Recommendations For Hitch and Bike Rack to Fit a Toyota RAV4

Question:

I want to purchase a hitch and bike rack for the toyota rav4. I will only use the hitch to attach a bike rack maybe once a week during the summer. I do not need top of the line stuff just peace of mind while hauling the bikes. I am not worried about opening the rear door. I see there are hitches from $120 to $190, 1 1/4 inch to 2 inch and then an extender to get passed the rear tire. Can you recommend what would work best for my needs. Thanks

asked by: Jay H

Expert Reply:

It will depend on the year of your Toyota RAV4 and how many bikes you are needing to haul, but I can give you a recommendation that will help you narrow down your choices.

The most economical hitch would be the etrailer Class III 2-Inch Hitch, part # e98864. This is a 2-inch hitch that will afford you the largest variety of carriers. This hitch is designed to haul 2-4 bikes with no problem on your RAV4.

I am including link to the installation instructions on the hitches and video reviews of the hitches being installed on a RAV4.

The Yakima RidgeBack 4 Hitch Bike Rack, part # Y02458, you have referenced, is an excellent 4 bike rack that will fit on either one of the hitches mentioned above. It is designed to fit both 1-1/4 and 2 inch hitches. It has a measurement of 11-1/2 inches from center of hitch pin hole to back of upright bar, so it will clear the rear spare tire on the back of your RAV4. We have done a few hitches and bike racks on the Toyota RAV4 and the distance that is normally needed to clear the rear spare tire on them is around 7 inches.

Another recommendation for a 4 bike rack would be the Swagman Trailhead 4 Bike Rack, part # S63380. This is also one our most popular 4 bike racks that will work on your RAV4.

I am including links to the installation instructions on the hitch bike racks.

You may also be interested in purchasing a Yakima Tube Top Bike Adapter Bar, part # Y02531, if you plan on carrying womens or alternative framed bikes. This adapter bar will span the distance from the seat post to the handlebar gooseneck, providing a level attachment point to the bike rack. I am including a link to a video review on the adapter bar.