an angle.

Per the Curt hitch warranty requirements, a stabilizing strap like part # 18050 must be used for any non-trailer load like a bike rack or cargo carrier. To see a video showing how the strap is installed, as well as hitch install instructions and a hitch install video, click the provided links.

expert reply by: Mike L

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