Recommended Trailer Hitch And Hitch-Mounted Bike Carrier For 2010 Toyota RAV4

Question:

We have only 3 bikes for 2 adults and a small child. First 2 are adults and last is son. Would that change your recommendations.

asked by: Audulio

Expert Reply:

The hitch I recommend for your 2010 Toyota RAV4 is the Curt Trailer Hitch, part # C13149. This is a Class lll hitch and has a 2 inch receiver opening. I have attached a link to an installation video for this hitch on a RAV4 you can take a look at. As the video shows, there is a measurement of about 6 inches from the hitch pin hole to the back of the spare tire cover. We will use that measurement for making a recommendation.

I have attached a link to a helpful article that explains how to take the measurement to make sure you clear your back bumper or rear mounted spare tire for a bike rack.

From my research I found that the tongue weight capacity for your RAV4 is approximately 150 lbs. That weight would include the cargo added to the weight of any hitch mounted carrier, so for 4 bikes you would need to choose a light bike carrier. If you find that you will be exceeding the weight limit for your trailer hitch or your vehicle tongue weight, you may want to take a look at the roof rack mounted bike racks on the product page I have attached a link to.

I recommend the Swagman Trailhead # S63381. This bike rack weighs just under 30 lbs so you still have about 120 lbs for the bikes you plan to carry.

I also recommend a locking hitch pin like part # S64027 to secure the bike carrier to the vehicle hitch.

If you are planning on carrying bikes with alternative frames like kids bikes or women's bikes I recommend using an adapter bar like part # 64005. This attaches between the seat post and the handlebar stem and allows the bike to be carried more level in the carrier while providing additional ground clearance. I have attached a product review video for this adapter bar.

expert reply by: Jeffrey L

Audulio

3/31/2015

We have only 3 bikes for 2 adults and a small child. First 2 are adults and last is son. Would that change your recommendations.

Jeffrey L.

3/31/2015

Since you are only carrying 3 bikes, and one is your son's bike I recommend a platform-style rack like part # HR1400Z. This bike rack hold 4 bikes and the mast mounted hooks hold the bike securely to the carrier. The adjustable wheel holders lets you use bikes of various sizes and wheelbases. This bike rack also tilts when empty to give you access to the rear cargo area of your RAV4.