What Rack do You Recommend for Transporting 3 Bikes on a 2013 Honda CR-V?

Question:

I just bought a 2013 honda CRV, and I need to get a hitch installed and find a hitch bike rack. I have been told I should get a 2inch hitch. I was interested in the kuat transfer 2 for 3 bikes 51 lbs. I found out my tongue weight is 150 pounds. My own cycle is 40 lbs. I have 2 folks that I would like to go riding with for a total of 3 bikes. I am wondering if the weight of a bike rack and 3 bikes will be too much for the tongue weight of the vehicle. My other rack considerations would be the thule camber 4 or the thule helium pro 3. Out of the 3 known folks, my bike is definitely the heaviest. Should I be limited to only carrying 2 bikes on any type of rack? Right now the back bumper just has a circle hook on it underneath. I appreciate your help very much. Thanks, Cheryl

asked by: Cheryl M

Expert Reply:

I have a great solution for you. Since the tongue capacity of your 2013 Honda CR-V is 150 pounds, the only way for the Kuat Transfer 2 # KU24FR is if your friends' bikes weigh no more than 30 pounds for one and 29 pounds for the other (which is extremely light for adult bikes). Also, the Thule Helium Pro 3 # TH9043PRO and the Camber 4 # TH9056 will not work because those racks only have a maximum per-bike weight capacity of 37.5 pounds.

A great solution is the SportRack Pathway Deluxe 3 Bike Rack - 1-1/4", 2" Hitches - Single Arm - Locking - Tilting # SR2703. The Pathway Deluxe 3 has a 28-pound weight and will hold a combination up bikes up to 132 pounds. With your 40-pound bike mounted and the additional carrier weight of 28 pounds, that will give you 82 pounds to use for the other 2 bikes.

As far as a hitch receiver for your 2013 CR-V, I recommend the etrailer Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Matte Black Finish - Class III - 2" # e98868. The etrailer hitch comes with complete installation hardware for a bolt-on installation to your vehicle.